bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulating the Bargaining Model of War
Authors: Haynes Kyle
Published: October 2015

This article outlines a classroom simulation for teaching the bargaining model of war. This model has become one of the most important theories of international conflict, but the technical notation often used to illustrate it is troublesome for some students. I describe a simple card game that can be integrated into a broader strategy for conveying the bargaining model’s core insights. I also highlight ways in which the game can be modified to focus on different aspects of the model’s logic.
We Still Need You! An Update on the Status of K-12 Civics Education in the United States
Authors: Journell Wayne
Published: October 2015

In 2001, Richard Niemi and Julia Smith published an article inPS: Political Science and Politicson enrollments in high school civics and government courses. They framed their study on the premise that political scientists were ignoring an important aspect of American civic and political life, and they concluded by issuing a call for political scientists to become more involved in K-12 civics education. This article provides an update on the state of K-12 civics education and renews Niemi and Smith’s call for political science engagement in K-12 education.
INDICATIVE CONDITIONALS, RESTRICTED QUANTIFICATION, AND NAIVE TRUTH
Authors: FIELD HARTRY
Published: October 2015

This paper extends Kripke’s theory of truth to a language with a variably strict conditional operator, of the kind that Stalnaker and others have used to represent ordinary indicative conditionals of English. It then shows how to combine this with a different and independently motivated conditional operator, to get a substantial logic of restricted quantification within naive truth theory.
First record of Scrippsiella trochoidea (Dinophyceae) in Shatt Al-Arab River (Southern Iraq)
Authors: Hameed Hameed Abbas , Saburova Maria
Published: October 2015

Even though very few biological data on dinoflagellates from Iraqi aquatic ecosystems are available to date, there are none on the genusScrippsiella. For this reason, the survey was conducted along four sites in the Shatt Al-Arab River between November 2009 and July 2010. A dense population ofScrippsiella-like dinoflagellate was observed in the studied samples during November and December 2009. Less dense population of the same taxon was encountered in the downstream sites in July 2010. Based on observations of thecal plate pattern in epifluorescence microscopy, the species was attributed toScrippsiella trochoidea. The occurrence ofS. trochoideais reported for the first time in Iraqi waters from a wide range of temperature (17.9°C–35.2°C) and salinity (2.3–16.7).
Enhancer repertoires are reshaped independently of early priming and heterochromatin dynamics during B cell differentiation
Authors: Choukrallah Mohamed-Amin , Song Shuang , Rolink Antonius G. , Burger Lukas , Matthias Patrick
Published: October 2015

A widely accepted model posits that activation of enhancers during differentiation goes through a priming step prior to lineage commitment. To investigate the chronology of enhancer repertoire establishment during hematopoiesis, we monitored epigenome dynamics during three developmental stages representing hematopoietic stem cells, B-cell progenitors and mature B-cells. We find that only a minority of enhancers primed in stem cells or progenitors become active at later stages. Furthermore, most enhancers active in differentiated cells were not primed in earlier stages. Thus, the enhancer repertoire is reshaped dynamically during B-cell differentiation and enhancer priming in early stages does not appear to be an obligate step for enhancer activation. Furthermore, our data reveal that heterochromatin and Polycomb-mediated silencing have only a minor contribution in shaping enhancer repertoires during cell differentiation. Together, our data revisit the prevalent model about epigenetic reprogramming during hematopoiesis and give insights into the formation of gene regulatory networks.
Quantum-secure covert communication on bosonic channels
Authors: Bash Boulat A. , Gheorghe Andrei H. , Patel Monika , Habif Jonathan L. , Goeckel Dennis , Towsley Don , Guha Saikat
Published: October 2015

Computational encryption, information-theoretic secrecy and quantum cryptography offer progressively stronger security against unauthorized decoding of messages contained in communication transmissions. However, these approaches do not ensure stealth—that the mere presence of message-bearing transmissions be undetectable. We characterize the ultimate limit of how much data can be reliably and covertly communicated over the lossy thermal-noise bosonic channel (which models various practical communication channels). We show that whenever there is some channel noise that cannot in principle be controlled by an otherwise arbitrarily powerful adversary—for example, thermal noise from blackbody radiation—the number of reliably transmissible covert bits is at most proportional to the square root of the number of orthogonal modes (the time-bandwidth product) available in the transmission interval. We demonstrate this in a proof-of-principle experiment. Our result paves the way to realizing communications that are kept covert from an all-powerful quantum adversary.
Optimizing Field Emission Properties of the Hybrid Structures of Graphene Stretched on Patterned and Size-controllable SiNWs
Authors: Lv Shasha , Li Zhengcao , Liao Jiecui , Wang Guojing , Li Mingyang , Miao Wei
Published: October 2015

Graphene is one of the ideal nanomaterials to be paired with silicon and their complementary properties can be exploited in field emission (FE) devices. We reported an efficient way to produce and adjust the dimension of uniform protrusions within graphene. First, a multistep template replication process was utilized to fabricate highly periodic and well-aligned silicon nanowires (SiNWs) of different diameters (400, 500 and 600 nm). Then, large-scale and uniform graphene, fabricated by chemical vapor deposition (CVD), was transferred onto these size-controlled SiNWs to obtain the nanoscale and uniform undulations. As compared to the nanowires alone, the hybrid structures lead to higher FE performance due to electron conductivity enhancement, high-density emmison protrusions and band bending. These hybrid SiNWs/graphene structures could provide a promising class of field emission cathodes.
Seasonal Expression of Prolactin Receptor in the Scented Gland of Male Muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus)
Authors: Cao Han , Wang Liang , Zhang Shuo , Lu Lu , Sheng Xia , Han Yingying , Yuan Zhengrong , Weng Qiang
Published: October 2015

Prolactin (PRL) has numerous actions in mammalian biological systems including mammary development and biological processes. The aim of this study was to investigate the seasonal changes of prolactin receptor (PRLR) expression in the scented gland of muskrat during the breeding and nonbreeding seasons. Histologically, glandular cells, interstitial cells and excretory tubules were identified in the scented glands in both seasons, whereas epithelial cells were sparse in the nonbreeding season. PRLR was observed in glandular cells of scented glands during the breeding and nonbreeding seasons with stronger immunostaining during the breeding season. Consistent with the immunohistochemical results, both the mean of protein and mRNA levels of PRLR were higher in the scented glands of the breeding season and relatively lower level in the nonbreeding season. In addition, differential seasonal changes were also detected in the expression profile of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the scented gland of muskrat. Besides, plasma PRL concentration was remarkably higher in the breeding season than that in the nonbreeding season. These results suggested that muskrat scented gland was the direct target organ of PRL and stronger expression of PRLR in scented glands during the breeding season indicated that PRL may directly regulate scented glandular function of the muskrats.
Global Landscape of Total Organic Carbon, Nitrogen and Phosphorus in Lake Water
Authors: Chen Ming , Zeng Guangming , Zhang Jiachao , Xu Piao , Chen Anwei , Lu Lunhui
Published: October 2015

Human activities continue to increase the amount of carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in lakes, which may cause serious environmental and human health problems. Global landscape of total organic C (TOC), N and P in lake water is still poorly known. Using a global data set that covers ~8300 lakes from 68 countries/regions spanning six continents, we estimate that global mean concentrations and storage in lake water are 5.578 mg L−1 and 984.0 Tg for TOC, 0.526 mg L−1 and 92.8 Tg for TN and 0.014 mg L−1 and 2.5 Tg for TP. These lake elements are significantly interrelated and in uneven distribution, being associated with morphological characteristics and climate conditions. We proposed that global C, N and P cycles should be considered as a whole in biogeochemical studies and policy-making related to environmental protection.
Thermodynamic holography
Authors: Wei Bo-Bo , Jiang Zhan-Feng , Liu Ren-Bao
Published: October 2015

The holographic principle states that the information about a volume of a system is encoded on the boundary surface of the volume. Holography appears in many branches of physics, such as optics, electromagnetism, many-body physics, quantum gravity and string theory. Here we show that holography is also an underlying principle in thermodynamics, a most important foundation of physics. The thermodynamics of a system is fully determined by its partition function. We prove that the partition function of a finite but arbitrarily large system is an analytic function on the complex plane of physical parameters and therefore the partition function in a region on the complex plane is uniquely determined by its values along the boundary. The thermodynamic holography has applications in studying thermodynamics of nano-scale systems (such as molecule engines, nano-generators and macromolecules) and provides a new approach to many-body physics.
Combination of six enzymes of a marine Novosphingobium converts the stereoisomers of β-O-4 lignin model dimers into the respective monomers
Authors: Ohta Yukari , Nishi Shinro , Hasegawa Ryoichi , Hatada Yuji
Published: October 2015

Lignin, an aromatic polymer of phenylpropane units joined predominantly by β-O-4 linkages, is the second most abundant biomass component on Earth. Despite the continuous discharge of terrestrially produced lignin into marine environments, few studies have examined lignin degradation by marine microorganisms. Here, we screened marine isolates for β-O-4 cleavage activity and determined the genes responsible for this enzymatic activity in one positive isolate.Novosphingobiumsp. strain MBES04 converted all four stereoisomers of guaiacylglycerol-β-guaiacyl ether (GGGE), a structural mimic of lignin, to guaiacylhydroxypropanone as an end metabolite in three steps involving six enzymes, including a newly identifiedNu-class glutathione-S-transferase (GST).In silicosearches of the strain MBES04 genome revealed that four GGGE-metabolizing GST genes were arranged in a cluster. Transcriptome analysis demonstrated that the lignin model compounds GGGE and (2-methoxyphenoxy)hydroxypropiovanillone (MPHPV) enhanced the expression of genes in involved in energy metabolism, including aromatic-monomer assimilation and evoked defense responses typically expressed upon exposure to toxic compounds. The findings from this study provide insight into previously unidentified bacterial enzymatic systems and the physiological acclimation of microbes associated with the biological transformation of lignin-containing materials in marine environments.
A new method for achieving enhanced dielectric response over a wide temperature range
Authors: Maurya Deepam , Sun Fu-Chang , Pamir Alpay S. , Priya Shashank
Published: October 2015

We report a novel approach for achieving high dielectric response over a wide temperature range. In this approach, multilayer ceramic heterostructures with constituent compositions having strategically tuned Curie points (TC) were designed and integrated with varying electrical connectivity. Interestingly, these multilayer structures exhibited different dielectric behavior in series and parallel configuration due to variations in electrical boundary conditions resulting in the differences in the strength of the electrostatic coupling. The results are explained using nonlinear thermodynamic model taking into account electrostatic interlayer interaction. We believe that present work will have huge significance in design of high performance ceramic capacitors.
Targeting autocrine HB-EGF signaling with specific ADAM12 inhibition using recombinant ADAM12 prodomain
Authors: Miller Miles A. , Moss Marcia L. , Powell Gary , Petrovich Robert , Edwards Lori , Meyer Aaron S. , Griffith Linda G. , Lauffenburger Douglas A.
Published: October 2015

Dysregulation of ErbB-family signaling underlies numerous pathologies and has been therapeutically targeted through inhibiting ErbB-receptors themselves or their cognate ligands. For the latter, “decoy” antibodies have been developed to sequester ligands including heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF); however, demonstrating sufficient efficacy has been difficult. Here, we hypothesized that this strategy depends on properties such as ligand-receptor binding affinity, which varies widely across the known ErbB-family ligands. Guided by computational modeling, we found that high-affinity ligands such as HB-EGF are more difficult to target with decoy antibodies compared to low-affinity ligands such as amphiregulin (AREG). To address this issue, we developed an alternative method for inhibiting HB-EGF activity by targeting its cleavage from the cell surface. In a model of the invasive disease endometriosis, we identified A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase 12 (ADAM12) as a protease implicated in HB-EGF shedding. We designed a specific inhibitor of ADAM12 based on its recombinant prodomain (PA12), which selectively inhibits ADAM12 but not ADAM10 or ADAM17. In endometriotic cells, PA12 significantly reduced HB-EGF shedding and resultant cellular migration. Overall, specific inhibition of ligand shedding represents a possible alternative to decoy antibodies, especially for ligands such as HB-EGF that exhibit high binding affinity and localized signaling.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: A novel IgY-Aptamer hybrid system for cost-effective detection of SEB and its evaluation on food and clinical samples
Authors: Mudili Venkataramana , Makam Shivakiran S. , Sundararaj Naveen , Siddaiah Chandranayaka , Gupta Vijai Kumar , Rao Putcha V. Lakshmana
Published: October 2015

In the present study, we introduce a novel hybrid sandwich-ALISA employing chicken IgY and ssDNA aptamers for the detection of staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB). Cloning, expression and purification of the full length recombinant SEB was carried out. Anti-SEB IgY antibodies generated by immunizing white leg-horn chickens with purified recombinant SEB protein and were purified from the immunized egg yolk. Simultaneously, ssDNA aptamers specific to the toxin were prepared by SELEX method on microtiter well plates. The sensitivity levels of both probe molecules i.e., IgY and ssDNA aptamers were evaluated. We observed that the aptamer at 250 ngmL−1 concentration could detect the target antigen at 50 ngmL−1 and the IgY antibodies at 250 ngmL−1, could able to detect 100 ngmL−1 antigen. We further combined both the probes to prepare a hybrid sandwich aptamer linked immune sorbent assay (ALISA) wherein the IgY as capturing molecule and biotinylated aptamer as revealing probe. Limit of detection (LOD) for the developed method was determined as 50 ngmL−1. Further, developed method was evaluated with artificially SEB spiked milk and natural samples and obtained results were validated with PCR. In conclusion, developed ALISA method may provide cost-effective and robust detection of SEB from food and environmental samples.
Electronic Structure and Ferromagnetism Modulation in Cu/Cu2O Interface: Impact of Interfacial Cu Vacancy and Its Diffusion
Authors: Li Hao-Bo , Wang Weichao , Xie Xinjian , Cheng Yahui , Zhang Zhaofu , Dong Hong , Zheng Rongkun , Wang Wei-Hua , Lu Feng , Liu Hui
Published: October 2015

Cu/Cu2O composite structures have been discovered to show sizable ferromagnetism (FM) with the potential applications in spintronic devices. To date, there is no consensus on the FM origin in Cu/Cu2O systems. Here, first principles calculations are performed on the interface structure to explore the microscopic mechanism of the FM. It is found that only the Cu vacancy (VCu) adjacent to the outermost Cu2O layer induces a considerable magnetic moment, mostly contributed by 2p orbitals of the nearest-neighbor oxygen atom (ONN) with two dangling bonds and 3d orbitals of the Cu atoms bonding with the ONN. Meanwhile, the charge transfer from Cu to Cu2O creates higher density of states at the Fermi level and subsequently leads to the spontaneous FM. Furthermore, the FM could be modulated by the amount of interfacial VCu, governed by the interfacial Cu diffusion with a moderate energy barrier (~1.2 eV). These findings provide insights into the FM mechanism and tuning the FM via interfacial cation diffusion in the Cu/Cu2O contact.
De novo KCNB1 mutations in infantile epilepsy inhibit repetitive neuronal firing
Authors: Saitsu Hirotomo , Akita Tenpei , Tohyama Jun , Goldberg-Stern Hadassa , Kobayashi Yu , Cohen Roni , Kato Mitsuhiro , Ohba Chihiro , Miyatake Satoko , Tsurusaki Yoshinori , Nakashima Mitsuko , Miyake Noriko , Fukuda Atsuo , Matsumoto Naomichi
Published: October 2015

The voltage-gated Kv2.1 potassium channel encoded by KCNB1 produces the major delayed rectifier potassium current in pyramidal neurons. Recently, de novo heterozygous missense KCNB1 mutations have been identified in three patients with epileptic encephalopathy and a patient with neurodevelopmental disorder. However, the frequency of KCNB1 mutations in infantile epileptic patients and their effects on neuronal activity are yet unknown. We searched whole exome sequencing data of a total of 437 patients with infantile epilepsy and found novel de novo heterozygous missense KCNB1 mutations in two patients showing psychomotor developmental delay and severe infantile generalized seizures with high-amplitude spike-and-wave electroencephalogram discharges. The mutation located in the channel voltage sensor (p.R306C) disrupted sensitivity and cooperativity of the sensor, while the mutation in the channel pore domain (p.G401R) selectively abolished endogenous Kv2 currents in transfected pyramidal neurons, indicating a dominant-negative effect. Both mutants inhibited repetitive neuronal firing through preventing production of deep interspike voltages. Thus KCNB1 mutations can be a rare genetic cause of infantile epilepsy and insufficient firing of pyramidal neurons would disturb both development and stability of neuronal circuits, leading to the disease phenotypes.
The Impact of Environmental Fluctuations on Evolutionary Fitness Functions
Authors: Melbinger Anna , Vergassola Massimo
Published: October 2015

The concept of fitness as a measure for a species’ success in natural selection is central to the theory of evolution. We here investigate how reproduction rates which are not constant but vary in response to environmental fluctuations, influence a species’ prosperity and thereby its fitness. Interestingly, we find that not only larger growth rates but also reduced sensitivities to environmental changes substantially increase the fitness. Thereby, depending on the noise level of the environment, it might be an evolutionary successful strategy to minimize this sensitivity rather than to optimize the reproduction speed. Also for neutral evolution, where species with exactly the same properties compete, variability in the growth rates plays a crucial role. The time for one species to fixate is strongly reduced in the presence of environmental noise. Hence, environmental fluctuations constitute a possible explanation for effective population sizes inferred from genetic data that often are much smaller than the census population size.
A scanning acoustic microscope discriminates cancer cells in fluid
Authors: Miura Katsutoshi , Yamamoto Seiji
Published: October 2015

Scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM) discriminates lesions in sections by assessing the speed of sound (SOS) or attenuation of sound (AOS) through tissues within a few minutes without staining; however, its clinical use in cytological diagnosis is unknown. We applied a thin layer preparation method to observe benign and malignant effusions using SAM. Although SAM is inferior in detecting nuclear features than light microscopy, it can differentiate malignant from benign cells using the higher SOS and AOS values and large irregular cell clusters that are typical features of carcinomas. Moreover, each single malignant cell exhibits characteristic cytoplasmic features such as a large size, irregular borders and secretory or cytoskeletal content. By adjusting the observation range, malignant cells are differentiated from benign cells easily using SAM. Subtle changes in the functional and structural heterogeneity of tumour cells were pursuable with a different digital data of SAM. SAM can be a useful tool for screening malignant cells in effusions before light microscopic observation. Higher AOS values in malignant cells compared with those of benign cells support the feasibility of a novel sonodynamic therapy for malignant effusions.
Human Mitochondrial DNA-Protein Complexes Attach to a Cholesterol-Rich Membrane Structure
Authors: Gerhold Joachim M. , Cansiz-Arda Şirin , Lõhmus Madis , Engberg Oskar , Reyes Aurelio , van Rennes Helga , Sanz Alberto , Holt Ian J. , Cooper Helen M. , Spelbrink Johannes N.
Published: October 2015

The helicase Twinkle is indispensable for mtDNA replication in nucleoids. Previously, we showed that Twinkle is tightly membrane-associated even in the absence of mtDNA, which suggests that Twinkle is part of a membrane-attached replication platform. Here we show that this platform is a cholesterol-rich membrane structure. We fractionated mitochondrial membrane preparations on flotation gradients and show that membrane-associated nucleoids accumulate at the top of the gradient. This fraction was shown to be highly enriched in cholesterol, a lipid that is otherwise low abundant in mitochondria. In contrast, more common mitochondrial lipids and abundant inner-membrane associated proteins concentrated in the bottom-half of these gradients. Gene silencing of ATAD3, a protein with proposed functions related to nucleoid and mitochondrial cholesterol homeostasis, modified the distribution of cholesterol and nucleoids in the gradient in an identical fashion. Both cholesterol and ATAD3 were previously shown to be enriched in ER-mitochondrial junctions and we detect nucleoid components in biochemical isolates of these structures. Our data suggest an uncommon membrane composition that accommodates platforms for replicating mtDNA and reconcile apparently disparate functions of ATAD3. We suggest that mtDNA replication platforms are organized in connection with ER-mitochondrial junctions, facilitated by a specialized membrane architecture involving mitochondrial cholesterol.
Effect of Treatment on Body Fluid in Patients with Unilateral Aldosterone Producing Adenoma: Adrenalectomy versus Spironolactone
Authors: Wu Che-Hsiung , Yang Ya-Wen , Hung Szu-Chun , Tsai Yao-Chou , Hu Ya-Hui , Lin Yen-Hung , Chu Tzong-Shinn , Wu Kwan-Dun , Wu Vin-Cent
Published: October 2015

Aldosterone affects fluid retention in the body by affecting how much salt and water that the kidney retains or excretes. There is limited information about the effect of prolonged aldosterone excess and treatment on body fluid in primary aldosteronism (PA) patients. In this study, body composition changes of 41 PA patients with unilateral aldosterone producing adenoma (APA) were assessed by a bio-impedance spectroscopy device. Patients with APA receiving adrenalectomy, as compared with those treated with spironolactone, had significantly lower relative overhydration (OH) and urine albumin excretion and significantly higher urine sodium excretion four weeks after treatment. These differences dissipated 12 weeks after the initial treatment. Independent factors to predict decreased relative OH four weeks after treatment were male patients and patients who experienced adrenalectomy. Patients who underwent adrenaelctomy had significantly decreased TNF-α and increased serum potassium level when compared to patients treated with spironolactone 4 and 12 weeks after treatment. In this pilot study, we found that adrenalectomy leads to an earlier increase in renal sodium excretion and decreases in body fluid content, TNF-α and urine albumin excretion. Adrenalectomy yields a therapeutic effect more rapidly, which has been shown to ameliorate overhydration in PA patients.
Impaired climbing and flight behaviour in Drosophila melanogaster following carbon dioxide anaesthesia
Authors: Bartholomew Nathan R. , Burdett Jacob M. , VandenBrooks John M. , Quinlan Michael C. , Call Gerald B.
Published: October 2015

Laboratories that study Drosophila melanogaster or other insects commonly use carbon dioxide (CO2) anaesthesia for sorting or other work. Unfortunately, the use of CO2 has potential unwanted physiological effects, including altered respiratory and muscle physiology, which impact motor function behaviours. The effects of CO2 at different levels and exposure times were examined on the subsequent recovery of motor function as assessed by climbing and flight assays. With as little as a five minute exposure to 100% CO2, D. melanogaster exhibited climbing deficits up to 24 hours after exposure. Any exposure length over five minutes produced climbing deficits that lasted for days. Flight behaviour was also impaired following CO2 exposure. Overall, there was a positive correlation between CO2 exposure length and recovery time for both behaviours. Furthermore, exposure to as little as 65% CO2 affected the motor capability of D. melanogaster. These negative effects are due to both a CO2-specific mechanism and an anoxic effect. These results indicate a heretofore unconsidered impact of CO2 anaesthesia on subsequent behavioural tests revealing the importance of monitoring and accounting for CO2 exposure when performing physiological or behavioural studies in insects.
Bv8/prokineticin 2 is involved in Aβ-induced neurotoxicity
Authors: Severini Cinzia , Lattanzi Roberta , Maftei Daniela , Marconi Veronica , Ciotti Maria Teresa , Petrocchi Passeri Pamela , Florenzano Fulvio , Del Duca Ester , Caioli Silvia , Zona Cristina , Balboni Gianfranco , Salvadori Severo , Nisticò Robert , Negri Lucia
Published: October 2015

Bv8/Prokineticin 2 (PROK2) is a bioactive peptide initially discovered as a regulator of gastrointestinal motility. Among multiple biological roles demonstrated for PROK2, it was recently established that PROK2 is an insult-inducible endangering mediator for cerebral damage. Aim of the present study was to evaluate the PROK2 and its receptors’ potential involvement in amyloid beta (Aβ) neurotoxicity, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and various forms of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Analyzing primary cortical cultures (CNs) and cortex and hippocampus from Aβ treated rats, we found that PROK2 and its receptors PKR1 and PKR2 mRNA are up-regulated by Aβ, suggesting their potential involvement in AD. Hence we evaluated if impairing the prokineticin system activation might have protective effect against neuronal death induced by Aβ. We found that a PKR antagonist concentration-dependently protects CNs against Aβ1–42-induced neurotoxicity, by reducing the Aβ-induced PROK2 neuronal up-regulation. Moreover, the antagonist completely rescued LTP impairment in hippocampal slices from 6 month-old Tg2576 AD mice without affecting basal synaptic transmission and paired pulse-facilitation paradigms. These results indicate that PROK2 plays a role in cerebral amyloidosis and that PROK2 antagonists may represent a new approach for ameliorating the defining pathology of AD.
Transient unidirectional energy flow and diode-like phenomenon induced by non-Markovian environments
Authors: Jing Jun , Segal Dvira , Li Baowen , Wu Lian-Ao
Published: October 2015

Relying on an exact time evolution scheme, we identify a novel transient energy transfer phenomenon in an exactly-solvable quantum microscopic model consisting of a three-level system coupled to two non-Markovian zero-temperature bosonic baths through two separable quantum channels. The dynamics of this model can be solved exactly using the quantum-state-diffusion equation formalism, demonstrating finite intervals of unidirectional energy flow across the system, typically, from the non-Markovian environment towards the more Markovian bath. Furthermore, when introducing a spatial asymmetry into the system, an analogue of the rectification effect is realized. In the long time limit, the dynamics arrives at a stationary state and the effects recede. Understanding temporal characteristics of directional energy flow will aid in designing microscopic energy transfer devices.
Transient dual-energy lasing in a semiconductor microcavity
Authors: Hsu Feng-Kuo , Xie Wei , Lee Yi-Shan , Lin Sheng-Di , Lai Chih Wei
Published: October 2015

We demonstrate sequential lasing at two well-separated energies in a highly photoexcited planar microcavity at room temperature. Two spatially overlapped lasing states with distinct polarization properties appear at energies more than 5 meV apart. Under a circularly polarized nonresonant 2 ps pulse excitation, a sub-10-ps transient circularly polarized high-energy (HE) state emerges within 10 ps after the pulse excitation. This HE state is followed by a pulsed state that lasts for 20–50 ps at a low energy (LE) state. The HE state is highly circularly polarized as a result of a spin-preserving stimulated process, while the LE state shows a significantly reduced circular polarization because of a diminishing spin imbalance.
Multi-phase functionalization of titanium for enhanced photon absorption in the vis-NIR region
Authors: Thakur Pooja , Tan Bo , Venkatakrishnan Krishnan
Published: October 2015

Inadequate absorption of Near Infrared (NIR) photons by conventional silicon solar cells has been a major stumbling block towards the attainment of a high efficiency “full spectrum” solar cell. An effective enhancement in the absorption of such photons is desired as they account for a considerable portion of the tappable solar energy. In this work, we report a remarkable gain observed in the absorption of photons in the near infrared and visible region (400 nm–1000 nm) by a novel multi-phased oxide of titanium. Synthesised via a single step ultra-fast laser pulse interaction with pure titanium, characterisation studies have identified this oxide of titanium to be multi-phased and composed of Ti3O, (TiO.716)3.76 and TiO2 (rutile). Computed to have an average band gap value of 2.39 eV, this ultrafast laser induced multi-phased titanium oxide has especially exhibited steady absorption capability in the NIR range of 750–1000 nm, which to the best of our knowledge, was never reported before. The unique NIR absorption properties of the laser functionalised titanium coupled with the simplicity and versatility of the ultrafast laser interaction process involved thereby provides tremendous potential towards the photon sensitization of titanium and thereafter for the inception of a “full spectrum” solar device.
Novel method for immunofluorescence staining of mammalian eggs using non-contact alternating-current electric-field mixing of microdroplets
Authors: Shirasawa Hiromitsu , Kumagai Jin , Sato Emiko , Kabashima Katsuya , Kumazawa Yukiyo , Sato Wataru , Miura Hiroshi , Nakamura Ryuta , Nanjo Hiroshi , Minamiya Yoshihiro , Akagami Yoichi , Terada Yukihiro
Published: October 2015

Recently, a new technique was developed for non-catalytically mixing microdroplets. In this method, an alternating-current (AC) electric field is used to promote the antigen–antibody reaction within the microdroplet. Previously, this technique has only been applied to histological examinations of flat structures, such as surgical specimens. In this study, we applied this technique for the first time to immunofluorescence staining of three-dimensional structures, specifically, mammalian eggs. We diluted an antibody against microtubules from 1:1,000 to 1:16,000 and compared the chromatic degree and extent of fading across dilutions. In addition, we varied the frequency of AC electric-field mixing from 5 Hz to 46 Hz and evaluated the effect on microtubule staining. Microtubules were more strongly stained after AC electric-field mixing for only 5 minutes, even when the concentration of primary antibody was 10 times lower than in conventional methods. AC electric-field mixing also alleviated microtubule fading. At all frequencies tested, AC electric-field mixing resulted in stronger microtubule staining than in controls. There was no clear difference in a microtubule staining between frequencies. These results suggest that the novel method could reduce antibody consumption and shorten immunofluorescence staining time.
Giant electro-optic effect in Ge/SiGe coupled quantum wells
Authors: Frigerio Jacopo , Vakarin Vladyslav , Chaisakul Papichaya , Ferretto Marcello , Chrastina Daniel , Le Roux Xavier , Vivien Laurent , Isella Giovanni , Marris-Morini Delphine
Published: October 2015

Silicon-based photonics is now considered as the photonic platform for the next generation of on-chip communications. However, the development of compact and low power consumption optical modulators is still challenging. Here we report a giant electro-optic effect in Ge/SiGe coupled quantum wells. This promising effect is based on an anomalous quantum-confined Stark effect due to the separate confinement of electrons and holes in the Ge/SiGe coupled quantum wells. This phenomenon can be exploited to strongly enhance optical modulator performance with respect to the standard approaches developed so far in silicon photonics. We have measured a refractive index variation up to 2.3 × 10−3 under a bias voltage of 1.5 V, with an associated modulation efficiency VπLπ of 0.046 V cm. This demonstration paves the way for the development of efficient and high-speed phase modulators based on the Ge/SiGe material system.
Can mid-infrared biomedical spectroscopy of cells, fluids and tissue aid improvements in cancer survival? A patient paradigm
Authors: Hughes Caryn , Baker Matthew J.
Published: October 2015

This review takes a fresh approach from the patient perspective; offering insight into the applications of midinfrared biomedical spectroscopy.
Novel intramolecular photoinduced electron transfer-based probe for the Human Ether-a-go-go-Related Gene (hERG) potassium channel
Authors: Liu Zhenzhen , Zhou Yubin , Du Lupei , Li Minyong
Published: October 2015

A novel conformation-mediated intramolecular photoinduced electron transfer fluorogenic system based-on naphthalimide fluorophore was established for hERG potassium channel herein. After careful evaluation, probe N4 and N6 showed good activity and may have a promising application in hERG channel imaging and drug cardiotoxicity evaluation.
A reagentless electrochemical immunosensor based on probe immobilization and the layer-by-layer assembly technique for sensitive detection of tumor markers
Authors: Qiumei Cong , Hongmei Bian , Zhaoxia Yu , Liu Jiyang , Xi Fengna
Published: October 2015

Combined with surface-confined probes and the layer-by-layer assembly technique, a reagentless electrochemical immunosensor was constructed for highly sensitive detection of carcinoembryonic antigen.
Specificity improvement of Invader assay by introducing an artificially mismatched base into the probe
Authors: Liu Yunlong , Zou Bingjie , Wu Haiping , Chu Yanan , Zhou Guohua
Published: October 2015

An improved-Invader Plus assay by introducing an artificially mismatched base into the probe for highly specific genotyping of aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 gene.
Cyanide detection in gastric juice with corrin-based chemosensors
Authors: Aebersold Christine , Amstutz Beat , Steuer Andrea E. , Kraemer Thomas , Zelder Felix
Published: October 2015

This technical note describes the detection of cyanide in artificial gastric juice with corrin-based chemosensors. The application of this method in authentic human samples is demonstrated in a proof-of-principle forensic investigation.
Electronic vs. structural ordering in a manganese(iii) spin crossover complex
Authors: Fitzpatrick Anthony J. , Trzop Eliza , Müller-Bunz Helge , Dîrtu Marinela M. , Garcia Yann , Collet Eric , Morgan Grace G.
Published: October 2015

A symmetry breaking spin transition in a Mn(iii) complex is reported with three structural phases, a high symmetry high temperatureS= 2 phase, an intermediateS= 1/S= 2 ordered phase and an aperiodic low temperature phase withS= 1 cations.
A water-stable metal–organic framework of a zwitterionic carboxylate with dysprosium: a sensing platform for Ebolavirus RNA sequences
Authors: Qin Liang , Lin Li-Xian , Fang Zhi-Ping , Yang Shui-Ping , Qiu Gui-Hua , Chen Jin-Xiang , Chen Wen-Hua
Published: October 2015

A 3D Dy-based metal–organic framework (MOF) 1 was synthesized. Compound 1 can interact with the probe DNA to form a P-DNA@1 system. This system can be used as an effective fluorescent sensing platform for the detection of Ebolavirus RNA.
Unexpected higher stabilisation of two classical antiaromatic frameworks with a ruthenium fragment compared to the osmium counterpart: origin probed by DFT calculations
Authors: Wu Jingjing , Hao Yulei , An Ke , Zhu Jun
Published: October 2015

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal unexpected higher stabilisation of two classical anti-aromatic frameworks (cyclobutadiene and pentalene) achieved with a ruthenium fragment compared to the osmium couterpart.
Electrochemical and chemical insertion/deinsertion of magnesium in spinel-type MgMn2O4 and lambda-MnO2 for both aqueous and non-aqueous magnesium-ion batteries
Authors: Cabello M. , Alcántara R. , Nacimiento F. , Ortiz G. , Lavela P. , Tirado J. L.
Published: October 2015

A veritable magnesium-ion battery is described. Magnesium-ion can be reversibly extracted from MgMn2O4 and reversibly inserted into lambda-MnO2.
A solvothermal transformation of α-Fe2O3 nanocrystals to Fe3O4 polyhedrons
Authors: Chen Liqiao , Xiong Qingfeng , Li Wenlin , Li Junpeng , Yu Xuan
Published: October 2015

The transformation process of α-Fe2O3 to cubic Fe3O4 through “dissolution–reduction–recrystallization”.
One-step synthesis of a hierarchical Bi2S3 nanoflower\In2S3 nanosheet composite with efficient visible-light photocatalytic activity
Authors: Chen Yajie , Tian Guohui , Guo Qixin , Li Rong , Han Taoran , Fu Honggang
Published: October 2015

Hierarchical Bi2S3 nanoflower\In2S3 nanosheet composites were prepared and showed excellent visible-light photocatalytic activity.
Understanding the adsorption behavior of surface active molecules on ZnO nanostructures by experimental and first-principles calculations
Authors: Singh Baljinder , Singh Satvinder , Singh Janpreet , Saini G. S. S. , Mehta D. S. , Singh Gurinder , Tripathi S. K. , Kaura Aman
Published: October 2015

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures with different morphologies are prepared in the presence of surface active molecules such as sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), Tween 80 and Triton X-100 by a chemical method.
In situ spectroelectrochemical and theoretical study on the oxidation of a 4H-imidazole-ruthenium dye adsorbed on nanocrystalline TiO2thin film electrodes
Authors: Zhang Ying , Kupfer Stephan , Zedler Linda , Schindler Julian , Bocklitz Thomas , Guthmuller Julien , Rau Sven , Dietzek Benjamin
Published: October 2015

A pronounced wavelength dependence of charge transfer character is observed, indicating that these 4H-imidazole-ruthenium complexes are potential multi-photoelectron donors.
Plasmonic color analysis of Ag-coated black-Si SERS substrate
Authors: Asiala Steven M. , Marr James M. , Gervinskas Gediminas , Juodkazis Saulius , Schultz Zachary D.
Published: October 2015

Red-Green-Blue (RGB) dark-field imaging can direct the choice of laser excitation for Raman enhancements on nanostructured plasmonic surfaces.
Theoretical study of polyiodide formation and stability on monolayer and bilayer graphene
Authors: Tristant Damien , Puech Pascal , Gerber Iann C.
Published: October 2015

Insights of DFT calculations on the formation of polyiodide complexes and their thermal stability on graphene based nanostructures.
Transient study of the oxygen reduction reaction on reduced Pt and Pt alloys microelectrodes: evidence for the reduction of pre-adsorbed oxygen species linked to dissolved oxygen
Authors: Perry S. C. , Denuault G.
Published: October 2015

Below 100 ms the reduction of oxygen on oxide-free Pt microdisc electrodes reveals the existence of oxygen species which adsorb on the electrode before the reduction is electrochemically driven.
Charge transfer state emission dynamics in blue-emitting functionalized silicon nanocrystals
Authors: De los Reyes Glenda B. , Dasog Mita , Na MengXing , Titova Lyubov V. , Veinot Jonathan G. C. , Hegmann Frank A.
Published: October 2015

Time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy reveals a charge transfer state dynamics responsible for the size-independent blue emission observed from dodecylamine and ammonia functionalized silicon nanocrystals.
On the energetics of cation ordering in tungsten-bronze-type oxides
Authors: Olsen Gerhard Henning , Selbach Sverre Magnus , Grande Tor
Published: October 2015

The energetics of order–disorder of cations in tungsten-bronze-type oxides investigated by ab initio calculations and thermodynamic modelling.
Computational investigation of NH3adsorption and dehydrogenation on a W-modified Fe(111) surface
Authors: Hsiao Ming-Kai , Su Chia-Hao , Liu Ching-Yang , Chen Hui-Lung
Published: October 2015

We employed monolayer tungsten metal to modify the Fe(111) surface, denoted as W@Fe(111), and calculated the adsorption and dehydrogenation behaviors of NH3on W@Fe(111) surfaceviafirst-principles calculations based on density functional theory (DFT).
Improved hydrogenation function of Pt@SOD incorporated inside sulfided NiMo hydrocracking catalyst
Authors: Sibi M. G. , Rai Aditya , Anand Mohit , Farooqui Saleem A. , Sinha A. K.
Published: October 2015

A multifunctional catalyst with Pt incorporated inside sodalite cages (SOD) encapsulated in ZSM-5 supported with Ni and Mo was synthesized, characterized and evaluated as a hydrocracking catalyst for the conversion of triglycerides to kerosene and diesel.
Ceria–zirconia modified MnOx catalysts for gaseous elemental mercury oxidation and adsorption
Authors: Jampaiah Deshetti , Ippolito Samuel J. , Sabri Ylias M. , Tardio James , Selvakannan P. R. , Nafady Ayman , Reddy Benjaram M. , Bhargava Suresh K.
Published: October 2015

The developed ceria–zirconia modified MnOx catalysts were found to exhibit enhanced Hg0 oxidation and removal performance.
Unidirectional thermal expansion in KZnB3O6: role of alkali metals
Authors: Lou Yanfang , Li Dandan , Li Zhilin , Zhang Han , Jin Shifeng , Chen Xiaolong
Published: October 2015

The size and mass of alkali metals have profound effects on the area zero thermal expansion behavior of edge-sharing KZnB3O6.
Two-ply channels for faster wicking in paper-based microfluidic devices
Authors: Camplisson Conor K. , Schilling Kevin M. , Pedrotti William L. , Stone Howard A. , Martinez Andres W.
Published: October 2015

Two-ply channels wick fluids significantly faster than single-ply channels and enable new capabilities for paper-based microfluidic devices.
Variable primary coordination environments of Cd(ii) binding to three helix bundles provide a pathway for rapid metal exchange
Authors: Tebo Alison G. , Hemmingsen Lars , Pecoraro Vincent L.
Published: October 2015

Members of the ArsR/SmtB family of transcriptional repressors, such as CadC, regulate the intracellular levels of heavy metals like Cd(ii), Hg(ii), and Pb(ii).
Stable superhydrophobic and superoleophilic silica coated polyurethane sponges for the continuous capture and removal of oils from the water surface
Authors: Li Jian , Li Dianming , Hu Wenfang , Li Jianping , Yang Yaoxia , Wu Yanxia
Published: October 2015

Robust superhydrophobic silica coated polyurethane sponges can be used for the continuous removal of oils from the water surface.
An efficient ICT based fluorescent turn-on dyad for selective detection of fluoride and carbon dioxide
Authors: Ali Rashid , Razi Syed S. , Gupta Ramesh C. , Dwivedi Sushil K. , Misra Arvind
Published: October 2015

A new intramolecular charge transfer based fluorescent turn-on ratiometric probe exhibiting high sensitivity for F− and CO2.
Synergistic effects of passivation treatment and nano-electrodeposition technologies on corrosion protection performance of the electrogalvanized steel
Authors: Li Qingyang , Ge Wang , Zhang Jinqiu , Yang Peixia , An Maozhong
Published: October 2015

A theoretical model of the passive film formation mechanism on coarse-grained (a) and nanocrystalline (b) zinc coatings is proposed.
Synthesis of dendrimer-templated Pt nanoparticles immobilized on mesoporous alumina for p-nitrophenol reduction
Authors: Wang Qianli , Zhang Yiwei , Zhou Yuming , Zhang Zewu , Xu Yuanmei , Zhang Chao , Sheng Xiaoli
Published: October 2015

Dendrimer-templated mesoporous alumina-supported Pt nanocatalysts were prepared and used to catalyze reduction reaction after calcination at different temperatures in nitrogen.
Role of the cation formal charge in cation–π interaction. A survey involving the [2.2.2]paracyclophane host from relativistic DFT calculations
Authors: Ortolan Alexandre O. , Caramori Giovanni F. , Frenking Gernot , Muñoz-Castro Alvaro
Published: October 2015

Of charge and cations. Isoelectronic cation–π complexes unravel the nature of variation of the interaction.
Pentablock star shaped polymers in less than 90 minutes via aqueous SET-LRP
Authors: Aksakal R. , Resmini M. , Becer C. R.
Published: October 2015

The synthesis of core-first multi-block star-shaped copolymers via aqueous SET-LRP has been reported for the first time.
H2S bubbles-assisted synthesis of hollow Cu2−xSeyS1−y/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites with tunable compositions and localized surface plasmon resonance
Authors: Li Wen Long , Zou Hong Yan , Lan Jing , Wang Qiang , Li Yuan Fang , Huang Cheng Zhi
Published: October 2015

Homogeneous hollow Cu2−xSeyS1−y/rGO nanocomposites are controllably synthesized by a facile one-pot aqueous chemical approach via H2S gas bubble templates at room temperature, using a nonhazardous reducing agent, ascorbic acid.
A novel approach for immobilization of polyhexamethylene biguanide within silica capsules
Authors: Sousa Isabel , Maia Frederico , Silva Ana , Cunha Ângela , Almeida Adelaide , Evtyugin Dmitry V. , Tedim João , Ferreira Mário G.
Published: October 2015

Silica capsules with PHMB were produced through a water/oil emulsion. Antimicrobial studies against a recombinant luminescent strain of Escherichia coli showed inactivation kinetics for PHMB capsules consistent with in vitro studies at pH 7.4.
3-Substituted 1-methyl-3-benzazepin-2-ones as 5-HT2C receptor agonists
Authors: Shidore Mahesh , Machhi Jatin , Murumkar Prashant , Barmade Mahesh , Thanki Jigar , Yadav Mange Ram
Published: October 2015

In search of potent and selective 5-HT2C receptor agonists, a series of novel 3-substituted 1-methyl-3-benzazepin-2-ones and 8-chloro-1-methyl-3-benzazepin-2-ones have been synthesized and evaluated for their 5-HT2C receptor agonistic potential.
Preparation of zinc oxide nanoparticle–reduced graphene oxide–gold nanoparticle hybrids for detection of NO2
Authors: Liu Sen , Wang Ziying , Zhang Yong , Dong Zhuo , Zhang Tong
Published: October 2015

A novel NO2 gas sensor bas been fabricated using ZnO–rGO–Au hybrids as sensing materials, which exhibit excellent sensing performances operated at 80 °C.
Leaf-inspired artificial microvascular networks (LIAMN) for three-dimensional cell culture
Authors: Fan Rong , Sun Yihang , Wan Jiandi
Published: October 2015

Leaf-inspired artificial microvascular networks (LIAMN) for 3D cell culture in hydrogel constructs.