bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of microRNA and Gene Expression Profiles in Multiple Sclerosis: Integrating Interaction Data to Uncover Regulatory Mechanisms
Authors: Freiesleben Sherry , Hecker Michael , Zettl Uwe Klaus , Fuellen Georg , Taher Leila
Published: October 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported to contribute to the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis (MS), an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system. Here, we propose a new consensus-based strategy to analyse and integrate miRNA and gene expression data in MS as well as other publically available data to gain a deeper understanding of the role of miRNAs in MS and to overcome the challenges posed by studies with limited patient sample sizes. We processed and analysed microarray datasets and compared the expression of genes and miRNAs in the blood of MS patients and controls. We then used our consensus and integration approach to construct two molecular networks dysregulated in MS: a miRNA- and a gene-based network. We identified 18 differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs and 128 DE genes that may contribute to the regulatory alterations behind MS. The miRNAs were linked to immunological and neurological pathways and we exposed let-7b-5p and miR-345-5p as promising blood-derived disease biomarkers in MS. The results suggest that DE miRNAs are more informative than DE genes in uncovering pathways potentially involved in MS. Our findings provide novel insights into the regulatory mechanisms and networks underlying MS.
Systemic Inhibition of CREB is Well-tolerated in vivo
Authors: Li Bingbing X. , Gardner Ryan , Xue Changhui , Qian David Z. , Xie Fuchun , Thomas George , Kazmierczak Steven C. , Habecker Beth A. , Xiao Xiangshu
Published: October 2016

cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) is a nuclear transcription factor activated by multiple extracellular signals including growth factors and hormones. These extracellular cues activate CREB through phosphorylation at Ser133 by various protein serine/threonine kinases. Once phosphorylated, it promotes its association with transcription coactivators CREB-binding protein (CBP) and its paralog p300 to activate CREB-dependent gene transcription. Tumor tissues of different origins have been shown to present overexpression and/or overactivation of CREB, indicating CREB as a potential cancer drug target. We previously identified 666-15 as a potent inhibitor of CREB with efficacious anti-cancer activity both in vitro and in vivo. Herein, we investigated the specificity of 666-15 and evaluated its potential in vivo toxicity. We found that 666-15 was fairly selective in inhibiting CREB. 666-15 was also found to be readily bioavailable to achieve pharmacologically relevant concentrations for CREB inhibition. Furthermore, the mice treated with 666-15 showed no evidence of changes in body weight, complete blood count, blood chemistry profile, cardiac contractility and tissue histologies from liver, kidney and heart. For the first time, these results demonstrate that pharmacological inhibition of CREB is well-tolerated in vivo and indicate that such inhibitors should be promising cancer therapeutics.
A novel method for preparing microplastic fibers
Authors: Cole Matthew
Published: October 2016

Microscopic plastic (microplastic, 0.1 µm–5 mm) is a widespread pollutant impacting upon aquatic ecosystems across the globe. Environmental sampling has revealed synthetic fibers are prevalent in seawater, sediments and biota. However, microplastic fibers are rarely used in laboratory studies as they are unavailable for purchase and existing preparation techniques have limited application. To facilitate the incorporation of environmentally relevant microplastic fibers into future studies, new methods are required. Here, a novel cryotome protocol has been developed. Nylon, polyethylene terephthalate and polypropylene fibers (10–28 μm diameter) were aligned, embedded in water-soluble freezing agent and sectioned (40–100 μm length) using a cryogenic microtome. Microplastic fibers were prepared to specified lengths (P < 0.05, ANOVA) and proved consistent in size. Fluorescent labelling of Nylon microfibers with Nile Red facilitated imaging. A 24 h feeding experiment confirmed bioavailability of 10 × 40 μm Nylon fibers to brine shrimp (Artemia sp). This protocol provides a consistent method for preparing standardised fibrous microplastics, with widths similar to those observed in the natural environment, which could ultimately lead to a better understanding of the biological and ecological effects of microplastic debris in the environment.
Biomimetic Nanofibrillation in Two-Component Biopolymer Blends with Structural Analogs to Spider Silk
Authors: Xie Lan , Xu Huan , Li Liang-Bin , Hsiao Benjamin S. , Zhong Gan-Ji , Li Zhong-Ming
Published: October 2016

Despite the enormous potential in bioinspired fabrication of high-strength structure by mimicking the spinning process of spider silk, currently accessible routes (e.g., microfluidic and electrospinning approaches) still have substantial function gaps in providing precision control over the nanofibrillar superstructure, crystalline morphology or molecular orientation. Here the concept of biomimetic nanofibrillation, by copying the spiders’ spinning principles, was conceived to build silk-mimicking hierarchies in two-phase biodegradable blends, strategically involving the stepwise integration of elongational shear and high-pressure shear. Phase separation confined on nanoscale, together with deformation of discrete phases and pre-alignment of polymer chains, was triggered in the elongational shear, conferring the readiness for direct nanofibrillation in the latter shearing stage. The orderly aligned nanofibrils, featuring an ultralow diameter of around 100 nm and the “rigid−soft” system crosslinked by nanocrystal domains like silk protein dopes, were secreted by fine nanochannels. The incorporation of multiscale silk-mimicking structures afforded exceptional combination of strength, ductility and toughness for the nanofibrillar polymer composites. The proposed spider spinning-mimicking strategy, offering the biomimetic function integration unattainable with current approaches, may prompt materials scientists to pursue biopolymer mimics of silk with high performance yet light weight.
A sensitive electrochemical sensor for in vitro detection of parathyroid hormone based on a MoS2-graphene composite
Authors: Kim Hyeong-U , Kim Hye Youn , Kulkarni Atul , Ahn Chisung , Jin Yinhua , Kim Yeongseok , Lee Kook-Nyung , Lee Min-Ho , Kim Taesung
Published: October 2016

This paper reports a biosensor based on a MoS2-graphene (MG) composite that can measure the parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentration in serum samples from patients. The interaction between PTH and MG was analysed via an electrochemical sensing technique. The MG was functionalized using l-cysteine. Following this, PTH could be covalently immobilized on the MG sensing electrode. The properties of MG were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry. Following optimization of immobilized materials—such as MG, PTH, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)—the performance of the MG sensor was investigated via cyclic voltammetry, to assess its linearity, repeatability, and reproducibility. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was performed on graphene oxide (GO) and MG-modified electrodes to confirm the capture of a monoclonal antibody (MAb) targeting PTH. Furthermore, the ALP-PTH-MG sensor exhibits a linear response towards PTH from artificial serum over a range of 1–50 pg mL−1. Moreover, patient sera (n = 30) were evaluated using the ALP-PTH-MG sensor and compared using standard equipment (Roche E 170). The P-value is less than 0.01 when evaluated with a t-test using Welch’s correction. This implies that the fabricated sensor can be deployed for medical diagnosis.
In Situ Growth of Highly Adhesive Surface Layer on Titanium Foil as Durable Counter Electrodes for Efficient Dye-sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Wantao , Xu Peng , Guo Yanjun , Lin Yuan , Yin Xiong , Tang Guangshi , He Meng
Published: October 2016

Counter electrodes (CEs) of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) are usually fabricated by depositing catalytic materials on substrates. The poor adhesion of the catalytic material to the substrate often results in the exfoliation of catalytic materials, and then the deterioration of cell performance or even the failure of DSCs. In this study, a highly adhesive surface layer is in situ grown on the titanium foil via a facile process and applied as CEs for DSCs. The DSCs applying such CEs demonstrate decent power conversion efficiencies, 6.26% and 4.37% for rigid and flexible devices, respectively. The adhesion of the surface layer to the metal substrate is so strong that the photovoltaic performance of the devices is well retained even after the CEs are bended for 20 cycles and torn twice with adhesive tape. The results reported here indicate that the in situ growth of highly adhesive surface layers on metal substrate is a promising way to prepare durable CEs for efficient DSCs.
Modification of plant cell wall structure accompanied by enhancement of saccharification efficiency using a chemical, lasalocid sodium
Authors: Okubo-Kurihara Emiko , Ohtani Misato , Kurihara Yukio , Kakegawa Koichi , Kobayashi Megumi , Nagata Noriko , Komatsu Takanori , Kikuchi Jun , Cutler Sean , Demura Taku , Matsui Minami
Published: October 2016

The cell wall is one major determinant of plant cell morphology, and is an attractive bioresource. Here, we report a novel strategy to modify plant cell wall property by small molecules. Lasalocid sodium (LS) was isolated by chemical screening to identify molecules that affect the cell morphology of tobacco BY-2 cells. LS treatment led to an increase in cell wall thickness, whilst the quantity and sugar composition of the cell wall remained unchanged in BY-2 cells. The chemical also disordered the cellular arrangement of hypocotyls of Arabidopsis plants, resulting in a decrease in hypocotyl length. LS treatment enhanced enzymatic saccharification efficiency in both BY-2 cells and Arabidopsis plants. Microarray analysis on Arabidopsis showed that exposure to LS upregulated type III peroxidase genes, of which some are involved in lignin biogenesis, and jasmonic acid response genes, and phloroglucinol staining supported the activation of lignification by the LS treatment. As jasmonic acid-mediated lignification is a typical reaction to cell wall damage, it is possible that LS induces cell wall loosening, which can trigger cell wall damage response. Thus, LS is a unique chemical for modification of cell wall and morphology through changes in cell wall architecture.
Potassium Management for Improving Growth and Grain Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) under Moisture Stress Condition
Authors: Amanullah  , Iqbal Asif , Irfanullah  , Hidayat Zeeshan
Published: October 2016

Potassium (K) fertilizer management is beneficial for improving growth, yield and yield components of field crops under moisture stress condition in semiarid climates. Field experiments were conducted to study the response of maize (Zea maysL., cv. Azam) to foliar and soil applied K during summer 2013 and 2014. The experiments were carried out at the Agronomy Research Farm of The University of Agriculture Peshawar, Northwest Pakistan under limited irrigation (moisture stress) condition. It was concluded from the results that application of foliar K at the rate of 1–3% and foliar Zn at the rate of 0.1–0.2% was more beneficial in terms of better growth, higher yield and yield components of maize under moisture stress condition. Early spray (vegetative stage) resulted in better growth and higher yield than late spray (reproductive stage). Soil K treated plots (rest) plots performed better than control (K not applied) in terms of improved growth, higher yield and yield components of maize crop. The results further demonstrated that increasing the rate of soil applied K up to 90 kg P ha−1in two equal splits (50% each at sowing and knee height) improve growth and maize productivity under semiarid climates.
Revisit to three-dimensional percolation theory: Accurate analysis for highly stretchable conductive composite materials
Authors: Kim Sangwoo , Choi Seongdae , Oh Eunho , Byun Junghwan , Kim Hyunjong , Lee Byeongmoon , Lee Seunghwan , Hong Yongtaek
Published: October 2016

A percolation theory based on variation of conductive filler fraction has been widely used to explain the behavior of conductive composite materials under both small and large deformation conditions. However, it typically fails in properly analyzing the materials under the large deformation since the assumption may not be valid in such a case. Therefore, we proposed a new three-dimensional percolation theory by considering three key factors: nonlinear elasticity, precisely measured strain-dependent Poisson’s ratio, and strain-dependent percolation threshold. Digital image correlation (DIC) method was used to determine actual Poisson’s ratios at various strain levels, which were used to accurately estimate variation of conductive filler volume fraction under deformation. We also adopted strain-dependent percolation threshold caused by the filler re-location with deformation. When three key factors were considered, electrical performance change was accurately analyzed for composite materials with both isotropic and anisotropic mechanical properties.
Low Concentration of Sodium Butyrate from Ultrabraid+NaBu suture, Promotes Angiogenesis and Tissue Remodelling in Tendon-bones Injury
Authors: Liu Donghui , Andrade Silvia Passos , Castro Pollyana Ribeiro , Treacy John , Ashworth Jason , Slevin Mark
Published: October 2016

Sodium butyrate (NaBu), a form of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA), acts classically as a potent anti-angiogenic agent in tumour angiogenesis models, some authors demonstrated that low concentrations of NaBu may contribute to healing of tendon-bone injury in part at least through promotion of tissue remodelling. Here, we investigated the effects of low-range concentrations of NaBu using in vitro and in vivo assays using angiogenesis as the primary outcome measure and the mechanisms through which it acts. We demonstrated that NaBu, alone or perfused from the UltraBraid+NaBu suture was pro-angiogenic at very low-range doses promoting migration, tube formation and cell invasion in bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs). Furthermore, cell exposure to low NaBu concentrations increased expression of proteins involved in angiogenic cell signalling, including p-PKCβ1, p-FAK, p-ERK1/2, p-NFκβ, p-PLCγ1 and p-VEGFR2. In addition, inhibitors of both VEGFR2 and PKCβ1 blocked the angiogenic response. In in vivo assays, low concentrations of NaBu induced neovascularization in sponge implants in mice, evidenced by increased numbers of vessels and haemoglobin content in these implants. The findings in this study indicate that low concentrations of NaBu could be an important compound to stimulate angiogenesis at a site where vasculature is deficient and healing is compromised.
The impact of non-severe burn injury on cardiac function and long-term cardiovascular pathology
Authors: O’Halloran Emily , Shah Amit , Dembo Lawrence , Hool Livia , Viola Helena , Grey Christine , Boyd James , O’Neill Tomas , Wood Fiona , Duke Janine , Fear Mark
Published: October 2016

Severe burn injury significantly affects cardiovascular function for up to 3 years. However, whether this leads to long-term pathology is unknown. The impact of non-severe burn injury, which accounts for over 80% of admissions in developed countries, has not been investigated. Using a rodent model of non-severe burn injury with subsequent echocardiography we showed significantly increased left ventricular end systolic diameter (LVESD) and ventricular wall thickness at up to 3 months post-injury. Use of propranolol abrogated the changes in cardiac measures observed. Subsequently we investigated changes in a patient cohort with non-severe injury. Echocardiography measured at baseline and at 3 months post-injury showed increased LVESD at 3 months and significantly decreased posterior wall diameter. Finally, 32 years of Western Australian hospital records were used to investigate the incidence of cardiovascular disease admissions after burn injury. People who had experienced a burn had increased hospital admissions and length of stay for cardiovascular diseases when compared to a matched uninjured cohort. This study presents animal, patient and population data that strongly suggest non-severe burn injury has significant effects on cardiovascular function and long-term morbidity in some burn patients. Identification of patients at risk will promote better intervention and outcomes for burn patients.
Discovery of Isoquinolinoquinazolinones as a Novel Class of Potent PPARγ Antagonists with Anti-adipogenic Effects
Authors: Jin Yifeng , Han Younho , Khadka Daulat Bikram , Zhao Chao , Lee Kwang Youl , Cho Won-Jea
Published: October 2016

Conformational change in helix 12 can alter ligand-induced PPARγ activity; based on this reason, isoquinolinoquinazolinones, structural homologs of berberine, were designed and synthesized as PPARγ antagonists. Computational docking and mutational study indicated that isoquinolinoquinazolinones form hydrogen bonds with the Cys285 and Arg288 residues of PPARγ. Furthermore, SPR results demonstrated strong binding affinity of isoquinolinoquinazolinones towards PPARγ. Additionally, biological assays showed that this new series of PPARγ antagonists more strongly inhibit adipocyte differentiation and PPARγ2-induced transcriptional activity than GW9662.
Efficient Synthesis of Ethanol from CH4 and Syngas on a Cu-Co/TiO2 Catalyst Using a Stepwise Reactor
Authors: Zuo Zhi-Jun , Peng Fen , Huang Wei
Published: October 2016

Ethanol synthesis from CH4and syngas on a Cu-Co/TiO2catalyst is studied using experiments, density functional theory (DFT) and microkinetic modelling. The experimental results indicate that the active sites of ethanol synthesis from CH4and syngas are Cu and CoO, over which the ethanol selectivity is approximately 98.30% in a continuous stepwise reactor. DFT and microkinetic modelling results show that *CH3is the most abundant species and can be formed from *CH4dehydrogenation or through the process of *CO hydrogenation. Next, the insertion of *CO into *CH3forms *CH3CO. Finally, ethanol is formed through *CH3CO and *CH3COH hydrogenation. According to our results, small particles of metallic Cu and CoO as well as a strongly synergistic effect between metallic Cu and CoO are beneficial for ethanol synthesis from CH4and syngas on a Cu-Co/TiO2catalyst.
Coronary artery calcium is associated with cortical thinning in cognitively normal individuals
Authors: Lee Jin San , Kang Danbee , Jang Young Kyoung , Kim Hee Jin , Na Duk L. , Shin Hee Young , Kang Mira , Yang Jin-Ju , Lee Jong-Min , Lee Juyoun , Kim Yeo Jin , Park Key-Chung , Guallar Eliseo , Seo Sang Won , Cho Juhee
Published: October 2016

To evaluate the association between coronary artery calcium (CAC) and cortical thickness in a large sample of cognitively normal individuals, with special emphasis in determining if the association thickness has regional brain specificity and if it is mediated by white matter hyperintensities (WMH). A total of 512 participants were included in this study. CAC scores were assessed by multi-detector computed tomography. Cortical thickness was measured using a surface-based method. Linear mixed models were used to assess the association between CAC scores and cortical thickness. In fully adjusted models, increased CAC scores were associated with cortical thinning across several brain regions, which generally overlapped with the distribution of default mode network. The association between CAC scores and cortical thickness was significantly stronger in participants with moderate or severe WMH compared to those with none or mild WMH, even though CAC scores were not associated with WMH. In cognitively normal adults, CAC was associated with cortical thinning in areas related to cognitive function. This association was evident after adjusting for multiple coronary artery disease risk factors and for WMH, suggesting that CAC may be more closely related to Alzheimer’s Disease-type disease rather than to cerebral small vessel disease.
Whole blood analysis using microfluidic plasma separation and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay devices
Authors: Shimizu Hisashi , Kumagai Mariko , Mori Emi , Mawatari Kazuma , Kitamori Takehiko
Published: October 2016

In this study, a microfluidic plasma-separation device that realizes the whole blood analysis of C-reactive protein (CRP) using one drop of blood is developed.
Standoff chemical imaging finds evidence for Jackson Pollock's selective use of alkyd and oil binding media in a famous ‘drip’ painting
Authors: Dooley Kathryn A. , Coddington James , Krueger Jay , Conover Damon M. , Loew Murray , Delaney John K.
Published: October 2016

Near-infrared diffuse reflectance imaging spectroscopy (NIR-RIS, 1000 to 2500 nm) was used to map the use of alkyd and oil paints in Jackson Pollock'sNumber 1, 1950(Lavender Mist), one of his most important ‘drip’ or ‘poured’ paintings.
Multivariate optimization of PTV-GC-MS method for simultaneous determination of organometallic compounds of mercury, lead and tin
Authors: Moscoso-Pérez C. , Fernández-González V. , Moreda-Piñeiro J. , López-Mahía P. , Muniategui-Lorenzo S. , Prada-Rodríguez D.
Published: October 2016

A simple, rapid and inexpensive method using PTV-GC-MS was developed for the simultaneous trace level determination of organometallic compounds of mercury, lead and tin.
A photoelectrochemical DNA sensor for the detection of Hg2+ based on Hg2+-mediated oligonucleotide switching
Authors: Zhang Weibo , Shan Beibei , Liang Danxia , Shi Yaying , Han Deman , Huang Chaobiao
Published: October 2016

A sensitive photoelectrochemical (PEC) method for Hg2+ detection is reported, based on the Hg2+-mediated structural switch of an oligonucleotide strand and biocatalytic precipitation (BCP) on a CdS quantum dot electrode.
Alternative synthetic approaches for metal–organic frameworks: transformation from solid matters
Authors: Zhan Guowu , Zeng Hua Chun
Published: October 2016

This review summarizes alternative approaches for MOF synthesis by using solvent-insoluble “solid matters” as cation reservoirs and/or templates.
Black-box determination of temperature-dependent susceptibilities for crystalline organic radicals with complex magnetic topologies
Authors: Dresselhaus Thomas , Eusterwiemann Steffen , Matuschek David R. , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Janka Oliver , Pöttgen Rainer , Studer Armido , Neugebauer Johannes
Published: October 2016

A reliable procedure for the prediction of magnetic susceptibilities starting directly from a crystal structure is presented alongside with an application to verdazyl radicals.
In situ electrochemical formation of NiSe/NiOxcore/shell nano-electrocatalysts for superior oxygen evolution activity
Authors: Gao Ruiqin , Li Guo-Dong , Hu Jiabo , Wu Yuanyuan , Lian Xinran , Wang Dejun , Zou Xiaoxin
Published: October 2016

Despite the superior oxygen evolution electrocatalytic activity of metal-selenide nanostructures, especially when compared with their oxide counterparts, the origin behind their excellent activity remains unclear.
An ethylene glycol intercalated monometallic layered double hydroxide based on iron as an efficient bifunctional catalyst
Authors: Nagarajan Rajamani , Gupta Pankaj , Singh Poonam , Chakraborty Pinki
Published: October 2016

An enhanced surface area by virtue of intercalating ethylene glycol in monometallic LDH based on iron has been demonstrated to catalyze efficiently the oxidation and reduction of industrially important organic substrates.
Phase pure α-Mn2O3 prisms and their bifunctional electrocatalytic activity in oxygen evolution and reduction reactions
Authors: Jahan Maryam , Tominaka Satoshi , Henzie Joel
Published: October 2016

Synthesizing manganese oxide nanomaterials with exact control of shape and phase is difficult, making it challenging to understand the influence of the surface structure on catalysis. We show that phase pure bixbyite crystals can function as bifunctional non-precious metal catalysts for OER and ORR.
Copper-based energetic MOFs with 3-nitro-1H-1,2,4-triazole: solvent-dependent syntheses, structures and energetic performances
Authors: Qu Xiaoni , Zhai Lianjie , Wang Bozhou , Wei Qing , Xie Gang , Chen Sanping , Gao Shengli
Published: October 2016

Three energetic compounds assembled with 3-nitro-1H-1,2,4-triazole have exemplified that coordinated solvent molecules may have a vital effect on the detonation properties.
Acetylene hydrochlorination over 13X zeolite catalysts at high temperature
Authors: Song Zhijia , Liu Guangye , He Dawei , Pang Xiaodong , Tong Yansi , Wu Yaqi , Yuan Danhua , Liu Zhongmin , Xu Yunpeng
Published: October 2016

13X zeolite exhibited high catalytic activity in acetylene hydrochlorination at high temperatures.
A metal free reduction of aryl-N-nitrosamines to the corresponding hydrazines using a sustainable reductant thiourea dioxide
Authors: Chaudhary Priyanka , Gupta Surabhi , Sureshbabu Popuri , Sabiah Shahulhameed , Kandasamy Jeyakumar
Published: October 2016

Reduction of aryl-N-nitrosamines to the corresponding hydrazines is reported under metal free conditions using a sustainable industrial reductant thiourea dioxide (TDO).
Morphological single cell profiling of the epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Authors: Leggett Susan E. , Sim Jea Yun , Rubins Jonathan E. , Neronha Zachary J. , Williams Evelyn Kendall , Wong Ian Y.
Published: October 2016

Heterogeneous single cells are classified by shape into epithelial and mesenchymal phenotypes using a Gaussian mixture model.
Brain-on-a-chip model enables analysis of human neuronal differentiation and chemotaxis
Authors: Kilic Onur , Pamies David , Lavell Emily , Schiapparelli Paula , Feng Yun , Hartung Thomas , Bal-Price Anna , Hogberg Helena T. , Quinones-Hinojosa Alfredo , Guerrero-Cazares Hugo , Levchenko Andre
Published: October 2016

We show that pluripotent human cells can be differentiated within an elastomer chip into a microenvironment mimicking the brain parenchyma.
Ionic liquids as modulators of fragrance release in consumer goods
Authors: Ferrero Vallana Federico M. , Girling Ricardo P. , Nimal Gunaratne H. Q. , Holland Lynette A. M. , Mcnamee Pauline M. , Seddon Kenneth R. , Stonehouse Jonathan R. , Todini Oreste
Published: October 2016

The vapour–liquid equilibria of organic molecules dissolved in ionic liquids revealed positive deviation from Raoult's law, especially with added water.
Fe–SBA-15 catalyzed synthesis of 2-alkoxyimidazo[1,2-a]pyridines and screening of their in silico selectivity and binding affinity to biological targets
Authors: Payra Soumen , Saha Arijit , Wu Chia-Ming , Selvaratnam Balaranjan , Dramstad Thorn , Mahoney Luther , Verma Sant Kumar , Thareja Suresh , Koodali Ranjit , Banerjee Subhash
Published: October 2016

Regioselective synthesis of 2-alkoxyimidazopyridines by Fe-SBA-15 and screening of theirin silicobinding affinity to biological targets.
PLL/PAE/DNA ternary complexes with enhanced endosomal escape ability for efficient and safe gene transfection
Authors: Sun Zhibing , Zhou Dezhong
Published: October 2016

High gene transfection efficiency is achieved by a simple yet versatile PAE oligomer incorporation strategy.
Stereoselective synthesis of (−)-desethyleburnamonine, (−)-vindeburnol and (−)-3-epitacamonine: observation of a substrate dependent diastereoselectivity reversal of an aldol reaction
Authors: Mondal Pravat , Argade Narshinha P.
Published: October 2016

(−)-Acetoxyglutarimide was used for synthesis of target compounds wherein an acetoxy group induced enantioselectivity and functioned as a source of ketones.
Facile preparation of pH-responsive AIE-active POSS dendrimers for the detection of trivalent metal cations and acid gases
Authors: Zuo Yunfei , Wang Xing , Yang Yanyu , Huang Da , Yang Fei , Shen Hong , Wu Decheng
Published: October 2016

AIE-active POSS dendrimers, exhibiting AIE effects and pH-responsive properties, were employed as sensitive fluorescent probes for trivalent metal cations and acid gases.
An efficient synthesis of 1,3-dimethyl-5-(2-phenyl-4H-chromen-4-ylidene) pyrimidine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-triones and investigation of their interactions with β-lactoglobiulin
Authors: Sepay Nayim , Mallik Sumitava , Guha Chayan , Mallik Asok K.
Published: October 2016

An efficient method for synthesis of 1,3-dimethyl-5-(2-phenyl-4H-chromen-4-ylidene)pyrimidine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-triones has been developed.
Multifunctional ferritin nanocages for bimodal imaging and targeted delivery of doxorubicin into cancer cells
Authors: Yao Hanchun , Long Xiaofei , Cao Li , Zeng Man , Zhao Weiwei , Du Bin , Zhou Jie
Published: October 2016

Schematic illustration of design of Fe3O4–AFn/DOX–Cdots composite.
Sensing of tryptophan by a non-toxic cobalt(ii) complex
Authors: Jana Swapan Kumar , Mandal Amit Kumar , Kumar Anoop , Puschmann Horst , Hossain Maidul , Dalai Sudipta
Published: October 2016

The first report of a cobalt(ii) based non-toxic, hemocompatible, fluorescent probe that sense Trp and BSA by reducing internal fluorescence quenching of Trp in aqueous solution.
Sustainable production of activated carbon spheres from ethyl cellulose
Authors: Sun Peipei , Zhang Kaitao , Shang Shibin , Song Jie , Wang Dan
Published: October 2016

Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) is an effective and sustainable way to covert biomass into functional carbonaceous materials.
Synthesis, characterization and immobilization of a new cobalt(ii) complex on modified magnetic nanoparticles as catalyst for epoxidation of alkenes and oxidation of activated alkanes
Authors: Asgharpour Zeinab , Farzaneh Faezeh , Abbasi Alireza
Published: October 2016

The [Co(2-hydroxy1naphtaldehyde)2(DMF)2] complex 1 was prepared and supported on modified Fe3O4 nanoparticles using tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) and (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (APTMS) and designated as Fe3O4@SiO2@APTMS@complex 1 nanocatalyst.
One-step synthesis of mesoporous Pt–Nb2O5 nanocomposites with enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen production activity
Authors: Zhang Hualei , Lin Qianying , Ning Shangbo , Zhou Yangen , Lin Huaxiang , Long Jinlin , Zhang Zizhong , Wang Xuxu
Published: October 2016

The loading of uniform and smaller sized Pt particles onto Nb2O5 was beneficial to interfacial transfer and produced more radicals.
Adsorptive desulfurization of dibenzothiophene over lignin-derived biochar by one-step modification with potassium hydrogen phthalate
Authors: Li Jing-jing , Zhang Hao , Tang Xiao-dong , Lu Hai
Published: October 2016

The novel activator (KHP) is first used to prepare the biochar for adsorptive desulfurization of DBT.
Characterization of CuSbSe2crystallites synthesized using a hot injection method
Authors: Hsiang Hsing-I. , Yang Chang-Ting , Tu Jui-Huan
Published: October 2016

In this study, a novel and facile hot injection method for the synthesis of single phase CuSbSe2crystallites was developed by using low toxic triethylene glycol as both the solvent and reducing agent and triethylenetetramine as co-reducing agent.
Development of cloud-point extraction method for preconcentration of trace quantities of cobalt and nickel in water and food samples
Authors: Gouda Ayman A. , Summan Abdulhadi M. , Amin Ali H.
Published: October 2016

A new, efficient, and sensitive cloud point methodology was developed for preconcentration of trace quantities of cobalt and nickel in water and food samples.
A new single-component KCaY(PO4)2:Dy3+, Eu3+nanosized phosphor with high color-rendering index and excellent thermal resistance for warm-white NUV-LED
Authors: Wang Xiao-Fei , Yang Qi , Wang Gui-Gen , Wang Xin-Zhong , Han Jie-Cai
Published: October 2016

Single-component KCaY(PO4)2:Dy3+, Eu3+nanophosphor with high color-rendering index, low correlated color temperature and excellent thermal resistance for NUV-pumped warm-white LED.
Effect of hyperbranched polyethyleneimine grafting functionalization of carbon nanotubes on mechanical, thermal stability and electrical properties of carbon nanotubes/bismaleimide composites
Authors: Qiu Jun , Wu Qianqian , Jin Lei
Published: October 2016

Hyperbranched polyethyleneimine (PEI) grafted CNTs (CNTs-PEI) were used to reinforce bismaleimide (BMI) composites.
Biotransformation of neuro-inflammation inhibitor kellerin using Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels callus
Authors: Zhou Di , Li Ning , Zhang Yuhua , Yan Chunyan , Jiao Kun , Sun Yu , Ni Hui , Lin Bin , Hou Yue
Published: October 2016

This paper mainly focused on biotransformation of coumarins using Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels callus.
High-throughput modified QuEChERS method for the determination of the mycotoxin tenuazonic acid in wine grapes
Authors: Fontana Ariel R. , Prendes Luciana P. , Morata Vilma I. , Bottini Rubén
Published: October 2016

Development and validation of a robust QuEChERS method for the quantification of tenuazonic acid in grapes.
Ferrocenyl chalcones with phenolic and pyridyl anchors as potential sensitizers in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Chauhan Ratna , Yadav Reena , Singh Ashish Kumar , Trivedi Manoj , Kociok-Köhn Gabriele , Kumar Abhinav , Gosavi Suresh , Rane Sunit
Published: October 2016

Five ferrocenyl chalcones with phenolic and pyridyl anchors were prepared and their light harvesting properties explored in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs).
Hydroxide-bridged five-coordinate DyIII single-molecule magnet exhibiting the record thermal relaxation barrier of magnetization among lanthanide-only dimers
Authors: Xiong Jin , Ding Hai-Yan , Meng Yin-Shan , Gao Chen , Zhang Xue-Jing , Meng Zhao-Sha , Zhang Yi-Quan , Shi Wei , Wang Bing-Wu , Gao Song
Published: October 2016

A hydroxide-bridged five-coordinate dysprosium(iii) dimer with short Dy–O bonds was synthesized.
Gradient doping of phosphorus in Fe2O3 nanoarray photoanodes for enhanced charge separation
Authors: Luo Zhibin , Li Chengcheng , Liu Shanshan , Wang Tuo , Gong Jinlong
Published: October 2016

Highly-oriented Fe2O3 nanoarrays with a gradient phosphorus concentration result in enhanced charge separation in the bulk for photoelectrochemical water oxidation.
Preparation and gas transport properties of triptycene-containing polybenzoxazole (PBO)-based polymers derived from thermal rearrangement (TR) and thermal cyclodehydration (TC) processes
Authors: Luo Shuangjiang , Liu Junyi , Lin Haiqing , Kazanowska Barbara A. , Hunckler Michael D. , Roeder Ryan K. , Guo Ruilan
Published: October 2016

Triptycene-containing PBO-based polymers with ultrafine microporosity promoting ultrafast and highly selective gas transport.
Morphologically and compositionally tuned lithium silicate nanorods as high-performance carbon dioxide sorbents
Authors: Subha P. V. , Nair Balagopal N. , Mohamed A. Peer , Anilkumar G. M. , Warrier K. G. K. , Yamaguchi T. , Hareesh U. S.
Published: October 2016

The lithium silicate nanorods derived by a microwave sol gel process display extremely fast CO2 absorption rates as well as remarkable durability for prolonged application.
From anisotropic graphene aerogels to electron- and photo-driven phase change composites
Authors: Li Guangyong , Zhang Xuetong , Wang Jin , Fang Jianhui
Published: October 2016

Anisotropic graphene aerogels with an aligned pore/wall have been successfully fabricated and used as ideal hosts for multi-driven phase-change-composites.
Synergistic effects of solvent and polymer additives on solar cell performance and stability of small molecule bulk heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Lee Hyo-Sang , Ahn Hyungju , Jo Jea Woong , Kim BongSoo , Son Hae Jung
Published: October 2016

The combination of solvent and polymer additives synergistically enhances solar cell performance and the stability of small molecule bulk heterojunction solar cells.
Correction: Interplay of spin–orbit coupling and lattice distortion in metal substituted 3D tri-chloride hybrid perovskites
Authors: Katan C. , Pedesseau L. , Kepenekian M. , Rolland A. , Even J.
Published: October 2016

Correction for ‘Interplay of spin–orbit coupling and lattice distortion in metal substituted 3D tri-chloride hybrid perovskites’ by C. Katan et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2015, 3, 9232–9240.
An injectable miRNA-activated matrix for effective bone regeneration in vivo
Authors: Meng Yubin , Liu Chaoyong , Zhao Jin , Li Xue , Li Zhaoyang , Wang Jianwei , Wang Renfeng , Liu Yunde , Yuan Xubo , Cui Zhenduo , Yang Xianjin
Published: October 2016

The delivery of miRNAs that can promote osteogenic differentiation may be promising for bone regeneration.
Paper-based FRET for the direct detection of collagen triple helix
Authors: Cai Xiangdong , Yang Qiuxia , Ding Jiamin , Ye Weiran , Li Xuan , Xiao Jianxi
Published: October 2016

The integration of the GO-based FRET assay with a patterned paper provides a powerful new tool for the detection of collagen molecules with many superior features: tiny volumes of samples, multichannel detection mode, easy operation and low-cost equipment.
Novel gold(i) diphosphine-based dimers with aurophilicity triggered multistimuli light-emitting properties
Authors: Jobbágy Csaba , Baranyai Péter , Marsi Gábor , Rácz Barbara , Li Liang , Naumov Panče , Deák Andrea
Published: October 2016

We report a design strategy for the preparation of stimuli-responsive materials with multicolour emission that is based on a single type of luminophore molecule comprising gold(i) and a flexible diphosphine ligand.
Room-temperature green to orange color-tunable upconversion luminescence from Yb3+/Mn2+co-doped CaO
Authors: Wang J. L. , Song E. H. , Wu M. , Dai W. B. , Jiang X. F. , Zhou B. , Zhang Q. Y.
Published: October 2016

Room-temperature green to orange color-tunable upconversion is achieved from Yb3+/Mn2+co-doped CaO by adjusting the doping concentration of Mn2+ions upon 980 nm diode laser excitation.
Low-temperature, inkjet printed p-type copper(i) iodide thin film transistors
Authors: Choi Chang-Ho , Gorecki Jenna Y. , Fang Zhen , Allen Marshall , Li Shujie , Lin Liang-Yu , Cheng Chun-Cheng , Chang Chih-Hung
Published: October 2016

Low temperature fabrication of printed p-type CuI TFTs was reported for the first time.
Sensewheel: an adjunct to wheelchair skills training
Authors: Symonds Andrew , Taylor Stephen J.G. , Holloway Catherine
Published: October 2016

The purpose of this Letter was to investigate the influence of real‐time verbal feedback to optimise push arc during over ground manual wheelchair propulsion. Ten healthy non‐wheelchair users pushed a manual wheelchair for a distance of 25 m on level paving, initially with no feedback and then with real‐time verbal feedback aimed at controlling push arc within a range of 85°–100°. The real‐time feedback was provided by a physiotherapist walking behind the wheelchair, viewing real‐time data on a tablet personal computer received from the Sensewheel, a lightweight instrumented wheelchair wheel. The real‐time verbal feedback enabled the participants to significantly increase their push arc. This increase in push arc resulted in a non‐significant reduction in push rate and a significant increase in peak force application. The intervention enabled participants to complete the task at a higher mean velocity using significantly fewer pushes. This was achieved via a significant increase in the power generated during the push phase. This Letter identifies that a lightweight instrumented wheelchair wheel such as the Sensewheel is a useful adjunct to wheelchair skills training. Targeting the optimisation of push arc resulted in beneficial changes in propulsion technique.
Performance of handoff rate for two transitions under base stations cooperation in ultra‐dense network
Authors: Chen Changshan , Zhao Xinsheng
Published: October 2016

The handoff rate under base stations (BSs) cooperation for the user's two transitions in ultra‐dense network (UDN) is analysed in this study. Frequent handoffs in UDN cause the degradation of user experience, which should be considered for UDN deployment. The determination of cooperation area to prevent the handoff of the first transition (from the origin to the first destination) is investigated and an approximate form that is convenient for practical application is given out. The handoff rate of the second transition (from the first destination to the second) is then studied with the BSs cooperation. Some special cases, where the mobility angle is set at some fixed values are also investigated. It is shown that the handoff rate is significantly affected by both the direction and the length of the user's transition. Moreover, the correlation between the two transitions does impact on the performance of handoff rate under the BSs cooperation. Numerical results are finally presented to verify the authors’ analysis.
Diced and grounded broadband bow‐tie antenna with tuning stub for resonant tunnelling diode terahertz oscillators
Authors: Alharbi Khalid Hamed , Khalid Ata , Ofiare Afesomeh , Wang Jue , Wasige Edward
Published: October 2016

Radiation from antennas integrated with indium phosphide (InP)‐based resonant tunnelling diode (RTD) oscillators is mainly through the substrate because of the effects of the large dielectric constant. Therefore, hemispherical lenses are used to extract the signal from the backside of the substrate. In this study the authors present a broadband bow‐tie slot antenna with a tuning stub which is diced and mounted on a ground plane to alleviate the substrate effects. Here, the large dielectric constant substrate around the antenna conductor is removed. In addition, the ground plane underneath the diced substrate acts as a reflector and, ultimately, the antenna radiates to the air‐side direction. Antenna integration with RTD oscillators is described in this study as well. Two‐port bow‐tie slot antennas were designed and characterised and showed the suitability of integration with power combining RTD oscillator circuits which are based on mutual coupling. The antennas were fabricated using electron beam lithography on a semi‐insulating InP substrate. Simulated and measured bandwidth almost extends the entire frequency range 230–325GHz. Simulations shows air‐side radiation pattern and antenna gain of around 11dB at 280GHz. Simulations also show that the antenna may be fed with a 50‐Ω or 30‐Ω feed line, i.e. suitable feed lines, without compromising its performance which may prove beneficial for optimum loading of RTD oscillators.
21 cm intensity mapping with the Five hundred metre Aperture Spherical Telescope
Authors: Smoot George F. , Debono Ivan
Published: October 2016

This paper describes a programme to map large-scale cosmic structures on the largest possible scales by using the Five hundred metre Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) to make a 21 cm (red-shifted) intensity map of the sky for the range 0.5 <z< 2.5. The goal is to map to the angular and spectral resolution of FAST a large swath of the sky by simple drift scans with a transverse set of beams. This approach would be complementary to galaxy surveys and could be completed before the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) could begin a more detailed and precise effort. The science would be to measure the large-scale structure on the size of the baryon acoustic oscillations and larger scale, and the results would be complementary to its contemporary observations and significant. The survey would be uniquely sensitive to the potential very large-scale features from inflation at the Grand Unified Theory (GUT) scale and complementary to observations of the cosmic microwave background.
Discovery of a Perseus-like cloud in the early Universe
Authors: Noterdaeme P. , Krogager J.-K. , Balashev S. , Ge J. , Gupta N. , Krühler T. , Ledoux C. , Murphy M. T. , Pâris I. , Petitjean P. , Rahmani H. , Srianand R. , Ubachs W.
Published: October 2016

We present the discovery of a molecular cloud at zabs ≈ 2.5255 along the line of sight to the quasar SDSS J 000015.17+004833.3. We use a high-resolution spectrum obtained with the Ultraviolet and Visual Echelle Spectrograph together with a deep multi-wavelength medium-resolution spectrum obtained with X-shooter (both on the Very Large Telescope) to perform a detailed analysis of the absorption lines from ionic, neutral atomic and molecular species in different excitation levels, as well as the broad-band dust extinction. We find that the absorber classifies as a Damped Lyman-α system (DLA) with log N(H i) (cm-2) = 20.8 ± 0.1. The DLA has super-solar metallicity (Z ~ 2.5 Z⊙, albeit to within a factor of two to three) with a depletion pattern typical of cold gas and an overall molecular fraction f = 2N(H2)/(2N(H2) + N(H i)) ~ 50%. This is the highest f-value observed to date in a high-z intervening system. Most of the molecular hydrogen arises from a clearly identified narrow (b ~ 0.7km s-1), cold component in which carbon monoxide molecules are also found, with log N(CO)≈ 15. With the help of the spectral synthesis code Cloudy, we study the chemical and physical conditions in the cold gas. We find that the line of sight probes the gas deep after the H i-to-H2 transition in a ~4−5 pc-size cloud with volumic density nH ~ 80 cm-3 and temperature of only 50 K. Our model suggests that the presence of small dust grains (down to about 0.001 μm) and high cosmic ray ionisation rate (ζH ~ a few times 10-15 s-1) are needed to explain the observed atomic and molecular abundances. The presence of small grains is also in agreement with the observed steep extinction curve that also features a 2175 Å bump. Interestingly, the chemical and physical properties of this cloud are very similar to what is seen in diffuse molecular regions of the nearby Perseus complex, despite the former being observed when the Universe was only 2.5 Gyr old. The high excitation temperature of CO rotational levels towards J0000+0048 betrays however the higher temperature of the cosmic microwave background. Using the derived physical conditions, we correct for a small contribution (0.3 K) of collisional excitation and obtain TCMB(z = 2.53) ≈ 9.6 K, in perfect agreement with the predicted adiabatic cooling of the Universe.