bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Six-fold-symmetry internal rotation in toluenes: the low barrier challenge of 2,6- and 3,5-difluorotoluene
Authors: Rajappan Nair K. P. , Jahn Michaela K. , Lesarri Alberto , Ilyushin Vadim V. , Grabow Jens-Uwe
Published: September 2015

Pure six-fold symmetry (V6) internal rotation poses significant challenges to experimental and theoretical determination, as the very low torsional barriers result in huge tunneling splittings difficult to identify and to model.
Theoretical evidence of charge transfer interaction between SO2and deep eutectic solvents formed by choline chloride and glycerol
Authors: Li Hongping , Chang Yonghui , Zhu Wenshuai , Wang Changwei , Wang Chao , Yin Sheng , Zhang Ming , Li Huaming
Published: September 2015

The nature of the interaction between deep eutectic solvents (DESs), formed by ChCl and glycerol, and SO2has been systematically investigated using the M06-2X density functional combined with cluster models.
Mechanisms of SN2 reactions: insights from a nearside/farside analysis
Authors: Hennig Carsten , Schmatz Stefan
Published: September 2015

A nearside/farside analysis, performed for the first time for a complex-forming polyatomic reaction, reveals details of the reaction mechanism.
Picosecond melting of peptide nanotubes using an infrared laser: a nonequilibrium simulation study
Authors: Hoang Viet Man , Truong Phan Minh , Derreumaux Philippe , Li Mai Suan , Roland Christopher , Sagui Celeste , Nguyen Phuong H.
Published: September 2015

Resonance between carboxylate bond vibrations and laser frequency results in melting of nanotube.
Time-resolved photoionization spectroscopy of mixed Rydberg-valence states: indole case study
Authors: Zawadzki Magdalena M. , Thompson James O. F. , Burgess Emma A. , Paterson Martin J. , Townsend Dave
Published: September 2015

Time-resolved photoelectron imaging reveals subtle new mechanistic insight into the ultraviolet relaxation dynamics of gas-phase indole.
Exciton–phonon scattering and nonradiative relaxation of excited carriers in hydrothermally synthesized CdTe quantum dots
Authors: Jagtap Amardeep M. , Khatei Jayakrishna , Koteswara Rao K. S. R.
Published: September 2015

The strength of the exciton–LO-phonon coupling, as reflected in the Huang–Rhys parameter ‘S’, is found to increase from 1.13 to 1.51 with a reduction in CdTe QD size from 4.8 to 3.0 nm.
Chiral modification of platinum: ab initio study of the effect of hydrogen coadsorption on stability and geometry of adsorbed cinchona alkaloids
Authors: Hahn Konstanze R. , Seitsonen Ari P. , Baiker Alfons
Published: September 2015

Hydrogen coadsorption affects the orientation and stability of cinchona alkaloids used for the chiral modification of platinum and thus can influence their enantiodifferentiating ability.
The role of structural fluctuations and environmental noise in the electron/hole separation kinetics at organic polymer bulk-heterojunction interfaces
Authors: Bittner Eric R. , Kelley Allen
Published: September 2015

We investigate the electronic dynamics of a model organic photovoltaic (OPV) system consisting of polyphenylene vinylene (PPV) oligomers and a [6,6]-phenyl C61-butyric acid methylester (PCBM) blend using a mixed molecular mechanics/quantum mechanics (MM/QM) approach.
Non-thermal ion desorption from an acetonitrile (CH3CN) astrophysical ice analogue studied by electron stimulated ion desorption
Authors: Ribeiro F. de A. , Almeida G. C. , Garcia-Basabe Y. , Wolff W. , Boechat-Roberty H. M. , Rocco M. L. M.
Published: September 2015

Non-thermal desorption by electron impact constitutes an important route by which neutral and ionic fragments from simple nitrile-bearing ices may be delivered back to the gas-phase of astrophysical environments, contributing to the production of more complex molecules.
Squaraine based solution processed inverted bulk heterojunction solar cells processed in air
Authors: Varma P. C. Reshmi , Namboothiry Manoj A. G.
Published: September 2015

Squaraine based inverted solar cells using low temperature solution processing techniques.
Graphane versus graphene: a computational investigation of the interaction of nucleobases, aminoacids, heterocycles, small molecules (CO2, H2O, NH3, CH4, H2), metal ions and onium ions
Authors: Umadevi Deivasigamani , Narahari Sastry G.
Published: September 2015

We compared the binding affinity of graphane and graphene with various molecules and ions.
Metal–organic frameworks and inorganic nanoflowers: a type of emerging inorganic crystal nanocarrier for enzyme immobilization
Authors: Wu Xiaoling , Hou Miao , Ge Jun
Published: September 2015

By the methods of physical adsorption, covalent conjugation and self-assembly, enzymes can be immobilized on metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and inorganic crystal nanoflowers with the great promise of enhancing enzyme stability, activity and even selectivity.
Structural effects of two-dimensional perovskite Ca2Nb2TaO10− nanosheets for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Maeda Kazuhiko , Eguchi Miharu
Published: September 2015

Photocatalytic activity of restacked ACa2Nb2TaO10 (A = H, Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs) nanosheets for H2 evolution under band-gap irradiation (λ > 300 nm) was enhanced not upon hydration of the interlayer nanospace, but by protonation.
A highly efficient CeWOx catalyst for the selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3
Authors: Shan Wenpo , Geng Yang , Chen Xiaoling , Huang Nan , Liu Fudong , Yang Shijian
Published: September 2015

Characterization was used to investigate the main reasons for the highly efficient NOx abatement by the CeWOx catalyst.
Chemical solution deposition of the highly c-axis oriented apatite type lanthanum silicate thin films
Authors: Hori Shigeo , Takatani Yasuhiro , Kadoura Hiroaki , Uyama Takeshi , Fujita Satoru , Tani Toshihiko
Published: September 2015

Highly c-axis oriented apatite-type lanthanum silicate thin films composed of columnar grains were fabricated by a simple solution coating method.
The mechanism of a phosphazene–phosphazane rearrangement
Authors: Hayes Robert F. , Allen Christopher W.
Published: September 2015

The mechanism showing both inter- and intramolecular pathways of the phosphazene–phosphazane rearrangement of N3P3Cl5O(CH2)2OC(O)CMeCH2 (8) has been determined.
Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) in nanoparticle synthesis
Authors: Koczkur Kallum M. , Mourdikoudis Stefanos , Polavarapu Lakshminarayana , Skrabalak Sara E.
Published: September 2015

The versatile role of PVP in nanoparticle synthesis is discussed in this Perspective article.
Selective functionalization of mesoporous silica nanoparticles with ibuprofen and Gd(iii) chelates: a new probe for potential theranostic applications
Authors: Carniato Fabio , Muñoz-Úbeda Mónica , Tei Lorenzo , Botta Mauro
Published: September 2015

Organo-modified mesoporous silica nanoparticles, loaded with ibuprofen into the pores and functionalized on the external surface with a stable Gd(iii)–DOTA-monoamide chelate, were prepared and explored as potential theranostic probes.
MLCT sensitizers in photochemical upconversion: past, present, and potential future directions
Authors: Castellano Felix N. , McCusker Catherine E.
Published: September 2015

This frontier presentation highlights the historical development of MLCT sensitizers in photochemical upconversion while indentifying current state-of-the-art and exciting opportunities in this arena moving towards the future.
Defect-rich decorated TiO2 nanowires for super-efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting driven by visible light
Authors: Rahman Md Anisur , Bazargan Samad , Srivastava Saurabh , Wang Xiongyao , Abd-Ellah Marwa , Thomas Joseph P. , Heinig Nina F. , Pradhan Debabrata , Leung Kam Tong
Published: September 2015

Defect-rich 1D TiO2 nanostructures show excellent photoelectrochemical water splitting property in the visible light region with a low onset potential of 0.3 V vs. RHE and a remarkably high conversion efficiency of 3.6%.
Sequestration and speciation of Eu(iii) on gamma alumina: role of temperature and contact order
Authors: Cai Yawen , Ren Xuemei , Lang Yue , Liu Zhiyong , Zong Pengfei , Wang Xiangke , Yang Shitong
Published: September 2015

The interaction mechanisms between γ-Al2O3, Eu(iii) and humic substances are greatly dependent on the temperature and contact order.
Edible oil structuring: an overview and recent updates
Authors: Patel Ashok R. , Dewettinck Koen
Published: September 2015

The recent updates in the field of edible oil structuring is reviewed with the help of suitable examples of structuring agents and edible applications.
Significant signal enhancement of dielectric barrier discharge plasma induced vapor generation by using non-ionic surfactants for determination of mercury and cadmium by atomic fluorescence spectrometry
Authors: Li Yixiao , Zhu Zhenli , Zheng Hongtao , Jin Lanlan , Hu Shenghong
Published: September 2015

Non-ionic surfactants (NISs) were used to improve the performance of dielectric barrier discharge plasma induced vapor generation (DBD plasma-CVG).
Synthesis of indole-derived allocolchicine congeners exhibiting pronounced anti-proliferative and apoptosis-inducing properties
Authors: Sitnikov Nikolay S. , Sinzov Alexander V. , Allegro Diane , Barbier Pascale , Combes Sebastien , Onambele Liliane Abodo , Prokop Aram , Schmalz Hans-Günther , Fedorov Alexey Yu.
Published: September 2015

The synthesis and biological assessment of indole-based allocolchicine congeners with potent anti-proliferative and apoptosis-inducing activity are reported.
Nanoparticle shape anisotropy and photoluminescence properties: Europium containing ZnO as a Model Case
Authors: Gerigk Melanie , Ehrenreich Philipp , Wagner Markus R. , Wimmer Ilona , Reparaz Juan Sebastian , Sotomayor Torres Clivia M. , Schmidt-Mende Lukas , Polarz Sebastian
Published: September 2015

Chemical doping and simultaneous shape control was achieved for ZnO nanoparticles doped with Eu leading to shape-dependent optical properties.
Lactoferrin conjugated iron oxide nanoparticles for targeting brain glioma cells in magnetic particle imaging
Authors: Tomitaka Asahi , Arami Hamed , Gandhi Sonu , Krishnan Kannan M.
Published: September 2015

Monodisperse lactoferrin conjugated iron oxide nanoparticles were synthesized and evaluated forin vitroglioma imaging using Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI).
Pd2Au36(SR)24cluster: structure studies
Authors: Zhang Bei , Kaziz Sameh , Li Houhua , Wodka Dawid , Malola Sami , Safonova Olga , Nachtegaal Maarten , Mazet Clément , Dolamic Igor , Llorca Jordi , Kalenius Elina , Lawson Daku Latévi Max , Hakkinen Hannu , Bürgi Thomas , Barrabés Noelia
Published: September 2015

The location of the Pd atoms in Pd2Au36(SC2H4Ph)24, is studied both experimentally and theoretically.
Ion transport and selectivity in biomimetic nanopores with pH-tunable zwitterionic polyelectrolyte brushes
Authors: Zeng Zhenping , Yeh Li-Hsien , Zhang Mingkan , Qian Shizhi
Published: September 2015

The ion transport and selectivity in biomimetic nanopores with pH tunable, zwitterionic, polyelectrolyte brushes are investigated theoretically.
New synthesis of phenyl-isothiocyanate C-functionalised cyclams. Bioconjugation and64Cu phenotypic PET imaging studies of multiple myeloma with the te2a derivative
Authors: Halime Zakaria , Frindel Mathieu , Camus Nathalie , Orain Pierre-Yves , Lacombe Marie , Chérel Michel , Gestin Jean-François , Faivre-Chauvet Alain , Tripier Raphaël
Published: September 2015

New synthesis of bifunctionalised cyclams and64Cu-PET imaging study.
Introducing a static receptor to compete with a dynamic combinatorial library in template binding
Authors: Ulatowski Filip , Lichosyt Dawid , Jurczak Janusz
Published: September 2015

Association constants can be obtained from HPLC analysis of a system comprising a dynamic combinatorial library and a static host.
A cyclic azobenzenophane-based smart polymer for chiroptical switches
Authors: Lu Jinjie , Jiang Ganquan , Zhang Zhengbiao , Zhang Wei , Yang Yonggang , Wang Yong , Zhou Nianchen , Zhu Xiulin
Published: September 2015

Polymers based on cyclic azobenzenophanes as pendants with different methylene spacers (n = 2, 6, 11) have been synthesized. And the one with a six-methylene spacer is a good candidate for a chiroptical switch.
A novel copper(ii) complex with an unsymmetrical tridentate-Schiff base: synthesis, crystal structure, electrochemical, morphological and electrocatalytic behaviors toward electroreduction of alkyl and aryl halides
Authors: Ourari Ali , Derafa Wassila , Aggoun Djouhra
Published: September 2015

This work describes the synthesis of a new unsymmetrical tetradentate copper(ii) Schiff base complex Cu(L)(Py)(ClO4) containing N3O donor atoms.
Hierarchically nanostructured hydroxyapatite microspheres as drug delivery carriers and their effects on cell viability
Authors: Duan Haibo , Ma Yijuan , Liu Xiao , Hao Lijing , Zhao Naru
Published: September 2015

The hydroxyapatite microspheres prepared by hydrothermal synthesis exhibit excellent biocompatibility, high GS-loading efficiency, controllable GS release property and bactericidal property.
Fluorescent nanothermometers based on mixed shell carbon nanodots
Authors: Liu Xue , Tang Xiuping , Hou Yu , Wu Qiuhua , Zhang Guolin
Published: September 2015

Nanothermometers composed of a carbon nanodot core and thermo-sensitive polymeric mixed shell are prepared. Solution temperature can be traced through monitoring the fluorescence intensity variation of carbon nanodot.
Enhanced catalytic and antibacterial activities of silver nanoparticles immobilized on poly(N-vinyl pyrrolidone)-grafted graphene oxide
Authors: Singh Shikha , Gundampati Ravi Kumar , Mitra Kheyanath , Ramesh K. , Jagannadham Medicherla V. , Misra Nira , Ray Biswajit
Published: September 2015

PNVP grafted on GO regulates the size of Ag nanoparticles and enhances the catalytic and antibacterial properties along with increase in the dispersibility of GO.
Growth modulation of bent micro crystals to single crystals in a one-dimensional coordination framework
Authors: Shankar Ravi , Asija Meenal , Kociok-Köhn Gabriele , Molloy Kieran C. , Shestakova Pavletta
Published: September 2015

Di-n-butyltinbis(O-methylmethylphosphonate), 1 exhibits the formation of slender micro crystallites with unique bending features and iodine-induced modulation of crystal morphology to cubic shaped single crystals.
Solvatochromism of a tricycloquinazoline based disk-shaped liquid crystal: a potential molecular probe for fluorescence imaging
Authors: Karthik C. , Manjuladevi V. , Gupta R. K. , Kumar Sandeep
Published: September 2015

Fluorescence microscopy images of a non-fluorescent discotic liquid crystal (DLC) using tricycloquinazoline (TCQ) based DLC as a molecular probe.
Effect of annealing temperature and element composition of titanium dioxide/graphene/hemin catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Zhao Yuewu , Zhang Linqun , Wei Wei , Li Ying , Liu Anran , Zhang Yuanjian , Liu Songqin
Published: September 2015

Enhanced ORR catalytic activity of a flower-like TiO2/Gr/Hem composite and unusual iron inhibition effects.
Cubic structure of the mixed halide perovskite CH3NH3PbI3−xClxvia thermal annealing
Authors: Luo Deying , Yu Leiming , Wang Hai , Zou Taoyu , Luo Li , Liu Zhu , Lu Zhenghong
Published: September 2015

A methodology has been developed to obtain a cubic structure of the mixed halide perovskite CH3NH3PbI3−xClxthat involves thermal annealing of a vacuum-deposited perovskite layer.
Study on divalent copper, nickel and zinc model complexes for fluoride ion detection
Authors: Tarai Arup , Baruah Jubaraj B.
Published: September 2015

A series of mononuclear hydroxyaromatic oxime metal complexes were synthesized for detection of fluoride ion and shown that the spectral signals of such complexes depend on the electronic configuration of the metal ion.
A fully synthetic self-adjuvanting globo H-Based vaccine elicited strong T cell-mediated antitumor immunity
Authors: Zhou Zhifang , Liao Guochao , Mandal Satadru S. , Suryawanshi Sharad , Guo Zhongwu
Published: September 2015

Fully synthetic, self-adjuvanting monophosphoryl lipid A–globo H conjugate elicited strong T cell-mediated immunity that could target and kill breast cancer.
Metal–organic framework composites with luminescent gold(iii) complexes. Strongly emissive and long-lived excited states in open air and photo-catalysis
Authors: Sun Chun-Yi , To Wai-Pong , Wang Xin-Long , Chan Kaai-Tung , Su Zhong-Min , Che Chi-Ming
Published: September 2015

Encapsulation of luminescent gold(iii) complexes by metal–organic frameworks results in enhanced phosphorescence in open air, solid state two-photon-induced phosphorescence, and reusable photo-catalysts under aerobic conditions.
Xe affinities of water-soluble cryptophanes and the role of confined water
Authors: Gao Lu , Liu Wenhao , Lee One-Sun , Dmochowski Ivan J. , Saven Jeffery G.
Published: September 2015

Simulations provide molecular insight on the aqueous binding of Xe to cryptophanes.
Domain-swapped cytochrome cb562dimer and its nanocage encapsulating a Zn–SO4cluster in the internal cavity
Authors: Miyamoto Takaaki , Kuribayashi Mai , Nagao Satoshi , Shomura Yasuhito , Higuchi Yoshiki , Hirota Shun
Published: September 2015

Three domain-swapped cytochromecb562dimers formed a unique cage structure with a Zn–SO4cluster inside the cavity.
Naphthalenebisimides as photofunctional surfactants for SWCNTs – towards water-soluble electron donor–acceptor hybrids
Authors: Dirian Konstantin , Backes Susanne , Backes Claudia , Strauss Volker , Rodler Fabian , Hauke Frank , Hirsch Andreas , Guldi Dirk M.
Published: September 2015

A water soluble naphthalenebisimide derivative (NBI) was synthesized and probed to individualize, suspend, and stabilize single wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNT).
Two-coordinate group 14 element(ii) hydrides as reagents for the facile, and sometimes reversible, hydrogermylation/hydrostannylation of unactivated alkenes and alkynes
Authors: Hadlington Terrance J. , Hermann Markus , Frenking Gernot , Jones Cameron
Published: September 2015

The ambient temperature hydrometallations of a variety of unactivated alkene and alkyne substrates using two-coordinate hydrido-tetrylenes, :E(H)(L†) (E = Ge or Sn; L† = extremely bulky amide), are reported.
On scattered waves and lipid domains: detecting membrane rafts with X-rays and neutrons
Authors: Marquardt Drew , Heberle Frederick A. , Nickels Jonathan D. , Pabst Georg , Katsaras John
Published: September 2015

In order to understand the biological role of lipids in cell membranes, it is necessary to determine the mesoscopic structure of well-defined model membrane systems.
Femtosecond laser controlled wettability of solid surfaces
Authors: Yong Jiale , Chen Feng , Yang Qing , Hou Xun
Published: September 2015

This paper introduces four typical aspects of femtosecond laser induced special wettability: superhydrophobicity, underwater superoleophobicity, anisotropic wettability, and smart wettability.
Soluble salt self-assembly-assisted synthesis of three-dimensional hierarchical porous carbon networks for supercapacitors
Authors: Zhu Shan , Li Jiajun , He Chunnian , Zhao Naiqin , Liu Enzuo , Shi Chunsheng , Zhang Miao
Published: September 2015

Three-dimensional hierarchical porous carbons are synthesized via a simple one-pot method using the self-assembly of various water-soluble salts as structure-directing templates, which exhibit excellent capacitive performance.
In situ synthesis of flexible hierarchical TiO2 nanofibrous membranes with enhanced photocatalytic activity
Authors: Zhang Renzhong , Wang Xueqin , Song Jun , Si Yang , Zhuang Xingmin , Yu Jianyong , Ding Bin
Published: September 2015

Flexible hierarchical mesoporous TiO2 NP modified TiO2 nanofibrous membranes with excellent photocatalytic activity towards organic dyes were fabricated by the combination of an electrospinning technique and in situ polymerization.
Exchange coupling in an electrodeposited magnetic bilayer of Prussian blue analogues
Authors: Prieto-Ruiz Juan P. , Romero Francisco M. , Prima-García Helena , Coronado Eugenio
Published: September 2015

Bilayers of Prussian blue analogues (PBA) constituted by hard and soft magnets have been fabricated by means of electrochemical deposition. The magnetic behavior of the bilayer can be explained in terms of an exchange-spring magnet.
Determining dilute-limit solvus boundaries in multi-component systems using defect energetics: Na in PbTe and PbS
Authors: Doak Jeff W. , Michel Kyle Jay , Wolverton C.
Published: September 2015

Defect calculations have untapped potential to quantitatively determine thermodynamics of semiconductors. We present a methodology to determine solve boundaries in multicomponent systems using defect energy calculations.
Naphthyl substituted anthracene combining charge transport with light emission
Authors: Li Jie , Liu Jie , Zhen Yonggang , Meng Lingqiang , Wang Ying , Dong Huanli , Hu Wenping
Published: September 2015

A naphthyl anthracene derivative showed good carrier mobility and high luminescence, indicating the potential applications in multifunctional optoelectronics.
An efficient blue-emitting Sr5(PO4)3Cl:Eu2+ phosphor for application in near-UV white light-emitting diodes
Authors: Zheng Jianghui , Cheng Qijin , Wu Shunqing , Guo Ziquan , Zhuang Yixi , Lu Yijun , Li Ye , Chen Chao
Published: September 2015

It is demonstrated that Sr5(PO4)3Cl:Eu2+ blue-emitting phosphor features good thermal ability, high color purity and is a suitable blue-emitting candidate for the application in near-UV w-LEDs.
Comparison of the acoustic performance and positioning accuracy of three kinds of planar partial discharge ultrasonic array sensors
Authors: Xie Qing , Li Tong , Tao Junhan , Liu Xuying , Liu Dan , Xu Yuqin
Published: September 2015

The detection of partial discharge (PD) sources in electrical equipment is very important for safe and stable operation of power systems as it allows for the timely elimination of insulation faults. Cross, circular and square array sensors are commonly used in the detection. In order to determine which form is the best, this study compares the acoustic performance and positioning accuracy of the different arrays. Firstly, this study does research on the quantitative evaluation of the acoustic performance of the planar ultrasonic array sensors. Sparse signal decomposition theory is then applied to find three different directions of arrival (DOAs) of the signal from the PD source to the array sensor. Next, using two of the DOAs (azimuth and pitch), the location of the PD is determined as the centre of a sphere whose surface is tangential to the three DOAs in three different planes. The positioning accuracy of the sensors is then derived. Finally, simulation results show that the acoustic performance of the circular array is the best. It also produces the most accurate location results. Therefore, a circular array is the optimal form to use for the construction of a planar array sensor.
The Effects of Aquatic Plyometric Training on Repeated Jumps, Drop Jumps and Muscle Damage
Authors: Jurado-Lavanant A. , Alvero-Cruz J. , Pareja-Blanco F. , Melero-Romero C. , Rodríguez-Rosell D. , Fernandez-Garcia J.
Published: September 2015

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of land- vs. aquatic based plyometric training programs on the drop jump, repeated jump performance and muscle damage. Sixty-five male students were randomly assigned to one of 3 groups: aquatic plyometric training group (APT), plyometric training group (PT) and control group (CG). Both experimental groups trained twice a week for 10 weeks performing the same number of sets and total jumps. The following variables were measured prior to, halfway through and after the training programs: creatine kinase (CK) concentration, maximal height during a drop jump from the height of 30 (DJ30) and 50 cm (DJ50), and mean height during a repeated vertical jump test (RJ). The training program resulted in a significant increase (P<0.01–0.001) in RJ, DJ30, and DJ50 for PT, whereas neither APT nor CG reached any significant improvement APT showed likely/possibly improvements on DJ30 and DJ50, respectively. Greater intra-group Effect Size in CK was found for PT when compared to APT. In conclusion, although APT seems to be a safe alternative method for reducing the stress produced on the musculoskeletal system by plyometric training, PT produced greater gains on reactive jumps performance than APT.
“Teach like you do in America”—personal reflections from teaching across borders in Tanzania and Germany
Authors: Waters Tony
Published: September 2015

This article is a personal commentary about experiences teaching across national and disciplinary borders in the United States, Tanzania and Germany. Highlighted are national differences in learning, teaching, testing and writing. The article concludes that the ferment in such “provincial” universities where the author taught is likely to drive developments in how disciplines continue to develop in the world’s rapidly expanding university systems.
Evaluation of faba bean breeding lines for spectral indices, yield traits and yield stability under diverse environments
Authors: Maalouf Fouad , Nachit Miloudi , Ghanem Michel Edmond , Singh Murari
Published: September 2015

Drought is a major limiting factor in faba bean (Vicia faba L.) production in the Mediterranean region, which is known for its irregular water distribution and moderate moisture levels (~500 mm rainfall). In this study, faba bean genotypes were evaluated for spectral indices, yield traits, rhizobium nodulation and yield stability under diverse environments, and their relationships. Eleven faba bean genotypes were evaluated under two water regimes, rainfed and supplemental irrigation (SI), in 2008–09; and under three water regimes (rainfed, 50% and 100% soil water capacity irrigation) for three consecutive growing seasons (2009–10, 2010–11, 2011–12), at Tel Hadya in Syria. They were also evaluated at Terbol in Lebanon for one season (2011–12) in a split-plot experiment with three irrigation treatments and at Kfardan in Lebanon for two seasons, 2008–09 (rainfed) and 2010–11 (rainfed and SI). The genotypes included three cultivars and eight drought-tolerant breeding lines selected at <300 mm annual rainfall. Phenological and morphological traits were recorded, as well as nodule weight per plant, grain yield, biological yield and spectral reflectance indices. Data were statistically analysed for each year. There were significant genotypic differences for seed yield under SI and rainfed conditions in 2008–09, and full irrigation in 2009–10 and 2011–12. Days to flowering and maturity were significantly different among genotypes for rainfed and irrigated conditions. There were significant differences between water regimes and genotypes, but their interactions were not significant. FLIP06-010FB was the highest yielding and most stable among the tested genotypes across different environments. Days to flowering and days to maturity were positively correlated with grain yield. The spectral indices structure-insensitive pigment index and normalised pheophytinisation index were found to correlate positively with grain yield and could therefore be used for selection under drought-prone environments.
Assessment of smart irrigation controllers under subsurface and drip-irrigation systems for tomato yield in arid regions
Authors: Al-Ghobari H. M. , Mohammad F. S. , El Marazky M. S. A.
Published: September 2015

Here, two types of smart irrigation controllers intended to reduce irrigation water are investigated under Saudi Arabia’s present water crisis scenario. These controllers are specially made for scheduling irrigation and management of landscaping. Consequently, the aim of this study is to adapt the efficient automated controllers to tomato crops, and for extension to other similar agricultural crops. The controllers are based on evapotranspiration and have been shown to be promising tools for scheduling irrigation and quantifying the water required by plants to achieve water savings. In particular, the study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of these technologies (SmartLine SL 1600and Hunter Pro-C) in terms of the amount of irrigation applied and compare them with conventional irrigation scheduling methods. The smart irrigation systems were implemented and tested under drip irrigation and subsurface irrigation for tomato (cv. Nema) in an arid region. The results revealed significant differences between the three irrigation-scheduling methods in both the amount of applied water and yield. For example, each 1 mm water depth applied to the tomato crop via subsurface (or drip) irrigation by SmartLine, Hunter Pro-C, and the control system yielded 129.70 kg (70.33 kg), 161.50 kg (93.47 kg), and 109.78 kg (108.32 kg), respectively. Generally, the data analysis indicates that the Hunter Pro-C system saves water and produces a higher yield with the greatest irrigation water-use efficiency (IWUE) of the irrigation scheduling methods considered. Moreover, the results indicate that the subsurface irrigation system produced a higher yield and IWUE than the drip system.
Phylogeography and limited distribution of the endangered freshwater crayfish, Euastacus urospinosus
Authors: Hurry Charlotte R. , Schmidt Daniel J. , Hughes Jane M.
Published: September 2015

Conservation plans can benefit from understanding patterns of genetic structure because many endangered species are spatially fragmented. In particular, headwater species in high elevations are expected to exhibit a high level of population structure, as dispersal through lowland streams may be limited. Euastacus urospinosus is an endangered freshwater crayfish that, until recently, was thought to have a distribution of just 200 km2. In the current study, we identified a total of 26 locations for this species across a 1225 km2 region spanning the Brisbane and Mary River catchments of south-east Queensland, Australia. We then used mitochondrial DNA sequence data to investigate the population structure and the phylogeographic divergence between four uplands. We found significant population differentiation for this species, which conforms to the headwater model of genetic structure. Further, we found that fragmentation between these uplands is most likely historical, as the first divergence between lineages dated back 2.1 million years. Overall, we found no reason to remove the conservation rating of ‘endangered’ for this species. Conservation plans should seek to preserve the genetic integrity of these uplands by considering them to be genetically distinct and isolated populations.
Compared to men, women view professional advancement as equally attainable, but less desirable
Authors: Gino Francesca , Wilmuth Caroline Ashley , Brooks Alison Wood
Published: September 2015

Significance

We identify a profound and consistent gender gap in people’s core life goals. Across nine studies using diverse sample populations (executives in high-power positions, recent graduates of a top MBA program, undergraduate students, and online panels of working adults) and over 4,000 participants, we find that, compared to men, women have a higher number of life goals, place less importance on power-related goals, associate more negative outcomes (e.g., time constraints and tradeoffs) with high-power positions, perceive power as less desirable, and are less likely to take advantage of opportunities for professional advancement. Women view high-level positions as equally attainable as men do, but less desirable. Our findings advance the science of gender, goals, organizational behavior, and decision making.
Core formation and core composition from coupled geochemical and geophysical constraints
Authors: Badro James , Brodholt John P. , Piet Hélène , Siebert Julien , Ryerson Frederick J.
Published: September 2015

Significance

We combine, for the first time to our knowledge, two approaches to study Earth’s core composition: a geochemical approach based on trace element depletion in the mantle and a geophysical approach based on a seismically lighter and faster (than pure iron−nickel) core. The joint approach allows making strong statements; first of all, as opposed to the current belief, Earth must have accreted material that is more oxidized than the present-day mantle, similar to that of planetesimals such as 4-Vesta, and got reduced to its present state during core formation. Secondly, core light-element concentrations in those conditions are 2.7% to 5% oxygen alongside 2% to 3.6% silicon; the oxygen concentrations in the core are higher than previously thought, and, conversely, silicon concentrations are lower than previous estimates.
Formation of interference-sensitive meiotic cross-overs requires sufficient DNA leading-strand elongation
Authors: Huang Jiyue , Cheng Zhihao , Wang Cong , Hong Yue , Su Hang , Wang Jun , Copenhaver Gregory P. , Ma Hong , Wang Yingxiang
Published: September 2015

Significance

Meiosis is essential for eukaryotic sexual reproduction, and meiotic recombination redistributes genetic variations among progeny. Homologous recombination is also important for DNA repair and genome stability. Current recombination models include DNA synthesis, particularly leading-strand synthesis, but its role has not been tested experimentally. Here, we showed that mutations in a DNA polymerase required for leading-strand elongation caused reduced fertility, defects in meiotic chromosome fragmentation and segregation, and reduction of interference-sensitive cross-overs (COs). Because the majority of meiotic COs are produced from the interference-sensitive pathway in budding yeast, mammals, and flowering plants, the discovery of leading-strand elongation in the differentiation of meiotic recombination pathways has important implications in understanding of human reproductive health and crop breeding.
Competition and allostery govern substrate selectivity of cyclooxygenase-2
Authors: Mitchener Michelle M. , Hermanson Daniel J. , Shockley Erin M. , Brown H. Alex , Lindsley Craig W. , Reese Jeff , Rouzer Carol A. , Lopez Carlos F. , Marnett Lawrence J.
Published: September 2015

Significance

The cyclooxygenase enzymes perform the initial steps in the synthesis of prostaglandins, potent signaling molecules with diverse physiological functions. Recent data have suggested that these enzymes, although structural homodimers, act as functional heterodimers. Herein, we demonstrate that the heterodimeric nature of cyclooxygenase-2 leads to differential allosteric regulation of the enzyme by two of its substrates, arachidonic acid and the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol. We provide the first evidence (to our knowledge) that fatty acid-based modulation of COX-2 activity occurs in cellular settings. These findings demonstrate the complexity of the interaction of multiple substrates with COX-2, which involves competition for both the catalytic and allosteric sites in addition to differential allosteric regulation.
Urine excretion strategy for stem cell-generated embryonic kidneys
Authors: Yokote Shinya , Matsunari Hitomi , Iwai Satomi , Yamanaka Shuichiro , Uchikura Ayuko , Fujimoto Eisuke , Matsumoto Kei , Nagashima Hiroshi , Kobayashi Eiji , Yokoo Takashi
Published: September 2015

Significance

Worldwide, the number of patients with end-stage renal disease requiring renal replacement therapy is increasing because of the shortage of donor organs. We have successfully generated functional kidneys from human stem cells using the organogenic niche method. However, for these kidneys to have clinical application, a urinary excretion pathway is necessary. Using pigs, we demonstrated our stepwise peristaltic ureter system, showing that it resolves important problems regarding the construction of the urine excretion pathway and the long-term growth of the stem cell-generated embryonic kidneys.
Plasma DNA tissue mapping by genome-wide methylation sequencing for noninvasive prenatal, cancer, and transplantation assessments
Authors: Sun Kun , Jiang Peiyong , Chan K. C. Allen , Wong John , Cheng Yvonne K. Y. , Liang Raymond H. S. , Chan Wai-kong , Ma Edmond S. K. , Chan Stephen L. , Cheng Suk Hang , Chan Rebecca W. Y. , Tong Yu K. , Ng Simon S. M. , Wong Raymond S. M. , Hui David S. C. , Leung Tse Ngong , Leung Tak Y. , Lai Paul B. S. , Chiu Rossa W. K. , Lo Yuk Ming Dennis
Published: September 2015

Significance

Plasma consists of DNA released from multiple tissues within the body. Using genome-wide bisulfite sequencing of plasma DNA, we obtained a bird’s eye view of the identities and contributions of these tissues to the circulating DNA pool. The tissue contributors and their relative proportions are identified by a bioinformatics deconvolution process that draws reference from DNA methylation signatures representative of each tissue type. We validated this approach in pregnant women, cancer patients, and transplant recipients. This method also allows one to identify the tissue of origin of genomic aberrations observed in plasma DNA. This approach has numerous research and diagnostic applications in prenatal testing, oncology, transplantation monitoring, and other fields.
Disease-proportional proteasomal degradation of missense dystrophins
Authors: Talsness Dana M. , Belanto Joseph J. , Ervasti James M.
Published: September 2015

Significance

Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies occur at a frequency of 1:4,000 live male births. Patients experience progressive muscle weakness and often succumb to cardiac or respiratory failure. Many laboratories are investigating potential treatments, including several therapies that target subsets of patients with certain types of mutations. Yet there are currently no treatments specific to patients with missense mutations in the affected protein, dystrophin. Here, we have shown missense mutant dystrophin is degraded by the cell, which can be prevented by several small molecules targeting the cellular degradation machinery. In addition to determining disease mechanism, this work has generated new cell-based models that may aid in the discovery of personalized medicines for dystrophinopathy patients afflicted with missense mutations.
Kantian fractionalization predicts the conflict propensity of the international system
Authors: Cranmer Skyler J. , Menninga Elizabeth J. , Mucha Peter J.
Published: September 2015

Significance

Many studies in international relations have investigated relationships between pairs of countries and the likelihood of conflict, yet none have connected the overall structure of the network of relationships between countries with the total level of international conflict. Here, we blaze a new path in the study of international conflict by introducing a measure of the overall fractionalization in the network of international relationships which we call Kantian fractionalization and demonstrating that this measure has been closely correlated with the number of new international conflicts in the following year. Moreover, we show that jointly democratic pairs of countries contribute negligibly to Kantian fractionalization, casting doubt on one of the most prominent concepts in international relations and policy prescriptions in Washington.
Radiative cooling of solar absorbers using a visibly transparent photonic crystal thermal blackbody
Authors: Zhu Linxiao , Raman Aaswath P. , Fan Shanhui
Published: September 2015

Significance

The coldness of the universe is an enormous but strikingly underexploited thermodynamic resource. Its direct utilization on Earth therefore represents an important frontier for renewable energy research. In many applications, including solar cells and outdoor structures, the absorption of sunlight is intrinsic either from operational or aesthetic considerations, but the resulting heating by sunlight is undesirable. Here we experimentally demonstrate a thermal photonic scheme that can cool these structures by thermal radiation to outer space, while preserving the structures’ solar absorption. Our work shows, for the first time to our knowledge, that radiative cooling can be used in combination with the utilization of sunlight, and opens new possibilities for using the coldness of the universe to improve the performance of terrestrial energy systems.
Mistranslation drives the evolution of robustness in TEM-1 β-lactamase
Authors: Bratulic Sinisa , Gerber Florian , Wagner Andreas
Published: September 2015

Significance

Translation is a fundamental biochemical process in which ribosomes use an mRNA’s nucleotide sequence as a template to synthesize a protein with a specific amino acid sequence. Errors in this process are deleterious because they can alter a protein’s structure. Yet such errors are surprisingly frequent. Here we ask whether and how evolution can affect the ability of proteins to cope with these errors. In principle, evolution could reduce the rate of such errors, or it could leave this rate unchanged but reduce the damaging effects of errors. We find that populations of proteins evolving in the laboratory pursue the second route, increasing their robustness to translation errors. Evolution may preferentially mitigate damage to a biological system than reduce the source of this damage.
Thermodynamics of protein destabilization in live cells
Authors: Danielsson Jens , Mu Xin , Lang Lisa , Wang Huabing , Binolfi Andres , Theillet François-Xavier , Bekei Beata , Logan Derek T. , Selenko Philipp , Wennerström Håkan , Oliveberg Mikael
Published: September 2015

Significance

A key question in structural biology is how protein properties mapped out under simplified conditions in vitro transfer to the complex environment in live cells. The answer, it appears, varies. Defying predictions from steric crowding effects, experimental data have shown that cells in some cases stabilize and in other cases destabilize the native protein structures. In this study, we reconcile these seemingly conflicting results by showing that the in-cell effect on protein thermodynamics is sequence specific: The outcome depends both on the individual target protein and on its detailed host-cell environment.
Lightweight Raman spectroscope using time-correlated photon-counting detection
Authors: Meng Zhaokai , Petrov Georgi I. , Cheng Shuna , Jo Javier A. , Lehmann Kevin K. , Yakovlev Vladislav V. , Scully Marlan O.
Published: September 2015

Significance

Raman spectroscopy is an important tool in understanding chemical components of various materials. However, the excessive weight and energy consumption of a conventional CCD-based spectrometer forbids its applications in space-based instruments, including unmanned aircraft vehicles (UAVs) and Mars/Moon rovers. In this article, we present a lightweight and energy-efficient hyperspectral Raman measurement system. This technique allows UAVs and space vehicles to carry Raman spectrometers without consuming excessive energy.
An inducible mouse model for microvillus inclusion disease reveals a role for myosin Vb in apical and basolateral trafficking
Authors: Schneeberger Kerstin , Vogel Georg F. , Teunissen Hans , van Ommen Domenique D. , Begthel Harry , El Bouazzaoui Layla , van Vugt Anke H. M. , Beekman Jeffrey M. , Klumperman Judith , Müller Thomas , Janecke Andreas , Gerner Patrick , Huber Lukas A. , Hess Michael W. , Clevers Hans , van Es Johan H. , Nieuwenhuis Edward E. S. , Middendorp Sabine
Published: September 2015

Significance

Microvillus inclusion disease (MVID) is a rare intestinal enteropathy resulting in severe diarrhoea in neonates. Here, we have generated an intestine-specific knockout mouse model for Myosin Vb, the gene causing MVID in the majority of human patients. Our mouse model completely recapitulates the intestinal human MVID phenotype, including severe diarrhoea, loss of microvilli, occurrence of microvillus inclusions, and subapical secretory granules in villus enterocytes. In addition, we identify a newly identified role of Myo5b in trafficking of basolateral proteins, in the apical localization of the brush border membrane fusion protein syntaxin 3 (STX3), and in early differentiation of enterocytes. Our data indicate a role of MYO5B in regulating polarity of epithelial cells and have important implications for future treatment options for MVID patients.
Genome and transcriptome of the regeneration-competent flatworm,
Macrostomum lignano
Authors: Wasik Kaja , Gurtowski James , Zhou Xin , Ramos Olivia Mendivil , Delás M. Joaquina , Battistoni Giorgia , El Demerdash Osama , Falciatori Ilaria , Vizoso Dita B. , Smith Andrew D. , Ladurner Peter , Schärer Lukas , McCombie W. Richard , Hannon Gregory J. , Schatz Michael
Published: September 2015

Significance

The availability of high-quality genome and transcriptome assemblies is critical for enabling full exploitation of any model organism. Here we present genome and transcriptome assemblies for
Macrostomum lignano
, a free-living flatworm that can regenerate nearly its entire body following injury. The resources we present here will promote not only the studies of mechanisms of stem cell self-renewal, but also of regeneration and differentiation.
Fatigue-free, superstretchable, transparent, and biocompatible metal electrodes
Authors: Guo Chuan Fei , Liu Qihan , Wang Guohui , Wang Yecheng , Shi Zhengzheng , Suo Zhigang , Chu Ching-Wu , Ren Zhifeng
Published: September 2015

Significance

Fatigue is a deadly disease for metals. Fatigue often happens under cyclic loading even if the strain level is low. However, a stretchable transparent electrode, which can be made of metal and is a key element in stretchable electronics, needs high stability at large strains. Here we show that Au nanomesh on a slippery substrate is fatigue-free when cyclically stretched to large strains (>100%). Moreover, cells can grow on the Au nanomesh. A metal mesh that conducts electricity, is biocompatible, and is completely free of fatigue will be an ideal electrode not only for flexible electronics, but also for implantable electronics.
Lnx2 ubiquitin ligase is essential for exocrine cell differentiation in the early zebrafish pancreas
Authors: Won Minho , Ro Hyunju , Dawid Igor B.
Published: September 2015

Significance

Pancreas differentiation is of interest as an example of organogenesis and for its medical implications. We report here that regulation of protein stability is a player in the differentiation of certain cell lineages in the early zebrafish pancreas. The related E3 ubiquitin ligases Ligand of Numb protein-X (Lnx)2a and Lnx2b affect differentiation of exocrine cells, apparently by destabilizing Numb in exocrine progenitor cells. Numb is an inhibitor of Notch, a key regulator of pancreatic development. We suggest that Lnx2a/b destabilize Numb to derepress Notch, allowing precursors to proliferate and support subsequent differentiation. This study also highlights the fact that detailed analysis of morpholino versus mutant phenotypes may be required for a full understanding of their relationship.
Dialogue between
E. coli
free radical pathways and the mitochondria of
C. elegans
Authors: Govindan J. Amaranath , Jayamani Elamparithi , Zhang Xinrui , Mylonakis Eleftherios , Ruvkun Gary
Published: September 2015

Significance

Eukaryotes and bacteria are often in dialogue, in some cases mutualistic and in other cases pathogenic. A highly evolved system of measures and countermeasures by both bacteria and eukaryotic host may mediate these interactions. Here we found that mutations in the electron transport pathway of the normally benign
Escherichia coli
, which is a food for
Caenorhabditis elegans
in the laboratory, induces a mitochondrial stress response. The oxidatively stressed
E. coli
activates mitochondrial stress responses via transcription factors that are known to mediate mitochondrial homeostasis. Activation of
C. elegans
mitochondrial responses could be suppressed by additional mutations in
E. coli
response pathways for free radical damage, showing that the animal response depends on bacterial response to free radical damage.