bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA barcoding identifies a cosmopolitan diet in the ocean sunfish
Authors: Sousa Lara L. , Xavier Raquel , Costa Vânia , Humphries Nicolas E. , Trueman Clive , Rosa Rui , Sims David W. , Queiroz Nuno
Published: July 2016

The ocean sunfish (Mola mola) is the world’s heaviest bony fish reaching a body mass of up to 2.3 tonnes. However, the prey M. mola consumes to fuel this prodigious growth remains poorly known. Sunfish were thought to be obligate gelatinous plankton feeders, but recent studies suggest a more generalist diet. In this study, through molecular barcoding and for the first time, the diet of sunfish in the north-east Atlantic Ocean was characterised. Overall, DNA from the diet content of 57 individuals was successfully amplified, identifying 41 different prey items. Sunfish fed mainly on crustaceans and teleosts, with cnidarians comprising only 16% of the consumed prey. Although no adult fishes were sampled, we found evidence for an ontogenetic shift in the diet, with smaller individuals feeding mainly on small crustaceans and teleost fish, whereas the diet of larger fish included more cnidarian species. Our results confirm that smaller sunfish feed predominantly on benthic and on coastal pelagic species, whereas larger fish depend on pelagic prey. Therefore, sunfish is a generalist predator with a greater diversity of links in coastal food webs than previously realised. Its removal as fisheries’ bycatch may have wider reaching ecological consequences, potentially disrupting coastal trophic interactions.
Patterns of postictal cerebral perfusion in idiopathic generalized epilepsy: a multi-delay multi-parametric arterial spin labelling perfusion MRI study
Authors: Chen Guangxiang , Lei Du , Ren Jiechuan , Zuo Panli , Suo Xueling , Wang Danny J. J. , Wang Meiyun , Zhou Dong , Gong Qiyong
Published: July 2016

The cerebral haemodynamic status of idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) is a very complicated process. Little attention has been paid to cerebral blood flow (CBF) alterations in IGE detected by arterial spin labelling (ASL) perfusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, the selection of an optimal delay time is difficult for single-delay ASL. Multi-delay multi-parametric ASL perfusion MRI overcomes the limitations of single-delay ASL. We applied multi-delay multi-parametric ASL perfusion MRI to investigate the patterns of postictal cerebral perfusion in IGE patients with absence seizures. A total of 21 IGE patients with absence seizures and 24 healthy control subjects were enrolled. IGE patients exhibited prolonged arterial transit time (ATT) in the left superior temporal gyrus. The mean CBF of IGE patients was significantly increased in the left middle temporal gyrus, left parahippocampal gyrus and left fusiform gyrus. Prolonged ATT in the left superior temporal gyrus was negatively correlated with the age at onset in IGE patients. This study demonstrated that cortical dysfunction in the temporal lobe and fusiform gyrus may be related to epileptic activity in IGE patients with absence seizures. This information can play an important role in elucidating the pathophysiological mechanism of IGE from a cerebral haemodynamic perspective.
Spin Funneling for Enhanced Spin Injection into Ferromagnets
Authors: Sayed Shehrin , Diep Vinh Q. , Camsari Kerem Yunus , Datta Supriyo
Published: July 2016

It is well-established that high spin-orbit coupling (SOC) materials convert a charge current density into a spin current density which can be used to switch a magnet efficiently and there is increasing interest in identifying materials with large spin Hall angle for lower switching current. Using experimentally benchmarked models, we show that composite structures can be designed using existing spin Hall materials such that the effective spin Hall angle is larger by an order of magnitude. The basic idea is to funnel spins from a large area of spin Hall material into a small area of ferromagnet using a normal metal with large spin diffusion length and low resistivity like Cu or Al. We show that this approach is increasingly effective as magnets get smaller. We avoid unwanted charge current shunting by the low resistive NM layer utilizing the newly discovered phenomenon of pure spin conduction in ferromagnetic insulators via magnon diffusion. We provide a spin circuit model for magnon diffusion in FMI that is benchmarked against recent experiments and theory.
152 fs nanotube-mode-locked thulium-doped all-fiber laser
Authors: Wang Jinzhang , Liang Xiaoyan , Hu Guohua , Zheng Zhijian , Lin Shenghua , Ouyang Deqin , Wu Xu , Yan Peiguang , Ruan Shuangchen , Sun Zhipei , Hasan Tawfique
Published: July 2016

Ultrafast fiber lasers with broad bandwidth and short pulse duration have a variety of applications, such as ultrafast time-resolved spectroscopy and supercontinuum generation. We report a simple and compact all-fiber thulium-doped femtosecond laser mode-locked by carbon nanotubes. The oscillator operates in slightly normal cavity dispersion at 0.055 ps2 and delivers 152 fs pulses with 52.8 nm bandwidth and 0.19 nJ pulse energy. This is the shortest pulse duration and the widest spectral width demonstrated from Tm-doped all-fiber lasers based on 1 or 2 dimensional nanomaterials, underscoring their growing potential as versatile saturable absorber materials.
Partially ordered state of ice XV
Authors: Komatsu K. , Noritake F. , Machida S. , Sano-Furukawa A. , Hattori T. , Yamane R. , Kagi H.
Published: July 2016

Most ice polymorphs have order–disorder “pairs” in terms of hydrogen positions, which contributes to the rich variety of ice polymorphs; in fact, three recently discovered polymorphs— ices XIII, XIV, and XV—are ordered counter forms to already identified disordered phases. Despite the considerable effort to understand order–disorder transition in ice crystals, there is an inconsistency among the various experiments and calculations for ice XV, the ordered counter form of ice VI, i.e., neutron diffraction observations suggest antiferroelectrically ordered structures, which disagree with dielectric measurement and theoretical studies, implying ferroelectrically ordered structures. Here we investigate in-situ neutron diffraction measurements and density functional theory calculations to revisit the structure and stability of ice XV. We find that none of the completely ordered configurations are particular favored; instead, partially ordered states are established as a mixture of ordered domains in disordered ice VI. This scenario in which several kinds of ordered configuration coexist dispels the contradictions in previous studies. It means that the order–disorder pairs in ice polymorphs are not one-to-one correspondent pairs but rather have one-to-n correspondence, where there are n possible configurations at finite temperature.
High-speed atomic force microscopy reveals strongly polarized movement of clostridial collagenase along collagen fibrils
Authors: Watanabe-Nakayama Takahiro , Itami Masahiro , Kodera Noriyuki , Ando Toshio , Konno Hiroki
Published: July 2016

Bacterial collagenases involved in donor infection are widely applied in many fields due to their high activity and specificity; however, little is known regarding the mechanisms by which bacterial collagenases degrade insoluble collagen in host tissues. Using high-speed atomic force microscopy, we simultaneously visualized the hierarchical structure of collagen fibrils and the movement of a representative bacterial collagenase, Clostridium histolyticum type I collagenase (ColG), to determine the relationship between collagen structure and collagenase movement. Notably, ColG moved ~14.5 nm toward the collagen N terminus in ~3.8 s in a manner dependent on a catalytic zinc ion. While ColG was engaged, collagen molecules were not only degraded but also occasionally rearranged to thicken neighboring collagen fibrils. Importantly, we found a similarity of relationship between the enzyme-substrate interface structure and enzyme migration in collagen-collagenase and DNA-nuclease systems, which share a helical substrate structure, suggesting a common strategy in enzyme evolution.
Differential expression of microRNAs in retinal vasculopathy caused by selective Müller cell disruption
Authors: Chung Sook Hyun , Gillies Mark , Yam Michelle , Wang Ying , Shen Weiyong
Published: July 2016

Vascular changes and photoreceptor degeneration are features of age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and macular telangiectasis. We have profiled the differential expression of microRNAs and analysed their target genes in transgenic mice in which induced Müller cell disruption results in photoreceptor degeneration, vascular leak and deep retinal neovascularisation. We identified 9 miRNAs which were differentially expressed during the development of retinal neovascularization and chose miR-200b and its target genes for further study. Using qRT-PCR and western blot analysis, we found that downregulation of miR-200b was negatively correlated with its target genes, including zinc finger E-box binding homeobox (ZEB) 1 and 2 and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1. Double immunofluorescence labelling revealed that the newly formed vessels in the outer retina were positive for ZEB2. Furthermore, intravitreal injections of a miR-200b-mimic and anti-miR-200b confirmed the negative correlation of miR-200b and its target gene expression. We also found that the miR-200b-mimic inhibited vascular leak in the established mild vascular lesions, whereas anti-miR-200b promoted it. Taken together, these data suggest that miR-200b may play a role in the development of intraretinal neovascularisation.
Ultradispersed Cobalt Ferrite Nanoparticles Assembled in Graphene Aerogel for Continuous Photo-Fenton Reaction and Enhanced Lithium Storage Performance
Authors: Qiu Bocheng , Deng Yuanxin , Du Mengmeng , Xing Mingyang , Zhang Jinlong
Published: July 2016

The Photo-Fenton reaction is an advanced technology to eliminate organic pollutants in environmental chemistry. Moreover, the conversion rate of Fe3+/Fe2+ and utilization rate of H2O2 are significant factors in Photo-Fenton reaction. In this work, we reported three dimensional (3D) hierarchical cobalt ferrite/graphene aerogels (CoFe2O4/GAs) composites by the in situ growing CoFe2O4 crystal seeds on the graphene oxide (GO) followed by the hydrothermal process. The resulting CoFe2O4/GAs composites demonstrated 3D hierarchical pore structure with mesopores (14~18 nm), macropores (50~125 nm), and a remarkable surface area (177.8 m2g−1). These properties endowed this hybrid with the high and recyclable Photo-Fenton activity for methyl orange pollutant degradation. More importantly, the CoFe2O4/GAs composites can keep high Photo-Fenton activity in a wide pH. Besides, the CoFe2O4/GAs composites also exhibited excellent cyclic performance and good rate capability. The 3D framework can not only effectively prevent the volume expansion and aggregation of CoFe2O4 nanoparticles during the charge/discharge processes for Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), but also shorten lithium ions and electron diffusion length in 3D pathways. These results indicated a broaden application prospect of 3D-graphene based hybrids in wastewater treatment and energy storage.
Exploring Ag(111) Substrate for Epitaxially Growing Monolayer Stanene: A First-Principles Study
Authors: Gao Junfeng , Zhang Gang , Zhang Yong-Wei
Published: July 2016

Stanene, a two-dimensional topological insulator composed of Sn atoms in a hexagonal lattice, is a promising contender to Si in nanoelectronics. Currently it is still a significant challenge to achieve large-area, high-quality monolayer stanene. We explore the potential of Ag(111) surface as an ideal substrate for the epitaxial growth of monolayer stanene. Using first-principles calculations, we study the stability of the structure of stanene in different epitaxial relations with respect to Ag(111) surface and also the diffusion behavior of Sn adatom on Ag(111) surface. Our study reveals that: (1) the hexagonal structure of stanene monolayer is well reserved on Ag(111) surface; (2) the height of epitaxial stanene monolayer is comparable to the step height of the substrate, enabling the growth to cross the surface step and achieve a large-area stanene; (3) the perfect lattice structure of free-standing stanene can be achieved once the epitaxial stanene monolayer is detached from Ag(111) surface; and finally (4) the diffusion barrier of Sn adatom on Ag(111) surface is found to be only 0.041 eV, allowing the epitaxial growth of stanene monolayer even at low temperatures. Our above revelations strongly suggest that Ag(111) surface is an ideal candidate for growing large-area, high-quality monolayer stanene.
On-Chip Quantitative Measurement of Mechanical Stresses During Cell Migration with Emulsion Droplets
Authors: Molino D. , Quignard S. , Gruget C. , Pincet F. , Chen Y. , Piel M. , Fattaccioli J.
Published: July 2016

The ability of immune cells to migrate within narrow and crowded spaces is a critical feature involved in various physiological processes from immune response to metastasis. Severalin-vitrotechniques have been developed so far to study the behaviour of migrating cells, the most recent being based on the fabrication of microchannels within which cells move. To address the question of the mechanical stress a cell is able to produce during the encounter of an obstacle while migrating, we developed a hybrid microchip made of parallel PDMS channels in which oil droplets are sparsely distributed and serve as deformable obstacles. We thus show that cells strongly deform droplets while passing them. Then, we show that the microdevice can be used to study the influence of drugs on migration at the population level. Finally, we describe a quantitative analysis method of the droplet deformation that allows measuring in real-time the mechanical stress exerted by a single cell. The method presented herein thus constitutes a powerful analytical tool for cell migration studies under confinement.
Unexpected electronic structure of the alloyed and doped arsenene sheets: First-Principles calculations
Authors: Liu Ming-Yang , Huang Yang , Chen Qing-Yuan , Cao Chao , He Yao
Published: July 2016

We study the equilibrium geometry and electronic structure of alloyed and doped arsenene sheets based on the density functional theory calculations. AsN, AsP and SbAs alloys possess indirect band gap and BiAs is direct band gap. Although AsP, SbAs and BiAs alloyed arsenene sheets maintain the semiconducting character of pure arsenene, they have indirect-direct and semiconducting-metallic transitions by applying biaxial strain. We find that B- and N-doped arsenene render p-type semiconducting character, while C- and O-doped arsenene are metallic character. Especially, the C-doped arsenene is spin-polarization asymmetric and can be tuned into the bipolar spin-gapless semiconductor by the external electric field. Moreover, the doping concentration can effectively affect the magnetism of the C-doped system. Finally, we briefly study the chemical molecule adsorbed arsenene. Our results may be valuable for alloyed and doped arsenene sheets applications in mechanical sensors and spintronic devices in the future.
Early hippocampal volume loss as a marker of eventual memory deficits caused by repeated stress
Authors: Rahman Mohammed Mostafizur , Callaghan Charlotte K. , Kerskens Christian M. , Chattarji Sumantra , O’Mara Shane M.
Published: July 2016

Exposure to severe and prolonged stress has detrimental effects on the hippocampus. However, relatively little is known about the gradual changes in hippocampal structure and its behavioral consequences, over the course of repeated stress. Behavioral analyses during 10 days of chronic stress pointed to a delayed decline in spatial memory, the full impact of which is evident only after the end of stress. In contrast, concurrent volumetric measurements in the same animals revealed significant reduction in hippocampal volumes in stressed animals relative to their unstressed counterparts, as early as the third day of stress. Notably, animals that were behaviorally the worst affected at the end of chronic stress suffered the most pronounced early loss in hippocampal volume. Together, these findings support the view that not only is smaller hippocampal volume linked to stress-induced memory deficits, but it may also act as an early risk factor for the eventual development of cognitive impairments seen in stress-related psychiatric disorders.
Strain-modulated ferromagnetism and band gap of Mn doped Bi2Se3
Authors: Qi Shifei , Yang Hualing , Chen Juan , Zhang Xiaoyang , Yang Yingping , Xu Xiaohong
Published: July 2016

The quantized anomalous Hall effect (QAHE) have been theoretically predicted and experimentally confirmed in magnetic topological insulators (TI), but dissipative channels resulted by small-size band gap and weak ferromagnetism make QAHE be measured only at extremely low temperature (<0.1 K). Through density functional theory calculations, we systemically study of the magnetic properties and electronic structures of Mn doped Bi2Se3 with in-plane and out-of-plane strains. It is found that out-of-plane tensile strain not only improve ferromagnetism, but also enlarge Dirac-mass gap (up to 65.6 meV under 6% strain, which is higher than the thermal motion energy at room temperature ~26 meV) in the Mn doped Bi2Se3. Furthermore, the underlying mechanisms of these tunable properties are also discussed. This work provides a new route to realize high-temperature QAHE and paves the way towards novel quantum electronic device applications.
Temporal windows of reproductive opportunity reinforce species barriers in a marine broadcast spawning assemblage
Authors: Monteiro Carla A. , Paulino Cristina , Jacinto Rita , Serrão Ester A. , Pearson Gareth A.
Published: July 2016

Prezygotic isolating mechanisms act to limit hybridization and maintain the genetic identity of closely-related species. While synchronous intraspecific spawning is a common phenomenon amongst marine organisms and plays an important role in reproductive success, asynchronous spawning between potentially hybridizing lineages may also be important in maintaining species boundaries. We tested this hypothesis by comparing reproductive synchrony over daily to hourly timescales in a sympatric assemblage of intertidal fucoid algae containing selfing hermaphroditic (Fucus spiralis and Fucus guiryi) and dioecious (Fucus vesiculosus and Fucus serratus) species. Our results confirm that gametes are released on semi-lunar cycles in all species. However, sister species with different mating systems showed asynchronous spawning at finer circadian timescales, thus providing evidence for a partial reproductive barrier between hermaphroditic and dioecious species. Finally, our data also emphasize the ecological, developmental, and/or physiological constraints that operate to restrict reproduction to narrow temporal windows of opportunity in the intertidal zone and more generally the role of ecological factors in marine speciation.
Tropomodulin-3 is essential in asymmetric division during mouse oocyte maturation
Authors: Jo Yu-Jin , Jang Woo-In , Kim Nam-Hyung , Namgoong Suk
Published: July 2016

The dynamic polymerization and depolymerization of actin filaments is essential for various cellular processes such as cell migration, rotation, cytokinesis, and mammalian oocyte maturation. Tropomodulin 3 (Tmod3) binds to the slow-growing (pointed) ends of the actin filament, thereby protecting the filament from depolymerization. However, the roles of Tmod3 in mammalian oocyte maturation remain elusive. Tmod3 mRNA and protein is present at all stages of mouse oocyte maturation. Tmod3 protein is mainly localized in the cytoplasm and appears enriched near the chromosome during maturation. By knocking down or ectopically overexpressing Tmod3, we confirmed that Tmod3 regulate the level of the intracytoplasmic actin mesh and asymmetric spindle migration. Expression of N-terminal Tmod3 (correspond to 1–155 amino acids), which contains the tropomyosin-binding site, results in decreased density of the actin mesh, thereby demonstrating the importance of the interaction between tropomyosin and tropomodulin for the maintenance of the actin mesh. Taken together, these findings indicate that Tmod3 plays crucial roles in oocyte maturation, presumably by protecting the actin filament from depolymerization and thereby controlling the density of the cytoplasmic actin mesh.
Molecular cloning, expression and the adjuvant effects of interleukin-8 of channel catfish (Ictalurus Punctatus) against Streptococcus iniae
Authors: Wang Erlong , Wang Jun , Long Bo , Wang Kaiyu , He Yang , Yang Qian , Chen Defang , Geng Yi , Huang Xiaoli , Ouyang Ping , Lai Weimin
Published: July 2016

Interleukin-8 (IL-8) as an important cytokine involving in inflammatory and immune response, has been studied as effective adjuvants for vaccines in mammals. However, there are fewer reports about the characterization and adjuvant effects of IL-8 in fish. In this study, cloning and sequence analysis of IL-8 coding region of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) were conducted, mature IL-8(rtIL-8) was expressed and evaluated for its adjuvant effects on the immunoprotection of subunit vaccine encoding α-enolase (rENO) of Streptococcus iniae from several aspects in channel catfish. The results showed co-vaccination of rENO with rtIL-8 enhanced immune responses including humoral and cellular immunity, with higher relative percent survival(RPS,71.4%) compared with the moderate RPS of rENO alone(50%) against S. iniae infection at 4 week post vaccination. While rtIL-8 failed to maintain long-lasting immune protection, only with RPS of 26.67% in rENO + rtIL-8-vaccinated fish compared with that of rENO alone(20%) at 8 week, signifying that IL-8 hold promise for use as potential immunopotentiator in vaccines against bacterial infections in fish, whereas it is insufficient to extend the immunoprotection for long time and further studies are required to understand the mechanisms of IL-8 used as an adjuvant and seek for more effective way to strengthen the adjuvanticity of IL-8.
Highly conductive and flexible color filter electrode using multilayer film structure
Authors: Han Jun Hee , Kim Dong-Young , Kim Dohong , Choi Kyung Cheol
Published: July 2016

In this paper, a high performance flexible component that serves as a color filter and an electrode simultaneously is suggested. The suggested highly conductive and flexible color filter electrode (CFE) has a multilayer film structure composed of silver (Ag) and tungsten trioxide (WO3). The CFE maintained its color filtering capability even when the films were bent on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film. Low sheet resistance of the CFE was obtained using WO3 as a bridge layer that connects two Ag layers electrically. The sheet resistance was less than 2 Ω/sq. and it was negligibly changed after bending the film, confirming the flexibility of the CFE. The CFE can be easily fabricated using a thermal evaporator and is easily patterned by photolithography or a shadow mask. The proposed CFE has enormous potential for applications involving optical devices including large area devices and flexible devices.
Assembling substrate-less plasmonic metacrystals at the oil/water interface for multiplex ultratrace analyte detection
Authors: Lee Yih Hong , Lee Hiang Kwee , Ho Jonathan Yong Chew , Yang Yijie , Ling Xing Yi
Published: July 2016

Designing substrate-less plasmonic metacrystals for the multiplex ultratrace detection of analytes from both organic and aqueous phases.
Detecting levels of polyquaternium-10 (PQ-10) via potentiometric titration with dextran sulphate and monitoring the equivalence point with a polymeric membrane-based polyion sensor
Authors: Ferguson Stephen A. , Wang Xuewei , Meyerhoff Mark E.
Published: July 2016

This manuscript reports a novel and facile method for PQ-10/SLS separation and subsequent PQ-10 quantificationviapotentiometric titration.
PGMA-based gene carriers with lipid molecules
Authors: Xu Chen , Yu Bingran , Hu Hao , Nizam Muhammad Naeem , Yuan Wei , Ma Jie , Xu Fu-Jian
Published: July 2016

A series of effective cationic conjugations of lipid molecules with low cytotoxicity and high gene transfection efficiency were readily designed for gene therapy and tumor treatment.
Revealing instability and irreversibility in nonaqueous sodium–O2 battery chemistry
Authors: Sayed Sayed Youssef , Yao Koffi P. C. , Kwabi David G. , Batcho Thomas P. , Amanchukwu Chibueze V. , Feng Shuting , Thompson Carl V. , Shao-Horn Yang
Published: July 2016

Charging kinetics and reversibility of Na–O2 batteries can be influenced greatly by the particle size of NaO2 formed upon discharge, and exposure time (reactivity) of NaO2 to the electrolyte.
The coupling of hemin with persistent free radicals induces a nonradical mechanism for oxidation of pollutants
Authors: Jiang Bin , Dai Dejun , Yao Yuyuan , Xu Tiefeng , Li Renhong , Xie Renjie , Chen Likun , Chen Wenxing
Published: July 2016

Herein, we report that persistent free radicals (PFRs) based on MWCNTs significantly accelerate the pollutant removal rate.
Highlights from Faraday Discussion: Chemistry in the urban atmosphere, United Kingdom, April 2016
Authors: Shi Zongbo , Alam Mohammed Salim , Nikolova Irina
Published: July 2016

Regional background, city-scale as well as street level emissions all contribute to urban air pollution.
A porous lanthanide metal–organic framework based on a flexible cyclotriphosphazene-functionalized hexacarboxylate exhibiting selective gas adsorption
Authors: Ling Yajing , Jiao Jingjing , Zhang Mingxing , Liu Huimin , Bai Dongjie , Feng Yunlong , He Yabing
Published: July 2016

This work presents a rare example of a permanently porous Ln-MOF based on a flexible hexacarboxylate exhibiting selective gas adsorption.
Computational insights into CdSe quantum dots' interactions with acetate ligands
Authors: Tamukong Patrick K. , Peiris Wadumesthrige D. N. , Kilina Svetlana
Published: July 2016

Using density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent DFT (TDDFT), we investigate the effects of carboxylate groups on the electronic and optical properties of CdSe quantum dots (QDs).
A quantum chemistry study of curvature effects on boron nitride nanotubes/nanosheets for gas adsorption
Authors: Sha Haoyan , Faller Roland
Published: July 2016

Various boron nitride sheets interacting with noble gases, oxygen, and water on both sides of the surface were studied using high level DFT.
Quantification and classification of substituent effects in organic chemistry: a theoretical molecular electrostatic potential study
Authors: Remya Geetha S. , Suresh Cherumuttathu H.
Published: July 2016

The molecular electrostatic potential parameters show a strong linear correlation with Hammett constants and serve as tools for designing π-conjugated organic molecules with highly tuned electronic properties.
Dual-mode, tunable color, enhanced upconversion luminescence and magnetism of multifunctional BaGdF5:Ln3+ (Ln = Yb/Er/Eu) nanophosphors
Authors: Li Honglan , Liu Guixia , Wang Jinxian , Dong Xiangting , Yu Wensheng
Published: July 2016

BaGdF5:Yb3+,Er3+/Eu3+ nanophosphors were prepared by a hydrothermal method, and the energy transfer, color-tunable dual-mode emissions and magnetic properties were studied, which could have promising applications in the fields of LEDs, MRI, biolabels, and so on.
Capacity-limiting mechanisms in Li/O2batteries
Authors: Liu Jing , Khaleghi Rahimian Saeed , Monroe Charles W.
Published: July 2016

A continuum model of an aprotic lithium/oxygen battery is validated against experimental first-discharge data and used to examine how the apparent cell capacity is affected by macroscopic multicomponent mass transfer, interfacial kinetics, and electronic conduction or tunneling through the discharge product.
Water sorption behaviour of two series of PHA/montmorillonite films and determination of the mean water cluster size
Authors: Follain N. , Crétois R. , Lebrun L. , Marais S.
Published: July 2016

Biodegradable polyester-based films constituted of poly(hydroxyalkanoates) (PHA) were successfully extruded with various Cloisite 30B contents.
Ultrathin two-dimensional layered metal hydroxides: an emerging platform for advanced catalysis, energy conversion and storage
Authors: Yin Huajie , Tang Zhiyong
Published: July 2016

The unique properties of graphene are triggering a great deal of attention toward the family of ultrathin two-dimensional (2D) structures.
Unravelling the promoting effect of the ultrathin TaC/RGO nanosheet hybrid for enhanced catalytic activity of Pd nanoparticles
Authors: He Chunyong , Tao Juzhou , He Guoqiang , Shen Pei Kang , Qiu Yongfu
Published: July 2016

A novel two-dimensional ultrathin TaC/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanosheet hybrid was employed as a co-catalyst to Pd nanoparticles (Pd/TaC-G).
M2L4 coordination capsules with tunable anticancer activity upon guest encapsulation
Authors: Ahmedova Anife , Mihaylova Rositsa , Momekova Denitsa , Shestakova Pavletta , Stoykova Silviya , Zaharieva Joana , Yamashina Masahiro , Momekov Georgi , Akita Munetaka , Yoshizawa Michito
Published: July 2016

Guest encapsulation can modulate the cytotoxicity of anthracene-based nano-capsules and broaden their applications from metallodrugs to biocompatible delivery systems.
An electron poor iridium pincer complex for catalytic alkane dehydrogenation
Authors: Kovalenko Oleksandr O. , Wendt Ola F.
Published: July 2016

A new electron deficient iridium complex demonstrates an improved TON in alkane transfer dehydrogenation reactions compared to similar pre-catalysts.
New bimetallic palladium(ii) and platinum(ii) complexes: studies of the nucleophilic substitution reactions, interactions with CT-DNA, bovine serum albumin and cytotoxic activity
Authors: Jovanović Snežana , Obrenčević Katarina , Bugarčić Živadin D. , Popović Iva , Žakula Jelena , Petrović Biljana
Published: July 2016

Nucleophilic substitution reactions, interactions with CT-DNA, bovine serum albumin and cytotoxic activity of new bimetallic Pt(ii) and Pd(ii) complexes.
A lab-on-a-chip device for investigating the fusion process of olfactory ensheathing cell spheroids
Authors: Munaz Ahmed , Vadivelu Raja K. , John James A. St , Nguyen Nam-Trung
Published: July 2016

We report a lab-on-a-chip device for trapping and fusion of three-dimensional spheroids that assist transplantation therapy.
Development of formulations based on TEOS-dicarboxylic acids for consolidation of carbonate stones
Authors: Sena da Fonseca Bruno , Piçarra Susana , Ferreira Pinto Ana Paula , Montemor Maria de Fátima
Published: July 2016

Dicarboxylic acids (DAs) act differently in the presence of CaCO3, becoming interesting additives in the consolidation of carbonate stones.
What use for polysilsesquioxane lithium salts in lithium batteries?
Authors: Meyer Mathieu , Viau Lydie , Mehdi Ahmad , Monge Sophie , Judeinstein Patrick , Vioux André
Published: July 2016

High molecular weight polysilsesquioxane lithium salts were prepared. Ion self-diffusion coefficients and transference numbers in acetonitrile solutions were quantified by PFG NMR spectroscopy.
α,ω-Bis(trialkoxysilyl) difunctionalized polycyclooctenes from ruthenium-catalyzed chain-transfer ring-opening metathesis polymerization
Authors: Michel Xiaolu , Fouquay Stéphane , Michaud Guillaume , Simon Frédéric , Brusson Jean-Michel , Carpentier Jean-François , Guillaume Sophie M.
Published: July 2016

ROMP/CM of COE using bis(trialkoxysilyl)alkenes CTAs and Ru catalysts affords a series of bis(trialkoxysilyl) difunctionalized polyolefins.
Structure control and photocatalytic performance of porous conjugated polymers based on perylene diimide
Authors: Li Lianwei , Cai Zhengxu
Published: July 2016

Perylene diimide-based n-type porous conjugated polymers were prepared and evaluated as photocatalysts for hydrogen production and pollutant degradation applications.
Activating Pd nanoparticles on sol–gel prepared porous g-C3N4/SiO2via enlarging the Schottky barrier for efficient dehydrogenation of formic acid
Authors: Wang Hong-Hui , Zhang Bing , Li Xin-Hao , Antonietti Markus , Chen Jie-Sheng
Published: July 2016

The g-C3N4/SiO2 nanocomposite was prepared via a sol–gel method to activate Pd nanoparticles for hydrogen generation from formic acid.
Synthesis of conductive and transparent PEDOT:P(SS-co-PEGMA) with excellent water-, weather-, and chemical-stabilities for organic solar cells
Authors: Cho Wonseok , Hong Jae Keun , Lee Jung Joon , Kim Soyeon , Kim Seyul , Im Soeun , Yoo Dohyuk , Kim Jung Hyun
Published: July 2016

The water-, weather- and chemical-resistant conductive PEDOT:P(SS-co-PEGMA was synthesized with thermally curable P(SS-co-PEGMA). The introduction of PEGMA to the PSS copolymer improved the mechanical properties and weather stability.
Purification, properties and application of a collagenolytic protease produced by Pseudomonas sp. SUK
Authors: Bhagwat Prashant K. , Jhample Sowmya B. , Jalkute Chidambar B. , Dandge Padma B.
Published: July 2016

Purified collagenolytic protease produced byPseudomonassp. SUK, its biophysical characterization and applicatory study.
Synergistic effect on static and dynamic mechanical properties of carbon fiber-multiwalled carbon nanotube hybrid polycarbonate composites
Authors: Babal Arun Singh , Singh Bhanu Pratap , Jyoti Jeevan , Sharma Sushant , Arya Abhishek Kumar , Dhakate Sanjay R.
Published: July 2016

The synergistic effect of reinforced non-functionalized and functionalized MWCNTs accompanied by CF is observed on the mechanical properties in a polycarbonate matrix.
Electrodeposition of V2O5 on TiO2 nanorod arrays and their electrochromic properties
Authors: He Wentao , Liu Yanning , Wan Zhongquan , Jia Chunyang
Published: July 2016

Novel TiO2/V2O5 hybrid films by combining hydrothermal and electrochemical deposition methods were prepared and the hybrid films show the improved electrochemical and electrochromic properties compared with the single V2O5 thin film.
Synthesis of carbazole-based copolymers containing carbazole-thiazolo[5,4-d]thiazole groups with different dopants and their fluorescence and electrical conductivity applications
Authors: Sathiyan Govindasamy , Thangamuthu Rangasamy , Sakthivel Pachagounder
Published: July 2016

The electrical conductivity of poly(carbazole-thiazolo[5,4-d]thiazole) was measured with the introduction of five different dopants (HCl, Fe(iii), Cu(ii), H3BO3, and I2) into its framework through protonation of a nitrogen atom or complex formation.
A flexible solid-state supercapacitor based on a poly(aryl ether ketone)–poly(ethylene glycol) copolymer solid polymer electrolyte for high temperature applications
Authors: Na Ruiqi , Huo Pengfei , Zhang Xingrui , Zhang Shuling , Du Yinlong , Zhu Kai , Lu Yaning , Zhang Menghan , Luan Jiashuang , Wang Guibin
Published: July 2016

Here in we fabricated a high temperature flexible solid-state supercapacitor based on PAEK–PEG copolymers solid polymer electrolyte. As fabricated supercapacitor has excellent electrochemical performance at various operating temperature especially high temperature (120 °C).
Effect of N-doped carbon quantum dots/multiwall-carbon nanotube composite support on Pt catalytic performance for methanol electrooxidation
Authors: Zhang Jing-Jia , Sui Xu-Lei , Zhao Lei , Zhang Li-Mei , Gu Da-Ming , Wang Zhen-Bo
Published: July 2016

The Pt/NCQDs–MWCNT catalyst shows the best performance for methanol electrooxidation when the precursor content of the NCQDs–MWCNT support is 3 g.
A facile construction of Au nanoparticles on a copolymer ligand brushes modified graphene oxide nanoplatform with excellent catalytic properties
Authors: Song Yajiao , Lü Jianhua , Liu Bingxin , Lü Changli
Published: July 2016

Au NPs were generated via in situ reduction on copolymer brush P(OEGMA-co-MQ) functionalized GO. MQ units in the brushes as capping agents could stabilize the Au NPs. The Au NPs–GO hybrid exhibited high catalytic activity for the reduction of 4-NP.
Ligand-free Pd-catalysed decarboxylative arylation of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine-3-carboxylic acids with aryl bromides
Authors: Karale Uttam B. , Kalari Saradhi , Shivakumar Jala , Makane Vitthal B. , Babar Dattatraya A. , Thakare Ritesh P. , Babu Bathini Nagendra , Chopra Sidharth , Rode Haridas B.
Published: July 2016

A facile ligand-free method for Pd(OAc)2 catalysed decarboxylative arylation of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine-3-carboxylic acids with hetero(aryl) bromides has been developed.
High-contrast electrochromic and electrofluorescent dual-switching materials based on 2-diphenylamine-(9,9-diphenylfluorene)-functionalized semi-aromatic polymers
Authors: Sun Ningwei , Meng Shiyao , Zhou Ziwei , Yao Jianan , Du Yinlong , Wang Daming , Zhao Xiaogang , Zhou Hongwei , Chen Chunhai
Published: July 2016

Two kinds of 2-diphenylamine-(9,9-diphenylfluorene)-functionalized semi-aromatic polymers were prepared and they exhibited stable and high-contrast electroswitching in both coloration and emission.
Mechanochemically synthesized CuO/m-BiVO4 composite with enhanced photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic properties
Authors: Zhang L. , Luo Q. , Chen X. , Tse M. S. , Tan O. K. , Li K. H. H. , Tay Y. Y. , Lim C. K. , Guo X. , Leong K. C.
Published: July 2016

Simultaneous enhancement on photon absorption and charge separation leads to improved photo-activities of a CuO/BiVO4 composite over pristine BiVO4.
Particle adsorption on a polyether sulfone membrane: how electrostatic interactions dominate membrane fouling
Authors: Breite D. , Went M. , Thomas I. , Prager A. , Schulze A.
Published: July 2016

This study presents a new method focussing on electrostatic interactions during fouling of microfiltration membranes.
A self-cleaning TiO2 coated mesh with robust underwater superoleophobicity for oil/water separation in a complex environment
Authors: Dong Zhe-Qin , Wang Bao-Juan , Liu Min , Ma Xiao-hua , Xu Zhen-Liang
Published: July 2016

A TiO2 coated mesh with self-cleaning property, robust underwater superoleophobicity and high separation efficiency was fabricated by sol–gel method.
The role of solvent polarity in the electronic properties, stability and reactivity trend of a tryptophane/Pd doped SWCNT novel nanobiosensor from polar protic to non-polar solvents
Authors: Yoosefian Mehdi , Etminan Nazanin
Published: July 2016

Carbon nanotubes and amino acids have a high potential to offer specific advantages as the transducer and the recognition elements of biosensors.
Facile fabrication of BiOIO3/BiOBr composites with enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity
Authors: Zhang Huan , Niu Cheng-Gang , Yang Shi-Feng , Zeng Guang-Ming
Published: July 2016

BiOIO3/BiOBr composite photocatalysts were successfully fabricated through a hydrothermal and subsequent chemical precipitation method.
Effect of subcritical water on homogeneous catalysis of used cooking oil hydrolysis
Authors: Lu Ki Ong , Phuong Lan Tran Nguyen , Felycia Edi Soetaredjo , Suryadi Ismadji , Yi-Hsu Ju
Published: July 2016

Subcritical water properties affect fatty acid (FA) yield in three different catalyst systems (FA-, acid-, and Cu-catalyzed systems) and Cu removal in the Cu-catalyzed system.
Time dependent DFT investigation of the optical response in pristine and Gd doped Al2O3
Authors: Kumavat Sandip , Chakraborty Sudip , Rahane Amol B. , Deshpande Mrinalini D. , Ahuja Rajeev
Published: July 2016

The optical absorption spectra and static polarizabilities for the lowest energy configurations of Al2O3 and Gd doped (Al2O3)n clusters (n = 1–10) are investigated based on the time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) formalism.
Optical performance of Mn4+in a new hexa-coordinated fluorozirconate complex of Cs2ZrF6
Authors: Zhou Qiang , Tan Huiying , Zhou Yayun , Zhang Qiuhan , Wang Zhengliang , Yan Jin , Wu Mingmei
Published: July 2016

A new Mn4+doped hexafluorozirconate complex, Cs2ZrF6:Mn4+, was prepared successfully through a cation exchange route. With introduction of this phosphor, theRaandTcvalues of a YAG type WLED can be significantly improved, indicating its potential application for warm white lighting.
Correction: Unusual electronic and magnetic properties of lateral phosphorene–WSe2 heterostructures
Authors: Tian Xiao-Qing , Liu Lin , Gong Zhi-Rui , Du Yu , Gu Juan , Yakobson Boris I. , Xu Jian-Bin
Published: July 2016

Correction for ‘Unusual electronic and magnetic properties of lateral phosphorene–WSe2 heterostructures’ by Xiao-Qing Tian et al., J. Mater. Chem. C, 2016, DOI: 10.1039/c6tc01978a.
Niacin feeding to fresh dairy cows: immediate effects on health and milk production
Authors: Havlin J. M. , Robinson P. H. , Garrett J. E.
Published: July 2016

Early lactation dairy cows are frequently in negative energy balance and susceptible to ketosis, fatty liver and metritis. Because of its anti-lipolytic properties, the B-vitamin niacin could reduce negative energy balance by reducing non-esterified fatty acids for ketogenesis, thereby reducing hyperketonemia. We determined effects of feeding ruminally protected niacin (RPNi) on lipolysis during the fresh period using blood non-esterified fatty acids concentrations as a ketosis indicator, blood β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations as an indicator of lipid mobilisation, as well as dry matter (DM) intake, milk and milk component yields, in 906 multi-parity Holstein cows from ~14 days before calving through the immediate fresh period. Prior to calving, cows were co-mingled in one pen and fed the same total mixed ration without RPNi. Between 24 and 36 h postpartum, cows were assigned to fresh pens and fed the same fresh cow total mixed ration, except for RPNi at 0, 3.5, 7 or 14 g niacin/cow.day. During the close-up and fresh periods, cows were sampled for tail vein blood. Milk yield and composition was measured twice at a 140-days interval in the fresh pens postpartum. The 3.5 g/day RPNi feeding tended to decrease ketosis prevalence (% of cows with β-hydroxybutyrate ≥ 1.44 mg/dL) from 36% to 20% (P = 0.06) and also tended (P = 0.07) to increase DM intake from 19.3 to 21.5 kg DM/day versus Control. The RPNi effect tended to increase with duration of RPNi feeding, with no effects at 7 ± 3.9 days in milk, but milk (P = 0.10), milk fat (P = 0.11) and milk energy (P = 0.07) yields tending to be higher at 21 ± 3.9 days in milk. Conversely, 14 g/day RPNi had no effect on ketosis prevalence or DM intake. However, milk (P = 0.10), milk fat (P = 0.11) and milk energy (P = 0.07) yields tended to decrease versus Control. Overall, low level RPNi feeding was judged to improve health and production in fresh cows, but higher feeding levels had clear negative impacts.
A Colorimetric Approach towards Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Sensing
Authors: Woodland Walmiria , Motti Cherie A. , Irving Paul , Van Herwerden Lynne , Vamvounis George
Published: July 2016

The colorimetric detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was achieved using photochromic compounds. This technique exploits the ability of the photochromic compound to reversibly change from a colourless to a coloured compound using ultraviolet light and visible light. In the presence of a PAH, this photoisomerization is inhibited. The degree of inhibition corresponded to the molar absorptivity and excitation wavelength of the PAH, and with a limit of detection in the micromolar range, the current method delivers a highly sensitive and selective technology. In addition, PAH mixtures were successfully identified using this method, providing a potentially fast in-field sensing technology for the identification of likely sources of spilled oil.
Genetic compatibility among morphotypes of Vigna lanceolata and implications for breeding improved cultivars
Authors: Lawn R. J. , Vu Hang T. T. , Bielig L. M. , Kilian A.
Published: July 2016

As well as being part of the wider gene pool of cultivated species such as mungbean and cowpea, Vigna lanceolata Benth. is of agronomic interest as a potentially useful species in its own right. It is widely adapted across northern Australia from the coast to inland desert regions, and possesses attributes that make it potentially suited as a ley, cover crop or pasture legume in seasonally arid tropical environments. The species comprises several morphotypes that variously differ in their broad geographic distribution, life cycle, habit, edaphic adaptation and/or amphicarpy. In order to assess the potential for breeding improved cultivars, eight representative accessions were hybridised in a complete diallel cross and the viability and fertility of the resultant hybrid progeny evaluated. Of the 56 parental combinations in the diallel, 33 resulted in healthy F1 hybrid plants, and of these, nine were at least partly self-fertile. Six of these combinations were the reciprocal crosses between three of the perennial, tuberous-rooted, amphicarpic morphotypes. Another two were the reciprocal crosses between the two annual morphotypes. The patterns of relatedness among accessions indicated by the cross-pollination studies were broadly supported by DArT molecular marker analyses, and suggested that there has been some genetic differentiation within the V. lanceolata complex. Although the process of speciation remains far from complete, the levels of genetic compatibility between some morphotypes would be inadequate to enable a breeding program to draw easily on the full range of genetic diversity within V. lanceolata. Two plausible breeding options are suggested. The first is the development of perennial, tuberous-rooted, amphicarpic ideotypes suited perhaps as pasture or understorey legumes, drawing on selected accessions from the three perennial morphotypes, where there was sufficient genetic compatibility and which collectively have wide geographical spread. The second is an annual, freely seeding, fibrous-rooted, amphicarpic ideotype suited perhaps for use as a self-regenerating ley legume, drawing on selected accessions from the two annual morphotypes.
Consumer evaluation of ‘Veggycation®’, a website promoting the health benefits of vegetables
Authors: Rekhy Reetica , Khan Aila , van Ogtrop Floris , McConchie Robyn
Published: July 2016

Issue addressed

Whether the website Veggycation® appeals to particular groups of consumers significantly more than other groups.

Methods

Australian adults aged 18 years (n = 1000) completed an online survey. The website evaluation instrument used was tested for validity and reliability. Associations between demographic variables and website evaluation dimensions of attractiveness, content, user‐friendliness and loyalty intentions were examined using a general linear model (GLM). The appraisal of the website was further investigated based on the respondents' daily consumption level of vegetables and the importance they attach to vegetable consumption in their diet, using GLM and a Tukey's all‐pair comparison.

Results

Veggycation® has a high level of acceptance among the Australian community with certain groups evaluating the website more favourably. These include women, people aged 29 years, higher income respondents, non‐metro respondents and those who viewed vegetables as extremely important in their daily diet.

Conclusions

Customisation of the website for consumer groups with low vegetable consumption is recommended. Designing tailored communication tools will assist in enhancing the knowledge base of vegetable‐related health benefits and may promote vegetable consumption among the Australian population.

So what?

The promotion of higher vegetable consumption is aided by tailored, well‐designed web communication. This study adds to the existing body of knowledge for the education of organisations developing e‐tools for promoting health education and literacy.