bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Carbonaceous Membrane based on a Polymer of Intrinsic Microporosity (PIM-1) for Water Treatment
Authors: Kim Hee Joong , Kim Dong-Gyun , Lee Kyuchul , Baek Youngbin , Yoo Youngjae , Kim Yong Seok , Kim Byoung Gak , Lee Jong-Chan
Published: October 2016

As insufficient access to clean water is expected to become worse in the near future, water purification is becoming increasingly important. Membrane filtration is the most promising technologies to produce clean water from contaminated water. Although there have been many studies to prepare highly water-permeable carbon-based membranes by utilizing frictionless water flow inside the carbonaceous pores, the carbon-based membranes still suffer from several issues, such as high cost and complicated fabrication as well as relatively low salt rejection. Here, we report for the first time the use of microporous carbonaceous membranes via controlled carbonization of polymer membranes with uniform microporosity for high-flux nanofiltration. Further enhancement of membrane performance is observed by O2 plasma treatment. The optimized membrane exhibits high water flux (13.30 LMH Bar−1) and good MgSO4 rejection (77.38%) as well as antifouling properties. This study provides insight into the design of microporous carbonaceous membranes for water purification.
Learning robust pulses for generating universal quantum gates
Authors: Dong Daoyi , Wu Chengzhi , Chen Chunlin , Qi Bo , Petersen Ian R. , Nori Franco
Published: October 2016

Constructing a set of universal quantum gates is a fundamental task for quantum computation. The existence of noises, disturbances and fluctuations is unavoidable during the process of implementing quantum gates for most practical quantum systems. This paper employs a sampling-based learning method to find robust control pulses for generating a set of universal quantum gates. Numerical results show that the learned robust control fields are insensitive to disturbances, uncertainties and fluctuations during the process of realizing universal quantum gates.
Hydrogen-doped Brookite TiO2 Nanobullets Array as a Novel Photoanode for Efficient Solar Water Splitting
Authors: Choi Mingi , Lee June Ho , Jang Youn Jeong , Kim Donghyung , Lee Jae Sung , Jang Hyun Myung , Yong Kijung
Published: October 2016

As a representative photocatalyst for photoelectrochemical solar water splitting, TiO2 has been intensively studied but most researches have focused on the rutile and anatsase phases because brookite, another important crystalline polymorph of TiO2, rarely exists in nature and is difficult to synthesize. In this work, hydrogen doped brookite (H:brookite) nanobullet arrays were synthesized via a well-designed solution reaction for the first time. H:brookite shows highly improved PEC properties with excellent stability, enhanced photocurrent, and significantly high Faradaic efficiency for overall solar water splitting. To support the experimental data, ab initio density functional theory calculations were also conducted. At the interstitial doping site that has minimum formation energy, the hydrogen atoms act as shallow donors and exist as H+. which has the minimum formation energy among three states of hydrogen (H+. H0, and H−). The calculated density of states of H:brookite shows a narrowed bandgap and an increased electron density compared to the pristine brookite. The combined experimental and theoretical results provide frameworks for the exploration of the PEC properties of doped brookite and extend our knowledge regarding the undiscovered properties of brookite of TiO2.
Interspecific variation of warning calls in piranhas: a comparative analysis
Authors: Mélotte Geoffrey , Vigouroux Régis , Michel Christian , Parmentier Eric
Published: October 2016

Fish sounds are known to be species-specific, possessing unique temporal and spectral features. We have recorded and compared sounds in eight piranha species to evaluate the potential role of acoustic communication as a driving force in clade diversification. All piranha species showed the same kind of sound-producing mechanism: sonic muscles originate on vertebrae and attach to a tendon surrounding the bladder ventrally. Contractions of the sound-producing muscles force swimbladder vibration and dictate the fundamental frequency. It results the calling features of the eight piranha species logically share many common characteristics. In all the species, the calls are harmonic sounds composed of multiple continuous cycles. However, the sounds of Serrasalmus elongatus (higher number of cycles and high fundamental frequency) and S. manueli (long cycle periods and low fundamental frequency) are clearly distinguishable from the other species. The sonic mechanism being largely conserved throughout piranha evolution, acoustic communication can hardly be considered as the main driving force in the diversification process. However, sounds of some species are clearly distinguishable despite the short space for variations supporting the need for specific communication. Behavioural studies are needed to clearly understand the eventual role of the calls during spawning events.
High efficiency holographic Bragg grating with optically prolonged memory
Authors: Khoo Iam Choon , Chen Chun-Wei , Ho Tsung-Jui
Published: October 2016

In this paper, we show that photosensitive azo-dye doped Blue-phase liquid crystals (BPLC) formed by natural molecular self-assembly are capable of high diffraction efficiency holographic recording with memory that can be prolonged from few seconds to several minutes by uniform illumination with the reference beam. Operating in the Bragg regime, we have observed 50 times improvement in the grating diffraction efficiency and shorter recording time compared to previous investigations. The enabling mechanism is BPLC’s lattice distortion and index modulation caused by the action of light on the azo-dopant; upon photo-excitation, the azo-molecules undergo transformation from the oblong-shaped Trans-state to the bent-shaped Cis-state, imparting disorder and also cause the surrounding BPLC molecules to undergo coupled flow & reorientation leading to lattice distortion and index modulation. We also showed that the same mechanism at work here that facilitates lattice distortion can be used to frustrate free relaxation of the lattice distortion, thereby prolonging the lifetime of the written grating, provided the reference beam is kept on after recording. Due to the ease in BPLC fabrication and the availability of azo-dopants with photosensitivity throughout the entire visible spectrum, one can optimize the controlling material and optical parameters to obtain even better performance.
Molecular phylogeny of Polyneoptera (Insecta) inferred from expanded mitogenomic data
Authors: Song Nan , Li Hu , Song Fan , Cai Wanzhi
Published: October 2016

The Polyneoptera represents one of the earliest insect radiations, comprising the majority of hemimetabolous orders, in which many species have great economic importance. Here, we sequenced eleven mitochondrial genomes of the polyneopteran insects by using high throughput pooled sequencing technology, and presented a phylogenetic reconstruction for this group based on expanded mitochondrial genome data. Our analyses included 189 taxa, of which 139 species represent all the major polyneopteran lineages. Multiple results support the monophyly of Polyneoptera, the monophyly of Dictyoptera, and the monophyly of Orthoptera. Sister taxon relationships Plecoptera + Dermaptera, and Zoraptera + Embioptera are also supported by most analyses. Within Dictyoptera, the Blattodea is consistently retrieved as paraphyly due to the sister group relationship ofCryptocercuswith Isoptera. In addition, the results demonstrate that model selection, data treatment, and outgroup choice can have significant effects on the reconstructed phylogenetic relationships of Polyneoptera.
Effects of Pore-Scale Disorder on Fluid Displacement in Partially-Wettable Porous Media
Authors: Holtzman Ran
Published: October 2016

We present a systematic, quantitative assessment of the impact of pore size disorder and its interplay with flow rates and wettability on immiscible displacement of a viscous fluid. Pore-scale simulations and micromodel experiments show that reducing disorder increases the displacement efficiency and compactness, minimizing the fluid-fluid interfacial area, through (i) trapping at low rates and (ii) viscous fingering at high rates. Increasing the wetting angle suppresses both trapping and fingering, hence reducing the sensitivity of the displacement to the underlying disorder. A modified capillary number Ca*that includes the impact of disorderλon viscous forces (through pore connectivity) is direct related toλ, in par with previous works. Our findings bear important consequences on sweep efficiency and fluid mixing and reactions, which are key in applications such as microfluidics to carbon geosequestration, energy recovery, and soil aeration and remediation.
Iron oxide shell mediated environmental remediation properties of nano zero-valent iron
Authors: Mu Yi , Jia Falong , Ai Zhihui , Zhang Lizhi
Published: October 2016

Nano zero-valent iron (nZVI) has attracted much more attention for its potential applications in the fields of environmental contaminant remediation and detoxification.
Correction of C–Fe line interference for the measurement of unburned carbon in fly ash by LIBS
Authors: Bai Kaijie , Yao Shunchun , Lu Jidong , Zhao Jingbo , Xu Jialong , Lu Zhimin
Published: October 2016

For the serious interference between the Fe 247.98 nm and the C 247.86 nm lines in the analysis of fly ash when using a poor-resolution spectrograph, this paper presents a correction method that uses Fe lines to correct the C–Fe line interference.
Phosphorothioate anti-sense oligonucleotides: the kinetics and mechanism of the sulfurisation of phosphites by phenylacetyl disulfide (PADS)
Authors: Scotson James L. , Andrews Benjamin I. , Laws Andrew P. , Page Michael I.
Published: October 2016

The sulfurisation of nucleotide-phosphites to give thiophosphates is more efficient using ‘aged’ phenylacetyl disulfide (PADS) than ‘fresh’ solutions as the breakdown of the sulfide phosphonium ion intermediates occurs by different pathways.
Asymmetric syntheses of epohelmins A and B by In-mediated allylation
Authors: Liu Yi-Wen , Han Pan , Zhou Wen , Mao Zhuo-Ya , Si Chang-Mei , Wei Bang-Guo
Published: October 2016

Natural products epohelmins A and B have been asymmetrically synthesized by In-mediated allylation of α-chiral aldimine with allyl bromide.
Cation–π interactions in CREBBP bromodomain inhibition: an electrostatic model for small-molecule binding affinity and selectivity
Authors: Cortopassi Wilian A. , Kumar Kiran , Paton Robert S.
Published: October 2016

A new model is presented to explain and predict binding affinity of aromatic and heteroaromatic ligands for the CREBBP bromodomain based on cation–π interaction strength.
Synthesis of polycyclic sultams via a palladium-catalyzed reaction of 1-bromo-2-(cyclopropylidenemethyl)benzenes with 2-alkynylbenzenesulfonamides
Authors: Gong Xinxing , Li Guangming , Wu Jie
Published: October 2016

Polycyclic sultams are efficiently synthesized through a palladium-catalyzed tandem reaction of 1-bromo-2-(cyclopropylidenemethyl)benzenes with 2-alkynylbenzenesulfonamides via double carbometallation.
Synthesis and antimalarial activity of new 4-aminoquinolines active against drug resistant strains
Authors: Kondaparla Srinivasarao , Soni Awakash , Manhas Ashan , Srivastava Kumkum , Puri Sunil K. , Katti S. B.
Published: October 2016

In the present study we have synthesized a new class of 4-aminoquinoline derivatives and bioevaluated them for antimalarial activity against theP. falciparum in vitro(3D7 & K1) andP. yoelii in vivo(N-67 strain).
Room-temperature volatile organic compounds sensing based on WO3·0.33H2O, hexagonal-WO3, and their reduced graphene oxide composites
Authors: Perfecto T. M. , Zito C. A. , Volanti D. P.
Published: October 2016

The sensors based on WO3·0.33H2O, RGO-WO3·0.33H2O, h-WO3, and RGO-h-WO3 showed great VOCs sensing properties at room temperature and 55% relative humidity. The materials exhibited a p-type behavior. RGO improved the acetone sensing response.
Characterization of multi-scale structure and thermal properties of Indica rice starch with different amylose contents
Authors: Li Zhihang , Kong Xiangli , Zhou Xianrong , Zhong Kui , Zhou Sumei , Liu Xingxun
Published: October 2016

Fully understanding the relationship between multi-scale structure and thermal properties of rice starch is important for starch-based food processing.
Comparison of tribocorrosion behavior between 304 austenitic and 410 martensitic stainless steels in artificial seawater
Authors: Zhang Beibei , Wang Jianzhang , Zhang Yue , Han Gaofeng , Yan Fengyuan
Published: October 2016

The synergism between wear and corrosion can accelerate material degradation and further shorten the service life of engineering applications.
Optimization of protein loaded PLGA nanoparticle manufacturing parameters following a quality-by-design approach
Authors: Sainz V. , Peres C. , Ciman T. , Rodrigues C. , Viana A. S. , Afonso C. A. M. , Barata T. , Brocchini S. , Zloh M. , Gaspar R. S. , Florindo H. F. , Lopes J. A.
Published: October 2016

This paper explores the development of a multivariate-based regression model for estimating the critical attributes to establish a design-space for poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles prepared by a double emulsion–solvent evaporation method.
Efficient dye-sensitized solar cells based on CNT-derived TiO2 nanotubes and Nb-doped TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Ghartavol H. Mokarami , Mohammadi M. R. , Afshar A. , Chau-Nan Hong F. , Jeng Yeau-Ren
Published: October 2016

We report the use of Nb-doped TiO2 photoelectrodes incorporating CNT-derived TiO2 nanotubes as a facile strategy to enhance the efficiency of DSSCs.
Copper(ii)-doped semiconducting polymer dots for nitroxyl imaging in live cells
Authors: Wu Xu , Wu Li , Wu I.-Che , Chiu Daniel T.
Published: October 2016

The first nanoparticle-based fluorescent probe for the specific detection of nitroxyl (HNO) in live cells by doping Cu(ii) into semiconducting polymer dots.
Insight into excitation-related luminescence properties of carbon dots: synergistic effect from photoluminescence centers in the carbon core and on the surface
Authors: Li Bo , Guo Yali , Iqbal Anam , Dong Yaping , Li Wu , Liu Weisheng , Qin Wenwu , Wang Yabin
Published: October 2016

EDE and EIE properties of CDs attribute to the synergistic effect from PL centers in the carbon core and on the surface.
Highly porous ceramics based on ultralong hydroxyapatite nanowires
Authors: Zhang Yong-Gang , Zhu Ying-Jie , Chen Feng , Sun Tuan-Wei , Jiang Ying-Ying
Published: October 2016

Highly porous ceramics with high biocompatibility are prepared using ultralong hydroxyapatite nanowires and palmitic acid spheres.
Thiol-capped CdTe quantum dots hosted in saponites
Authors: Pérez-Barrado Elena , Marsal Lluís F. , Aguiló Magdalena , Cesteros Yolanda , Díaz Francesc , Pallarès Josep , Cucinotta Fabio , Marchese Leonardo , Pujol Maria Cinta , Salagre Pilar
Published: October 2016

Facile synthesis of composite luminescent materials based on CdTe quantum dots hosted in saponites.
One-step solvothermal synthesis of Fe-doped BiOI film with enhanced photocatalytic performance
Authors: Wang Miaomiao , Gao Jianzhi , Zhu Gangqiang , Li Ning , Zhu Runliang , Wei Xiumei , Liu Peng , Guo Quanmin
Published: October 2016

Ultrathin nanosheets consisting of Fe-doped BiOI were obtained on a FTO (SnO2:F) glass substrate via a simple solvothermal process.
Determination of side products in the photocatalytic generation of hydrogen with copper photosensitizers by resonance Raman spectroelectrochemistry
Authors: Zhang Ying , Heberle Martin , Wächtler Maria , Karnahl Michael , Dietzek Benjamin
Published: October 2016

A combination of UV-Vis, resonance Raman spectroscopy and electrochemistry is employed to reveal the nature of a side product when using heteroleptic Cu(i)-photosensitizers for photocatalytic hydrogen production.
Room temperature complete reduction of nitroarenes over a novel Cu/SiO2@NiFe2O4 nano-catalyst in an aqueous medium – a kinetic and mechanistic study
Authors: Parmekar Mira V. , Salker A. V.
Published: October 2016

The current investigation reports the preparation of a novel system, Cu/SiO2@NiFe2O4, as characterised by XRD, XPS, IR, SEM-EDS, TEM, ICP-AES and VSM data.
A controlled tandem transformation of conjugated enynones with arenes under superelectrophilic activation leading to aryl-substituted dienones and indenes
Authors: Saulnier Steve , Golovanov Alexander A. , Vasilyev Aleksander V.
Published: October 2016

Under superelectrophilic activation in triflic acid (TfOH) and in the presence of arenes, 1,5-diarylpent-2-en-4-yn-1-ones lead to aryl-substituted indenes with yields up to 97%.
Nanomaterials for biocatalyst immobilization – state of the art and future trends
Authors: Cipolatti Eliane P. , Valério Alexsandra , Henriques Rosana O. , Moritz Denise E. , Ninow Jorge L. , Freire Denise M. G. , Manoel Evelin A. , Fernandez-Lafuente Roberto , de Oliveira Débora
Published: October 2016

Advantages, drawbacks and trends in nanomaterials for enzyme immobilization.
Rutin detection using highly electrochemical sensing amplified by an Au–Ag nanoring decorated N-doped graphene nanosheet
Authors: Zou Cui'e , Bin Duan , Yang Beibei , Zhang Ke , Du Yukou
Published: October 2016

The novel Au–Ag nanorings/NG modified electrode was found to have a wide linear range from 0.05 μM to 241.2 μM (S/N = 3) with a low detection limit of 0.01 μM when it was employed for rutin detection.
Performance enhancers for gel polymer electrolytes based on LiI and RbI for quasi-solid-state dye sensitized solar cells
Authors: Bandara T. M. W. J. , Fernando H. D. N. S. , Furlani M. , Albinsson I. , Dissanayake M. A. K. L. , Mellander B.-E.
Published: October 2016

Performance enhancers improved the efficiency in LiI based and RbI based solar cells by 449 and 35.7% respectively.
CNC–Al2O3–Ti: a new unit for micro scale strain sensing
Authors: Li Chengwei , Pan Lujun , Deng Chenghao , Wang Peng
Published: October 2016

A highly elastic strain sensing unit with the structure of carbon nanocoil–Al2O3–Ti has been fabricated. It owns the ability of transforming a large macro longitudinal stretching to a small local torsional strain.
Preparation and adsorption capacity of porous MoS2nanosheets
Authors: Li He , Xie Fei , Li Wei , Fahlman Bradley D. , Chen Minfang , Li Wenjiang
Published: October 2016

MoS2nanosheets with higher adsorption capacity for dyes.
Copper(ii) oxide nanoparticles as a highly active and reusable heterogeneous catalyst for the construction of phenyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine derivatives under solvent-free conditions
Authors: Reddy Mudumala Veeranarayana , Jeong Yeon Tae
Published: October 2016

We developed a simple and efficient method for the one-pot synthesis of phenyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine derivatives in the presence of CuO NPs under solvent-free conditions with higher yields and shorter reaction times.
Preparation of poly(ester-imide) ribbons comprised of helical and non-helical blocks by copolymerization
Authors: Ohnishi T. , Uchida T. , Yamazaki S. , Kimura K.
Published: October 2016

Ribbon-like crystals of poly[4-(5-oxy-1,3-dioxoisoindoline-2-yl)benzoyl] comprised of helical and non-helical blocks were prepared by stepwise addition ofp-acetoxybenzoic acid during the homo-polymerization ofN-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4-acetoxyphthalimide in aromatic solvent.
Solar-driven broad spectrum fungicides based on monodispersed Cu7S4 nanorods with strong near-infrared photothermal efficiency
Authors: Hu Gaofei , Xu Tiantian , Chen Xiaoqing , James Tony D. , Xu Suying
Published: October 2016

Cu7S4 nanorods were used for the first time as broad spectrum fungicides for efficient bacterial disinfection via natural sunlight irradiation.
Construction of solvent-dependent self-assembled porous Ni(ii)-coordinated frameworks as effective catalysts for chemical transformation of CO2
Authors: Zhou Zhen , Yang Lu , Wang Yefei , He Cheng , Liu Tao , Duan Chunying
Published: October 2016

Two types of Ni(ii)-based coordinated frameworks have been solvothermally synthesized via solvent driven self-assembly, showing efficient heterogeneous catalytic activity toward cycloaddition of CO2 with epoxides under ambient conditions.
The design, synthesis and biological evaluation of pro-EGCG derivatives as novel anti-vitiligo agents
Authors: Wang Siyu , Jin Rong , Wang Ruiquan , Hu Yongzhou , Dong Xiaowu , Xu Ai e
Published: October 2016

A series of prodrugs of EGCG derivatives were designed, synthesized, and the protective effect on melanocytes against H2O2-induced cell damage were extensively evaluated, demonstrating the potential application value of them in anti-vitiligo treatment.
The positive role of macrophage secretion stimulated by BCP ceramic in the ceramic-induced osteogenic differentiation of pre-osteoblasts via Smad-related signaling pathways
Authors: Chen Xuening , Wang Jing , Wang Jing , Zhu Xiangdong , Yang Xiao , Fan Yujiang , Zhang Xingdong
Published: October 2016

The present study demonstrated that material-mediated immune responses, particularly macrophage secretion might play a vital role in material-induced osteogenesis.
Structure and property optimization of perfluorinated short side chain membranes for hydrogen fuel cells using orientational stretching
Authors: Kulvelis Yu. V. , Ivanchev S. S. , Primachenko O. N. , Lebedev V. T. , Marinenko E. A. , Ivanova I. N. , Kuklin A. I. , Ivankov O. I. , Soloviov D. V.
Published: October 2016

Stretching of membranes with low molecular weight makes structure rearrangement according to neutron scattering data on D2O-filled membranes.
Immobilization of copper and cadmium by hydroxyapatite combined with phytoextraction and changes in microbial community structure in a smelter-impacted soil
Authors: Xu Lei , Cui Hongbiao , Zheng Xuebo , Zhu Zhenqiu , Liang Jiani , Zhou Jing
Published: October 2016

Soil heavy metal fraction and microbial community structure can be changed by combined remediation of hydroxyapatite and plants.
Nanocomposite membranes of sulfonated poly(phthalalizinone ether ketone)–sulfonated graphite nanofibers as electrolytes for direct methanol fuel cells
Authors: Rambabu Gutru , Sasikala S. , Bhat Santoshkumar D.
Published: October 2016

Polymer nanocomposite membranes are prepared by the dispersion of sulfonated graphite nanofibers (SGNF) in the sulfonated poly(phthalazinone ether ketone) (SPPEK) matrix.
Ce-Doped zero-valent iron nanoparticles as a Fenton-like catalyst for degradation of sulfamethazine
Authors: Wan Zhong , Wang Jianlong
Published: October 2016

Ce-Doped zero-valent iron (Ce/Fe) nanoparticles were prepared, characterized and used as a catalyst for degradation of sulfamethazine (SMT) antibiotics in a Fenton-like process.
Cauliflower-like Ni/NiO and NiO architectures transformed from nickel alkoxide and their excellent removal of Congo red and Cr(vi) ions from water
Authors: Zhao Junfeng , Zha Jiachen , Lu Hongbin , Yang Cheng , Yan Kou , Meng Xiangkang
Published: October 2016

Cauliflower-like nickel alkoxide, Ni/NiO and NiO architectures were synthesized via a reflux route using NaBH4–EG as alkaline precipitant.
Facile and tunable synthesis of carbon–γ-Fe2O3 submicron spheres through an aerosol-assisted technology and their application in oil spill recovery
Authors: Long Yuan , Li Mingfei , Qu Huixia , Xing Zheyu , Wei Chaoliang , Zhan Jingjing
Published: October 2016

Magnetic carbon submicron spheres possessing good sorption abilities and easy collection are of interest in environmental engineering including oil spill cleanup.
Photocatalytic degradation of paraquat dichloride over CeO2-modified TiO2 nanotubes and the optimization of parameters by response surface methodology
Authors: Eleburuike Naimat Abimbola , Wan Abu Bakar Wan Azelee , Ali Rusmidah , Omar Muhammad Firdaus
Published: October 2016

The synthesis and surface modification of TiO2 nanotubes with CeO2 holding strong potential for photocatalytic organic pollutant abatement in water.
Preparation of graphene oxide–chitosan nanocapsules and their applications as carriers for drug delivery
Authors: Li Yanbao , Jiang Lei
Published: October 2016

The stable graphene oxide–chitosan nanocapsules as carriers for drug delivery were prepared via layer-by-layer self-assembly method.
Co-Delivery of angiostatin and curcumin by a biodegradable polymersome for antiangiogenic therapy
Authors: Cao Yue , Li Yan , Wu Yin , Li Wenliang , Yu Chunlei , Huang Yanxin , Sun Luguo , Bao Yongli , Li Yuxin
Published: October 2016

Illustration of the AS–Cur-loaded polymersomes formed by block polymers for antiangiogenic therapy.
Investigation of oxygen self-diffusion in PuO2 by combining molecular dynamics with thermodynamic calculations
Authors: Saltas V. , Chroneos A. , Cooper M. W. D. , Fitzpatrick M. E. , Vallianatos F.
Published: October 2016

Oxygen self-diffusion in PuO2 is investigated at elevated temperatures and pressures, by combining molecular dynamics and thermodynamic calculations.
High-density insensitive energetic materials: 2,4,6-tris(2-fluoro-2,2-dinitroethoxy)-1,3,5-triazine
Authors: Gidaspov Alexander A. , Bakharev Vladimir V. , Suponitsky Kyrill Yu. , Nikitin Valery G. , Sheremetev Aleksei B.
Published: October 2016

A Na3PO4-promoted nucleophilic substitution of all chlorine atoms of cyanuric with fluorodinitroethanol was achieved with excellent yield. The product demonstrates promising potential for diverse applications like explosives or propellants.
Bioinspired integrated nanosystems based on solid-state nanopores: “iontronic” transduction of biological, chemical and physical stimuli
Authors: Pérez-Mitta Gonzalo , Albesa Alberto G. , Trautmann Christina , Toimil-Molares María Eugenia , Azzaroni Omar
Published: October 2016

Here, we show the wide potential of abiotic nanopores in sensing and signal transduction and also to promote the potential of this technology among doctoral students, postdocs, and researchers.
Halogen bonded Borromean networks by design: topology invariance and metric tuning in a library of multi-component systems
Authors: Kumar Vijith , Pilati Tullio , Terraneo Giancarlo , Meyer Franck , Metrangolo Pierangelo , Resnati Giuseppe
Published: October 2016

Borromean rings in black and white marble decorate Cappella Ruccellai (left, Florence) and were self-assembled under halogen bond control (right).
Controllable preparation of an eggshell membrane supported hydrogel electrolyte with thickness-dependent electrochemical performance
Authors: Liu Xinhua , Yin Chengyao , Yang Jie , Liang Meiying , Wei Junjie , Zhang Ziyang , Wang Huanlei , Wang Qigang
Published: October 2016

The controllable preparation of eggshell-hydrogels provides a new insight into composite material preparation from bio-waste eggshell membrane in energy devices with thickness-dependent electrochemical performances.
A review on special wettability textiles: theoretical models, fabrication technologies and multifunctional applications
Authors: Li Shuhui , Huang Jianying , Chen Zhong , Chen Guoqiang , Lai Yuekun
Published: October 2016

In this review, we have briefly summarized the fundamental theoretical models and characterization methods of textile surfaces with special wettability, various fabrication technologies and potential applications.
A high-performance flexible and weavable asymmetric fiber-shaped solid-state supercapacitor enhanced by surface modifications of carbon fibers with carbon nanotubes
Authors: Lu Xiaoyu , Bai Yang , Wang Ranran , Sun Jing
Published: October 2016

A carbon fiber-based positive electrode enhanced by CNT modification with NiCo(OH)x and a negative electrode functionalized with activated carbon were prepared. The supercapacitor showed high energy and power densities.
Biodegradable polymer scaffolds
Authors: Hsu Shan-hui , Hung Kun-Che , Chen Cheng-Wei
Published: October 2016

Tissue engineering aims to repair the damaged tissue by transplantation of cells or introducing bioactive factors in a biocompatible scaffold.
Synthesis, structure and photoluminescence properties of Ca2LuHf2(AlO4)3:Ce3+, a novel garnet-based cyan light-emitting phosphor
Authors: Wang Xicheng , Zhao Zhengyan , Wu Quansheng , Li Yanyan , Wang Yuhua
Published: October 2016

A novel garnet phosphor, Ca2LuHf2(AlO4)3:Ce3+(CLHA:Ce3+), was successfully designed and synthesized using a solid-state method.
SIN1 promotes the proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells by Akt activation
Authors: Wang Deqiang , Wu Ping , Wang Hui , Zhu Lei , Zhao Wei , Lu Yuqin
Published: October 2016

Stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK) interacting protein 1 (SIN1) is an essential TORC2 component and a key regulator of Akt pathway that plays an important role in various pathological conditions including cancer. Whereas its functional role in breast cancer has not been well characterized. In the present study, SIN1 is associated with the progression and survival of breast cancer patients, as well as human breast cancer cell proliferation and migration. SIN1 mRNA level was significantly up-regulated in human breast cancer samples compared with their corresponding paracancerous histological normal tissues. Furthermore, the expression levels of SIN1 were also increased in three human breast cancer cell lines compared with human breast epithelial cell MCF10A. Overexpression of SIN1 promoted cell proliferation, colony formation and migration of breast cancer cells. Knockdown of SIN1 in MDA-MB-468 cells inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation and migration. In addition, SIN1 overexpression increased phosphorylation of Akt and knockdown of SIN1 inhibited phosphorylation of Akt in MDA-MB-468 cells. In a tumour xenograft model, overexpression of SIN1 promoted tumour growth of MDA-MB-468 cells in vivo, whereas SIN1 knockdown inhibits the tumour growth. Taken together, our results reveal that SIN1 plays an important role in breast cancer and SIN1 is a potential biomarker and a promising target in the treatment of breast cancer.
Binding of anti-dsDNA antibodies to proximal tubular epithelial cells contributes to renal tubulointerstitial inflammation
Authors: Yung Susan , Ng Claudia Y.C. , Au Kin Yi , Cheung Kwok Fan , Zhang Qing , Zhang Chenzhu , Yap Desmond Y.H. , Chau Mel K.M. , Chan Tak Mao
Published: October 2016

Immune deposits are often observed along the tubular basement membrane in patients with lupus nephritis, but the role of anti-dsDNA antibody (Ab) deposition on tubulointerstitial inflammation remains to be investigated. We examined the effect of human polyclonal anti-dsDNA Abs on inflammatory processes in cultured proximal renal tubular epithelial cells (PTEC, HK-2 cells) and their association with serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in patients. Binding of anti-dsDNA Abs to HK-2 cells was investigated by cellular ELISA, flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. IL-6, IL-8 and MCP-1 secretion, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation and the effect of mycophenolic acid (MPA) were investigated by ELISAs and Western blot analysis. NZBWF1/J mice with active nephritis were randomized to receive either mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) (100 mg/kg per day) or vehicle for up to 12 weeks to study renal histopathology focusing on tubulointerstitial changes. Our results demonstrated that anti-dsDNA Abs bound to HK-2 cell surface and induced IL-6, IL-8 and MCP-1 secretion through distinct MAPK pathways. MPA inhibited anti-dsDNA Ab binding to HK-2 cells and suppressed apical and basolateral IL-6 and IL-8, but not MCP-1, secretion. Anti-dsDNA Ab level correlated with serum and tubulointerstitial expression of IL-6, IL-8 and MCP-1. MMF treatment in NZBWF1/J mice reduced anti-dsDNA Ab production and MAPK activation in the renal tubulointerstitium, together with decreased IL-6 and MCP-1 expression. Our data demonstrate that anti-dsDNA Abs contribute to inflammatory processes in the tubulointerstitium in lupus nephritis through their binding to proximal renal tubular epithelial cells and induction of pro-inflammatory mediators, and MPA ameliorates anti-dsDNA Ab induced IL-6 and IL-8 secretion in these cells.
The immune system
Authors: Nicholson Lindsay B.
Published: October 2016

All organisms are connected in a complex web of relationships. Although many of these are benign, not all are, and everything alive devotes significant resources to identifying and neutralizing threats from other species. From bacteria through to primates, the presence of some kind of effective immune system has gone hand in hand with evolutionary success. This article focuses on mammalian immunity, the challenges that it faces, the mechanisms by which these are addressed, and the consequences that arise when it malfunctions.
The Use of Neuroplastic Principles Affects the Swallow Motor Plan of a Patient in Severe Cognitive Decline: A Case Study
Authors: Bice Ed , Galek Kristine E.
Published: October 2016

Dysphagia is common in patients with dementia. Dysphagia occurs as a result of changes in the sensory and motor function of the swallow (Easterling, 2007). It is known that the central nervous system can undergo experience-dependent plasticity, even in those individuals with dementia (Park & Bischof, 2013). The purpose of this study was to explore whether or not the use of neuroplastic principles would improve the swallow motor plan and produce positive outcomes of a patient in severe cognitive decline. The disordered swallow motor plan was manipulated by focusing on a neuroplastic principles of frequency (repetition), velocity of movement (speed of presentation), reversibility (Use it or Lose it), specificity and adaptation, intensity (bolus size), and salience (Crary & Carnaby-Mann, 2008). After five therapeutic sessions, the patient progressed from holding solids in her mouth with decreased swallow initiation to independently consuming a regular diet with full range of liquids with no oral retention and no verbal cues.
Care Path for Patients With Tinnitus: An Interprofessional Collaborative Model
Authors: Newman Craig W. , Sandridge Sharon A.
Published: October 2016

Clinical decision-making strategies used to promote tinnitus relief vary widely depending upon the burden tinnitus places on an individual. This paper will discuss a care path for managing patients with tinnitus using an interprofessional collaborate model.
Multiplexing efficiency for MIMO antenna‐channel impairment characterisation in realistic multipath environments
Authors: Chen Xiaoming , Zhang Shuai
Published: October 2016

Multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) systems in multipath environments suffer from high correlations (in the presence of small angular spreads of propagation waves and similar antenna patterns) and power imbalances (due to cross‐polarisation discrimination of the propagation channel and possibly different antenna efficiencies). A simple performance metric that takes into account of the antenna‐channel impairments on the MIMO system will be of great value for MIMO antenna characterisations. In this study, a generalised multiplexing efficiency (ME) is derived, which takes into account antenna pattern and polarisation mismatches in arbitrary multipath environments. In addition, it is shown that the generalised ME can characterise not only the throughput (or coded error rate) degradation but also the degradation of uncoded error rate. For verifying the generalised ME, the authors use both the correlation‐based channel model (where correlations and power imbalances can be readily specified) and the more realistic WINNER+channel model (where correlations and power imbalances have to be indirectly controlled by changing the antenna setup).
Circularly polarised broadband planar lightweight reflectarray with eligible pattern for satellite communications in Ku‐band
Authors: Padilla Pablo , Fernández José Manuel , Padilla José‐Luis , Valenzuela‐Valdés Juan F. , Sierra‐Castañer Manuel
Published: October 2016

This study presents a lightweight planar patch‐array reflectarray at Ku‐band for satellite communications. The reflectarray is composed of two separate planar structures: the radiating interface formed by a planar multi‐layered broadband patch array, and a phase shifting device formed by 3dB/90° couplers. The radiating element is a multi‐layered patch structure, designed to provide circular polarisation (CP). Each array cell phase is controlled by open‐ended shifting lines of variable length connected to the 3dB/90° couplers. The use of this kind of couplers maintains the same CP received/transmitted: the design imposes that if a right‐hand CP (RHCP) [or left‐hand CP (LHCP)] is received coming from the feeder, the same RHCP (or LHCP) configuration is re‐radiated by the reflectarray. Additionally, the feeding horn can be moved in the x or y axes, so that the feeder angular position let re‐define the radiation pattern and its pointing direction. Finally, measurements of a lightweight portable planar reflectarray prototype are provided and very good agreement is observed when compared with theoretical results.
Fibrotic Tissue and Middle Turbinate Exhibit Similar Mechanical Properties. Is Fibrosis a Solution in Nasal Polyposis?
Authors: Gregório Luciano , Pezato Rogério , Felici Rafael , Kosugi Eduardo
Published: October 2016

Introduction Nasal polyposis (NP) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the upper airway characterized by overgrowth of nasal mucosa. Recent studies have shown a mechanical dysfunction in the nasal polyp tissue.

Objective This study aims to evaluate the mechanical properties of nasal fibrotic tissue.

Method This study was an institutional review board approved translational study in 20 participants (8 patients with NP, 7 patients with nasal synechiae, and 5 subjects without sinus disease (control group). We used Controlled Disc Stimulation equipment to compare the curve Pressure/Volume created during the saline solution infusion.

Results The increase of pressure in response to solution injection was lower in the nasal polyp group when compared with control middle turbinate group and fibrotic group. No significant difference was found in the pressure response during solution injection between fibrotic group and control middle turbinate group.

Inferior turbinate group showed significant difference when compared with control middle turbinate group.

Conclusion The mechanical dysfunction found in the nasal mucosa of patients with NP provides new insight into this condition. These data allow the belief that the fibrosis has a potential role in increasing interstitial hydrostatic pressure and, consequently, mitigating edema formation in NP.
Effect and possible mechanisms of melatonin treatment on the quality and developmental potential of aged bovine oocytes
Authors: Liang Shuang , Guo Jing , Choi Jeong-Woo , Kim Nam-Hyung , Cui Xiang-Shun
Published: October 2016

After reaching the metaphase II (MII) stage, unfertilised oocytes undergo a time-dependent process of quality deterioration referred to as oocyte aging. The associated morphological and cellular changes lead to decreased oocyte developmental potential. This study investigated the effect of exogenous melatonin supplementation on in vitro aged bovine oocytes and explored its underlying mechanisms. The levels of cytoplasmic reactive oxygen species and DNA damage response in bovine oocytes increased during in vitro aging. Meanwhile, maturation promoting factor activity significantly decreased and the proportion of morphologically abnormal oocytes significantly increased. Melatonin supplementation significantly decreased quality deterioration in aged bovine MII oocytes (P < 0.05). Additionally, it decreased the frequency of aberrant spindle organisation and cortical granule release during oocyte aging (P < 0.05). In the melatonin-supplemented group, mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP production were significantly increased compared with control. Furthermore, melatonin treatment significantly increased the speed of development of bovine oocytes to the blastocyst stage after in vitro fertilisation and significantly decreased the apoptotic rate in the blastocysts (P < 0.05). The expression of Bax and Casp3 in the blastocysts was significantly reduced after treatment with melatonin, whereas expression of Bcl2 significantly increased (P < 0.05). In conclusion, these findings suggest that supplementation of aged bovine oocytes with exogenous melatonin improves oocyte quality, thereby enhancing the developmental capacity of early embryos.
Drought increases the impact of introduced European foxes on breeding Australian pelicans
Authors: Johnston Gregory R.
Published: October 2016

Context Introduced mammalian predators have been responsible for population declines in native prey species around the world. Many conservation programs rely on control or eradication of introduced mammalian predators, but the impact of environmental variation on the efficacy of this approach is rarely documented. Aims The present paper describes (1) the impact of introduced European foxes (Vulpes vulpes) on breeding Australian pelicans (Pelecanus conspicillatus) in South Australia and (2) the responses of both species to a fox-eradication program using a before-after-impact framework. Methods The impact of foxes on breeding Australian pelicans was studied on a near-shore island. An index of fox abundance and direct measurements of breeding pelicans and mortality of pelican eggs and young were compared before foxes were established on the island, while foxes were resident and during a fox-eradication program. A path analysis was used to explore the causal relationships between fox abundance and other potential covariates (e.g. rainfall) on breeding pelicans. Key results Before foxes were established on the island, the number of breeding pelicans grew and egg mortality was low. While foxes were resident, the number of breeding pelicans fell and egg mortality rose. This was followed by an increase in the number of breeding pelicans and a decrease in egg mortality during a fox-eradication program. While foxes had a clear impact on egg mortality, a period of low rainfall also occurred while foxes were resident. The path analysis showed an interaction among rainfall, size of the pelican breeding population and the impact of foxes. In drought years, fewer pelicans bred and foxes were a major cause of nest abandonment when they entered pelican breeding colonies to prey on eggs. Conclusions These results confirmed that foxes can be an important predator of ground-nesting, colonial waterbirds, and showed that the impact of foxes may be higher in drought years when prey populations are low. Implications The present study suggests that an increase in the incidence of droughts as a result of climate change may increase the impact of introduced predators on drought-sensitive waterbirds and raises the possibility of focussing predator-control efforts during droughts, as periods of particular risk to colony-breeding waterbirds.
Larval dorsal shield morphology is highly correlated with gall type in the enigmatic gall-forming fly, Fergusonina Malloch (Diptera : Fergusoninidae)
Authors: Purcell Michaela F. , Wallenius Thomas C. , Yeates David K. , Rowell David M.
Published: October 2016

The gall-forming fly family Fergusoninidae, in association with a mutualist nematode, induces galls on Myrtaceae. Traditionally, each fly species has been thought to be host-specific and targets a particular site on its host plant. One host species may be host to as many as four fly species, each with different oviposition sites, giving rise to a range of gall types. Third-instar fly larvae possess a distinctive sclerotised ‘dorsal shield’ of unknown function that varies morphologically across the genus. We use a phylogenetic approach to examine the relationship of the dorsal shield morphology to other elements of this complex system. A phylogeny of 41 species, estimated using Bayesian analysis of mtCOI sequences, indicated a strong correlation between dorsal shield morphology and the gall type associated with the larva. We discuss possible functions of the dorsal shield, and other factors that may have led to their phylogenetic distribution. In addition, we have identified cases where fly species have formed galls on more than one host species. In some instances it is possible that these associations are an opportunistic response to artificial tree plantings.
F901318 represents a novel class of antifungal drug that inhibits dihydroorotate dehydrogenase
Authors: Oliver Jason D. , Sibley Graham E. M. , Beckmann Nicola , Dobb Katharine S. , Slater Martin J. , McEntee Laura , du Pré Saskia , Livermore Joanne , Bromley Michael J. , Wiederhold Nathan P. , Hope William W. , Kennedy Anthony J. , Law Derek , Birch Mike
Published: October 2016

Significance

New antifungal drugs that act via novel mechanisms are urgently needed to combat the high mortality of invasive fungal disease and the emergence of resistance to existing therapies. We describe the discovery, structure, activity, and mechanism of action of F901318, a new antifungal agent. A member of a novel class of antifungals, the orotomides, F901318 acts via inhibition of dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, an enzyme of de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis. F901318 is currently in clinical development for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis.
Uneven Reductions in High School Students’ Alcohol use from 2007 to 2012 by Age, Sex, and Socioeconomic Strata
Authors: Jackson Nicki , Denny Simon , Sheridan Janie , Fleming Terry , Clark Terryann , Peiris-John Roshini , Ameratunga Shanthi
Published: October 2016

Background: Many Western countries have reported declines in adolescent alcohol use. This study examined changes in adolescent alcohol use in New Zealand between 2007 and 2012 and explored variations across sociodemographic strata. Methods: Data from 2 nationally representative, cross-sectional high school surveys conducted in 2007 ( n = 7709) and 2012 ( n = 7266) were examined. Changes in the prevalence of drinking in the past 4 weeks were examined among the total sample, as well as the frequency of drinking in the past 4 weeks and typical drinking-occasion quantity among drinkers. Only students residing in urban areas were included. Variation in changes was investigated across 4 demographic groups characterized by age (<16 years, ≥16 years) and sex. Interactions with household- and neighborhood-level socioeconomic position (SEP) identified any differential changes between socioeconomic strata. Results: From 2007 to 2012, significantly fewer students consumed alcohol in the past 4 weeks. Interaction analyses demonstrated that, among young females (<16 years), declines were significantly greater among those of high household SEP when compared with those of low household SEP. Among drinkers, reductions in the frequency of drinking were found among all demographic groups and SEP strata. Interaction analyses revealed that only young males (<16 years) showed significantly reduced typical drinking-occasion quantities. Among young females, significant interactions revealed a shift towards increasing typical drinking-occasion quantities among those of low household and neighborhood SEP, whereas their more advantaged counterparts showed no significant change over time. Conclusions: Fewer drinking occasions characterized the major declines in adolescent drinking between 2007 and 2012. Whereas young males showed reductions in the typical quantity consumed, young females of low household and neighborhood SEP progressed towards higher typical quantities. To address the uneven distribution of alcohol-related harm and improve the targeting of harm reduction initiatives, it remains imperative to examine changes in both the overall shift and shape of the distribution curve.
Raising nilpotent orbits in wave-front sets
Authors: Jiang Dihua , Liu Baiying , Savin Gordan
Published: October 2016

We study wave-front sets of representations of reductive groups over global or non-archimedean local fields.