bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spontaneous emergence of chirality in achiral lyotropic chromonic liquid crystals confined to cylinders
Authors: Nayani Karthik , Chang Rui , Fu Jinxin , Ellis Perry W. , Fernandez-Nieves Alberto , Park Jung Ok , Srinivasarao Mohan
Published: August 2015

The presumed ground state of a nematic fluid confined in a cylindrical geometry with planar anchoring corresponds to that of an axial configuration, wherein the director, free of deformations, is along the long axis of the cylinder. However, upon confinement of lyotropic chromonic liquid crystals in cylindrical geometries, here we uncover a surprising ground state corresponding to a doubly twisted director configuration. The stability of this ground state, which involves significant director deformations, can be rationalized by the saddle-splay contribution to the free energy. We show that sufficient anisotropy in the elastic constants drives the transition from a deformation-free ground state to a doubly twisted structure, and results in spontaneous symmetry breaking with equal probability for either handedness. Enabled by the twist angle measurements of the spontaneous twist, we determine the saddle-splay elastic constant for chromonic liquid crystals for the first time.
Gene looping facilitates TFIIH kinase-mediated termination of transcription
Authors: Medler Scott , Ansari Athar
Published: August 2015

TFIIH is a general transcription factor with kinase and helicase activities. The kinase activity resides in the Kin28 subunit of TFIIH. The role of Kin28 kinase in the early steps of transcription is well established. Here we report a novel role of Kin28 in the termination of transcription. We show that RNAPII reads through a termination signal upon kinase inhibition. Furthermore, the recruitment of termination factors towards the 3′ end of a gene was compromised in the kinase mutant, thus confirming the termination defect. A concomitant decrease in crosslinking of termination factors near the 5′ end of genes was also observed in the kinase-defective mutant. Simultaneous presence of termination factors towards both the ends of a gene is indicative of gene looping; while the loss of termination factor occupancy from the distal ends suggest the abolition of a looped gene conformation. Accordingly, CCC analysis revealed that the looped architecture of genes was severely compromised in the Kin28 kinase mutant. In a looping defective sua7-1 mutant, even the enzymatically active Kin28 kinase could not rescue the termination defect. These results strongly suggest a crucial role of Kin28 kinase-dependent gene looping in the termination of transcription in budding yeast.
The Phosphorylation Profile of Myosin Binding Protein-C Slow is Dynamically Regulated in Slow-Twitch Muscles in Health and Disease
Authors: Ackermann Maegen A. , Kerr Jaclyn P. , King Brendan , W. Ward Christopher , Kontrogianni-Konstantopoulos Aikaterini
Published: August 2015

Myosin Binding Protein-C slow (sMyBP-C) is expressed in skeletal muscles where it plays structural and regulatory roles. The functions of sMyBP-C are modulated through alternative splicing and phosphorylation. Herein, we examined the phosphorylation profile of sMyBP-C in mouse slow-twitch soleus muscle isolated from fatigued or non-fatigued young (2-4-months old) and old (~14-months old) wild type and mdx mice. Our findings are two-fold. First, we identified the phosphorylation events present in individual sMyBP-C variants at different states. Secondly, we quantified the relative abundance of each phosphorylation event and of sMyBP-C phospho-species as a function of age and dystrophy, in the presence or absence of fatigue. Our results revealed both constitutive and differential phosphorylation of sMyBP-C. Moreover, we noted a 10–40% and a 25–35% reduction in the phosphorylation levels of select sites in old wild type and young or old mdx soleus muscles, respectively. On the contrary, we observed a 5–10% and a 20–25% increase in the phosphorylation levels of specific sites in young fatigued wild type and mdx soleus muscles, respectively. Overall, our studies showed that the phosphorylation pattern of sMyBP-C is differentially regulated following reversible (i.e. fatigue) and non-reversible (i.e. age and disease) (patho)physiological stressors.
Unconventional superconductivity in Y5Rh6Sn18 probed by muon spin relaxation
Authors: Bhattacharyya Amitava , Adroja Devashibhai , Kase Naoki , Hillier Adrian , Akimitsu Jun , Strydom Andre
Published: August 2015

Conventional superconductors are robust diamagnets that expel magnetic fields through the Meissner effect. It would therefore be unexpected if a superconducting ground state would support spontaneous magnetics fields. Such broken time-reversal symmetry states have been suggested for the high—temperature superconductors, but their identification remains experimentally controversial. We present magnetization, heat capacity, zero field and transverse field muon spin relaxation experiments on the recently discovered caged type superconductor Y5Rh6Sn18 ( TC= 3.0 K). The electronic heat capacity of Y5Rh6Sn18 shows a T3 dependence below Tc indicating an anisotropic superconducting gap with a point node. This result is in sharp contrast to that observed in the isostructural Lu5Rh6Sn18 which is a strong coupling s—wave superconductor. The temperature dependence of the deduced superfluid in density Y5Rh6Sn18 is consistent with a BCS s—wave gap function, while the zero-field muon spin relaxation measurements strongly evidences unconventional superconductivity through a spontaneous appearance of an internal magnetic field below the superconducting transition temperature, signifying that the superconducting state is categorized by the broken time-reversal symmetry.
Singapore Grouper Iridovirus ORF75R is a Scaffold Protein Essential for Viral Assembly
Authors: Wang Fan , Liu Yang , Zhu Yi , Ngoc Tran Bich , Wu Jinlu , Leong Hew Choy
Published: August 2015

Singapore Grouper Iridovirus (SGIV) is a member of nucleo cytoplasmic large DNA viruses (NCLDV). This paper reports the functional analysis of ORF75R, a major structural protein of SGIV. Immuno fluorescence studies showed that the protein was accumulated in the viral assembly site. Immunogold-labelling indicated that it was localized between the viral capsid shell and DNA core. Knockdown of ORF75R by morpholinos resulted in the reduction of coreshell thickness, the failure of DNA encapsidation and the low yield of infectious particles. Comparative proteomics further identified the structural proteins affected by ORF75R knockdown. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis combined with proteomics demonstrated that ORF75R was phosphorylated at multiple sites in SGIV-infected cell lysate and virions, but the vast majority of ORF75R in virions was the dephosphorylated isoform. A kinase assay showed that ORF75R could be phosphorylated in vitro by the SGIV structural protein ORF39L. Addition of ATP and Mg2+ into purified virions prompted extensive phosphorylation of structural proteins and release of ORF75R from virions. These data suggest that ORF75R is a novel scaffold protein important for viral assembly and DNA encapsidation, but its phosphorylation facilitates virion disassembly. Compared to proteins from other viruses, we found that ORF75R shares common features with herpes simplex virus VP22.
Topologically inferring pathway activity toward precise cancer classification via integrating genomic and metabolomic data: prostate cancer as a case
Authors: Liu Wei , Bai Xuefeng , Liu Yuejuan , Wang Wei , Han Junwei , Wang Qiuyu , Xu Yanjun , Zhang Chunlong , Zhang Shihua , Li Xuecang , Ren Zhonggui , Zhang Jian , Li Chunquan
Published: August 2015

Precise cancer classification is a central challenge in clinical cancer research such as diagnosis, prognosis and metastasis prediction. Most existing cancer classification methods based on gene or metabolite biomarkers were limited to single genomics or metabolomics and lacked integration and utilization of multiple ‘omics’ data. The accuracy and robustness of these methods when applied to independent cohorts of patients must be improved. In this study, we propose a directed random walk-based method to evaluate the topological importance of each gene in a reconstructed gene–metabolite graph by integrating information from matched gene expression profiles and metabolomic profiles. The joint use of gene and metabolite information contributes to accurate evaluation of the topological importance of genes and reproducible pathway activities. We constructed classifiers using reproducible pathway activities for precise cancer classification and risk metabolic pathway identification. We applied the proposed method to the classification of prostate cancer. Within-dataset experiments and cross-dataset experiments on three independent datasets demonstrated that the proposed method achieved a more accurate and robust overall performance compared to several existing classification methods. The resulting risk pathways and topologically important differential genes and metabolites provide biologically informative models for prostate cancer prognosis and therapeutic strategies development.
Effect of Short-Term Mobile Phone Base Station Exposure on Cognitive Performance, Body Temperature, Heart Rate and Blood Pressure of Malaysians
Authors: Malek F. , Rani K. A. , Rahim H. A. , Omar M. H.
Published: August 2015

Individuals who report their sensitivity to electromagnetic fields often undergo cognitive impairments that they believe are due to the exposure of mobile phone technology. The aim of this study is to clarify whether short-term exposure at 1 V/m to the typical Global System for Mobile Communication and Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) affects cognitive performance and physiological parameters (body temperature, blood pressure and heart rate). This study applies counterbalanced randomizing single blind tests to determine if sensitive individuals experience more negative health effects when they are exposed to base station signals compared with sham (control) individuals. The sample size is 200 subjects with 50.0% Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance attributed to electromagnetic fields (IEI-EMF) also known as sensitive and 50.0% (non-IEI-EMF). The computer-administered Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB eclipseTM) is used to examine cognitive performance. Four tests are chosen to evaluate Cognitive performance in CANTAB: Reaction Time (RTI), Rapid Visual Processing (RVP), Paired Associates Learning (PAL) and Spatial Span (SSP). Paired sample t-test on the other hand, is used to examine the physiological parameters. Generally, in both groups, there is no statistical significant difference between the exposure and sham exposure towards cognitive performance and physiological effects (P’s > 0.05).
Aldosterone induces clonal β-cell failure through glucocorticoid receptor
Authors: Chen Fang , Liu Jia , Wang Yanyang , Wu Tijun , Shan Wei , Zhu Yunxia , Han Xiao
Published: August 2015

Aldosterone excess causes insulin resistance in peripheral tissues and directly impairs the function of clonal β-cell. The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved in the aldosterone-induced impairment of clonal β-cells. As expected, aldosterone induced apoptosis and β-cell dysfunction, including impairment of insulin synthesis and secretion, which were reversed by Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) antagonists or GR-specific siRNA. However, mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonists or MR-specific siRNA had no effect on impairment of clonal β-cells induced by aldosterone. Besides, aldosterone significantly decreased expression and activity of MafA, while activated JNK and p38 MAPK in a GR-dependent manner. In addition, JNK inhibitors (SP600125) and/or p38 inhibitors (SB203580) could abolish the effect of aldosterone on MafA expression and activity. Importantly, overexpression of JNK1 or p38 reversed the protective effect of a GR antagonist on the decrease of MafA expression and activity. Furthermore, aldosterone inhibits MafA expression at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional level through activation of JNK and p38, respectively. Consequently, overexpression of MafA increased synthesis and secretion of insulin and decreased apoptosis in clonal β-cells exposed to aldosterone. These findings identified aldosterone as an inducer of clonal β-cell failure that operates through the GR-MAPK-MafA signaling pathway.
Modelling heat conduction in polycrystalline hexagonal boron-nitride films
Authors: Mortazavi Bohayra , Pereira Luiz Felipe C. , Jiang Jin-Wu , Rabczuk Timon
Published: August 2015

We conducted extensive molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the thermal conductivity of polycrystalline hexagonal boron-nitride (h-BN) films. To this aim, we constructed large atomistic models of polycrystalline h-BN sheets with random and uniform grain configuration. By performing equilibrium molecular dynamics (EMD) simulations, we investigated the influence of the average grain size on the thermal conductivity of polycrystalline h-BN films at various temperatures. Using the EMD results, we constructed finite element models of polycrystalline h-BN sheets to probe the thermal conductivity of samples with larger grain sizes. Our multiscale investigations not only provide a general viewpoint regarding the heat conduction in h-BN films but also propose that polycrystalline h-BN sheets present high thermal conductivity comparable to monocrystalline sheets.
Myosin Binding Protein-C Slow Phosphorylation is Altered in Duchenne Dystrophy and Arthrogryposis Myopathy in Fast-Twitch Skeletal Muscles
Authors: Ackermann Maegen A. , Ward Christopher W. , Gurnett Christina , Kontrogianni-Konstantopoulos Aikaterini
Published: August 2015

Myosin Binding Protein-C slow (sMyBP-C), encoded by MYBPC1, comprises a family of regulatory proteins of skeletal muscles that are phosphorylated by PKA and PKC. MYBPC1 missense mutations are linked to the development of Distal Arthrogryposis-1 (DA-1). Although structure-function details for this myopathy are evolving, function is undoubtedly driven by sequence variations and post-translational modifications in sMyBP-C. Herein, we examined the phosphorylation profile of sMyBP-C in mouse and human fast-twitch skeletal muscles. We used Flexor Digitorum Brevis (FDB) isolated from young (~2-months old) and old (~14-months old) wild type and mdx mice and human Abductor Hallucis (AH) and gastrocnemious muscles carrying the DA-1 mutations. Our results indicate both constitutive and differential phosphorylation of sMyBP-C in aged and diseased muscles. We report a 7–35% reduction in the phosphorylation levels of select sites in old wild type and young or old mdx FDB mouse muscles, compared to young wild type tissue. Similarly, we observe a 30–70% decrease in the phosphorylation levels of all PKA and PKC phospho-sites in the DA-1 AH, but not gastrocnemius, muscle. Overall, our studies show that the phosphorylation pattern of sMyBP-C is differentially regulated in response to age and disease, suggesting that phosphorylation plays important roles in these processes.
Histone H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 regulatory genes control stable transmission of an epimutation in rice
Authors: Chen Xiangsong , Liu Xiaoyun , Zhao Yu , Zhou Dao-Xiu
Published: August 2015

DNA methylation loss can produce inheritable active epialleles in plants. The mechanism involved in the stable transmission of hypomethylated epimuations is presently not clear. Here we show that maintenance of a stably hypomethylated active epiallele in rice required a CHD3 protein (CHR729) and that over-expression of an H3K4me3 demethylase (JMJ703) or H3K27me3 methyltransferase (SDG711) could stably resilence the epiallele. CHR729 and JMJ703 have antagonistic function in H3K4me3 in maintaining the active state of the epiallele, whereas SDG711-mediated H3K27me3 was sufficient to stably repress the locus. The data suggest that H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 controlled by these chromatin regulators may be involved in stable transmission/resetting of epigenetic variation in rice.
A Branching Process to Characterize the Dynamics of Stem Cell Differentiation
Authors: Míguez David G.
Published: August 2015

The understanding of the regulatory processes that orchestrate stem cell maintenance is a cornerstone in developmental biology. Here, we present a mathematical model based on a branching process formalism that predicts average rates of proliferative and differentiative divisions in a given stem cell population. In the context of vertebrate neurogenesis, the model predicts complex non-monotonic variations in the rates of pp, pd and dd modes of division as well as in cell cycle length, in agreement with experimental results. Moreover, the model shows that the differentiation probability follows a binomial distribution, allowing us to develop equations to predict the rates of each mode of division. A phenomenological simulation of the developing spinal cord informed with the average cell cycle length and division rates predicted by the mathematical model reproduces the correct dynamics of proliferation and differentiation in terms of average numbers of progenitors and differentiated cells. Overall, the present mathematical framework represents a powerful tool to unveil the changes in the rate and mode of division of a given stem cell pool by simply quantifying numbers of cells at different times.
Identification of Bufavirus-1 and Bufavirus-3 in Feces of Patients with Acute Diarrhea, China
Authors: Huang Dou-Dou , Wang Wei , Lu Qing-Bin , Zhao Jin , Guo Chen-Tao , Wang Hong-Yu , Zhang Xiao-Ai , Tong Yi-Gang , Liu Wei , Cao Wu-Chun
Published: August 2015

Bufavirus (BuV) is a newly discovered human parvovirus that has been detected in some countries. The current study was designed to understand the epidemic of BuV in China. Totally 1877 fecal specimens were collected from pediatric and adult patients with acute diarrhea in two large hospitals from 2010 to 2014. BuV was detected in 0.5% (9/1877) of the fecal samples by PCR and subsequent sequencing. The positive patients had a wide age range from 1 month through 60 years (median 24 years old) and 6 were male. A geographic specific pattern was obvious, with significantly higher frequency of BuV presented in Northern than in Southern China. Four BuV-1 and five BuV-3 were determined. Mixed-infections of BuV with sapovirus and novavirus were found in 2 cases, respectively. A temporal clustering was identified, with most positive detection focused in the cold weather. These findings have expanded the current knowledge on the geographic boundaries of BuV circulation.
Complexity of cardiac signals for predicting changes in alpha-waves after stress in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization
Authors: Chiu Hung-Chih , Lin Yen-Hung , Lo Men-Tzung , Tang Sung-Chun , Wang Tzung-Dau , Lu Hung-Chun , Ho Yi-Lwun , Ma Hsi-Pin , Peng Chung-Kang
Published: August 2015

The hierarchical interaction between electrical signals of the brain and heart is not fully understood. We hypothesized that the complexity of cardiac electrical activity can be used to predict changes in encephalic electricity after stress. Most methods for analyzing the interaction between the heart rate variability (HRV) and electroencephalography (EEG) require a computation-intensive mathematical model. To overcome these limitations and increase the predictive accuracy of human relaxing states, we developed a method to test our hypothesis. In addition to routine linear analysis, multiscale entropy and detrended fluctuation analysis of the HRV were used to quantify nonstationary and nonlinear dynamic changes in the heart rate time series. Short-time Fourier transform was applied to quantify the power of EEG. The clinical, HRV and EEG parameters of postcatheterization EEG alpha waves were analyzed using change-score analysis and generalized additive models. In conclusion, the complexity of cardiac electrical signals can be used to predict EEG changes after stress.
Elevated expression of mechanosensory polycystins in human carotid atherosclerotic plaques: association with p53 activation and disease severity
Authors: Varela Aimilia , Piperi Christina , Sigala Fragiska , Agrogiannis George , Davos Constantinos H. , Andri Maria-Anastasia , Manopoulos Christos , Tsangaris Sokrates , Basdra Efthimia K. , Papavassiliou Athanasios G.
Published: August 2015

Atherosclerotic plaque formation is associated with irregular distribution of wall shear stress (WSS) that modulates endothelial function and integrity. Polycystins (PC)-1/-2 constitute a flow-sensing protein complex in endothelial cells, able to respond to WSS and induce cell-proliferation changes leading to atherosclerosis. An endothelial cell-culture system of measurable WSS was established to detect alterations in PCs expression under conditions of low- and high-oscillatory shear stress in vitro. PCs expression and p53 activation as a regulator of cell proliferation were further evaluated in vivo and in 69 advanced human carotid atherosclerotic plaques (AAPs). Increased PC-1/PC-2 expression was observed at 30–60 min of low shear stress (LSS) in endothelial cells. Elevated PC-1 expression at LSS was followed by p53 potentiation. PCs immunoreactivity localizes in areas with macrophage infiltration and neovascularization. PC-1 mRNA and protein levels were significantly higher than PC-2 in stable fibroatherotic (V) and unstable/complicated (VI) AAPs. Elevated PC-1 immunostaining was detected in AAPs from patients with diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, hypertension and carotid stenosis, at both arteries (50%) or in one artery (90%). PCs seem to participate in plaque formation and progression. Since PC-1 upregulation coincides with p38 and p53 activation, a potential interplay of these molecules in atherosclerosis induction is posed.
Detection of thrombin based on aptamer isothermal exponential signal amplification technique
Authors: Shen Xiaotong , Zhang Menghua , Niu Shuyan , Shi Chao
Published: August 2015

In this report, a strategy based on an aptameric molecule switch to realize homogeneous and isothermal signal exponential amplification and protein detection has been described.
Palladium-catalyzed bisarylation of 3-alkylbenzofurans to 3-arylalkyl-2-arylbenzofurans on water: tandem C(sp3)–H and C(sp2)–H activation reactions of 3-alkylbenzofurans
Authors: Cho Beom Shin , Chung Young Keun
Published: August 2015

A protocol involving facile sequential C(sp3)–H and C(sp2)–H activation reactions of 3-alkylbenzofurans catalyzed by Pd(OAc)2 in the presence of pivalic acid, silver salt, and tricyclohexylphosphine ‘on water’ was developed.
Model-independent determination of the degree of charge transfer in molecular and metal complexes
Authors: Joo Bora , Kim Eung-Gun
Published: August 2015

Choosing a small active space of electrons for charge analysis allows the model-free determination of the degree of charge transfer.
Transition metal-free aroylation of NH-sulfoximines with methyl arenes
Authors: Zou Ya , Xiao Jing , Peng Zhihong , Dong Wanrong , An Delie
Published: August 2015

An iodine-catalyzed N-aroylation of NH-sulfoximines with methyl arenes was herein demonstrated without participation of external organic solvents, transition metal-catalysts or ligands.
Remarkable reactivity of a rhodium(i) boryl complex towards CO2and CS2: isolation of a carbido complex
Authors: Kalläne Sabrina I. , Braun Thomas , Teltewskoi Michael , Braun Beatrice , Herrmann Roy , Laubenstein Reik
Published: August 2015

The activation of CO2, CS2as well as of PhNCO at [Rh(Bpin)(PEt3)3] (pin = pinacolato) by CX bond cleavage is reported. With CS2a unique binuclear μ-carbido complex was generated.
Rh(iii)-catalyzed [5+1] oxidative cycloaddition of arylguanidines with alkynes: a novel access to C4-disubstituted 1,4-dihydroquinazolin-2-amines
Authors: Cajaraville Ana , Suárez Jaime , López Susana , Varela Jesús A. , Saá Carlos
Published: August 2015

A novel and mild RhIII-catalyzed [5+1] oxidative cycloaddition between arylguanidines and alkynes efficiently affords C4-disubstituted 1,4-dihydroquinazolin-2-amines.
Supported gold–palladium alloy nanoparticle catalyzed tandem oxidation routes to N-substituted anilines from non-aromatic compounds
Authors: Taniguchi Kento , Jin Xiongjie , Yamaguchi Kazuya , Mizuno Noritaka
Published: August 2015

In the presence of a supported gold–palladium alloy nanoparticle catalyst (Au–Pd/Al2O3), various kinds of N-substituted anilines can be synthesized from non-aromatic compounds.
A two-dimensional CuII–MnIIheterometallic coordination polymer: structure determination using synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction and magnetic properties
Authors: Kalisz Marguerite , Cassaro Rafael A. A. , Novak Miguel A. , Andruh Marius , Amorim Helio S. , Vaz Maria G. F.
Published: August 2015

The structure of a magnetic two-dimensional CuII–MnIIheterometallic coordination polymer was solved by using synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction.
The luminescence properties of heteroleptic [OsCl(CO)(N∩N)(P∩P)]+complexes – radiative and non-radiative deactivation of the excited3*MLCT state
Authors: Kamecka Anna , Kapturkiewicz Andrzej
Published: August 2015

Combined Mulliken–Hush and Marcus–Jortner formalisms have been successfully used in the interpretation of the luminescence properties of the excited3*MLCT states.
Microwave spectroscopic and theoretical investigations of the strongly hydrogen bonded hexafluoroisopropanol⋯water complex
Authors: Shahi A. , Arunan E.
Published: August 2015

The microwave spectrum of the hexafluoroisopropanol–water complex unambiguously identifies the global minimum in which the OH of hexafluoroisopropanol forms a strong hydrogen bond with O from water.
ABCluster: the artificial bee colony algorithm for cluster global optimization
Authors: Zhang Jun , Dolg Michael
Published: August 2015

Global optimization of cluster geometries is of fundamental importance in chemistry and an interesting problem in applied mathematics. We apply a swarm-intelligence based heuristic algorithm,i.e.the artificial bee colony algorithm to solve this problem for various kinds of clusters.
Challenges in aromaticity: 150 years after Kekulé's benzene
Authors: Martín Nazario , Scott Lawrence T.
Published: August 2015

Guest editors Nazario Martín and Lawrence T. Scott introduce the Challenges in Aromaticity: 150 years after Kekulé's benzene issue of Chemical Society Reviews
Water-soluble host–guest system from β-cyclodextrin as a fluorescent sensor for aluminium ions: synthesis and sensing studies
Authors: Liu Z. C. , Zhu W. P. , Chen Y. H. , Li Y. X. , Ding Y. J. , Yang W. J. , Li K.
Published: August 2015

In this paper, a simple small molecule (L) derived from 4-(diethylamino)-2-hydroxy-benzaldehyde and carbohydrazide has been synthesized, and a water-soluble host–guest system from β-cyclodextrin and L was obtained that exhibited characteristic fluorescence behavior toward Al3+.
Iron-catalyzed cross coupling of P–H/C–O bonds: efficient synthesis of α-alkoxyphosphorus compounds
Authors: Li Xue , Chen Tieqiao , Saga Yuta , Han Li-Biao
Published: August 2015

An efficient P–C bond-formation through iron-catalyzed cross coupling of P–H/C–O bonds is developed for the first time. This reaction proceeds efficiently to produce the corresponding valuable α-alkoxyphosphorus compounds under mild conditions with a wide generality.
The first example of erbium triple-stranded helicates displaying SMM behaviour
Authors: Gorczyński Adam , Kubicki Maciej , Pinkowicz Dawid , Pełka Robert , Patroniak Violetta , Podgajny Robert
Published: August 2015

Subcomponent self-assembly gives a new family of the triple-stranded helicates of the {LnIII2O3}3− core (Ln = Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm and Yb) yielding an erbium congener revealing field-induced SMM characteristics.
Stimuli-responsive chromism in organophosphorus chemistry
Authors: Reus Christian , Baumgartner Thomas
Published: August 2015

The last five years have seen a huge advance in organophosphorus chemistry with respect to compounds with strong chromic responses to external stimuli. This Frontier article briefly summarizes these trends in order to especially highlight the broad versatility of phosphole-based scaffolds in chromic materials.
Patients are a virtue: advances in microengineered systems for clinical applications
Authors: Young Edmond W. K. , Moraes Christopher
Published: August 2015

We highlight the latest developments in microscale technologies designed specifically to handle, interrogate, and analyze human clinical samples for diagnostics and other applications.
Formation of long single quantum dots in high quality InSb nanowires grown by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Fan Dingxun , Li Sen , Kang N. , Caroff Philippe , Wang L. B. , Huang Y. Q. , Deng M. T. , Yu C. L. , Xu H. Q.
Published: August 2015

Single electron transport is demonstrated in high-quality MBE-grown InSb nanowire single quantum dots with a dot length up to ∼700 nm.
Towards 4th generation biomaterials: a covalent hybrid polymer–ormoglass architecture
Authors: Sachot N. , Mateos-Timoneda M. A. , Planell J. A. , Velders A. H. , Lewandowska M. , Engel E. , Castaño O.
Published: August 2015

Nanostructured hybrid materials are an excellent option to create extracellular matrix-like environments for cell fate control in bone tissue engineering.
Benzyl anion transfer in the fragmentation of N-(phenylsulfonyl)-benzeneacetamides: a gas-phase intramolecular SNAr reaction
Authors: Shen Shanshan , Chai Yunfeng , Liu Yaqin , Li Chang , Pan Yuanjiang
Published: August 2015

This work is the first example reporting the gas-phase benzyl anion transfer to conduct the intramolecular SNAr reactions.
A core–shell CdTe quantum dots molecularly imprinted polymer for recognizing and detecting p-nitrophenol based on computer simulation
Authors: Wang Yingchun , Wang Ningwei , Ni Xiaoni , Jiang Qianqian , Yang Wenming , Huang Weihong , Xu Wanzhen
Published: August 2015

A novel molecular imprinting technology, combined with computer simulation and QDs, was used to detect 4-NP.
Highly-sensitive label-free immunosensor for tumor necrosis factor α based on Ag@Pt core–shell nanoparticles supported on MWCNTs as an efficient electrocatalyst nanocomposite
Authors: Mazloum-Ardakani Mohammad , Hosseinzadeh Laleh
Published: August 2015

A novel label-free electrochemical immunosensor for enzyme-free determination of TNF-α biomarker was fabricated based on bimetallic Ag@Pt core–shell nanoparticles supported on MWCNTs as a desirable immunosensor platform.
Enzymatic delignification: an attempt for lignin degradation from lignocellulosic feedstock
Authors: Chandra Rajak Rajiv , Banerjee Rintu
Published: August 2015

Burgeoning population growth and an increased demand for transportation and industrialization has led to the excessive use of fossil fuels, which in turn leads to higher levels of greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to global warming.
Tuning the morphology and composition of ultrathin cobalt oxide films via atomic layer deposition
Authors: Huang Bin , Cao Kun , Liu Xiao , Qian Lihua , Shan Bin , Chen Rong
Published: August 2015

Composition and morphology controllable cobalt oxide ultrathin film have been fabricated with ALD method on both planar and porous substrate.
Self-assembly of alkyldithiols on a novel dendritic silver nanostructure electrodeposited on a stainless steel wire as a fiber coating for solid-phase microextraction
Authors: Yang Yaoxia , Guo Mei , Zhang Yida , Song Wenlan , Li Yi , Wang Xuemei , Du Xinzhen
Published: August 2015

A facile and efficient electrodeposition approach for the controllable preparation of dendritic silver nanostructure was developed on an etched stainless steel (ESS) wire.
Studies on the electrodeposition and characterization of PTFE polymer inclusion in Ni–W–BN nanocomposite coatings for industrial applications
Authors: Sangeetha S. , Kalaignan G. Paruthimal
Published: August 2015

A Ni–W–BN–PTFE nanocomposite coating with excellent corrosion and friction resistance alongside hardness and a smooth surface was developed.
Naphthalene linked pyridyl urea as a supramolecular gelator: a new insight into naked eye detection of I−in the gel state with semiconducting behaviour
Authors: Ghosh Kumaresh , Panja Santanu , Bhattacharya Subratanu
Published: August 2015

The gelation and anion responsive behavior of some 3-aminopyridinium-based molecules1–5have been examined. Compound2shows naked eye detection of I−in the gel state.
Intrinsic [VO4]3− emission of cesium vanadate Cs5V3O10
Authors: Pu Yinfu , Huang Yanlin , Tsuboi Taiju , Cheng Han , Seo Hyo Jin
Published: August 2015

Luminescence in Cs5V3O10 increases below 150 K and decreases above 150 K. Unusual blue-shift is observed. This is understood by relaxation processes of emitting 3T1 and 3T2 states including thermal feeding by lower 3T1 state to higher-energy 3T2 state.
Structural engineering of waterborne polyurethane for high performance waterproof coatings
Authors: Yu Fangfang , Xu Xiangyu , Lin Naibo , Liu Xiang Yang
Published: August 2015

Novel waterborne polyurethane containing fluorine and siloxane (FSPU) for excellent thermal performance, waterproof and mechanical properties.
Floating photocatalysts based on loading Bi/N-doped TiO2 on expanded graphite C/C (EGC) composites for the visible light degradation of diesel
Authors: Zhang Jing , Wang Xuejiang , Wang Xin , Song Jingke , Huang Jiayu , Louangsouphom Bountheva , Zhao Jianfu
Published: August 2015

Enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity for degradation of diesel based on photocatalyst easy recycle.
Uniform hydrogel-filled elastomer microcapsules structured with mechanically resilient complex shell layers
Authors: Han Sang Woo , Kim Bohyun , Jeong Eun Sook , Kim Sinae , Kim Jin Woong
Published: August 2015

Controlled polymerization of polyurethane precursors between the interfaces of W/O/W double emulsion drops leads to the production of a mechanically resilient but flexible microshell structure.
Grape-like mesostructured silica nanoparticle-decorated single-walled carbon nanotubes: silica growth and dye adsorptivity
Authors: Jalil A. A. , Triwahyono S. , Karim A. H. , Nordin N. K. , Asli U. A. , Hassim M. H. , Prasetyoko D.
Published: August 2015

Single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT)-mesostructured silica nanoparticle (MSN) adsorbents (S-MSNs) were prepared through a simple one-step method with various loadings of SWCNTs.
Practical access to 1,3,5-triarylbenzenes from chalcones and DMSO
Authors: Wang Fuyuan , Shen Jinhai , Cheng Guolin , Cui Xiuling
Published: August 2015

We presents a practical access to 1,3,5-triarylbenzenes from chalcones and DMSO. This protocol could simultaneously provide symmetric and unsymmetric 1,3,5-triarylbenzenes under metal-free reaction conditions.
Graphene oxide immobilized with ionic liquids: facile preparation and efficient catalysis for solvent-free cycloaddition of CO2to propylene carbonate
Authors: Xu Jie , Xu Mang , Wu Jing , Wu Hao , Zhang Wei-Hong , Li Yong-Xin
Published: August 2015

Graphene oxides were grafted with functionalized ionic liquid and showed high catalytic activity in cycloaddition of CO2with propylene oxide to propylene carbonate.
AFM and NMR imaging of squid tropomyosin Tod p1 subjected to high hydrostatic pressure: evidence for relationships among topography, characteristic domain and allergenicity
Authors: Zhang Yifeng , Dai Bona , Deng Yun , Zhao Yanyun
Published: August 2015

The surface topography, characteristic domain and allergenicity of squid tropomyosin Tod p1 (TMTp1) treated under single- and two-cycle high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) were analyzed.
Synthesis of alumina supported Pd–Cu alloy nanoparticles for CO oxidation via a fast and facile method
Authors: Di Lanbo , Xu Weijie , Zhan Zhibin , Zhang Xiuling
Published: August 2015

A fast, facile and environmentally friendly method for synthesizing supported Pd–Cu alloy nanoparticles with enhanced CO oxidation activity is reported.
Melt-compounded polylactic acid composite hybrids with hydroxyapatite nanorods and silver nanoparticles: biodegradation, antibacterial ability, bioactivity and cytotoxicity
Authors: Liu Chen , Chan Kai Wang , Shen Jie , Wong Hoi Man , Kwok Yeung Kelvin Wai , Tjong Sie Chin
Published: August 2015

PLA/18% nHA–2% Ag and PLA/18% nHA–6% Ag nanocomposites showing zone of inhibition againstE. coli.
Endophyte inspired chemical diversity from beta-caryophyllene
Authors: Tang Hao-Yu , Gao Jin-Ming , Zhang Qiang
Published: August 2015

The natural product (−)-β-caryophyllene is considered as an ideal initiator to generate diverse scaffolds by transannular cyclization due to its macrocyclic structure and abundant availability in nature.
Direct growth of flower-like 3D MnO2 ultrathin nanosheets on carbon paper as efficient cathode catalyst for rechargeable Li–O2 batteries
Authors: Wang Hong-Qiang , Chen Jing , Hu Si-Jiang , Zhang Xiao-Hui , Fan Xiao-Ping , Du Juan , Huang You-Guo , Li Qing-Yu
Published: August 2015

Structure and working mechanism of the MnO2/CP air electrode.
Overpotential for CO2 electroreduction lowered on strained penta-twinned Cu nanowires
Authors: Chen Zhengzheng , Zhang Xu , Lu Gang
Published: August 2015

Penta-twinned Cu nanowires have a strain-tunable low overpotential for CO2 electroreduction.
Selective and visual Ca2+ ion recognition in solution and in a self-assembly organogel of the terpyridine-based derivative triggered by ultrasound
Authors: Geng Lijun , Li Yajuan , Wang Zengyao , Wang Yanqiu , Feng Guoliang , Pang Xuelei , Yu Xudong
Published: August 2015

A new kind of terpyridine-based Ca2+ sensor TS was designed and studied based on the internal charge transfer (ICT).
Direct amination of Si nanoparticles for the preparation of Si@ultrathin SiOx@graphene nanosheets as high performance lithium-ion battery anodes
Authors: Niu Jin , Zhang Su , Niu Yue , Song Huaihe , Chen Xiaohong , Zhou Jisheng , Cao Bin
Published: August 2015

Graphene nanosheet encapsulated Si nanoparticles with an ultrathin silica shell have been fabricated by an environmentally friendly and effective amination method.
Dynamic stiffness of polyelectrolyte multilayer films based on disulfide bonds for in situ control of cell adhesion
Authors: Wang Li-mei , Chang Hao , Zhang He , Ren Ke-feng , Li Huan , Hu Mi , Li Bo-chao , Martins M. Cristina L. , Barbosa Mário A. , Ji Jian
Published: August 2015

Dynamic stiffness of (poly-l-lysine/hyaluronan-SH) films was developed for in situ control of cell adhesion by using reversible disulfide linkages.
Photocontrollable release and enhancement of photodynamic therapy based on host–guest supramolecular amphiphiles
Authors: Xu Lei , Zhang Wenyan , Cai Haibo , Liu Feng , Wang Yong , Gao Yun , Zhang Weian
Published: August 2015

A light-controlled porphyrinic photosensitizer release system was developed based on host–guest TPP–Azo/PEG–β-CD supramolecular amphiphiles, which could significantly enhance the efficiency of photodynamic therapy.
Effect of BIX-01294 on H3K9me2 levels and the imprinted geneSnrpnin mouse embryonic fibroblast cells
Authors: Chen Peng , Yao Jian-Feng , Huang Rong-Fu , Zheng Fang-Fang , Jiang Xiao-Hong , Chen Xuan , Chen Juan , Li Ming , Huang Hong-Feng , Jiang Yi-Ping , Huang Yan-Fang , Yang Xiao-Yu
Published: August 2015

Histone H3 lysine 9 dimethylation (H3K9me2) hypermethylation is thought to be a major influential factor in cellular reprogramming, such as somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) and induction of pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The diazepin-quinazolin-amine derivative (BIX-01294) specifically inhibits the activity of histone methyltransferase EHMT2 (euchromatic histone-lysine N-methyltransferase 2) and reduces H3K9me2 levels in cells. The imprinted gene small nuclear ribonucleoprotein N (Snrpn) is of particular interest because of its important biological functions. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of BIX-01294 on H3K9me2 levels and changes in Snrpn DNA methylation and histone H3K9me2 in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). Results showed that 1.3 μM BIX-01294 markedly reduced global levels of H3K9me2 with almost no cellular toxicity. There was a significant decrease in H3K9me2 in promoter regions of the Snrpn gene after BIX-01294 treatment. A significant increase in methylation of the Snrpn differentially methylated region 1 (DMR1) and slightly decreased transcript levels of Snrpn were found in BIX-01294-treated MEFs. These results suggest that BIX-01294 may reduce global levels of H3K9me2 and affect epigenetic modifications of Snrpn in MEFs.
The cellular response to vascular endothelial growth factors requires co-ordinated signal transduction, trafficking and proteolysis
Authors: Smith Gina A. , Fearnley Gareth W. , Tomlinson Darren C. , Harrison Michael A. , Ponnambalam Sreenivasan
Published: August 2015

VEGFs (vascular endothelial growth factors) are a family of conserved disulfide-linked soluble secretory glycoproteins found in higher eukaryotes. VEGFs mediate a wide range of responses in different tissues including metabolic homoeostasis, cell proliferation, migration and tubulogenesis. Such responses are initiated by VEGF binding to soluble and membrane-bound VEGFRs (VEGF receptor tyrosine kinases) and co-receptors. VEGF and receptor splice isoform diversity further enhances complexity of membrane protein assembly and function in signal transduction pathways that control multiple cellular responses. Different signal transduction pathways are simultaneously activated by VEGFR–VEGF complexes with membrane trafficking along the endosome–lysosome network further modulating signal output from multiple enzymatic events associated with such pathways. Balancing VEGFR–VEGF signal transduction with trafficking and proteolysis is essential in controlling the intensity and duration of different intracellular signalling events. Dysfunction in VEGF-regulated signal transduction is important in chronic disease states including cancer, atherosclerosis and blindness. This family of growth factors and receptors is an important model system for understanding human disease pathology and developing new therapeutics for treating such ailments.
Transmission expansion planning model considering conductor thermal dynamics and high temperature low sag conductors
Authors: Kwon Jonghwan , Hedman Kory W.
Published: August 2015

The means for transporting more power through an existing transmission corridor have been given considerable attention in recent studies. Reconductoring a path with a conductor that has a higher thermal capacity, such as a high temperature low sag (HTLS) conductor, is one possible option with minimal structural modification and out‐of‐service time. Parallel line additions or HTLS parallel line additions are other options that can increase transfer capabilities and reduce operating costs. Thermal constraint relaxation is another option, which is an operational based method that allows the line flow to exceed the steady‐state line rating for a certain penalty price. Since such operation may deteriorate the expected service time of the conductor, the penalty price should be determined properly. In this study, the above options are captured to create the proposed transmission expansion planning model. In addition, a conductor degradation model is introduced to capture the associated degradation costs due to operating conductors at elevated temperatures. Numerical simulations conducted on the IEEE‐24 and IEEE‐118 bus system indicate the effectiveness of the proposed approach to increase system capacity while preserving current right‐of‐ways (ROWs).
Analysis on the harmonics and inter-harmonics of a variable speed wind turbine
Authors: Zhang Yanchi , Xie Da , Yu Jinshou , Chu Haoxiang
Published: August 2015

Due to the increasing number of wind turbines directly connected to the electric utility grid, harmonics and inter-harmonics of variable speed wind turbines are capturing the attention of electrical power engineers. This paper develops a framework of doubly fed induction generator (DFIG)-based wind turbines for analyzing the harmonics and inter-harmonics at low frequencies due to wind turbines operated in different conditions. Two methods have been proposed to analyze harmonics and inter-harmonics related to the quantities such as excitation current, DC voltage, and AC. In order to detect the precise frequencies and amplitudes of the harmonics at low frequency, a modified S-transform measurement method with adjustable Gaussian window regulator is proposed. The time-frequency resolution of the S-transform can be changed when measurement accuracy enhancement is needed. In contrast to the conventional fast Fourier transform, the improved S-transform method considers the variations of frequencies and amplitudes of excitation current harmonics. Thus, the overall measurement performance is considerably enhanced with higher frequency resolution. Results from both simulation and experiment are presented to illustrate the merits of the modified S-transform measuring method in spectral analysis of harmonics and inter-harmonics. The experimental results from a practical 1.25 MW DFIG-based wind turbine under different operation conditions reveal that the characteristic frequencies with maximum harmonic currents change smoothly with the increase of the output active power.
Two-dimensional strain mapping in semiconductors by nano-beam electron diffraction employing a delay-line detector
Authors: Müller-Caspary Knut , Oelsner Andreas , Potapov Pavel
Published: August 2015

A delay-line detector is established for electron detection in the field of scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and applied to two-dimensional strain mapping in Si-based field effect transistors. We initially outline the functional principle of position-sensitive delay-line detection, based on highly accurate time measurements for electronic pulses travelling in meandering wires. In particular, the detector is a single-counting device essentially providing an infinite time stream of position-resolved events so that acquisition speed is not hindered by detector read-outs occurring in conventional charge-coupled devices. By scanning the STEM probe over stressor- and gate regions of a field effect transistor on a 100 × 100 raster, 10 000 diffraction patterns have been acquired within 3–6.5 min, depending on the scan speed. Evaluation of the 004 and 220 reflections yields lateral and vertical strain at a spatial resolution of 1.6 nm. Dose-dependent strain precisions of 1.2−1.8×10−3 could be achieved for frame times of 40 and 20 ms, respectively. Finally, the detector is characterised as to quantum efficiency and further scopes of application are outlined.
Second harmonic generation from ZnO films and nanostructures
Authors: Larciprete Maria Cristina , Centini Marco
Published: August 2015

Zinc oxide ZnO is a n-type semiconductor having a wide direct band gap (3.37 eV) as well as a non-centrosymmetric crystal structure resulting from hexagonal wurtzite phase. Its wide transparency range along with its second order nonlinear optical properties make it a promising material for efficient second harmonic generation processes and nonlinear optical applications in general. In this review, we present an extensive analysis of second harmonic generation from ZnO films and nanostructures. The literature survey on ZnO films will include some significant features affecting second harmonic generation efficiency, as crystalline structure, film thickness, surface contributes, and doping. In a different section, the most prominent challenges in harmonic generation from ZnO nanostructures are discussed, including ZnO nanowires, nanorods, and nanocrystals, to name a few. Similarly, the most relevant works regarding third harmonic generation from ZnO films and nanostructures are separately addressed. Finally, the conclusion part summarizes the current standing of published values for the nonlinear optical coefficients and for ZnO films and nanostructures, respectively.