bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging mechanisms of mRNP remodeling regulation
Authors: Chen Chyi‐Ying A. , Shyu Ann‐Bin
Published: June 2014

The assembly and remodeling of the components of messenger ribonucleoprotein particles (mRNPs) are important in determining the fate of a messenger RNA (mRNA). A combination of biochemical and cell biology research, recently complemented by genome‐wide high‐throughput approaches, has led to significant progress on understanding the formation, dynamics, and function of mRNPs. These studies also advanced the challenging process of identifying the evolving constituents of individual mRNPs at various stages during an mRNA's lifetime. While research on mRNP remodeling in general has been gaining momentum, there has been relatively little attention paid to the regulatory aspect of mRNP remodeling. Here, we discuss the results of some new studies and potential mechanisms for regulation of mRNP remodeling. WIREs RNA 2014, 5:713–722. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1241

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein–RNA Interactions: Functional Implications
MCX: a Synchrotron Radiation Beamline for X‐ray Diffraction Line Profile Analysis
Authors: Rebuffi Luca , Plaisier Jasper R. , Abdellatief Mahmoud , Lausi Andrea , Scardi Paolo
Published: June 2014

The potential of modern methods for X‐ray diffraction Line Profile Analysis can be fully exploited with data collected at synchrotron radiation beamlines, provided that optics and experimental set‐up are suitably designed and characterized. The Material Characterization by X‐ray Diffraction beamline, MCX, at Elettra‐Sincrotrone Trieste, may operate with a set‐up optimally arranged to study nanostructured materials, investigating details of crystalline domain size and shape, lattice defects, and local atomic displacement of static and dynamic nature. Main features of MCX are briefly discussed and best operating conditions illustrated by representative case studies.
Evaluation of an imaging biomarker, Dixon quantitative chemical shift imaging, in Gaucher disease: lessons learned
Authors: van Dussen L. , Akkerman E. M. , Hollak C. E. M. , Nederveen A. J. , Maas M.
Published: June 2014

Gaucher disease (GD) is the first lysosomal storage disorder for which specific therapy became available. The infiltration of bone marrow by storage cells plays an important part in the pathophysiology of skeletal complications and can be quantified by measurements of bone marrow fat fraction (Ff). Ff measurements by Dixon quantitative chemical shift imaging (QCSI) are standard for the follow‐up care of GD patients at the Academic Medical Center. Several criteria should be met in order for these measurements to qualify as an imaging biomarker. These include: 1) The presence of the imaging biomarker is closely coupled or linked to the presence of the target disease or condition; 2) The detection and/or quantitative measurement of the biomarker is accurate, reproducible, and feasible over time, and; 3) The changes measured over time in the imaging biomarker are closely coupled, or linked, to the success or failure of the therapeutic effect and the true end point for the medical therapy being evaluated. This review assesses the use of Ff measurements by QCSI as a biomarker for GD in light of these criteria. In addition potential pitfalls are discussed including: degenerative disc disease; vertebral collapse and infection; haematological malignancies; focal fatty deposits; age; menopause; phase and repositioning errors, and; fat surrounding the basivertebral vein.

QCSI measurements of Ff can be used as an imaging biomarker for GD taking these pitfalls into account. It is one of the first biomarkers, in particular imaging biomarkers, for GD that has been systematically evaluated and could be a valuable tool in clinical trials comparing different treatments or dosing regimens.
Comparison of Soybean and Cottonseed Oils upon Hydrogenation with Nickel, Palladium and Platinum Catalysts
Authors: Cheng H. N. , Rau Mason W. , Dowd Michael K. , Easson Michael W. , Condon Brian D.
Published: June 2014

There is current interest in reducing the trans fatty acids (TFA) in hydrogenated vegetable oils because consumption of foods high in TFA has been linked to increased serum cholesterol content. In the interest of understanding the TFA levels, hydrogenation was carried out in this work on soybean oil and cottonseed oil at two pressures (2 and 5 bar) and 100 °C using commercially available Ni, Pd, and Pt catalysts. The TFA levels and the fatty acid profiles were analyzed by gas chromatography. The iodine value of interest is ~70 for all‐purpose shortening and 95–110 for pourable oil applications. In all cases, higher hydrogen pressures produced lower levels of TFA. In the range of 70–95 iodine values for the hydrogenated products, the Pt catalyst gave the least TFA, followed closely by Ni, and then Pd, for both oils. For all three catalysts at 2‐ and 5‐bar pressures and 70–95 iodine values, cottonseed oil contained noticeably less TFA than soybean oil; this is probably because cottonseed oil contains a lower total amount of olefin‐containing fatty acids relative to soybean oil. Approximate kinetic modeling was also done on the hydrogenation data that provided additional confirmation of data consistency.
To Educate, Equip, and Empower: Black Church Sponsorship of Tutoring or Literary Programs
Authors: Barnes Sandra L.
Published: June 2014

The Black Church has a long history of sponsoring youth educational programs. Yet Black students continue to lag behind their White counterparts in academic outcomes. This research note examines; (1) sponsorship of tutoring or literacy programs based on a national sample of 1,863 Black churches across seven denominations and (2) the forms of congregational cultural capital that influence such efforts. Results show denominational differences. Moreover, larger churches as well as those with formally educated leaders and members are more likely to sponsor tutorial or literacy programs. Churches that provide religious and religious-education programs, include gospel rap music during worship, and strive to increase members’ awareness of racial, social, and political issues are also more likely to sponsor these programs. Lastly, although the influence of spiritual dictates varies, churches that more frequently expose members to sermons about personal spiritual growth are also more apt to offer these youth educational programs. Best practices are provided to identify and harness the various forms of church capital found in Black congregations to improve educational outcomes for Black students.
A possible iron delivery function of the dinuclear iron center of HcgD in [Fe]‐hydrogenase cofactor biosynthesis
Authors: Fujishiro Takashi , Ermler Ulrich , Shima Seigo
Published: June 2014

HcgD, a homolog of the ubiquitous Nif3‐like protein family, is found in a gene cluster involved in the biosynthesis of the iron‐guanylylpyridinol (FeGP) cofactor of [Fe]‐hydrogenase. The presented crystal structure and biochemical analyses indicated that HcgD has a dinuclear iron‐center, which provides a pronounced binding site for anionic ligands. HcgD contains a stronger and a weaker bound iron; the latter being removable by chelating reagents preferentially in the oxidized state. Therefore, we propose HcgD as an iron chaperone in FeGP cofactor biosynthesis, which might also stimulate investigations on the functionally unknown but physiologically important eukaryotic Nif3‐like protein family members.
Wheat germ systems for cell‐free protein expression
Authors: Harbers Matthias
Published: June 2014

Cell‐free protein expression plays an important role in biochemical research. However, only recent developments led to new methods to rapidly synthesize preparative amounts of protein that make cell‐free protein expression an attractive alternative to cell‐based methods. In particular the wheat germ system provides the highest translation efficiency among eukaryotic cell‐free protein expression approaches and has a very high success rate for the expression of soluble proteins of good quality. As an open in vitro method, the wheat germ system is a preferable choice for many applications in protein research including options for protein labeling and the expression of difficult‐to‐express proteins like membrane proteins and multiple protein complexes. Here I describe wheat germ cell‐free protein expression systems and give examples how they have been used in genome‐wide expression studies, preparation of labeled proteins for structural genomics and protein mass spectroscopy, automated protein synthesis, and screening of enzymatic activities. Future directions for the use of cell‐free expression methods are discussed.
Activation of TRPV1 mediates thymic stromal lymphopoietin release via the Ca2+/NFAT pathway in airway epithelial cells
Authors: Jia Xinying , Zhang Hong , Cao Xu , Yin Yuxin , Zhang Bo
Published: June 2014

The airway epithelium is exposed to a range of irritants in the environment that are known to trigger inflammatory response such as asthma. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is a Ca2+‐permeable cation channel critical for detecting noxious stimuli by sensory neurons. Recently increasing evidence suggests TRPV1 is also crucially involved in the pathophysiology of asthma on airway epithelium in human. Here we report that in airway epithelial cells TRPV1 activation potently induces allergic cytokine thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) release. TSLP induction by protease‐activated receptor (PAR)‐2 activation is also partially mediated by TRPV1 channels.
The impact of perceptual congruence on the effectiveness of cause‐related marketing campaigns
Authors: Kuo Andrew , Rice Dan Hamilton
Published: June 2014

In the cause‐related marketing (CRM) literature, the degree of fit between a firm and cause has been shown to positively impact the effectiveness of CRM campaigns. Throughout the literature, however, firm‐cause fit has been operationalized as the relatedness of conceptual attributes such as brand image and positioning (i.e., conceptual congruence). Across three studies, the authors demonstrate that the relatedness of perceptual attributes such as color (i.e., perceptual congruence) can also enhance the effectiveness of CRM campaigns. Study 1 shows that perceptual congruence between a firm and cause positively affects perceptions of overall fit and participation intentions. Study 2 provides evidence that perceptual congruence impacts CRM effectiveness through a fit‐as‐fluency mechanism. Finally, Study 3 demonstrates the moderating effect of elaboration on the relationship between fit type (perceptual vs. conceptual congruence) and participation intentions. Consistent with previous findings, elaboration positively affects participation intentions when the fit type is conceptual, but the results of Study 3 indicate that elaboration negatively impacts participation intentions when the fit type is perceptual.
Establishment of novel cell lines recapitulating the genetic landscape of uveal melanoma and preclinical validation of mTOR as a therapeutic target
Authors: Amirouchene-Angelozzi Nabil , Nemati Fariba , Gentien David , Nicolas André , Dumont Amaury , Carita Guillaume , Camonis Jacques , Desjardins Laurence , Cassoux Nathalie , Piperno-Neumann Sophie , Mariani Pascale , Sastre Xavier , Decaudin Didier , Roman-Roman Sergio
Published: June 2014

Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary tumor of the eye in adults. There is no standard adjuvant treatment to prevent metastasis and no effective therapy in the metastatic setting. We have established a unique panel of 7 UM cell lines from either patient's tumors or patient‐derived tumor xenografts (PDXs). This panel recapitulates the molecular landscape of the disease in terms of genetic alterations and mutations. All the cell lines display GNAQ or GNA11 activating mutations, and importantly four of them display BAP1 (BRCA1 associated protein‐1) deficiency, a hallmark of aggressive disease. The mTOR pathway was shown to be activated in most of the cell lines independent of AKT signaling. mTOR inhibitor Everolimus reduced the viability of UM cell lines and significantly delayed tumor growth in 4 PDXs. Our data suggest that mTOR inhibition with Everolimus, possibly in combination with other agents, may be considered as a therapeutic option for the management of uveal melanoma.
Problematic search, slack search and institutional logic in corporate R&D strategy: An empirical analysis of Taiwanese electronics firms
Authors: Lu Lin-Hua , Fang Shih-Chieh
Published: June 2014

This study focuses on firms’ search behavior with regard to corporate R&D investment. Building on Cyert and March's (1963) behavioral theory of the firm, we develop specific hypotheses about how firms adjust their R&D investment in response to performance discrepancies, and how this adjustment varies for two types of slack resources. Moreover, by utilizing institutional logic, we also hypothesized that the firms’ search behaviors in response to performance feedback may differ between business-group affiliated and unaffiliated firms. Empirical evidence from panel data coving 274 Taiwanese electronics firms listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange over the period 1999–2008 is consistent with our theoretical predictions. In particular, we find that firms will increase R&D investment when they faced discrepancies in performance, but will decrease R&D spending when close to bankruptcy. Moreover, our results show that unabsorbed and absorbed slack have different impacts, positively and negatively affecting R&D investment, respectively. In addition, we find that both business group-affiliated and unaffiliated firms will increase R&D investment in response to negative performance feedback, but only business group-affiliated firms will increase R&D activity when facing positive performance feedback. Furthermore, we also find that only business group-affiliated firms have a greater inclination to invest in R&D when there is unabsorbed slack. Our findings extend the claims of behavioral theory in newly industrialized economies, and identify the important factors that need to be considered in future studies.
Uncertainty management strategies and the export performance of cultural goods: The case of the Korean movie industry from 2000 to 2004
Authors: Kim Sunhyuk
Published: June 2014

Uncertainty, which is an inherent characteristic of cultural industry in the sense that no one can accurately predict the success or failure of cultural goods, increases greatly when organizations export cultural goods overseas. Then, when exporting cultural goods, how can organizations manage the risks of uncertainty to improve their export performance? Focusing on the case of the Korean movie industry, this study shows that strategies such as market signaling, generalist strategy and vertical integration can contribute to improving the export performance of movies, and thereby help organizations effectively manage the risks of uncertainty arising from the export of movies. For the analysis, this study uses the data of all Korean movies released from 2000 to 2004, and analyzes them on the basis of negative binominal regression. The findings of this study help us understand what strategies are needed for organizations in cultural industry to manage the risks of uncertainty arising from the export of cultural goods.
HYPERGROUP ALGEBRAS AS TOPOLOGICAL ALGEBRAS
Authors: MAGHSOUDI S. , SEOANE-SEPÚLVEDA J. B.
Published: June 2014

Let$\def \xmlpi #1{}\def \mathsfbi #1{\boldsymbol {\mathsf {#1}}}\let \le =\leqslant \let \leq =\leqslant \let \ge =\geqslant \let \geq =\geqslant \def \Pr {\mathit {Pr}}\def \Fr {\mathit {Fr}}\def \Rey {\mathit {Re}}K$be a locally compact hypergroup endowed with a left Haar measure and let$L^1(K)$be the usual Lebesgue space of$K$with respect to the left Haar measure. We investigate some properties of$L^1(K)$under a locally convex topology$\beta ^1$. Among other things, the semireflexivity of$(L^1(K), \beta ^1)$and of sequentially$\beta ^1$-continuous functionals is studied. We also show that$(L^1(K), \beta ^1)$with the convolution multiplication is always a complete semitopological algebra, whereas it is a topological algebra if and only if$K$is compact.
Determinants of Spatial Pattern in Saxicolous Lichen Communities
Authors: John Elizabeth , Dale M. R. T.
Published: June 2014

In order to obtain a complete picture of the factors determining spatial pattern in a saxicolous lichen community (or any other plant community) it is important to use a range of analytical techniques at a variety of scales. The Jonas Rockslide study is an example of this, and three analyses from this study are discussed here. Each scale gives a different perspective on the processes acting in the community. The largest scale shows that lichen distributions are correlated with attributes of whole rockfaces such as slope and aspect. The second analysis examines pattern at the scale of 10 cm to 20 cm grid points and shows that within a rockface are many micro-habitats, reflected in the pattern of occurrence of different lichen species at this scale. The smallest scale of analysis is a ‘nearest-neighbour’ analysis, which indicates that lichens sample their environment differently and have different ecological strategies. These processes ultimately act together to give the observed pattern in the community.
Advantages and disadvantages of conditional systems for characterization of essential genes in Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: JIMÉNEZ-RUIZ ELENA , WONG ELEANOR H. , PALL GURMAN S. , MEISSNER MARKUS
Published: June 2014

The dissection of apicomplexan biology has been highly influenced by the genetic tools available for manipulation of parasite DNA. Here, we describe different techniques available for the generation of conditional mutants. Comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of the three most commonly used regulation systems: the tetracycline inducible system, the regulation of protein stability and site-specific recombination are discussed. Using some previously described examples we explore some of the pitfalls involved in gene-function analysis using these systems that can lead to wrong or over-interpretation of phenotypes. We will also mention different options to standardize the application of these techniques for the characterization of gene function in high-throughput.
Experimental ruminant models for bovine neosporosis: what is known and what is needed
Authors: BENAVIDES JULIO , COLLANTES-FERNÁNDEZ ESTHER , FERRE IGNACIO , PÉREZ VALENTÍN , CAMPERO CARLOS , MOTA RINALDO , INNES ELISABETH , ORTEGA-MORA LUIS M.
Published: June 2014

At present, bovine neosporosis is an important worldwide concern because of its wide geographic distribution and economic impact. Abortion is the main clinical sign of bovine neosporosis in both dairy and beef cattle. Ruminant challenge models are critical to evaluate potential vaccine candidates to help tackle bovine neosporosis and to study pathogenesis and host responses to infection. Several research groups have developed ruminant models ofNeospora caninuminfection independently of others, resulting in a high degree of variability due to the use of different species of animals, breeds, strains/isolates ofN. caninum, doses, routes and times of inoculation. Standardization is greatly needed to advance research in a more collaborative, timely and efficient manner. In the absence of widely accepted international guidelines, this manuscript serves to summarize and discuss the different models and parameters currently in use. Parameters essential for the development of non-pregnant and pregnant ruminant models are outlined and the main knowledge gaps are identified. This information could act as the basis to develop a consensus for international standard guidelines for ruminant models of neosporosis that would be helpful for researchers in this field worldwide.
Purine salvage in the apicomplexanSarcocystis neurona, and generation of hypoxanthine-xanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase-deficient clones for positive-negative selection of transgenic parasites
Authors: DANGOUDOUBIYAM SRIVENY , ZHANG ZIJING , HOWE DANIEL K.
Published: June 2014

Sarcocystis neuronais an apicomplexan parasite that causes severe neurological disease in horses and marine mammals. The Apicomplexa are all obligate intracellular parasites that lack purine biosynthesis pathways and rely on the host cell for their purine requirements. Hypoxanthine-xanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HXGPRT) and adenosine kinase (AK) are key enzymes that function in two complementary purine salvage pathways in apicomplexans. Bioinformatic searches of theS. neuronagenome revealed genes encoding HXGPRT, AK and all of the major purine salvage enzymes except purine nucleoside phosphorylase. Wild-typeS. neuronawere able to grow in the presence of mycophenolic acid (MPA) but were inhibited by 6-thioxanthine (6-TX), suggesting that the pathways involving either HXGPRT or AK are functional in this parasite. Prior work withToxoplasma gondiidemonstrated the utility of HXGPRT as a positive-negative selection marker. To enable the use of HXGPRT inS. neurona, the SnHXGPRTgene sequence was determined and a gene-targeting plasmid was transfected intoS. neurona. SnHXGPRT-deficient mutants were selected with 6-TX, and single-cell clones were obtained. These Sn∆HXG parasites were susceptible to MPA and could be complemented using the heterologousT. gondii HXGPRTgene. In summary,S. neuronapossesses both purine salvage pathways described in apicomplexans, thus allowing the use of HXGPRT as a positive-negative drug selection marker in this parasite.
Pain management in the neonatal piglet during routine management procedures. Part 1: a systematic review of randomized and non-randomized intervention studies
Authors: Dzikamunhenga R. S. , Anthony R. , Coetzee J. , Gould S. , Johnson A. , Karriker L. , McKean J. , Millman S.T. , Niekamp S. R. , O'Connor A. M.
Published: June 2014

Routine procedures carried out on piglets (i.e. castration, tail docking, teeth clipping, and ear notching) are considered painful. Unfortunately the efficacy of current pain mitigation modalities is poorly understood. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize the existing primary scientific literature regarding the effectiveness of pain management interventions used for routine procedures on piglets. The review question was, ‘In piglets under twenty-eight days old, undergoing castration, tail docking, teeth clipping, and/or methods of identification that involve cutting of the ear tissue, what is the effect of pain mitigation compared with no pain mitigation on behavioral and non-behavioral outcomes that indicate procedural pain and post-procedural pain?’ A review protocol was designeda priori. Data sources used were Agricola (EBSCO), CAB Abstracts (Thomson Reuters), PubMed, Web of Science (Thomson Reuters), BIOSIS Previews (Thomson Reuters), and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Full Text. No restrictions on year of publication or language were placed on the search. Eligible studies assessed an intervention designed to mitigate the pain of the procedures of interest and included a comparison group that did not receive an intervention. Eligible non-English studies were translated using a translation service. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts for relevance using pre-defined questions. Data were extracted from relevant articles onto pre-defined forms. From the 2203 retrieved citations forty publications, containing 52 studies met the eligibility criteria. In 40 studies, piglets underwent castration only. In seven studies, piglets underwent tail docking only. In one study, piglets underwent teeth clipping only, and in one study piglets underwent ear notching only. Three studies used multiple procedures. Thirty-two trial arms assessed general anesthesia protocols, 30 trial arms assessed local anesthetic protocols, and 28 trial arms assessed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) protocols. Forty-one trial arms were controls where piglets received either placebo or no treatment. Forty-five outcomes were extracted from the studies, however only the results from studies that assessed cortisol (six studies), β-endorphins (one study), vocalisations (nine studies), and pain-related behaviors (nine studies) are reported. Other outcomes were reported in only one or two studies. Confident decision making will likely be difficult based on this body of work because lack of comprehensive reporting precludes calculation of the magnitude of pain mitigation for most outcomes.
From community approaches to single-cell genomics: the discovery of ubiquitous hyperhalophilic Bacteroidetes generalists
Authors: Gomariz María , Martínez-García Manuel , Santos Fernando , Rodriguez Francisco , Capella-Gutiérrez Salvador , Gabaldón Toni , Rosselló-Móra Ramon , Meseguer Inmaculada , Antón Josefa
Published: June 2014

The microbiota of multi-pond solar salterns around the world has been analyzed using a variety of culture-dependent and molecular techniques. However, studies addressing the dynamic nature of these systems are very scarce. Here we have characterized the temporal variation during 1 year of the microbiota of five ponds with increasing salinity (from 18% to >40%), by means of CARD-FISH and DGGE. Microbial community structure was statistically correlated with several environmental parameters, including ionic composition and meteorological factors, indicating that the microbial community was dynamic as specific phylotypes appeared only at certain times of the year. In addition to total salinity, microbial composition was strongly influenced by temperature and specific ionic composition. Remarkably, DGGE analyses unveiled the presence of most phylotypes previously detected in hypersaline systems using metagenomics and other molecular techniques, such as the very abundant Haloquadratum and Salinibacter representatives or the recently described low GC Actinobacteria and Nanohaloarchaeota. In addition, an uncultured group of Bacteroidetes was present along the whole range of salinity. Database searches indicated a previously unrecognized widespread distribution of this phylotype. Single-cell genome analysis of five members of this group suggested a set of metabolic characteristics that could provide competitive advantages in hypersaline environments, such as polymer degradation capabilities, the presence of retinal-binding light-activated proton pumps and arsenate reduction potential. In addition, the fairly high metagenomic fragment recruitment obtained for these single cells in both the intermediate and hypersaline ponds further confirm the DGGE data and point to the generalist lifestyle of this new Bacteroidetes group.
Epigenetic Modification of the Leptin Promoter in Diet-Induced Obese Mice and the Effects of N-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids
Authors: Shen Wenwen , Wang Cui , Xia Lulu , Fan Chaonan , Dong Hua , Deckelbaum Richard J. , Qi Kemin
Published: June 2014

We report evidence of a detailed epigenetic modification of the leptin promoter and the effects of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), which is closely associated with the leptin gene transcription in obesity. In the adipose tissue of diet induced obese (DIO) mice, methylation of the CpG island and the binding of methyl-CpG-binding domain protein 2 (MBD2) and DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) at the leptin promoter are increased and RNA Pol II is decreased. Additionally, histones H3 and H4 are hypoacetylated, lysine 4 of histone H3 (H3K4) is hypomethylated and the binding of histone deacetylases (HDACs) 1, 2 and 6 is increased at the leptin promoter in the DIO mice. These modifications may serve a feedback role to maintain leptin concentrations within a normal range. The regulation of leptin transcriptional expression by n-3 PUFAs is mediated, at least in part, by epigenetic targets, such as MBD2 and histone modifications.
Molecular weight dependent vertical composition profiles of PCDTBT:PC71BM blends for organic photovoltaics
Authors: Kingsley James W. , Marchisio Pier Paolo , Yi Hunan , Iraqi Ahmed , Kinane Christy J. , Langridge Sean , Thompson Richard L. , Cadby Ashley J. , Pearson Andrew J. , Lidzey David G. , Jones Richard A. L. , Parnell Andrew J.
Published: June 2014

We have used Soxhlet solvent purification to fractionate a broad molecular weight distribution of the polycarbazole polymer PCDTBT into three lower polydispersity molecular weight fractions. Organic photovoltaic devices were made using a blend of the fullerene acceptor PC71BM with the molecular weight fractions. An average power conversion efficiency of 5.89% (peak efficiency of 6.15%) was measured for PCDTBT blend devices with a number average molecular weight of Mn = 25.5 kDa. There was significant variation between the molecular weight fractions with low (Mn = 15.0 kDa) and high (Mn = 34.9 kDa) fractions producing devices with average efficiencies of 5.02% and 3.70% respectively. Neutron reflectivity measurements on these polymer:PC71BM blend layers showed that larger molecular weights leads to an increase in the polymer enrichment layer thickness at the anode interface, this improves efficiency up to a limiting point where the polymer solubility causes a reduction of the PCDTBT concentration in the active layer.
Infrared spectral histopathology for cancer diagnosis: a novel approach for automated pattern recognition of colon adenocarcinoma
Authors: Nallala Jayakrupakar , Diebold Marie-Danièle , Gobinet Cyril , Bouché Olivier , Sockalingum Ganesh Dhruvananda , Piot Olivier , Manfait Michel
Published: June 2014

Automated and label-free colon cancer diagnosis and identification of tumor-associated features using FTIR spectral histopathology directly on paraffinized tissue arrays.
Methylerythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathway metabolic regulation
Authors: Banerjee A. , Sharkey T. D.
Published: June 2014

The methylerythritol 4-phosphate pathway provides precursors for isoprenoids in bacteria, some eukaryotic parasites, and chloroplasts of plants. Metabolic regulatory mechanisms control flux through the pathway and the concentration of a central intermediate, methylerythritol cyclodiphosphate.
A review of sample preparation methods for quantitation of small-molecule analytes in brain tissue by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Authors: Li Pei , Bartlett Michael G.
Published: June 2014

Concentration measurements are one of the most important and fundamental approaches in preclinical and clinical studies of small-molecule drugs, metabolites and biomarkers, providing important information based on the concentration of target analytes in biological fluids or tissues.
Sodium borohydride treatment: a simple and effective process for the removal of stabilizer and capping agents from shape-controlled palladium nanoparticles
Authors: Nalajala Naresh , Gooty Saleha Wasim Feroze , Ladewig Bradley P. , Neergat Manoj
Published: June 2014

Using the hydride formation property of Pd for the removal of strongly-adsorbed impurities from nanoparticle surfaces.
One-pot synthesis of nanocaterpillar structures via in situ nanoparticlization of fully conjugated poly(p-phenylene)-block-polythiophene
Authors: Lee In-Hwan , Amaladass Pitchamuthu , Choi Tae-Lim
Published: June 2014

1D nanocaterpillar structures were spontaneously formed during the synthesis of fully conjugated poly(2,5-dihexyloxy-1,4-phenylene)-block-polythiophene due to the strong π–π interactions between the polythiophene blocks.
Step-by-step on-surface synthesis: from manganese phthalocyanines to their polymeric form
Authors: Koudia M. , Abel M.
Published: June 2014

On-surface reaction of tetracyanobenzene molecules with Mn atoms is presented.
A new mild synthetic route to N-arylated pyridazinones from aryldiazonium salts
Authors: El Bakouri Ouissam , Cassú Daniel , Solà Miquel , Parella Teodor , Pla-Quintana Anna , Roglans Anna
Published: June 2014

A mild method to synthesise N-arylated pyridazinones is described and its mechanism unravelled by DFT calculations and experimental techniques.
High-yield electro-oxidative preparation of graphene oxide
Authors: Abdelkader A. M. , Kinloch I. A. , Dryfe R. A. W.
Published: June 2014

A green and scalable electrochemical process to produce graphene oxide in gram quantities is reported.
A novel self-assembling nanoparticle of Ag–Bi with high reactive efficiency
Authors: Gong Jianyu , Lee Chung-Seop , Chang Yoon-Young , Chang Yoon-Seok
Published: June 2014

A novel nanoparticle of Ag–Bi shows excellent purification of contaminated water without other supplements.
Crystal form selectivity by humidity control: the case of the ionic co-crystals of nicotinamide and CaCl2
Authors: Braga Dario , Grepioni Fabrizia , Lampronti Giulio I. , Maini Lucia , Rubini Katia , Turrina Alessandro , Zorzi Federico
Published: June 2014

Post-synthesis (de)hydration techniques were used here to explore further hydrated forms of ionic co-crystals (ICCs) of nicotinamide with CaCl2.
Low-temperature conversion of titanate nanotubes into nitrogen-doped TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Buchholcz B. , Haspel H. , Kukovecz Á. , Kónya Z.
Published: June 2014

We report on the lowest synthesis temperature recorded for nitrogen-doped titanate nanostructures and their subsequent conversion into N-doped TiO2.
A Zn azelate MOF: combining antibacterial effect
Authors: Tamames-Tabar C. , Imbuluzqueta E. , Guillou N. , Serre C. , Miller S. R. , Elkaïm E. , Horcajada P. , Blanco-Prieto M. J.
Published: June 2014

A novel biocompatible and bioactive zinc azelate metal–organic framework (BioMIL-5) was hydrothermally synthesized with interesting long-term antibacterial properties.
Molecular collisions coming into focus
Authors: Onvlee Jolijn , Vogels Sjoerd N. , Zastrow Alexander von , Parker David H. , van de Meerakker Sebastiaan Y. T.
Published: June 2014

Control over molecules in a Stark decelerator enables the measurement of diffraction oscillations in NO-atom scattering.
Alumina–clay nanoscale hybrid filler assembling in cross-linked polyethylene based nanocomposites: mechanics and thermal properties
Authors: Jose Josmin P. , Thomas Sabu
Published: June 2014

Herein, investigation on XLPE–Al2O3–clay ternary hybrid systems of Al2O3 and clay in 1 : 1 and 2 : 1 ratios, binary systems of XLPE–clay and XLPE–Al2O3 nanocomposites, with special reference to the hybrid filler effect and the superior microstructural development in ternary systems is conducted.
Plasmonic enhancement of the optical absorption and catalytic efficiency of BiVO4 photoanodes decorated with Ag@SiO2 core–shell nanoparticles
Authors: Abdi Fatwa F. , Dabirian Ali , Dam Bernard , van de Krol Roel
Published: June 2014

Plasmonic Ag@SiO2 core–shell nanoparticles enhance the performance of BiVO4 photoanodes by an impressive ∼250%, through improved optical absorption and more efficient catalysis.
Homo- and heteroleptic alkoxycarbene f-element complexes and their reactivity towards acidic N–H and C–H bonds
Authors: Arnold Polly L. , Cadenbach Thomas , Marr Isobel H. , Fyfe Andrew A. , Bell Nicola L. , Bellabarba Ronan , Tooze Robert P. , Love Jason B.
Published: June 2014

The reactivity of a series of organometallic rare earth and actinide complexes with hemilabile NHC-ligands towards substrates with acidic C–H and N–H bonds is described.
Nitrogen segregation in nanocarbons
Authors: Ewels C. P. , Erbahar D. , Wagner Ph. , Rocquefelte X. , Arenal R. , Pochet P. , Rayson M. , Scardamaglia M. , Bittencourt C. , Briddon P.
Published: June 2014

We explore the behaviour of nitrogen doping in carbon nanomaterials, notably graphene, nanotubes, and carbon thin films. This is initially via a brief review of the literature, followed by a series of atomistic density functional calculations. We show that at low concentrations, substitutional nitrogen doping in the sp2-C graphenic basal plane is favoured, however once the nitrogen concentration reaches a critical threshold there is a transition towards the formation of the more thermodynamically-favoured nitrogen terminated ‘zigzag’ type edges. These can occur either via formation of finite patches (polycyclic aromatic azacarbons), strips of sp2 carbon with zigzag nitrogen edges, or internal nitrogen-terminated hole edges within graphenic planes. This transition to edge formation is especially favoured when the nitrogen can be partially functionalised with, e.g. hydrogen. By comparison with available literature results, notably from electron energy loss spectroscopy and X-ray spectroscopy, the current results suggest that much of the nitrogen believed to be incorporated into carbon nanoobjects is instead likely to be present terminating the edges of carbonaceous impurities attached to nanoobject's surface. By comparison to nitrogen-doped tetrahedrally amorphous carbon, we suggest that this transition at around 10–20% nitrogen concentration and above towards sp2 coordination via internal nitrogen-terminated edge formation may be a general property of nitrogen-doped carbon materials.
Palladium nanoparticles supported on triazine functionalised mesoporous covalent organic polymers as efficient catalysts for Mizoroki–Heck cross coupling reaction
Authors: Puthiaraj Pillaiyar , Pitchumani Kasi
Published: June 2014

A material based on palladium nanoparticles supported on nitrogen rich mesoporous covalent organic polymers exhibiting excellent catalytic activity towards Mizoroki–Heck cross coupling reaction.
In vitro and in vivo biolasing of fluorescent proteins suspended in liquid microdroplet cavities
Authors: Jonáš Alexandr , Aas Mehdi , Karadag Yasin , Manioğlu Selen , Anand Suman , McGloin David , Bayraktar Halil , Kiraz Alper
Published: June 2014

We demonstrate that a single micron-sized fluorescent bacterial cell can serve as a laser gain medium of droplet-based optofluidic biolasers.
Improved synthesis of bioactive stilbene derivatives applying design of experiments to the Heck–Matsuda reaction
Authors: Perez Carla Cristina , Pena Jesus Marcelo , Duarte Correia Carlos Roque
Published: June 2014

Design of experiments (DOE) was instrumental to optimize reaction conditions which allowed the efficient synthesis of key bioactive stilbenes.
One-pot, two-step desymmetrization of symmetrical benzils catalyzed by the methylsulfinyl (dimsyl) anion
Authors: Ragno Daniele , Bortolini Olga , Giovannini Pier Paolo , Massi Alessandro , Pacifico Salvatore , Zaghi Anna
Published: June 2014

Symmetrical-to-unsymmetrical benzil conversion is realized by a one-pot two-step procedure involving a chemoselective cross-benzoin reaction followed by microwave-assisted oxidation of the benzoylated benzoin intermediate.
Electrophilic sulfhydration of 8-nitro-cGMP involves sulfane sulfur
Authors: Terzić V. , Padovani D. , Balland V. , Artaud I. , Galardon E.
Published: June 2014

The complex chemistry taking place between the messenger 8-nitro-cGMP and the gaseous transmitter H2S is governed by dioxygen and thiols.
Rapid discovery of potent α-fucosidase inhibitors by in situ screening of a library of (pyrrolidin-2-yl)triazoles
Authors: Elías-Rodríguez Pilar , Moreno-Clavijo Elena , Carmona Ana T. , Moreno-Vargas Antonio J. , Robina Inmaculada
Published: June 2014

The fucosidase inhibitory activity of a library of (pyrrolidin-2-yl)triazoles generated by CuAAC can be in situ analyzed, avoiding tedious purification steps. A potent and selective inhibitor was identified.
Pyrophosphate selective recognition by a Zn2+ complex of a 2,2′-binaphthalene derivative bearing di(2-pyridylmethyl)aminomethyl groups in aqueous solution
Authors: Kondo Shin-ichi , Nakadai Yasunori , Unno Masafumi
Published: June 2014

A dinuclear zinc complex of a 2,2′-binaphthalene derivative selectively recognized a pyrophosphate anion.
Solvent effect on observation of nanostructural hydrated porous ceramic green bodies using hydrophilic ionic liquid
Authors: Takahashi Chisato , Pattanayak Deepak K. , Shirai Takashi , Fuji Masayoshi
Published: June 2014

A convenient characterization method of a nanostructural hydrated porous ceramic body using a hydrophilic ionic liquid is established.
De novo fragment-based design of inhibitors of DXS guided by spin-diffusion-based NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Masini T. , Pilger J. , Kroezen B. S. , Illarionov B. , Lottmann P. , Fischer M. , Griesinger C. , Hirsch A. K. H.
Published: June 2014

A ligand-based NMR methodology (STI) enabled de novo fragment-based design of inhibitors of the enzyme DXS present in the non-mevalonate pathway in the absence of X-ray co-crystal structures.
Water-medium organic synthesis over active and reusable organometal catalysts with tunable nanostructures
Authors: Zhang Fang , Li Hexing
Published: June 2014

Robust and reusable heterogeneous organometal catalysts open a new avenue to green chemical synthesis in water.
Driving knots on DNA with AC/DC electric fields: topological friction and memory effects
Authors: Di Stefano Marco , Tubiana Luca , Di Ventra Massimiliano , Micheletti Cristian
Published: June 2014

The dynamical properties of entangled polyelectrolytes are investigated theoretically and computationally for a proposed novel DNA micromanipulation setup.
First principles study of dopant solubility and defect chemistry in LiCoO2
Authors: Koyama Yukinori , Arai Hajime , Tanaka Isao , Uchimoto Yoshiharu , Ogumi Zempachi
Published: June 2014

This first-principles study of doped ions in LiCoO2 provides guidelines for synthetic and post-synthetic conditions to balance dopant solubility and suppression of native defects.
Carboxylate-intercalated layered double hydroxides for H2 sorption
Authors: Huang Yu-Wei , Cheng Soofin
Published: June 2014

Li–Al layered double hydroxides of high surface areas were prepared by intercalating a mixture of arylate and acetate ions, and their hydrogen adsorption capabilities were explored for the first time.
CoxMn3−xO4 hollow octahedrons: synthesis, growth mechanism, and their application in high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Xiaomin Huang , Long Wang , Xia Cao , Yu Han , Caizhen Gao , Ying Xu , Ning Wang
Published: June 2014

CoxMn3−xO4 hollow octahedrons fabricated via merged dissolution–recrystallization and the Kirkendall effect show significantly enhanced specific capacitance and cycle stability.
Plasmon-enhanced efficient dye-sensitized solar cells using core–shell-structured β-NaYF4:Yb,Er@SiO2@Au nanocomposites
Authors: Zhao Peng , Zhu Yihua , Yang Xiaoling , Jiang Xin , Shen Jianhua , Li Chunzhong
Published: June 2014

Core–shell-structured β-NaYF4:Yb,Er@SiO2@Au nanocomposites have been successfully prepared and applied in dye-sensitized solar cells resulting in an efficiency of 8.23%.
Polyhedral LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 with excellent electrochemical properties for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Chen Zhanjun , Zhao Ruirui , Du Peng , Hu Hang , Wang Tao , Zhu Licai , Chen Hongyu
Published: June 2014

Polyhedral LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 exhibiting superior rate and cyclability represents the first experimental evidence for lattice-plane anisotropy.
Amorphous Ni(OH)2 @ three-dimensional Ni core–shell nanostructures for high capacitance pseudocapacitors and asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Su Yu-Zhi , Xiao Kang , Li Nan , Liu Zhao-Qing , Qiao Shi-Zhang
Published: June 2014

A complex hydroxide/metal Ni(OH)2@Ni core–shell electrode was developed for a high-performance and flexible pseudocapacitor.
Evaluation of the effects of amphiphilic oligomers in PEI based ternary complexes on the improvement of pDNA delivery
Authors: Chi Wenhao , Liu Shuai , Yang Jixiang , Wang Ruiyu , Ren Hongqi , Zhou Hao , Chen Jiatong , Guo Tianying
Published: June 2014

(HEMA-b-NIPAM) was incorporated into PEI/P(HEMA-b-NIPAM)/pDNA ternary complexes through non-electrostatic assembly to enhance the interaction between complexes and cellular/endocellular membranes to improve gene transfection.
Unsigned SRT tables: theory and implementation
Authors: Diraneyya O.M. , Amin A.A.
Published: June 2014

The mathematical basis for developing an unsigned SRT table for division, multiplication–division or square‐root operations is summarised. This is possible through utilising the P–D diagram symmetry allowing a 50% reduction in table size. Efficient implementation that avoids a serious problem with the implementation suggested by Kornerup in 2003 is demonstrated and conditions for its error‐free operation are discussed.
Single‐step glitch‐free NAND‐based digitally controlled delay lines using dual loops
Authors: Lee Youngjoo , Park In‐Cheol
Published: June 2014

To remove glitches occurring in NAND‐based digitally controlled delay lines (DCDLs), a novel glitch‐free architecture is presented. Compared with the previous structures requiring multiple control steps, the proposed DCDL employs a self‐delayed inner loop to remove all the glitches by applying a single‐step control‐code switching, reducing the control complexity remarkably without increasing the minimum delay as well as the resolution.
Design and comparison of flipped active inductors with high quality factors
Authors: Saberkari A. , Ziabakhsh S. , Martínez H. , Alarcón E.
Published: June 2014

A new design based on the flipped‐structure for RF active inductors is presented. The conventional flipped‐active inductor (FAI) composed of only two transistors is considered as a starting structure. However, it suffers from low‐voltage swing, which increases the nonlinearity. Additionally, it requires high power consumption to achieve adequate inductance and quality factor values. A circuit topology named cascoded FAI (CASFAI) based on the basic FAI is proposed. A common‐gate transistor added in the feedback path of the proposed CASFAI results in an increase of the voltage swing and linearity as well as the feedback gain. The performance metrics of such active inductors are benchmarked by analytical models and validated in the ADS using a 0.18 µm CMOS process. The results indicate that the CASFAI can achieve a notably higher quality factor and higher inductance values while consuming less power in comparison to the basic FAI.
Locally linear representation for image clustering
Authors: Zhen Liangli , Yi Zhang , Peng Xi , Peng Dezhong
Published: June 2014

The construction of the similarity graph plays an essential role in a spectral clustering (SC) algorithm. There exist two popular schemes to construct a similarity graph, i.e. the pairwise distance‐based scheme (PDS) and the linear representation‐based scheme (LRS). It is notable that the above schemes suffered from some limitations and drawbacks, respectively. Specifically, the PDS is sensitive to noises and outliers, while the LRS may incorrectly select inter‐subspaces points to represent the objective point. These drawbacks degrade the performance of the SC algorithms greatly. To overcome these problems, a novel scheme to construct the similarity graph is proposed, where the similarity computation among different data points depends on both their pairwise distances and the linear representation relationships. This proposed scheme, called locally linear representation (LLR), encodes each data point using a collection of data points that not only produce the minimal reconstruction error but also are close to the objective point, which makes it robust to noises and outliers, and avoids selecting inter‐subspaces points to represent the objective point to a large extent.
BMD impact on silicon fin defect at TSV bottom
Authors: Zhang Dingyou , Thangaraju Sarasvathi , Smith Daniel , Kamineni Himani , Klewer Christian , Scholefield Mark , Lei Ming , Vikram Abhishek , Lim Victor , Kim Wonwoo , Alapati Ramakanth
Published: June 2014

A new type of through‐silicon via (TSV) defect, silicon fin defect, which was found after the TSV deep‐reactive‐ion‐etching process at the TSV bottom is reported. These defects are considered killer TSV defects that may cause process or mechanical failures and have to be eliminated. A scanning electron microscope automatic process inspection approach, which is non‐destructive and proven to be effective, has been established to image the fin defects at the bottom of the trench. A possible root cause of this defect is also explored. Both simulation and benchmarking test results indicate that bulk micro defects (BMDs) in the silicon substrate could serve as a micro‐mask during etching and result in silicon fin defects.