bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial uncoupling links lipid catabolism to Akt inhibition and resistance to tumorigenesis
Authors: Nowinski Sara M. , Solmonson Ashley , Rundhaug Joyce E. , Rho Okkyung , Cho Jiyoon , Lago Cory U. , Riley Christopher L. , Lee Sunhee , Kohno Shohei , Dao Christine K. , Nikawa Takeshi , Bratton Shawn B. , Wright Casey W. , Fischer Susan M. , DiGiovanni John , Mills Edward M.
Published: August 2015

To support growth, tumour cells reprogramme their metabolism to simultaneously upregulate macromolecular biosynthesis while maintaining energy production. Uncoupling proteins (UCPs) oppose this phenotype by inducing futile mitochondrial respiration that is uncoupled from ATP synthesis, resulting in nutrient wasting. Here using a UCP3 transgene targeted to the basal epidermis, we show that forced mitochondrial uncoupling inhibits skin carcinogenesis by blocking Akt activation. Similarly, Akt activation is markedly inhibited in UCP3 overexpressing primary human keratinocytes. Mechanistic studies reveal that uncoupling increases fatty acid oxidation and membrane phospholipid catabolism, and impairs recruitment of Akt to the plasma membrane. Overexpression of Akt overcomes metabolic regulation by UCP3, rescuing carcinogenesis. These findings demonstrate that mitochondrial uncoupling is an effective strategy to limit proliferation and tumorigenesis through inhibition of Akt, and illuminate a novel mechanism of crosstalk between mitochondrial metabolism and growth signalling.
Pheromone binding proteins enhance the sensitivity of olfactory receptors to sex pheromones in Chilo suppressalis
Authors: Chang Hetan , Liu Yang , Yang Ting , Pelosi Paolo , Dong Shuanglin , Wang Guirong
Published: August 2015

Sexual communication in moths offers a simplified scenario to model and investigate insect sensory perception. Both PBPs (pheromone-binding proteins) and PRs (pheromone receptors) are involved in the detection of sex pheromones, but the interplay between them still remains largely unknown. In this study, we have measured the binding affinities of the four recombinant PBPs of Chilo suppressalis (CsupPBPs) to pheromone components and analogs and characterized the six PRs using the Xenopus oocytes expression system. Interestingly, when the responses of PRs were recorded in the presence of PBPs, we measured in several combinations a dramatic increase in signals as well as in sensitivity of such combined systems. Furthermore, the discrimination ability of appropriate combinations of PRs and PBPs was improved compared with the performance of PBPs or PRs alone. Besides further supporting a role of PBPs in the pheromone detection and discrimination, our data shows for the first time that appropriate combinations of PRs and PBPs improved the discrimination ability of PBPs or PRs alone. The variety of responses measured with different pairing of PBPs and PRs indicates the complexity of the olfaction system, which, even for the relatively simple task of detecting sex pheromones, utilises a highly sophisticated combinatorial approach.
A biospectroscopic analysis of human prostate tissue obtained from different time periods points to a trans-generational alteration in spectral phenotype
Authors: Theophilou Georgios , Lima Kássio M. G. , Briggs Matthew , Martin-Hirsch Pierre L. , Stringfellow Helen F. , Martin Francis L.
Published: August 2015

Prostate cancer is the most commonly-diagnosed malignancy in males worldwide; however, there is marked geographic variation in incidence that may be associated with a Westernised lifestyle. We set out to determine whether attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) or Raman spectroscopy combined with principal component analysis-linear discriminant analysis or variable selection techniques employing genetic algorithm or successive projection algorithm could be utilised to explore differences between prostate tissues from differing years. In total, 156 prostate tissues from transurethral resection of the prostate procedures for benign prostatic hyperplasia from 1983 to 2013 were collected. These were distributed to form seven categories: 1983–1984 (n = 20), 1988–1989 (n = 25), 1993–1994 (n = 21), 1998–1999 (n = 21), 2003–2004 (n = 21), 2008–2009 (n = 20) and 2012–2013 (n = 21). Ten-μm-thick tissue sections were floated onto Low-E (IR-reflective) slides for ATR-FTIR or Raman spectroscopy. The prostate tissue spectral phenotype altered in a temporal fashion. Examination of the two categories that are at least one generation (30 years) apart indicated highly-significant segregation, especially in spectral regions containing DNA and RNA bands (≈1,000–1,490 cm−1). This may point towards alterations that have occurred through genotoxicity or through epigenetic modifications. Immunohistochemical studies for global DNA methylation supported this. This study points to a trans-generational phenotypic change in human prostate.
Novel roles for LIX1L in promoting cancer cell proliferation through ROS1-mediated LIX1L phosphorylation
Authors: Nakamura Satoki , Kahyo Tomoaki , Tao Hong , Shibata Kiyoshi , Kurabe Nobuya , Yamada Hidetaka , Shinmura Kazuya , Ohnishi Kazunori , Sugimura Haruhiko
Published: August 2015

Herein, we report the characterization of Limb expression 1-like, (LIX1L), a putative RNA-binding protein (RBP) containing a double-stranded RNA binding motif, which is highly expressed in various cancer tissues. Analysis of MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry and RNA immunoprecipitation-sequencing of interacting proteins and the microRNAs (miRNAs) bound to LIX1L revealed that LIX1L interacts with proteins (RIOK1, nucleolin and PABPC4) and miRNAs (has-miRNA-520a-5p, −300, −216b, −326, −190a, −548b-3p, −7–5p and −1296) in HEK-293 cells. Moreover, the reduction of phosphorylated Tyr136 (pTyr136) in LIX1L through the homeodomain peptide, PY136, inhibited LIX1L-induced cell proliferation in vitro and PY136 inhibited MKN45 cell proliferation in vivo. We also determined the miRNA-targeted genes and showed that was apoptosis induced through the reduction of pTyr136. Moreover, ROS1, HCK, ABL1, ABL2, JAK3, LCK and TYR03 were identified as candidate kinases responsible for the phosphorylation of Tyr136 of LIX1L. These data provide novel insights into the biological significance of LIX1L, suggesting that this protein might be an RBP, with implications for therapeutic approaches for targeting LIX1L in LIX1L-expressing cancer cells.
Bottom-up Fabrication of Graphene on Silicon/Silica Substrate via a Facile Soft-hard Template Approach
Authors: Yang Yuxing , Liu Ruili , Wu Jiayang , Jiang Xinhong , Cao Pan , Hu Xiaofeng , Pan Ting , Qiu Ciyuan , Yang Junyi , Song Yinglin , Wu Dongqing , Su Yikai
Published: August 2015

In this work, a novel soft-hard template method towards the direct fabrication of graphene films on silicon/silica substrate is developed via a tri-constituent self-assembly route. Using cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) as a soft template, silica (SiO2) from tetramethoxysilane as a hard template and pyrene as a carbon source, the self-assembly process allows the formation of a sandwich-like SiO2/CTAB/pyrene composite, which can be further converted to high quantity graphene films with a thickness of ~1 nm and a size of over 5 μm by thermal treatment. The morphology and thickness of the graphene films can be effectively controlled through the adjustment of the ratio of pyrene to CTAB. Furthermore, a high nonlinear refractive index n2 of ~10−12 m2 W−1 is measured from graphene/silica hybrid film, which is six orders of magnitude larger than that of silicon and comparable to the graphene from chemical vapor deposition process.
Plaque-associated lipids in Alzheimer’s diseased brain tissue visualized by nonlinear microscopy
Authors: Kiskis Juris , Fink Helen , Nyberg Lena , Thyr Jacob , Li Jia-Yi , Enejder Annika
Published: August 2015

By simultaneous coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) and 2-photon fluorescence microscopy of Thioflavin-S stained Alzheimer´s diseased human brain tissues, we show evidence of lipid deposits co-localizing with fibrillar β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques. Two lipid morphologies can be observed; lamellar structures and coalescing macro-aggregates of sub-micron sizes to ~25 μm. No significant lipid deposits were observed in non-fibrillar, diffuse plaques identified by Aβ immuno-staining. CARS microscopy of unlabeled samples confirms the lamellar and macro-aggregate lipid morphologies. The composition of the plaques was analyzed by CARS microspectroscopy and Raman microscopy; vibrational signatures of lipids with long acyl chains co-localize with the β-sheet vibrations. The lipid fluidity was evaluated from the CARS spectra, illustrating that the lipid composition/organization varies throughout the plaques. Altogether this indicates close amyloid-lipid interplay in fibrillar Aβ plaques, rendering them more dynamic compositions than previously believed and, hence, potential sources of toxic oligomers.
An efficient system for intracellular delivery of beta-lactam antibiotics to overcome bacterial resistance
Authors: Abed Nadia , Saïd-Hassane Fatouma , Zouhiri Fatima , Mougin Julie , Nicolas Valérie , Desmaële Didier , Gref Ruxandra , Couvreur Patrick
Published: August 2015

The “Golden era” of antibiotics is definitely an old story and this is especially true for intracellular bacterial infections. The poor intracellular bioavailability of antibiotics reduces the efficency of many treatments and thereby promotes resistances. Therefore, the development of nanodevices coupled with antibiotics that are capable of targeting and releasing the drug into the infected-cells appears to be a promising solution to circumvent these complications. Here, we took advantage of two natural terpenes (farnesyl and geranyl) to design nanodevices for an efficient intracellular delivery of penicillin G. The covalent linkage between the terpene moieties and the antibiotic leads to formation of prodrugs that self-assemble to form nanoparticles with a high drug payload between 55–63%. Futhermore, the addition of an environmentally-sensitive bond between the antibiotic and the terpene led to an efficient antibacterial activity against the intracellular pathogen Staphylococcus aureus with reduced intracellular replication of about 99.9% compared to untreated infected cells. Using HPLC analysis, we demonstrated and quantified the intracellular release of PenG when this sensitive-bond (SB) was present on the prodrug, showing the success of this technology to deliver antibiotics directly into cells.
Thermal crosstalk in 3-dimensional RRAM crossbar array
Authors: Sun Pengxiao , Lu Nianduan , Li Ling , Li Yingtao , Wang Hong , Lv Hangbing , Liu Qi , Long Shibing , Liu Su , Liu Ming
Published: August 2015

High density 3-dimensional (3D) crossbar resistive random access memory (RRAM) is one of the major focus of the new age technologies. To compete with the ultra-high density NAND and NOR memories, understanding of reliability mechanisms and scaling potential of 3D RRAM crossbar array is needed. Thermal crosstalk is one of the most critical effects that should be considered in 3D crossbar array application. The Joule heat generated inside the RRAM device will determine the switching behavior itself and for dense memory arrays, the temperature surrounding may lead to a consequent resistance degradation of neighboring devices. In this work, thermal crosstalk effect and scaling potential under thermal effect in 3D RRAM crossbar array are systematically investigated. It is revealed that the reset process is dominated by transient thermal effect in 3D RRAM array. More importantly, thermal crosstalk phenomena could deteriorate device retention performance and even lead to data storage state failure from LRS (low resistance state) to HRS (high resistance state) of the disturbed RRAM cell. In addition, the resistance state degradation will be more serious with continuously scaling down the feature size. Possible methods for alleviating thermal crosstalk effect while further advancing the scaling potential are also provided and verified by numerical simulation.
Molecular composition and ultrastructure of Jurassic paravian feathers
Authors: Lindgren Johan , Sjövall Peter , Carney Ryan M. , Cincotta Aude , Uvdal Per , Hutcheson Steven W. , Gustafsson Ola , Lefèvre Ulysse , Escuillié François , Heimdal Jimmy , Engdahl Anders , Gren Johan A. , Kear Benjamin P. , Wakamatsu Kazumasa , Yans Johan , Godefroit Pascal
Published: August 2015

Feathers are amongst the most complex epidermal structures known and they have a well-documented evolutionary trajectory across non-avian dinosaurs and basal birds. Moreover, melanosome-like microbodies preserved in association with fossil plumage have been used to reconstruct original colour, behaviour and physiology. However, these putative ancient melanosomes might alternatively represent microorganismal residues, a conflicting interpretation compounded by a lack of unambiguous chemical data. We therefore used sensitive molecular imaging, supported by multiple independent analytical tests, to demonstrate that the filamentous epidermal appendages in a new specimen of the Jurassic paravian Anchiornis comprise remnant eumelanosomes and fibril-like microstructures, preserved as endogenous eumelanin and authigenic calcium phosphate. These results provide novel insights into the early evolution of feathers at the sub-cellular level and unequivocally determine that melanosomes can be preserved in fossil feathers.
Ethnicity-Dependent and -Independent Heterogeneity in Healthy Normal Breast Hierarchy Impacts Tumor Characterization
Authors: Nakshatri Harikrishna , Anjanappa Manjushree , Bhat-Nakshatri Poornima
Published: August 2015

Recent reports of widespread genetic variation affecting regulation of gene expression raise the possibility of significant inter-individual differences in stem-progenitor-mature cell hierarchy in adult organs. This has not been explored because of paucity of methods to quantitatively assess subpopulation of normal epithelial cells on individual basis. We report the remarkable inter-individual differences in differentiation capabilities as documented by phenotypic heterogeneity in stem-progenitor-mature cell hierarchy of the normal breast. Ethnicity and genetic predisposition are partly responsible for this heterogeneity, evidenced by the finding that CD44+/CD24- and PROCR+/EpCAM- multi-potent stem cells were elevated significantly in African American women compared with Caucasians. ALDEFLUOR+ luminal stem/progenitor cells were lower in BRCA1-mutation carriers compared with cells from healthy donors (p = 0.0014). Moreover, tumor and adjoining-normal breast cells of the same patients showed distinct CD49f+/EpCAM+ progenitor, CD271+/EpCAM- basal and ALDEFLUOR+ cell profiles. These inter-individual differences in the rate of differentiation in the normal breast may contribute to a substantial proportion of transcriptome, epigenome and signaling pathway alterations and consequently has the potential to spuriously magnify the extent of documented tumor-specific gene expression. Therefore, comparative analysis of phenotypically defined subpopulations of normal and tumor cells on an individual basis may be required to identify cancer-specific aberrations.
Bridging the gap between in vitro and in vivo: Dose and schedule predictions for the ATR inhibitor AZD6738
Authors: Checkley Stephen , MacCallum Linda , Yates James , Jasper Paul , Luo Haobin , Tolsma John , Bendtsen Claus
Published: August 2015

Understanding the therapeutic effect of drug dose and scheduling is critical to inform the design and implementation of clinical trials. The increasing complexity of both mono and particularly combination therapies presents a substantial challenge in the clinical stages of drug development for oncology. Using a systems pharmacology approach, we have extended an existing PK-PD model of tumor growth with a mechanistic model of the cell cycle, enabling simulation of mono and combination treatment with the ATR inhibitor AZD6738 and ionizing radiation. Using AZD6738, we have developed multi-parametric cell based assays measuring DNA damage and cell cycle transition, providing quantitative data suitable for model calibration. Our in vitro calibrated cell cycle model is predictive of tumor growth observed in in vivo mouse xenograft studies. The model is being used for phase I clinical trial designs for AZD6738, with the aim of improving patient care through quantitative dose and scheduling prediction.
Illustration of SID-IM-SID (surface-induced dissociation-ion mobility-SID) mass spectrometry: homo and hetero model protein complexes
Authors: Quintyn Royston S. , Harvey Sophie R. , Wysocki Vicki H.
Published: August 2015

Surface collisions generate subcomplexes, which are then separated by ion mobility and dissociated into their individual subunitsviaa second stage of surface collisions to elucidate protein complex architecture and assembly.
Trichloroethylene sensing in water based on SERS with multifunctional Au/TiO2 core–shell nanocomposites
Authors: Ren Wen , Zhou Zhongwu , Irudayaraj Joseph M. K.
Published: August 2015

A highly sensitive SERS approach to detect trichloroethylene in water based on photocatalytic and SERS active multifunctional Au/TiO2 core–shell nanosensors.
Controlling intermolecular aurophilicity in emissive dinuclear Au(i) materials and their luminescent response to ammonia vapour
Authors: Roberts Ryan J. , Le Debbie , Leznoff Daniel B.
Published: August 2015

Intermolecular aurophilicity can be turned on in dinuclear gold(i) dithiolate anions by simply incorporating hydrogen-bonding cations; a drastic red-shift in photoluminescence results. NH3 vapour reversibly lengthens the aurophilic network and induces further emission and colour changes.
O-Transfer-facilitated cyclizations of propargylamides with TMSN3: selective synthesis of tetrazoles and dihydroimidazoles
Authors: Hu Yancheng , Yi Ruxia , Yu Xinzhang , Xin Xiaoyi , Wang Chunxiang , Wan Boshun
Published: August 2015

Herein, we disclose the O-transfer-facilitated cyclizations of propargylamides with TMSN3 to selectively afford functionalized tetrazoles and diiodomethylated dihydroimidazoles.
Simulating growth morphology of urea crystals from vapour and aqueous solution
Authors: Singh M. K.
Published: August 2015

The prediction of solvent-induced urea crystal growth shape from the internal and interfacial atomic structure was investigated. A computational model was used to calculate crystal growth morphologies from vapour and aqueous solution as a function of supersaturation; predicted growth shapes agree well with experimental observations.
Chemical ordering phenomena in nanostructured FePt: Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Brodacka S. , Kozlowski M. , Kozubski R. , Goyhenex Ch. , Murch G. E.
Published: August 2015

Selective surface-induced destabilization of L10 superstructure variants is simulated in FePt nanostructures of diverse dimensionalities.
On the slowdown mechanism of water dynamics around small amphiphiles
Authors: Homsi Brandeburgo Wagner , van der Post Sietse Thijmen , Meijer Evert Jan , Ensing Bernd
Published: August 2015

Partitioning the water molecules depending on their location with respect to the solute makes it possible to probe the cause of the orientational slowdown in aqueous tetramethylurea.
Separation of thorium ions from wolframite and scandium concentrates using graphene oxide
Authors: Jankovský Ondřej , Sedmidubský David , Šimek Petr , Klímová Kateřina , Bouša Daniel , Boothroyd Chris , Macková Anna , Sofer Zdeněk
Published: August 2015

The separation of rare metals from the ores and commercially available compounds is an important issue due to the need of their high purity in advanced materials and devices.
New organophilic kaolin clays based on single-point grafted 3-aminopropyl dimethylethoxysilane
Authors: Zaharia A. , Perrin F.-X. , Teodorescu M. , Radu A.-L. , Iordache T.-V. , Florea A.-M. , Donescu D. , Sarbu A.
Published: August 2015

Application of a two-step organophilization reaction to improve the overall properties of kaolin clays via monodentate fixation of a monofunctional aminosilane.
Photoinduced charge accumulation by metal ion-coupled electron transfer
Authors: Bonn Annabell G. , Wenger Oliver S.
Published: August 2015

Strong Lewis acid/Lewis base interactions between Sc3+and superoxide anions permit the light-driven accumulation of two positive charges on oligotriarylamine units with appended Ru(ii) photosensitizers.
Enhancement of the initial hydrogenation of Mg by ball milling with alkali metal amides MNH2(M = Li or Na)
Authors: Chu Hailiang , Qiu Shujun , Sun Lixian , Huot Jacques
Published: August 2015

The addition of 4 wt% of MNH2(M = Li, Na) to pure Mg by ball milling greatly enhances the first hydrogenation (activation). Under 2 MPa of H2at 608 K, the best activation performance was achieved with the NaNH2additive.
Bond ionicity, lattice energy, bond energy and microwave dielectric properties of ZnZr(Nb1−xAx)2O8 (A = Ta, Sb) ceramics
Authors: Zhang Ping , Zhao Yonggui , Haitao Wu
Published: August 2015

The bond iconicity, lattice energy and bond energy were calculated from the Rietveld refinement.
Closing the urban water loop: lessons from Singapore and Windhoek
Authors: Lafforgue M. , Lenouvel V.
Published: August 2015

More and more cities are dealing with the concurrent trends of water scarcity and growth in water demand. This paper presents the operational solutions developed by Singapore and Windhoek to address this problem.
Potable reuse of water
Authors: Khan Stuart J.
Published: August 2015

Guest editor Stuart Khan introduces the Potable Reuse of Water themed issue of Environmental Science: Water Research & Technology.
Synthesis of a polyisobutylene-tagged fac-Ir(ppy)3 complex and its application as recyclable visible-light photocatalyst in a continuous flow process
Authors: Rackl Daniel , Kreitmeier Peter , Reiser Oliver
Published: August 2015

A protocol for photoredox catalysed reactions in homogeneous solution (mono- or biphasic) was developed that allows automatic recycling of the catalyst.
Flow-induced stress on adherent cells in microfluidic devices
Authors: Shemesh Jonathan , Jalilian Iman , Shi Anthony , Heng Yeoh Guan , Knothe Tate Melissa L. , Ebrahimi Warkiani Majid
Published: August 2015

The article describes flow-induced stress on adherent cells in microfluidics devices in light of ongoing discoveries in mechanobiology.
Nanoparticle distribution during systemic inflammation is size-dependent and organ-specific
Authors: Chen K.-H. , Lundy D. J. , Toh E. K.-W. , Chen C.-H. , Shih C. , Chen P. , Chang H.-C. , Lai J. J. , Stayton P. S. , Hoffman A. S. , Hsieh P. C.-H.
Published: August 2015

This study comprehensively investigates the changing biodistribution of fluorescent-labelled polystyrene latex bead nanoparticles in a mouse model of inflammation.
Synthesis, characterization and in vitro evaluation of novel enantiomerically-pure sulphonamide antimalarials
Authors: Anusha Sebastian , Sinha Ameya , Babu Rajeev C. P. , Chu Trang T. T. , Mathai Jessin , Ximei Huang , Fuchs Julian E. , Shivananju NanjundaSwamy , Bender Andreas , Preiser Peter Rainer , Rangappa Kanchugarakoppal S. , Basappa Basappa , Chandramohanadas Rajesh
Published: August 2015

Novel sulphonamide antimalarials targeting parasitic N-myristoyl transferase.
Synthesis of quinazolinimines and quinazolinamines from 2-fluorobenzonitriles under catalyst-free conditions
Authors: Feng Jian-Bo , Wu Xiao-Feng
Published: August 2015

A convenient procedure for the synthesis of quinazolinimines and quinazolinamines from 2-fluorobenzonitriles and 2-aminopyridines or amidines with KOtBu as the promotor has been developed.
Synthesis and self-assembly of CO2-responsive dendronized triblock copolymers
Authors: Huo Meng , Ye Qiquan , Che Hailong , Sun Mengzhen , Yuan Jinying , Wei Yen
Published: August 2015

Dendronized amphiphilic block copolymers POEGMA-b-P(Gn)-b-PDEAEMA were synthesized, and their self-assembly behavior could be regulated by the dendron generation, the type of common solvent, and CO2-stimulus.
Thiol–isocyanate click reaction in a Pickering emulsion: a rapid and efficient route to encapsulation of healing agents
Authors: Li Chunmei , Tan Jiaojun , Li Hui , Yin Dezhong , Gu Junwei , Zhang Baoliang , Zhang Qiuyu
Published: August 2015

An innovative, rapid and efficient route is developed to fabricate ene loaded microcapsules via a thiol–isocyanate click reaction based on a hydrolyzed poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) particle stabilized oil-in-water Pickering emulsion.
Mesoporous hollow carbons on graphene and their electrochemical properties
Authors: Jeong G. H. , Lee I. , Kang J.-G. , Lee H. , Yoon S. , Kim S.-W.
Published: August 2015

We synthesized mesoporous hollow carbon on a graphene surface (MHCG). When applied into supercapacitor electrode, MHCG electrode exhibited outstanding maintenance of energy density above 30 W h kg−1 even under 1 kW kg−1 power density.
Beryllium decorated armchair BC2N nanoribbons: coexistence of planar tetracoordinate carbon and nitrogen moieties
Authors: Xiao Bo , Cheng Jian-bo , Liu Zhen-bo , Li Qing-zhong , Li Wen-zuo , Yang Xin , Yu Xue-fang
Published: August 2015

Be-decorated armchair BC2N nanoribbon with coexistence of ptC and ptN moieties.
Fabrication of NiCo2O4 and carbon nanotube nanocomposite films as a high-performance flexible electrode of supercapacitors
Authors: Xu Shanshan , Yang Deming , Zhang Fan , Liu Jiacheng , Guo Anran , Hou Feng
Published: August 2015

Herein, we demonstrated facile fabrication of NiCo2O4 nanoparticles on a CNT film by a chemical deposition method, followed by thermal annealing treatment processing.
Flexible superhydrophobic polysiloxane aerogels for oil–water separation via one-pot synthesis in supercritical CO2
Authors: Zou Fangxin , Peng Li , Fu Wenxin , Zhang Jianling , Li Zhibo
Published: August 2015

A flexible polysiloxane aerogel synthesized using a green, one-pot method possesses extraordinary mechanical properties and robust stability, and exhibits great potential in oil–water separation.
3,6-Di(pyridin-2-yl)-1,2,4,5-tetrazine capped Pd(0) nanoparticles: a catalyst for copper-free Sonogashira coupling of aryl halides in aqueous medium
Authors: Das Sudipto , Samanta Suvendu , Ray Shounak , Biswas Papu
Published: August 2015

3,6-Di(pyridin-2-yl)-1,2,4,5-tetrazine (pytz) capped Pd(0) nanoparticles (TzPdNPs) act as a catalyst in Sonogashira coupling under copper- and ligand-free conditions in aqueous medium.
Temperature effects on a nano-porous ZnCo2O4 anode with excellent capability for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Fu Ji-Xuan , Wong Wei-Ting , Liu Wei-Ren
Published: August 2015

ZnCo2O4 is synthesized via a hydrothermal method with different annealing temperatures. Via controlling the sintering technique, the rate capability of the as-prepared porous ZnCo2O4 anode is as high as ∼900 mA h g−1 at 10C.
Synthesis, properties and thermal behavior of poly(decylene-2,5-furanoate): a biobased polyester from 2,5-furan dicarboxylic acid
Authors: Tsanaktsis Vasilios , Bikiaris Dimitrios N. , Guigo Nathanael , Exarhopoulos Stylianos , Papageorgiou Dimitrios G. , Sbirrazzuoli Nicolas , Papageorgiou George Z.
Published: August 2015

Poly(decylene-2,5-furandicarboxylate), a new bio-based polyester, was successfully synthesized from 2,5-furan dicarboxylic acid and 1,10-decanediol. It has mechanical properties and melting point similar to those of linear low density polyethylene.
Evaluation of imidazolium-based ionic liquids towards vermicidal activity: in vitro & in silico studies
Authors: Charan K. T. Prabhu , Ranjan Prabodh , Manojkumar Kasina , Pothanagandhi Nellepalli , Jha Prakash C. , Khedkar Vijay M. , Sivaramakrishna Akella , Vijayakrishna Kari
Published: August 2015

A series of six different ionic liquids (ILs) tailored with different N-alkyl side chains (ethyl, butyl, octyl) were synthesized and evaluated for their vermicidal activity against the Indian earthworm, Pheretima posthuma.
Regioselective one-pot three-component synthesis of quinoline based 1,2,4-triazolo[1,5-a]quinoline derivatives
Authors: Ladani Gaurav G. , Patel Manish P.
Published: August 2015

A one-pot three-component approach for the synthesis of 2-(piperidin-1-yl) quinoline based 1,2,4-triazolo[1,5-a]quinoline derivatives (4a–l) has been described by the reaction of aldehyde (1a–f), methyl 2-cyanoacetate (2) and enaminones (3a–b).
Poly(N-bromo-N-ethyl-benzene-1,3-disulfonamide) and N,N,N′,N′-tetrabromobenzene-1,3-disulfonamide as new efficient reagents for one-pot synthesis of furano and pyrano pyrimidinones (thiones)
Authors: Ghorbani-Vaghei Ramin , Maghbooli Yaser , Mahmoodi Jafar , Shahriari Azadeh
Published: August 2015

We have developed an efficient procedure for the synthesis of furano and pyrano pyrimidinones (thiones) using PBBS and TBBDA as new reagents.
Anion-templated hexagonal nanotubes
Authors: White Nicholas G. , MacLachlan Mark J.
Published: August 2015

O–H⋯Br− hydrogen bonding gives water-stable hexagonal nanotubes.
Anisotropic molecular hopping at the solid–nematic interface
Authors: Chakraborty Saonti , Nelson Nathaniel , Schwartz Daniel K.
Published: August 2015

Single molecule tracking was used to observe intermittent and anisotropic molecular motion at the solid–nematic interface.
Extensional viscosity of copper nanowire suspensions in an aqueous polymer solution
Authors: McDonnell Amarin G. , Jason Naveen N. , Yeo Leslie Y. , Friend James R. , Cheng Wenlong , Prabhakar Ranganathan
Published: August 2015

Novel microfluidic experiments enabled the measurement of extensional viscosities of copper nanowire suspensions and their complex buffer, whose characterisation is essential for the development of advanced inkjet applications.
Highly efficient planar perovskite solar cells with a TiO2/ZnO electron transport bilayer
Authors: Xu Xin , Zhang Huiyin , Shi Jiangjian , Dong Juan , Luo Yanhong , Li Dongmei , Meng Qingbo
Published: August 2015

A TiO2/ZnO bilayer was applied in planar perovskite solar cells to achieve high power-conversion efficiency more than 17%.
Honeycomb in honeycomb carbon bubbles: excellent Li- and Na-storage performances
Authors: Yang Gongzheng , Song Huawei , Cui Hao , Wang Chengxin
Published: August 2015

Herein we report a novel honeycomb in honeycomb hollow carbon bubble for excellent lithium and sodium anode material.
A crosslinked fullerene matrix doped with an ionic fullerene as a cathodic buffer layer toward high-performance and thermally stable polymer and organic metallohalide perovskite solar cells
Authors: Chao Yi-Hsiang , Huang Yi-You , Chang Jen-Yun , Peng Shih-Hao , Tu Wei-Yi , Cheng Yen-Ju , Hou Jianhui , Hsu Chain-Shu
Published: August 2015

In this study, we developed a new cathodic buffer layer consisting of a cross-linked [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric styryl dendron ester (C-PCBSD) matrix and an ionic FPI dopant.
Multifunctional REDV-conjugated zwitterionic polycarboxybetaine–polycaprolactone hybrid surfaces for enhanced antibacterial activity, anti-thrombogenicity and endothelial cell proliferation
Authors: Yuan Shaojun , Xiong Gordon , He Fei , Jiang Wei , Liang Bin , Choong Cleo
Published: August 2015

Multifunctional PCL hybrid surfaces are developed by grafting of REDV–zwitterionic polycarboxybetaine conjugatesviasurface-initiated ATRP.
Recent progress in organic resistance memory with small molecules and inorganic–organic hybrid polymers as active elements
Authors: Wang Chengyuan , Gu Peiyang , Hu Benlin , Zhang Qichun
Published: August 2015

This review covers the recent progress in organic small molecules and inorganic–organic hybrid polymer based ORM.
Enhanced sensitivity of a GHz surface acoustic wave humidity sensor based on Ni(SO4)0.3(OH)1.4 nanobelts and NiO nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Yuan , Huang Hui , Wang Lingling , Liu Bin , Cai Daoping , Wang Dandan , Wang Chenxia , Li Han , Wang Yanrong , Xie Wuyuan , Li Qiuhong , Wang Taihong
Published: August 2015

Ni(SO4)0.3(OH)1.4 nanobelts (NSOH NBs) and NiO nanoparticles (NPs) were used as the sensitive layers for a surface acoustic wave (SAW) humidity sensor.
PGC-1α limits angiotensin II-induced rat vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation via attenuating NOX1-mediated generation of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Zhao Qingbin , Zhang Junfang , Wang Huifang
Published: August 2015

AngII (angiotensin II)-induced excessive ROS (reactive oxygen species) generation and proliferation of VSMCs (vascular smooth muscle cells) is a critical contributor to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. PGC-1α [PPARγ (peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor γ) co-activator-1α] is involved in the regulation of ROS generation, VSMC proliferation and energy metabolism. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether PGC-1α mediates AngII-induced ROS generation and VSMC hyperplasia. Our results showed that the protein content of PGC-1α was negatively correlated with an increase in cell proliferation and migration induced by AngII. Overexpression of PGC-1α inhibited AngII-induced proliferation and migration, ROS generation and NADPH oxidase activity in VSMCs. Conversely, Ad-shPGC-1α (adenovirus-mediated PGC-1α-specific shRNA) led to the opposite effects. Furthermore, the stimulatory effect of Ad-shPGC-1α on VSMC proliferation was significantly attenuated by antioxidant and NADPH oxidase inhibitors. Analysis of several key subunits of NADPH oxidase (Rac1, p22phox, p40phox, p47phox and p67phox) and mitochondrial ROS revealed that these mechanisms were not responsible for the observed effects of PGC-1α. However, we found that overexpression of PGC-1α promoted NOX1 degradation through the proteasome degradation pathway under AngII stimulation and consequently attenuated NOX1 (NADPH oxidase 1) expression. These alterations underlie the inhibitory effect of PGC-1α on NADPH oxidase activity. Our data support a critical role for PGC-1α in the regulation of proliferation and migration of VSMCs, and provide a useful strategy to protect vessels against atherosclerosis.
Release of insulin from PLGA–alginate dressing stimulates regenerative healing of burn wounds in rats
Authors: Dhall Sandeep , Silva João P. , Liu Yan , Hrynyk Michael , Garcia Monika , Chan Alex , Lyubovitsky Julia , Neufeld Ronald J. , Martins-Green Manuela
Published: August 2015

Burn wound healing involves a complex set of overlapping processes in an environment conducive to ischaemia, inflammation and infection costing $7.5 billion/year in the U.S.A. alone, in addition to the morbidity and mortality that occur when the burns are extensive. We previously showed that insulin, when topically applied to skin excision wounds, accelerates re-epithelialization and stimulates angiogenesis. More recently, we developed an alginate sponge dressing (ASD) containing insulin encapsulated in PLGA [poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid)] microparticles that provides a sustained release of bioactive insulin for >20 days in a moist and protective environment. We hypothesized that insulin-containing ASD accelerates burn healing and stimulates a more regenerative, less scarring healing. Using heat-induced burn injury in rats, we show that burns treated with dressings containing 0.04 mg insulin/cm2 every 3 days for 9 days have faster closure, a higher rate of disintegration of dead tissue and decreased oxidative stress. In addition, in insulin-treated wounds, the pattern of neutrophil inflammatory response suggests faster clearing of the burned dead tissue. We also observe faster resolution of the pro-inflammatory macrophages. We also found that insulin stimulates collagen deposition and maturation with the fibres organized more like a basket weave (normal skin) than aligned and cross-linked (scar tissue). In summary, application of ASD-containing insulin-loaded PLGA particles on burns every 3 days stimulates faster and more regenerative healing. These results suggest insulin as a potential therapeutic agent in burn healing and, because of its long history of safe use in humans, insulin could become one of the treatments of choice when repair and regeneration are critical for proper tissue function.
Optimal phasor measurement unit placement for numerical observability in the presence of conventional measurements using semi‐definite programming
Authors: Korres George N. , Manousakis Nikolaos M. , Xygkis Themistoklis C. , Löfberg Johan
Published: August 2015

This study presents a new approach for optimal placement of synchronised phasor measurement units (PMUs) to ensure complete power system observability in the presence of non‐synchronous conventional measurements and zero injections. Currently, financial or technical restrictions prohibit the deployment of PMUs on every bus, which in turn motivates their strategic placement across the power system. PMU allocation is optimised here based on measurement observability criteria for achieving solvability of the power system state estimation. Most of the previous work has proposed topological observability based methods for optimal PMU placement (OPP), which may not always ensure numerical observability required for successful execution of state estimation. The proposed OPP method finds out the minimum number and the optimal locations of PMUs required to make the power system numerically observable. The problem is formulated as a binary semi‐definite programming (BSDP) model, with binary decision variables, minimising a linear objective function subject to linear matrix inequality observability constraints. The BSDP problem is solved using an outer approximation scheme based on binary integer linear programming. The developed method is conducted on IEEE standard test systems. A large‐scale system with 3120 buses is also analysed to exhibit the applicability of proposed model to practical power system cases.
Active zero voltage switching tracking controller design for class E inverter to counteract the resonant components shifting
Authors: Li Yen‐Fang
Published: August 2015

On the basis of zero voltage switching (ZVS) operation, the class E resonant converter provides excellent conversion efficiency even though it works on high frequency. Unfortunately, the ZVS operation is sensitive to the circuit situations. While the circuit components are shifting, the ZVS working will drift around the dominant point and it may fail to work on ZVS. In this study, an active ZVS tracking control method is proposed to cope with the circuit components shifting. On the basis of an exact analysis of the ZVS operation conditions, first a searching procedure is proposed to decide the optimal switching frequency. Next, through the current phase feedback, the active ZVS tracking controller is built to retain the circuit works on optimum ZVS operation by adaptively tuning the switching frequency to counteract the components shifting. In addition to the theoretical analysis and computer simulation, the proposed tracking controller has been applied to implement a 1.3 MHz class E inverter with a field‐programmable gate array (FPGA)‐based controller.
Space‐vector pulse‐width modulation for multiphase voltage source inverters considering reference order
Authors: Chen Keng‐Yuan
Published: August 2015

A multiphase space‐vector pulse‐width modulation (SVPWM) with switching states selected based on reference order is proposed. The immediate advantages include the great reduction of computational complexity and simple extension to arbitrary prime phase numbers. In the first part, the general switching strategy is derived considering pure sinusoidal references. Though the derived method is based on adjacent space‐vector selection, unlike the conventional method, it needs not any information of sector number. Further, the duty ratio can be obtained from the N‐phase reference directly without any information of selected switching states. The second part shows that the strategy is applicable to multi‐frequency references. By comparing the proposed SVPWM with carrier‐based PWM, the implementation of SVPWM becomes quite simple. In simulations and experiments, five different references are applied and the results verify the accuracy of the proposed modulator.
Patterns of shelter use and their effects on the relative survival of subadult California spiny lobster (Panulirus interruptus)
Authors: Harrington Amalia M. , Hovel Kevin A.
Published: August 2015

Spiny lobsters use refuge habitat and gregarious behaviour to reduce predation risk, particularly in their vulnerable juvenile and subadult stages. We characterised patterns of sheltering behaviour in the California spiny lobster (Panulirus interruptus (Randall)) on southern California rocky reefs and used manipulative experiments to examine how these behaviours affect the survival of subadult lobsters and shelter selection. Lobsters generally were gregarious and subadults were commonly found inhabiting shelters with adult lobsters. Tethering experiments with subadults indicated that communal denning increases the odds of survival only when adult lobsters are part of aggregations. This corresponded to results from a shelter choice experiment in the laboratory, where the presence of predators caused subadults to shelter more often with adult conspecifics rather than other subadults. Despite the gregarious nature of P. interruptus, solitary subadults were common at all sites. Although field experiments clearly indicated that solitary lobsters increased their odds of survival by inhabiting shelters scaled to body size, evidence that lobsters exhibit shelter scaling on natural reefs was mixed. Our results indicate that subadult P. interruptus exhibit similar behavioural strategies as other spiny lobsters to reduce predation risk, and they provide a more comprehensive examination of P. interruptus behaviour than previously available.
Looking backwards to look forwards: the role of natural history in temperate reef ecology
Authors: Hawkins S. J. , Mieszkowska N. , Firth L. B. , Bohn K. , Burrows M. T. , MacLean M. A. , Thompson R. C. , Chan B. K. K. , Little C. , Williams G. A.
Published: August 2015

Temperate reefs are superb tractable systems for testing hypotheses in ecology and evolutionary biology. Accordingly there is a rich history of research stretching back over 100 years, which has made major contributions to general ecological and evolutionary theory as well as providing better understanding of how littoral systems work by linking pattern with process. A brief resumé of the history of temperate reef ecology is provided to celebrate this rich heritage. As a community, temperate reef ecologists generally do well designed experiments and test well formulated hypotheses. Increasingly large datasets are being collected, collated and subjected to complex meta-analyses and used for modelling. These datasets do not happen spontaneously – the burgeoning subject of macroecology is possible only because of the efforts of dedicated natural historians whether it be observing birds, butterflies, or barnacles. High-quality natural history and old-fashioned field craft enable surveys or experiments to be stratified (i.e. replicates are replicates and not a random bit of rock) and lead to the generation of more insightful hypotheses. Modern molecular approaches have led to the discovery of cryptic species and provided phylogeographical insights, but natural history is still required to identify species in the field. We advocate a blend of modern approaches with old school skills and a fondness for temperate reefs in all their splendour.
Pel is a cationic exopolysaccharide that cross-links extracellular DNA in the
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
biofilm matrix
Authors: Jennings Laura K. , Storek Kelly M. , Ledvina Hannah E. , Coulon Charlène , Marmont Lindsey S. , Sadovskaya Irina , Secor Patrick R. , Tseng Boo Shan , Scian Michele , Filloux Alain , Wozniak Daniel J. , Howell P. Lynne , Parsek Matthew R.
Published: August 2015

Significance

Exopolysaccharides and extracellular DNA are important structural components that contribute to the self-assembly of large aggregates or microcolonies that are characteristic of biofilms.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is capable of producing multiple exopolysaccharides, including alginate, Psl, and Pel. At present, little is known about Pel’s chemical structure and its role in microcolony formation. Our results demonstrate that Pel is composed of cationic amino sugars. Using this knowledge, we have developed a Pel-specific lectin stain to directly visualize Pel in biofilms. We show that the positive charge on Pel facilitates its binding to extracellular DNA in the biofilm stalk, and that Pel can compensate for lack of Psl in the biofilm periphery.
In situ structural analysis of Golgi intracisternal protein arrays
Authors: Engel Benjamin D. , Schaffer Miroslava , Albert Sahradha , Asano Shoh , Plitzko Jürgen M. , Baumeister Wolfgang
Published: August 2015

Significance

To our knowledge, this is the first detailed study of Golgi ultrastructure within unperturbed cells. Three intracisternal structures were identified, with implications for Golgi architecture and trafficking: (
i
) Bundles of filaments show how cargoes may oligomerize to increase their local concentration at trans-Golgi buds. (
ii
) Granular aggregates provide evidence for cisternal maturation, as they are likely too large to transit the Golgi via vesicles. (
iii
) Protein arrays link the membranes of the central trans-Golgi cisternae, simultaneously maintaining the narrow luminal spacing while promoting cargo exit from the Golgi periphery by excluding material from the center. The asymmetry of the array structure indicates that the apposing membranes of a single cisterna have distinct compositions. The assembly of arrays may also enhance glycosyltransferase kinetics.
Goals and tactics of President Gerald Ford's ethnic politics
Authors: Zake Ieva
Published: August 2015

This article analyzes initiatives of Gerald Ford's presidential administration toward nationalities or the so-called white ethnics against the backdrop of the legacy of Richard Nixon and the Republican Party's ethnic politics of the 1960s. Using archival and interview materials, it demonstrates that Gerald Ford intended to improve the relationship between the President's office and the ethnics who were involved in the Republican Party's structures. He consciously tried to respond to ethnics' political concerns and even created a special position on his staff for working with the nationalities. While in office and during the election campaign of 1976, Ford succeeded in engaging the ethnics and in demonstrating his will to address their needs on the domestic “front.” He failed, however, to fully appreciate the importance of foreign policy to the nationalities. The article proposes that today, as in the 1970s, the American political establishment would benefit from recognizing international issues as crucial elements of white ethnics' or nationalities' political behavior.
γ-Tubulin complexes in microtubule nucleation and beyond
Authors: Oakley Berl R. , Paolillo Vitoria , Zheng Yixian
Published: August 2015

Tremendous progress has been made in understanding the functions of γ-tubulin and, in particular, its role in microtubule nucleation since the publication of its discovery in 1989. The structure of γ-tubulin has been determined, and the components of γ-tubulin complexes have been identified. Significant progress in understanding the structure of the γ-tubulin ring complex and its components has led to a persuasive model for how these complexes nucleate microtubule assembly. At the same time, data have accumulated that γ-tubulin has important but less well understood functions that are not simply a consequence of its function in microtubule nucleation. These include roles in the regulation of plus-end microtubule dynamics, gene regulation, and mitotic and cell cycle regulation. Finally, evidence is emerging that γ-tubulin mutations or alterations of γ-tubulin expression play an important role in certain types of cancer and in other diseases.