bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of HPV infection among 28,457 Chinese women in Yunnan Province, southwest China
Authors: Li Zheng , Liu Feng , Cheng Si , Shi Lei , Yan Zhiling , Yang Jie , Shi Li , Yao Yufeng , Ma Yanbing
Published: February 2016

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection plays a key role in the development of cervical cancer. The aim of the current study was to investigate the HPV type distribution in Chinese women from Yunnan Province, southwest China. A total of 28,457 individuals ranging in age from 17–84 years were recruited from 13 clinical hospitals located in 10 different regions of Yunnan Province. Cervicovaginal swabs were collected from each participant and HPV screening was performed using Luminex xMAP technology. Our results showed that the HPV prevalence was 12.9% in Yunnan Province. Overall, 10.6% of the individuals were positive for a single HPV type and 2.3% were positive for multiple types. Among the individuals who tested positive for a single HPV type and multiple HPV types, the three most prevalent high-risk types were 52, 16 and 58. Age subgroup analysis showed two peaks for the frequencies of single and multiple HPV infections, one for the group of women under 25 years old and the other for the group over 56 years old. Here, we present data regarding the prevalence and type distribution of HPV infection, which will aid in the estimation of the potential clinical benefit and cost-effectiveness of HPV screening and vaccination in China.
Application of imaging mass spectrometry for the molecular diagnosis of human breast tumors
Authors: Mao Xinxin , He Jiuming , Li Tiegang , Lu Zhaohui , Sun Jian , Meng Yunxiao , Abliz Zeper , Chen Jie
Published: February 2016

Distinguishing breast invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and breast ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a key step in breast surgery, especially to determine whether DCIS is associated with tumor cell micro-invasion. However, there is currently no reliable method to obtain molecular information for breast tumor analysis during surgery. Here, we present a novel air flow-assisted ionization (AFAI) mass spectrometry imaging method that can be used in ambient environments to differentiate breast cancer by analyzing lipids. In this study, we demonstrate that various subtypes and histological grades of IDC and DCIS can be discriminated using AFAI-MSI: phospholipids were more abundant in IDC than in DCIS, whereas fatty acids were more abundant in DCIS than in IDC. The classification of specimens in the subtype and grade validation sets showed 100% and 78.6% agreement with the histopathological diagnosis, respectively. Our work shows the rapid classification of breast cancer utilizing AFAI-MSI. This work suggests that this method could be developed to provide surgeons with nearly real-time information to guide surgical resections.
Structural Insights into the Tetrameric State of Aspartate-β-semialdehyde Dehydrogenases from Fungal Species
Authors: Li Qinqin , Mu Zhixia , Zhao Rong , Dahal Gopal , Viola Ronald E. , Liu Tao , Jin Qi , Cui Sheng
Published: February 2016

Aspartate-β-semialdehyde dehydrogenase (ASADH) catalyzes the second reaction in the aspartate pathway, a pathway required for the biosynthesis of one fifth of the essential amino acids in plants and microorganisms. Microarray analysis of a fungal pathogen T. rubrum responsible for most human dermatophytoses identified the upregulation of ASADH (trASADH) expression when the fungus is exposed to human skin, underscoring its potential as a drug target. Here we report the crystal structure of trASADH, revealing a tetrameric ASADH with a GAPDH-like fold. The tetramerization of trASADH was confirmed by sedimentation and SAXS experiments. Native PAGE demonstrated that this ASADH tetramerization is apparently universal in fungal species, unlike the functional dimer that is observed in all bacterial ASADHs. The helical subdomain in dimeric bacteria ASADH is replaced by the cover loop in archaeal/fungal ASADHs, presenting the determinant for this altered oligomerization. Mutations that disrupt the tetramerization of trASADH also abolish the catalytic activity, suggesting that the tetrameric state is required to produce the active fungal enzyme form. Our findings provide a basis to categorize ASADHs into dimeric and tetrameric enzymes, adopting a different orientation for NADP binding and offer a structural framework for designing drugs that can specifically target the fungal pathogens.
Multisensory body representation in autoimmune diseases
Authors: Finotti Gianluca , Costantini Marcello
Published: February 2016

Body representation has been linked to the processing and integration of multisensory signals. An outstanding example of the pivotal role played by multisensory mechanisms in body representation is the Rubber Hand Illusion (RHI). In this paradigm, multisensory stimulation induces a sense of ownership over a fake limb. Previous work has shown high interindividual differences in the susceptibility to the RHI. The origin of this variability remains largely unknown. Given the tight and bidirectional communication between the brain and the immune system, we predicted that the origin of this variability could be traced, in part, to the immune system’s functioning, which is altered by several clinical conditions, including Coeliac Disease (CD). Consistent with this prediction, we found that the Rubber Hand Illusion is stronger in CD patients as compared to healthy controls. We propose a biochemical mechanism accounting for the dependency of multisensory body representation upon the Immune system. Our finding has direct implications for a range of neurological, psychiatric and immunological conditions where alterations of multisensory integration, body representation and dysfunction of the immune system co-exist.
Choroidal vascularity index as a measure of vascular status of the choroid: Measurements in healthy eyes from a population-based study
Authors: Agrawal Rupesh , Gupta Preeti , Tan Kara-Anne , Cheung Chui Ming Gemmy , Wong Tien-Yin , Cheng Ching-Yu
Published: February 2016

The vascularity of the choroid has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various eye diseases. To date, no established quantifiable parameters to estimate vascular status of the choroid exists. Choroidal vascularity index (CVI) may potentially be used to assess vascular status of the choroid. We aimed to establish normative database for CVI and identify factors associated with CVI in healthy eyes. In this population-based study on 345 healthy eyes, choroidal enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography scans were segmented by modified image binarization technique. Total subfoveal choroidal area (TCA) was segmented into luminal (LA) and stromal (SA) area. CVI was calculated as the proportion of LA to TCA. Linear regression was used to identify ocular and systemic factors associated with CVI and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT). Subfoveal CVI ranged from 60.07 to 71.27% with a mean value of 65.61 ± 2.33%. CVI was less variable than SFCT (coefficient of variation for CVI was 3.55 vs 40.30 for SFCT). Higher CVI was associated with thicker SFCT, but not associated with most physiological variables. CVI was elucidated as a significant determinant of SFCT. While SFCT was affected by many factors, CVI remained unaffected suggesting CVI to be a more robust marker of choroidal diseases.
A Biotin Biosynthesis Gene Restricted to Helicobacter
Authors: Bi Hongkai , Zhu Lei , Jia Jia , Cronan John E.
Published: February 2016

In most bacteria the last step in synthesis of the pimelate moiety of biotin is cleavage of the ester bond of pimeloyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) methyl ester. The paradigm cleavage enzyme is Escherichia coli BioH which together with the BioC methyltransferase allows synthesis of the pimelate moiety by a modified fatty acid biosynthetic pathway. Analyses of the extant bacterial genomes showed that bioH is absent from many bioC-containing bacteria and is replaced by other genes. Helicobacter pylori lacks a gene encoding a homologue of the known pimeloyl-ACP methyl ester cleavage enzymes suggesting that it encodes a novel enzyme that cleaves this intermediate. We isolated the H. pylori gene encoding this enzyme, bioV, by complementation of an E. coli bioH deletion strain. Purified BioV cleaved the physiological substrate, pimeloyl-ACP methyl ester to pimeloyl-ACP by use of a catalytic triad, each member of which was essential for activity. The role of BioV in biotin biosynthesis was demonstrated using a reconstituted in vitro desthiobiotin synthesis system. BioV homologues seem the sole pimeloyl-ACP methyl ester esterase present in the Helicobacter species and their occurrence only in H. pylori and close relatives provide a target for development of drugs to specifically treat Helicobacter infections.
Subtropical Potential Vorticity Intrusion Drives Increasing Tropospheric Ozone over the Tropical Central Pacific
Authors: Nath Debashis , Chen Wen , Graf Hans-F. , Lan Xiaoqing , Gong Hainan , Nath Reshmita , Hu Kaiming , Wang Lin
Published: February 2016

Drawn from multiple reanalysis datasets, an increasing trend and westward shift in the number of Potential Vorticity intrusion events over the Pacific are evident. The increased frequency can be linked to a long-term trend in upper tropospheric equatorial westerly wind and subtropical jets during boreal winter to spring. These may be resulting from anomalous warming and cooling over the western Pacific warm pool and the tropical eastern Pacific, respectively. The intrusions brought dry and ozone rich air of stratospheric origin deep into the tropics. In the tropical upper troposphere, interannual ozone variability is mainly related to convection associated with El Niño/Southern Oscillation. Zonal mean stratospheric overturning circulation organizes the transport of ozone rich air poleward and downward to the high and midlatitudes leading there to higher ozone concentration. In addition to these well described mechanisms, we observe a long-term increasing trend in ozone flux over the northern hemispheric outer tropical (10–25°N) central Pacific that results from equatorward transport and downward mixing from the midlatitude upper troposphere and lower stratosphere during PV intrusions. This increase in tropospheric ozone flux over the Pacific Ocean may affect the radiative processes and changes the budget of atmospheric hydroxyl radicals.
Structure of ring-shaped Aβ42 oligomers determined by conformational selection
Authors: Tran Linh , Basdevant Nathalie , Prévost Chantal , Ha-Duong Tâp
Published: February 2016

The oligomerization of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides into soluble non-fibrillar species plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. However, it has been challenging to characterize the tertiary and quaternary structures of Aβ peptides due to their disordered nature and high aggregation propensity. In this work, replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations were used to explore the conformational space of Aβ42 monomer. Among the most populated transient states, we identified a particular conformation which was able to generate ring-shaped pentamers and hexamers, when docked onto itself. The structures of these aggregates were stable during microsecond all-atom MD simulations in explicit solvent. In addition to high resolution models of these oligomers, this study provides support for the conformational selection mechanism of Aβ peptide self-assembly.
The time course of visuo-spatial working memory updating revealed by a retro-cuing paradigm
Authors: Schneider Daniel , Mertes Christine , Wascher Edmund
Published: February 2016

We investigated the influence of non-cued working memory representations on further information processing. A retro-cue indicated if items on the left or right side of a previous memory array remained relevant. Subsequently, a central probe item was presented with a varying stimulus onset asynchrony (SOA: 300, 400, 600, 1000, 1800 ms). Participants had to state whether this stimulus was shown on the cued side of the memory array. The probe was either a cued, non-cued or new item. Non-cued probes were associated with delayed response times and an increased frontal negativity from 400–600 ms indicating a higher processing conflict compared to new probes. These effects were strongest for the 300 and 400 ms SOAs and decreased in longer SOA conditions, pointing toward a benefit when there was sufficient time for working memory updating. Furthermore, contralateral negativities at posterior (PCN) and anterior sites (ADAN) reflected the attentional orienting toward cued information while selective retention was associated with a sustained suppression of posterior induced alpha power contralateral to retro-cue direction. Results suggest that retro-cue induced updating of visuo-spatial working memory requires about 500 ms to transfer the non-cued contents into a passive and fragile short-term memory state with less impact on ongoing information processing.
A synergistic blocking effect of Mg2+ and spermine on the inward rectifier K+ (Kir2.1) channel pore
Authors: Huang Chiung-Wei , Kuo Chung-Chin
Published: February 2016

Inward rectifier K+ channels (Kir2.1) exhibit an extraordinary rectifying feature in the current–voltage relationship. We have previously showed that the bundle–crossing region of the transmembrane domain constitutes the crucial segment responsible for the polyamine block. In this study, we demonstrated that the major blocking effect of intracellular Mg2+ on Kir2.1 channels is also closely correlated with K+ current flow and the coupled movements of Mg2+ and K+ seem to happen in the same flux–coupling segment of the pore as polyamines. With a preponderant outward K+ flow, intracellular Mg2+ would also be pushed to and thus stay at the outermost site of a flux–coupling segment in the bundle–crossing region of Kir2.1 channels to block the pore, although with a much lower apparent affinity than spermine (SPM). However, in contrast to the evident possibilities of outward exit of SPM through the channel pore especially during strong membrane depolarization, intracellular Mg2+ does not seem to traverse the Kir2.1 channel pore in any case. Intracellular Mg2+ and SPM therefore may have a synergistic action on the pore–blocking effect, presumably via prohibition of the outward exit of the higher–affinity blocking SPM by the lower–affinity Mg2+.
Residual force enhancement following shortening is speed-dependent
Authors: Fortuna Rafael , Power Geoffrey A. , Mende Esther , Seiberl Wolfgang , Herzog Walter
Published: February 2016

The steady-state isometric force following active muscle shortening or lengthening is smaller (force depression; FD) or greater (residual force enhancement; RFE) than a purely isometric contraction at the corresponding length. The mechanisms underlying these phenomena are not explained within the context of the cross-bridge theory and are rarely studied in concert. Previous studies have shown RFE to be speed-independent. In the present study, we investigated if RFE preceded by active shortening is time-dependent by electrically evoking RFE in the human adductor pollicis muscle. The results shown that a slow stretch following FD fully re-established RFE compared to higher speeds of stretch. The mechanism(s) responsible for the recovery of RFE following a preceding shortening contraction (FD) might be associated with the recovery of cross-bridge based force and/or the re-engagement of a passive structural element (titin). Voluntary interaction with one’s environment involves highly coordinated shortening and lengthening muscle contractions. Therefore comprehending these history-dependent muscle properties in the context of movement control is paramount in understanding the behavior of in vivo motor control.
Chromatic-aberration-corrected diffractive lenses for ultra-broadband focusing
Authors: Wang Peng , Mohammad Nabil , Menon Rajesh
Published: February 2016

We exploit the inherent dispersion in diffractive optics to demonstrate planar chromatic-aberration-corrected lenses. Specifically, we designed, fabricated and characterized cylindrical diffractive lenses that efficiently focus the entire visible band (450 nm to 700 nm) onto a single line. These devices are essentially pixelated, multi-level microstructures. Experiments confirm an average optical efficiency of 25% for a three-wavelength apochromatic lens whose chromatic focus shift is only 1.3 μm and 25 μm in the lateral and axial directions, respectively. Super-achromatic performance over the continuous visible band is also demonstrated with averaged lateral and axial focus shifts of only 1.65 μm and 73.6 μm, respectively. These lenses are easy to fabricate using single-step grayscale lithography and can be inexpensively replicated. Furthermore, these devices are thin (<3 μm), error tolerant, has low aspect ratio (<1:1) and offer polarization-insensitive focusing, all significant advantages compared to alternatives that rely on metasurfaces. Our design methodology offers high design flexibility in numerical aperture and focal length and is readily extended to 2D.
Seasonal variability of faecal indicator bacteria numbers and die-off rates in the Red River basin, North Viet Nam
Authors: Nguyen Huong Thi Mai , Le Quynh Thi Phuong , Garnier J. , Janeau J.-L. , Rochelle-Newall E.
Published: February 2016

The Red River is the second largest river in Viet Nam and constitutes the main water source for a large percentage of the population of North Viet Nam. Here we present the results of an annual survey of Escherichia coli (EC) and Total Coliforms (TC) in the Red River basin, North Viet Nam. The objective of this work was to obtain information on faecal indicator bacteria (FIB) numbers over an annual cycle and, secondly, to determine the die-off rates of these bacterial indicators. Monthly observations at 10 stations from July 2013–June 2014 showed that TC and EC reached as high as 39100 cfu (colony forming units) 100 ml−1 and 15300 colonies 100 ml−1, respectively. We observed a significant seasonal difference for TC (p < 0.05) with numbers being higher during the wet season. In contrast, no significant seasonal difference was found for EC. The FIB die-off rates ranged from 0.01 d−1 to a maximum of 1.13 d−1 for EC and from 0.17 d−1 to 1.33 d−1 for TC. Die-off rates were significantly higher for free bacteria than for total (free + particle attached) bacteria, suggesting that particle attachment provided a certain level of protection to FIB in this system.
Prediction of orthostatic hypotension in multiple system atrophy and Parkinson disease
Authors: Sun Zhanfang , Jia Dandan , Shi Yuting , Hou Xuan , Yang Xiaosu , Guo Jifeng , Li Nan , Wang Junling , Sun Qiying , Zhang Hainan , Lei Lifang , Shen Lu , Yan Xinxiang , Xia Kun , Jiang Hong , Tang Beisha
Published: February 2016

Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is common in multiple system atrophy (MSA) and Parkinson disease (PD), generally assessed through a lying-to-standing orthostatic test. However, standing blood pressure may not be available due to orthostatic intolerance or immobilization for such patients. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were successively measured in supine, sitting, and standing positions in patients with MSA and PD. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to evaluate diagnostic performance of the drops of sitting SBP or DBP. OH and severe OH were respectively regarded as “gold standard”. The drops of SBP in standing position were associated with increased disease severity for MSA and correlated with age for PD. In MSA group, drops in sitting SBP ≥ 14 mmHg or DBP ≥ 6 mmHg had highest validity for prediction of OH, and drops in sitting SBP ≥ 18 mmHg or DBP ≥ 8 mmHg for severe OH. In PD group, drops in sitting SBP ≥ 10 mmHg or DBP ≥ 6 mmHg had highest validity for prediction of OH. The lying-to-sitting orthostatic test is an alternative method for detection of OH in MSA and PD, especially when standing BP could not be validly measured due to various reasons.
Characterization of SCO4439, a D-alanyl-D-alanine carboxypeptidase involved in spore cell wall maturation, resistance and germination in Streptomyces coelicolor
Authors: Rioseras Beatriz , Yagüe Paula , López-García María Teresa , Gonzalez-Quiñonez Nathaly , Binda Elisa , Marinelli Flavia , Manteca Angel
Published: February 2016

This work contributes to the understanding of cell wall modifications during sporulation and germination inStreptomycesby assessing the biological function and biochemical properties of SCO4439, a D-alanyl-D-alanine carboxypeptidase (DD-CPase) constitutively expressed during development. SCO4439 harbors a DD-CPase domain and a putative transcriptional regulator domain, separated by a putative transmembrane region. The recombinant protein shows thatDD-CPase activity is inhibited by penicillin G. The spores of theSCO4439::Tn5062mutant are affected in their resistance to heat and acid and showed a dramatic increase in swelling during germination. The mycelium of theSCO4439::Tn5062mutant is more sensitive to glycopeptide antibiotics (vancomycin and teicoplanin). The DD-CPase domain and the hydrophobic transmembrane region are highly conserved inStreptomycesand both are essential for complementing the wild type phenotypes in the mutant. A model for the biological mechanism behind the observed phenotypes is proposed, in which SCO4439 DD-CPase releases D-Ala from peptidoglycan (PG) precursors, thereby reducing the substrate pool for PG crosslinking (transpeptidation). PG crosslinking regulates spore physical resistance and germination and modulates mycelium resistance to glycopeptides. This study is the first demonstration of the role of a DD-CPase in the maturation of the spore cell wall.
Competitive interactions between glucose and lactose with BSA: which sugar is better for children?
Authors: Zhang Qiulan , Ni Yongnian , Kokot Serge
Published: February 2016

The study strongly suggested that, as compared with glucose, lactose is more likely to promote the growth and development of healthy children.
A photoelectrochemical aptasensor for mucin 1 based on DNA/aptamer linking of quantum dots and TiO2 nanotube arrays
Authors: Tian Jiuying , Huang Tao , Lu Jusheng
Published: February 2016

Herein, a novel strategy for the construction of a photoelectrochemical aptasensor for tumor marker mucin 1 (MUC1) was presented, which was based on the effective photoelectron transfer from CdTe quantum dots (QDs) to TiO2 nanotube arrays (TiO2 NTs) through DNA chains.
Light-up fluorophore–DNA aptamer pair for label-free turn-on aptamer sensors
Authors: Kato Teru , Shimada Ippei , Kimura Ryota , Hyuga Masumi
Published: February 2016

A DNA aptamer binding to the environment-sensitive fluorophore, dapoxyl, which increased the fluorescence upon binding, was selected and used to construct aptamer sensors by fusion with analyte-binding DNA aptamers.
Unprecedented W2(0) quadruply bonded complex supported by π-donor ligands
Authors: Ventura K. , Prat J. R. , Aguirre Quintana L. M. , Goos A. , Villagran D.
Published: February 2016

A quadruply bonded complex W2(DippF)2K2 with a W2(0) core was synthesized and structurally characterized.
First-principles calculation of the effects of Li-doping on the structure and piezoelectricity of (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3lead-free ceramics
Authors: Yang D. , Wei L. L. , Chao X. L. , Yang Z. P. , Zhou X. Y.
Published: February 2016

The crystal structures of the lead-free piezoelectric ceramics (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3and (K0.5Na0.5)0.94Li0.06NbO3prepared by a solid-state method were investigated using first-principles calculations.
Synthesis of morphology-controlled bismutite for selective applications
Authors: Selvamani Thangavel , Gnana Sundara Raj Balasubramaniam , Anandan Sambandam , Wu Jerry J. , Ashokkumar Muthupandian
Published: February 2016

Bismutite (Bi2O2CO3) possessing diverse morphologies, namely, nanosheets, nanodiscs and nanoplatelets, was synthesized by a simple controllable method shows excellent materials as adsorbents and photocatalysts for wastewater treatment with supercapacitor activities for energy applications.
Phase evolution of Na2O–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O gels in synthetic aluminosilicate binders
Authors: Walkley Brant , San Nicolas Rackel , Sani Marc-Antoine , Gehman John D. , van Deventer Jannie S. J. , Provis John L.
Published: February 2016

Nanostructural evolution of Na2O–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O gels in synthetic aluminosilicate binders investigated by solid state29Si,27Al and23Na MAS NMR spectroscopy.
High-efficiency crystalline silicon solar cells: status and perspectives
Authors: Battaglia Corsin , Cuevas Andres , De Wolf Stefaan
Published: February 2016

This article reviews key factors for the success of crystalline silicon photovoltaics and gives an update on promising emerging concepts for further efficiency improvement and cost reduction.
Novel porous molybdenum tungsten phosphide hybrid nanosheets on carbon cloth for efficient hydrogen evolution
Authors: Wang Xu-Dong , Xu Yang-Fan , Rao Hua-Shang , Xu Wei-Jian , Chen Hong-Yan , Zhang Wei-Xiong , Kuang Dai-Bin , Su Cheng-Yong
Published: February 2016

Owing to the 3D scaffolds, porous nanosheets, and strong synergistic effect of Mo and W atoms, the Mo–W–P hybrid behaves as an efficient electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction.
Tartary buckwheat flavonoids protect hepatic cells against high glucose-induced oxidative stress and insulin resistance via MAPK signaling pathways
Authors: Hu Yuanyuan , Hou Zuoxu , Liu Dongyang , Yang Xingbin
Published: February 2016

Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in chronic complication of diabetes.
Photocurrent enhancement in a Cu2Cd(SSe)2 photoanode synthesized via an arrested precipitation route
Authors: Khot Kishorkumar V. , Mali Sawanta S. , Ghanwat Vishvanath B. , Kharade Suvarta D. , Mane Rahul M. , Hong Chang Kook , Bhosale Popatrao N.
Published: February 2016

Nanostructured combinatorial quaternary Cu2Cd(SSe)2 thin films synthesized via a self organized arrested precipitation technique for photoelectrochemical cell performance.
Nature-inspired optimization of hierarchical porous media for catalytic and separation processes
Authors: Trogadas Panagiotis , Nigra Michael M. , Coppens Marc-Olivier
Published: February 2016

Nature-inspired structuring at the meso-scale: broad macropores separate the mesoporous catalyst grains.
Epoxy and aziridinyl enolsilanes in diastereoselective inter- and intramolecular Friedel–Crafts alkylations
Authors: Ling Jesse , Lam Sze Kui , Lo Brian , Lam Sarah , Wong Wing-Tak , Sun Jian , Chen Guanhua , Chiu Pauline
Published: February 2016

Diastereoselective Friedel–Crafts reactions of optically pure epoxy enolsilanes afford enantiomerically-enriched β-hydroxy-α-arylketones. Aziridinyl enolsilanes react in an analogous manner.
DFT study on the CuBr-catalyzed synthesis of highly substituted furans: effects of solvent DMF, substrate MeOH, trace H2O and the metallic valence state of Cu
Authors: Yuan Binfang , He Rongxing , Shen Wei , Hu Weixia , Li Ming
Published: February 2016

Comparing the catalytic abilities of DMF, MeOH, and H2O for intermolecular nucleophilic addition and H-transfer process.
Push–pull ruthenium diacetylide complexes: new dyes for p-type dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Lyu Siliu , Farré Yoann , Ducasse Laurent , Pellegrin Yann , Toupance Thierry , Olivier Céline , Odobel Fabrice
Published: February 2016

A couple of novel donor–π–acceptor dyes based on organometallic ruthenium diacetylide complexes (SL1 and SL2) have been designed and synthesized for use in NiO-based p-type dye-sensitized solar cells (p-DSCs).
Hydroxyapatite-containing silk fibroin nanofibrous scaffolds for tissue-engineered periosteum
Authors: Ding Xili , Wu Chengqi , Ha Tong , Wang Lizhen , Huang Yan , Kang Hongyan , Zhang Yingying , Liu Haifeng , Fan Yubo
Published: February 2016

A simple, one-step technology is developed to generate a hydroxyapatite (HA)-containing silk fibroin nanofibrous scaffold which has great potential as osteogenesis promoting scaffolds for constructing tissue-engineered periosteum.
Surfactant-assisted synthesis of nanoporous nickel sulfide flakes and their hybridization with reduced graphene oxides for supercapacitor applications
Authors: Jothi Palani Raja , Salunkhe Rahul R. , Pramanik Malay , Kannan Shanthi , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: February 2016

We report a simple soft-templating strategy for the synthesis of nanoporous crystalline nickel sulfide with two-dimensional (2-D) morphology.
One-step synthesis of nitrogen-doped graphene supported PdSn bimetallic catalysts for ethanol oxidation in alkaline media
Authors: Feng Yue , Bin Duan , Zhang Ke , Ren Fangfang , Wang Jin , Du Yukou
Published: February 2016

In this paper, a facile chemical reduction method was employed to synthesize bimetallic PdSn nanocatalysts, and the nitrogen-doped graphene (N-G) has been used as a conductive support material for PdSn catalysts.
Dye aggregation in layer-by-layer dyeing of cotton fabrics
Authors: Khan Farzana , Liu Panpan , Xu Fujun , Ma Ying , Qiu Yiping
Published: February 2016

This work utilizes layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly technique to dye cotton fabrics and investigates the dye aggregation in these polymer matrixes.
Time-resolved XAS/MS/Raman monitoring of mutual copper self-reduction and ethanol dehydrogenation reactions
Authors: Cassinelli Wellington H. , Martins Leandro , Magnani Marina , Pulcinelli Sandra H. , Briois Valérie , Santilli Celso V.
Published: February 2016

The most active copper species for ethanol dehydrogenation to H2, acetaldehyde and ethyl acetate on a hierarchical porous Cu/Al2O3 catalyst is described.
Quality of graphene on sapphire: long-range order from helium diffraction versus lattice defects from Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Anemone Gloria , Climent-Pascual Esteban , Yu Hak Ki , Al Taleb Amjad , Jiménez-Villacorta Felix , Prieto Carlos , Wodtke Alec M. , De Andrés Alicia , Farías Daniel
Published: February 2016

We report a new method to produce high-quality, transparent graphene/sapphire samples, using Cu as a catalyst.
ZrO2/SBA-15 as an efficient catalyst for the production of γ-valerolactone from biomass-derived levulinic acid in the vapour phase at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Enumula Siva Sankar , Gurram Venkata Ramesh Babu , Kondeboina Murali , Burri David Raju , Kamaraju Seetha Rama Rao
Published: February 2016

25 weight% ZrO2/SBA-15 catalyst exhibits good activity in the catalytic transfer hydrogenation of levulinic acid under vapour phase conditions at atmospheric pressure.
Surface oxygen vacancy assisted electron transfer and shuttling for enhanced photocatalytic activity of a Z-scheme CeO2–AgI nanocomposite
Authors: Islam M. Jahurul , Reddy D. Amaranatha , Choi Jiha , Kim Tae Kyu
Published: February 2016

A Z-scheme CeO2–AgI photocatalyst was successfully fabricated and its photocatalytic mechanism has been unraveled.
A kinetic model for diffusion and chemical reaction of silicon anode lithiation in lithium ion batteries
Authors: Xie Zhoucan , Ma Zengsheng , Wang Yan , Zhou Yichun , Lu Chunsheng
Published: February 2016

In this paper, a kinetic model is proposed that combines lithium ion diffusion through a lithiated phase with chemical reaction at the interface between lithiated amorphous and crystalline silicon.
[C–H⋯anion] interactions mediate the templation and anion binding properties of topologically non-trivial metal–organic structures in aqueous solutions
Authors: Bilbeisi Rana A. , Prakasam Thirumurugan , Lusi Matteo , El Khoury Roberto , Platas-Iglesias Carlos , Charbonnière Loïc J. , Olsen John-Carl , Elhabiri Mourad , Trabolsi Ali
Published: February 2016

We report the anion-recognition properties and anion-mediated templation of Metal-Organic knots and links in aqueous solutions.
“Inverse” thermoresponse: heat-induced double-helix formation of an ethynylhelicene oligomer with tri(ethylene glycol) termini
Authors: Saito Nozomi , Kobayashi Higashi , Yamaguchi Masahiko
Published: February 2016

Ethynylhelicene oligomers with TEG terminal groups showed a unique thermoresponse in aqueous solvents: double-helix formation upon heating and disaggregation upon cooling.
Recent progress in the development of anodes for asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Yu Minghao , Wang Zilong , Han Yi , Tong Yexiang , Lu Xihong , Yang Shihe
Published: February 2016

Recent advances and challenges in anodes for asymmetric supercapacitors are reviewed and discussed.
The influence of the SULT1A status – wild-type, knockout or humanized – on the DNA adduct formation by methyleugenol in extrahepatic tissues of mice
Authors: Herrmann K. , Engst W. , Florian S. , Lampen A. , Meinl W. , Glatt H. R.
Published: February 2016

DNA adduction by methyleugenol was nearly fully dependent on the expression of SULT1A enzymes in mouse liver, caecum and kidney. It was independent of SULT1A in stomach.
A peptide hydrogel derived from a fragment of human cardiac troponin C
Authors: De Leon-Rodriguez Luis M. , Kamalov Meder , Hemar Yacine , Mitra Alok K. , Castelletto Valeria , Hermida-Merino Daniel , Hamley Ian W. , Brimble Margaret A.
Published: February 2016

The human cardiac troponin C peptide fragment H-V9EQLTEEQKNEFKAAFDIFVLGA31-OH self assembles into β-sheets fibrils that further entangle to give a hydrogels.
Synthesis of quaternary aryl phosphonium salts: photoredox-mediated phosphine arylation
Authors: Fearnley A. F. , An J. , Jackson M. , Lindovska P. , Denton R. M.
Published: February 2016

We report a synthesis method for the construction of quaternary aryl phoshonium salts at ambient temperature.
Synthesis of quaternary α-perfluoroalkyl lactams via electrophilic perfluoroalkylation
Authors: Katayev D. , Václavík J. , Brüning F. , Commare B. , Togni A.
Published: February 2016

The efficient one-pot perfluoroalkylation of lactams by hypervalent iodine reagents is catalysed by trimethylsilyl triflimide.
Thermo-responsive poly(2-isopropyl-2-oxazoline) and tetraphenylethene hybrids for stimuli-responsive photoluminescence control
Authors: Kim Joo-Ho , Yim Dajeong , Jang Woo-Dong
Published: February 2016

Poly(2-isopropyl-2-oxazoline) (POx), a typical thermo-responsive polymer, was conjugated with a tetraphenylethene derivative, having aggregation induced emission behavior, towards the thermal control of their fluorescence emission.
Second harmonic generation from gold meta-molecules with three-fold symmetry
Authors: Hou Renjie , Shynkar Vasyl , Lafargue Clément , Kolkowski Radoslaw , Zyss Joseph , Lagugné-Labarthet François
Published: February 2016

Polarization dependence SHG measurements reveal four-lobe patterns which can be assigned to structures with three-fold symmetry.
Molecular interactions between ammonium-based ionic liquids and molecular solvents: current progress and challenges
Authors: Govinda Varadhi , Venkatesu Pannuru , Bahadur Indra
Published: February 2016

In this perspective, we describe how the thermodynamic parameters can be effectively used to gain valuable insights into molecular interactions between ammonium-based ILs and molecular solvents, which would be most useful in various industries.
Facet-selective charge carrier transport, deactivation mechanism and stabilization of a Cu2O photo-electro-catalyst
Authors: Li Yang , Yun Xiaogang , Chen Hong , Zhang Wenqin , Li Yongdan
Published: February 2016

A facet-dependent photo-deactivation mechanism of Cu2O was verified and reported, which is caused by the facet-dependent charge carrier transport.
Avoiding the 4-index transformation in one-body reduced density matrix functional calculations for separable functionals
Authors: Giesbertz Klaas J. H.
Published: February 2016

One of the major computational bottlenecks in one-body reduced density matrix functional is the evaluation of the approximate functionals due to a 4-index transformation. For separable functionals, the 4-index transformation can be avoided which leads to a significant better scaling.
Factors affecting the long-term stability of mesoporous nickel-based catalysts in combined steam and dry reforming of methane
Authors: Jabbour K. , El Hassan N. , Davidson A. , Casale S. , Massiani P.
Published: February 2016

Direct “one-pot” synthesis is highly efficient to obtain performing mesoporous Ni–Al2O3catalysts able to resist deactivation by sintering and coke deposition during CH4reforming by CO2and H2O to produce “metgas”.
A new cadmium-doped titanium–oxo cluster with stable photocatalytic H2 evolution properties
Authors: Liu Jin-Xiu , Zeng Xian-Chong , Zhang Lei , Zhang Jian
Published: February 2016

A new Cd-doped titanium–oxo cluster (TOC) with good H2 evolution ability and high catalytic stability has been prepared and characterized.
Direct P-functionalization of azobenzene by a cationic phosphidozirconocene complex
Authors: Normand Adrien T. , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Kehr Gerald , Le Gendre Pierre , Erker Gerhard
Published: February 2016

Cooperation between zirconium and phosphorus enables the direct synthesis of a new PNN ligandviaa spectrosopically characterized σHadduct.
Chiral and non-chiral assemblies from lipidated serine-based pseudopeptidic molecules
Authors: Bijesh M. B. , Dheepthi N. U. , Sapala Appa Rao , Shandilya Ashutosh , Khare Kedar , Haridas V.
Published: February 2016

Through various examples, we demonstrated serine as an excellent building block for the design of chiral and non-chiral self-assembled materials. The fine parameters such as pitch, angle and helicity can be altered using clever molecular engineering.
Correction: Mimicking vanadium haloperoxidases: vanadium(iii)–carboxylic acid complexes and their application in H2O2 detection
Authors: Feng Xiao Dong , Zhang Xiao Xi , Wang Zhi Nan , Song Jian , Xing Yong Heng , Bai Feng Ying
Published: February 2016

Correction for ‘Mimicking vanadium haloperoxidases: vanadium(iii)–carboxylic acid complexes and their application in H2O2 detection’ by Xiao Dong Feng et al., New J. Chem., 2016, 40, 1222–1229.
pH dependent thermoresponsive behavior of acrylamide–acrylonitrile UCST-type copolymers in aqueous media
Authors: Pineda-Contreras Beatriz A. , Schmalz Holger , Agarwal Seema
Published: February 2016

pH-dependent UCST-transitions and influence of sacrificial additives on the thermoresponsivity of acrylamide- acrylonitrile copolymers is shown.
Synthesis of fused isoquinolines via gold-catalyzed tandem alkyne amination/intramolecular O–H insertion
Authors: Pan Yuan , Chen Gui-Wei , Shen Cang-Hai , He Weimin , Ye Long-Wu
Published: February 2016

A novel gold-catalyzed tandem alkyne amination/intramolecular O–H insertion has been developed. A variety of [1,4]oxazino[3,2-c]isoquinolines are readily accessed under mild reaction conditions by utilizing this strategy, thereby providing an efficient and practical route for the construction of synthetically useful fused isoquinolines.
Alkaline etching treatment of PVDF membrane for water filtration
Authors: Samsure Nurul Alwani , Hashim N. Awanis , Nik Sulaiman Nik Meriam , Chee Ching Yern
Published: February 2016

PVDF membranes were prepared via an immersion precipitation process using SiO2 particles as an additive. Etching treatment with mild KOH solution led to increased values of water permeability and BSA rejection for the membrane.
Recent advances in 1,10-phenanthroline ligands for chemosensing of cations and anions
Authors: Alreja Priya , Kaur Navneet
Published: February 2016

This review encompasses and highlights recent developments of 1,10-phenanthroline ligands behaving as a customized moiety used in recognition and sensing of cations and anions.
The effect of rol genes on phytoecdysteroid biosynthesis in Ajuga bracteosa differs between transgenic plants and hairy roots
Authors: Kayani Waqas Khan , Palazòn Javier , Cusidò Rosa M. , Mirza Bushra
Published: February 2016

A. bracteosaplants transformed withrolgenes biosynthesize higher phytoecdysteroid contents (up to 14.5 fold) as compared to untransformed intact plants. Moreoverde novobiosynthesis of sengosterone is suggested in the roots ofA. bracteosa.
Methanation of carbon monoxide on ordered mesoporous NiO–TiO2–Al2O3 composite oxides
Authors: Liu Qing , Tian Yuanyu , Ai Hongmei
Published: February 2016

An ordered mesoporous NiO–TiO2–Al2O3 catalyst can simultaneously exhibit high catalytic activity and stability, due to the confinement effect of the mesopore channels and the incorporation of the TiO2 species.
A facile chemical method for the synthesis of 3C–SiC nanoflakes
Authors: Dragomir Mirela , Valant Matjaz , Fanetti Mattia , Mozharivskyj Yurij
Published: February 2016

A facile chemical method for the synthesis of high specific surface area 3C–SiC nanoflakes in a NaCl powder template is presented.
Green synthesis of highly fluorescent AuNCs with red emission and their special sensing behavior for Al3+
Authors: Li Dan , Chen Zhenhua , Yang Tiezhu , Wang Hao , Lu Nan , Mei Xifan
Published: February 2016

Facile methods were fabricated for preparation of highly fluorescent AuNCs with red emission using l-cysteine.
β-Cyclodextrin included coumarin derivatives as selective fluorescent sensors for Cu2+ ions in HeLa cells
Authors: Khan Raihana Imran , Pitchumani Kasi
Published: February 2016

A highly sensitive and selective fluorescent sensor for Cu2+ ions in water medium is reported using 4-((benzo[d]thiazol-2-ylthio)methyl)-5,7-dihydroxy-2H-chromen-2-one (1) included β-cyclodextrin, as a probe.
Highly sensitive visual detection of catalase based on the accelerating decomposition of H2O2 using Au nanorods as a sensor
Authors: Lu Simin , Chen Ling , Yang Ping , Matras-Postolek Katarzyna
Published: February 2016

Novel colourimetric strategy was developed to the selective and rapid visual detection of catalase by gold nanorod decelerating etching.
Chemical–mechanical properties of tribofilms and their relationship to ionic liquid chemistry
Authors: Sharma Vibhu , Doerr Nicole , Aswath Pranesh B.
Published: February 2016

Hardness as a function of indentation depth for tribofilms formed from ZDDP and N_DEHP ionic liquid. Superimposed on the data is the corresponding phosphate chain length information acquired from XANES.
Photoelectrochemical water oxidation using a Bi2MoO6/MoO3 heterojunction photoanode synthesised by hydrothermal treatment of an anodised MoO3 thin film
Authors: Lou Shi Nee , Scott Jason , Iwase Akihide , Amal Rose , Ng Yun Hau
Published: February 2016

A photoactive Bi2MoO6/MoO3 heterojunction electrode derived from a direct thin-film-route showed close to 100% faradic photocurrent-to-O2 conversion efficiency.
One-dimensional periodic mesoporous organosilica helical nanotubes with amphiphilic properties for the removal of contaminants from water
Authors: Zou Houbing , Wang Runwei , Shi Zhiqiang , Dai Jinyu , Zhang Zongtao , Qiu Shilun
Published: February 2016

One new class of one-dimensional highly uniform PMO helical nanotubes with a unique amphiphilic framework and perpendicular mesochannels in walls has been reportedviaa simple, efficient and controllable one-step strategy. These nanotubes show outstanding performance in the removal of hydrophobic contaminants from water.
Single-crystalline α-Fe2O3 void@frame microframes for rechargeable batteries
Authors: Zhu Jian , Deng Da
Published: February 2016

Single-crystalline α-Fe2O3 void@frame open microframes with perforated shells and high accessibility exhibited improved Li-ion storage properties as compared to solid microparticles.
Detection of intermittent faults for linear stochastic systems subject to time‐varying parametric perturbations
Authors: Yan Rongyi , He Xiao , Zhou Donghua
Published: February 2016

In this study, the robust detection problem of intermittent faults (IFs) for linear stochastic systems subject to time‐varying parametric perturbations is addressed. The authors consider the case that an IF appears and disappears non‐deterministically, and lasts for random periods of active time with unknown magnitudes. A novel robust fault detection method is presented to detect all the appearing time and the disappearing time of an IF. Based on the output of an observer‐type residual generator, a novel robust residual is constructed by utilising a sliding‐time window. Two hypothesis tests are provided to detect all the appearing and the disappearing time, respectively. Moreover, the detectability of the IF by using the proposed robust detection scheme is defined in a probabilistic sense, and a sufficient detectability condition is presented within the given framework. Capacities of false alarm rates and missed detection rates are rigorously analysed. Finally, the application of the presented scheme is illustrated on a simplified radial flight control system and the results show that the IF can be effectively detected in the presence of perturbations and noises.
Eigenstructure assignment and impulse elimination for singular second‐order system via feedback control
Authors: Yu Peizhao , Zhang Guoshan
Published: February 2016

This study presents the eigenstructure assignment approach for singular second‐order system via feedback control. The solvability for the problem of normalisation is considered by analysing characteristic polynomial of closed‐loop system. All the parametric expressions of controller gains for normalisation are derived. Combining infinite eigenstructure and finite eigenstructure of closed‐loop system, impulse elimination approach via feedback control is presented. More precisely, based on desired eigenstructure, the parametric expressions of the gains controller making the closed‐loop system impulse‐free and assigning the finite eigenstructure are formulated. Simulation results are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Investigation of the dipole formation and growth behavior at In2O3|TiO2 heterojunctions using photoemission spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy
Authors: Schaefer Michael , Halpegamage Sandamali , Batzill Matthias , Schlaf Rudy
Published: February 2016

This paper discusses the investigation of the dipole formation at In2O3|TiO2 heterojunctions depending on preparation conditions, i.e., cleaning methods. In2O3 films were deposited using atomic layer deposition (ALD) onto solvent and in situ cleaned anatase and rutile film substrates. The interface dipole strength and film thickness were evaluated by photoemission spectroscopy. Our results indicate the formation of a large intrinsic and film thickness dependent interface dipole that reaches its maximum strength at monolayer thick ALD films. In addition, it was observed that UV photoelectron spectroscopy measurements introduced UV induced surface hydroxylation, which resulted in dipole potentials of −0.70 eV and −0.50 eV on solvent cleaned anatase and rutile, respectively. The overlayers also introduced small amounts of band bending (∼0.10 eV) at the interfaces. Taking these effects into account, the total dipole strength at monolayer thick In2O3 films was determined to be −0.96 eV for solvent cleaned anatase and rutile and −0.81 eV for in situ cleaned rutile. The deposition of single ALD cycles on differently cleaned rutile substrates resulted in similar work function values, suggesting little influence of the sample preparation method prior to ALD deposition on the dipole formation. This was assigned to the fact that ALD oxides benefit from ambient water related contamination by integrating the molecules into the growing ALD layer. Highest initial growth was observed on solvent cleaned rutile, followed by in-situ cleaned rutile and solvent cleaned anatase. The In2O3 growth converged at 0.3 Å/c past the nucleation regime.