bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cuprous halides semiconductors as a new means for highly efficient light-emitting diodes
Authors: Ahn Doyeol , Park Seoung-Hwan
Published: February 2016

In group-III nitrides in use for white light-emitting diodes (LEDs), optical gain, measure of luminous efficiency, is very low owing to the built-in electrostatic fields, low exciton binding energy, and high-density misfit dislocations due to lattice-mismatched substrates. Cuprous halides I-VII semiconductors, on the other hand, have negligible built-in field, large exciton binding energies and close lattice matched to silicon substrates. Recent experimental studies have shown that the luminescence of I-VII CuCl grown on Si is three orders larger than that of GaN at room temperature. Here we report yet unexplored potential of cuprous halides systems by investigating the optical gain of CuCl/CuI quantum wells. It is found that the optical gain and the luminescence are much larger than that of group III-nitrides due to large exciton binding energy and vanishing electrostatic fields. We expect that these findings will open up the way toward highly efficient cuprous halides based LEDs compatible to Si technology.
Conformational Flexibility of a Short Loop near the Active Site of the SARS-3CLpro is Essential to Maintain Catalytic Activity
Authors: Li Chunmei , Teng Xin , Qi Yifei , Tang Bo , Shi Hailing , Ma Xiaomin , Lai Luhua
Published: February 2016

The SARS 3C-like proteinase (SARS-3CLpro), which is the main proteinase of the SARS coronavirus, is essential to the virus life cycle. This enzyme has been shown to be active as a dimer in which only one protomer is active. However, it remains unknown how the dimer structure maintains an active monomer conformation. It has been observed that the Ser139-Leu141 loop forms a short 310-helix that disrupts the catalytic machinery in the inactive monomer structure. We have tried to disrupt this helical conformation by mutating L141 to T in the stable inactive monomer G11A/R298A/Q299A. The resulting tetra-mutant G11A/L141T/R298A/Q299A is indeed enzymatically active as a monomer. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the L141T mutation disrupts the 310-helix and helps to stabilize the active conformation. The coil-310-helix conformational transition of the Ser139-Leu141 loop serves as an enzyme activity switch. Our study therefore indicates that the dimer structure can stabilize the active conformation but is not a required structure in the evolution of the active enzyme, which can also arise through simple mutations.
Chelating capture and magnetic removal of non-magnetic heavy metal substances from soil
Authors: Fan Liren , Song Jiqing , Bai Wenbo , Wang Shengping , Zeng Ming , Li Xiaoming , Zhou Yang , Li Haifeng , Lu Haiwei
Published: February 2016

A soil remediation method based on magnetic beneficiation is reported. A new magnetic solid chelator powder, FS@IDA (core-shell Fe3O4@SiO2 nanoparticles coated with iminodiacetic acid chelators), was used as a reactive magnetic carrier to selectively capture non-magnetic heavy metals in soil by chelation and removal by magnetic separation. FS@IDA was prepared via inorganic-organic and organic synthesis reactions that generated chelating groups on the surface of magnetic, multi-core, core-shell Fe3O4@SiO2 (FS) nanoparticles. These reactions used a silane coupling agent and sodium chloroacetate. The results show that FS@IDA could chelate the heavy metal component of Cd, Zn, Pb, Cu and Ni carbonates, lead sulfate and lead chloride in water-insoluble salt systems. The resulting FS@IDA-Cd and FS@IDA-Pb chelates could be magnetically separated, resulting in removal rates of approximately 84.9% and 72.2% for Cd and Pb, respectively. FS@IDA could not remove the residual heavy metals and those bound to organic matter in the soil. FS@IDA did not significantly alter the chemical composition of the soil, and it allowed for fast chelating capture, simple magnetic separation and facilitated heavy metal elution. FS@IDA could also be easily prepared and reprocessed.
The optimal sex pheromone release rate for trapping the codling moth Cydia pomonella (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in the field
Authors: Liu Wei , Xu Jing , Zhang Runzhi
Published: February 2016

For successful pest management, codlemone (E, E-8,10-dodecadien-1-ol) is widely used to monitor codling moth. The pheromone release rate is essential for the lure’s attractiveness. The optimal sex pheromone release rate (V0) for trapping codling moth was evaluated during 2013–2014. The overwinter generation V0 was 6.7–33.4 μg wk−1, and moth catches (MCs) were 0.82 ± 0.11 adults/trap/week; MCs for lower (V1) and higher (V2) release rates were 52.4% and 46.3%, respectively, of that for V0. The first generation V0 was 18.4–29.6 μg wk−1, with MCs of 1.45 ± 0.29 adults/week/trap. V1 and V2 MCs were 34.5% and 31.7%, respectively, of those for V0. Combining across generations, the final V0 was 18.4–29.6 μg wk−1, with MCs of 1.07 ± 0.06 adults/week/trap. V1 and V2 MCs were 51.4% and 41.1%, respectively, of that for V0. Overwinter generation emergence was relatively concentrated, requiring a wider V0. Maintaining the release rate at 18.4–29.6 μg wk−1 could optimize the lure’s efficacy; this resulted in the capture of nearly 1.9 and 2.4 times more moths than V1 and V2, respectively. The results also indicate that a dispenser pheromone release rate of 200–300 times that of the female moth can perfectly outcompetes females in the field.
Experimental warming of a mountain tundra increases soil CO2 effluxes and enhances CH4 and N2O uptake at Changbai Mountain, China
Authors: Zhou Yumei , Hagedorn Frank , Zhou Chunliang , Jiang Xiaojie , Wang Xiuxiu , Li Mai-He
Published: February 2016

Climatic warming is expected to particularly alter greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from soils in cold ecosystems such as tundra. We used 1 m2 open-top chambers (OTCs) during three growing seasons to examine how warming (+0.8–1.2 °C) affects the fluxes of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) from alpine tundra soils. Results showed that OTC warming increased soil CO2 efflux by 141% in the first growing season and by 45% in the second and third growing season. The mean CH4 flux of the three growing seasons was −27.6 and −16.7 μg CH4-C m−2h−1 in the warmed and control treatment, respectively. Fluxes of N2O switched between net uptake and emission. Warming didn’t significantly affect N2O emission during the first and the second growing season, but stimulated N2O uptake in the third growing season. The global warming potential of GHG was clearly dominated by soil CO2 effluxes (>99%) and was increased by the OTC warming. In conclusion, soil temperature is the main controlling factor for soil respiration in this tundra. Climate warming will lead to higher soil CO2 emissions but also to an enhanced CH4 uptake with an overall increase of the global warming potential for tundra.
Mechanical stretching stimulates collagen synthesis via down-regulating SO2/AAT1 pathway
Authors: Liu Jia , Yu Wen , Liu Yan , Chen Selena , Huang Yaqian , Li Xiaohui , Liu Cuiping , Zhang Yanqiu , Li Zhenzhen , Du Jie , Tang Chaoshu , Du Junbao , Jin Hongfang
Published: February 2016

The aim of the study was to investigate the role of endogenous sulfur dioxide (SO2)/ aspartate aminotransferase 1 (AAT1) pathway in stretch-induced excessive collagen expression and its mechanism. The mechanical stretch downregulated SO2/AAT1 pathway and increased collagen I and III protein expression. Importantly, AAT1 overexpression blocked the increase in collagen I and III expression, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF- β1) expression and phosphorylation of Smad2/3 induced by stretch, but AAT1 knockdown mimicked the increase in collagen I and III expression, TGF- β1 expression and phosphorylation of Smad2/3 induced by stretch. Mechanistically, SB431542, a TGF-β1/Smad2/3 inhibitor, eliminated excessive collagen I and III accumulation induced by AAT1 knockdown, stretch or stretch plus AAT1 knockdown. In a rat model of high pulmonary blood flow-induced pulmonary vascular collagen accumulation, AAT1 expression and SO2 content in lung tissues of rat were reduced in shunt rats with high pulmonary blood flow. Supplement of SO2 derivatives inhibited activation of TGF- β1/Smad2/3 pathway and alleviated the excessive collagen accumulation in lung tissues of shunt rats. The results suggested that deficiency of endogenous SO2/AAT1 pathway mediated mechanical stretch-stimulated abnormal collagen accumulation via TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathway.
Transcriptional activation of follistatin by Nrf2 protects pulmonary epithelial cells against silica nanoparticle-induced oxidative stress
Authors: Lin Chen , Zhao Xinyuan , Sun Desen , Zhang Lingda , Fang Wenpan , Zhu Tingjia , Wang Qiang , Liu Botao , Wei Saisai , Chen Guangdi , Xu Zhengping , Gao Xiangwei
Published: February 2016

Silica nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) cause oxidative stress in respiratory system. Meanwhile, human cells launch adaptive responses to overcome SiO2 NP toxicity. However, besides a few examples, the regulation of SiO2 NP-responsive proteins and their functions in SiO2 NP response remain largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that SiO2 NP induced the expression of follistatin (FST), a stress responsive gene, in mouse lung tissue as well as in human lung epithelial cells (A549). The levels of Ac-H3(K9/18) and H3K4me2, two active gene markers, at FST promoter region were significantly increased during SiO2 NP treatment. The induction of FST transcription was mediated by the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), as evidenced by the decreased FST expression in Nrf2-deficient cells and the direct binding of Nrf2 to FST promoter region. Down-regulation of FST promoted SiO2 NP-induced apoptosis both in cultured cells and in mouse lung tissue. Furthermore, knockdown of FST increased while overexpression of FST decreased the expression level of NADPH oxidase 1 (NOX1) and NOX5 as well as the production of cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Taken together, these findings demonstrated a protective role of FST in SiO2 NP-induced oxidative stress and shed light on the interaction between SiO2 NPs and biological systems.
Low c-Met expression levels are prognostic for and predict the benefits of temozolomide chemotherapy in malignant gliomas
Authors: Li Ming-Yang , Yang Pei , Liu Yan-Wei , Zhang Chuan-Bao , Wang Kuan-Yu , Wang Yin-Yan , Yao Kun , Zhang Wei , Qiu Xiao-Guang , Li Wen-Bin , Peng Xiao-Xia , Wang Yong-Zhi , Jiang Tao
Published: February 2016

Aberrant c-Met has been implicated in the development of many cancers. The objective of this study was to identify an unfavorable prognostic marker that might guide decisions regarding clinical treatment strategies for high-grade gliomas. C-Met expression was measured using immunohistochemistry in 783 gliomas, and we further analyzed c-Met mRNA levels using the Agilent Whole Genome mRNA Microarray in 286 frozen samples. In vitro, we performed cell migration and invasion assays. Cell sensitivity to temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy was determined using MTT assays. Both mRNA and protein levels of c-Met were significantly associated with tumor grade progression and inversely correlated with overall and progression-free survival in high-grade gliomas (all P < 0.0001). These findings were nearly consistent at the mRNA level across 3 independent cohorts. Multivariable analysis indicated that c-Met was an independent prognostic marker after adjusting for age, preoperative Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) score, the extent of resection, radiotherapy, TMZ chemotherapy, and O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation status. Further analysis in vitro revealed that downregulating the expression of c-Met dramatically inhibited cell migration and invasion capacities, enhanced sensitivity to TMZ chemotherapy in H4 and U87 glioma cells. Our results suggest that c-Met may serve as a potential predictive maker for clinical decision making.
Identification of different mechanisms leading to PAX6 down-regulation as potential events contributing to the onset of Hirschsprung disease
Authors: Enguix-Riego María Valle , Torroglosa Ana , Fernández Raquel María , Moya-Jiménez María José , de Agustín Juan Carlos , Antiñolo Guillermo , Borrego Salud
Published: February 2016

Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) is attributed to a failure of neural crest derived cells to migrate, proliferate, differentiate or survive in the bowel wall during embryonic Enteric Nervous System (ENS) development. This process requires a wide and complex variety of molecules and signaling pathways which are activated by transcription factors. In an effort to better understand the etiology of HSCR, we have designed a study to identify new transcription factors participating in different stages of the colonization process. A differential expression study has been performed on a set of transcription factors using Neurosphere-like bodies from both HSCR and control patients. Differential expression levels were found for CDYL, MEIS1, STAT3 and PAX6. A significantly lower expression level for PAX6 in HSCR patients, would suit with the finding of an over-representation of the larger tandem (AC)m(AG)n repeats within the PAX6 promoter in HSCR patients, with the subsequent loss of protein P300 binding. Alternatively, PAX6 is a target for DNMT3B-dependant methylation, a process already proposed as a mechanism with a role in HSCR. Such decrease in PAX6 expression may influence in the proper function of signaling pathways involved in ENS with the confluence of additional genetic factors to the manifestation of HSCR phenotype.
Three-dimensional Organotypic Culture Models of Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Takai Atsushi , Fako Valerie , Dang Hien , Forgues Marshonna , Yu Zhipeng , Budhu Anuradha , Wang Xin Wei
Published: February 2016

Three-dimensional cell culture methods are viable in vitro approaches that facilitate the examination of biological features cancer cells present in vivo. In this study, we demonstrate that hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells in porous alginate scaffolds can generate organoid-like spheroids that mimic numerous features of glandular epithelium in vivo, such as acinar morphogenesis and apical expression patterns of EpCAM, a hepatic stem/progenitor cell marker highly expressed in a subset of HCC with stemness features. We show that the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, an essential pathway for maintaining HCC stemness, is required for EpCAM+ HCC spheroid formation as well as the maintenance of the acinous structure. Furthermore, we demonstrate that EpCAM+ HCC cells cultured as spheroids are more sensitive to TGF/β-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition with highly tumorigenic and metastatic potential in vivo compared to conventional two-dimensional (2D) culture. In addition, HCC cells in EpCAM+ spheroids are more resistant to chemotherapeutic agents than 2D-cultured cells. The alginate scaffold-based organotypic culture system is a promising, reliable and easy system that can be configured into a high throughput fashion for the identification of critical signaling pathways and screening of molecular drug targets specific for HCC.
Regulatory role of hexosamine biosynthetic pathway on hepatic cancer stem cell marker CD133 under low glucose conditions
Authors: Lin Shu-Hai , Liu Tengfei , Ming Xiaoyan , Tang Zhi , Fu Li , Schmitt-Kopplin Philippe , Kanawati Basem , Guan Xin-Yuan , Cai Zongwei
Published: February 2016

Cancer was hypothesized to be driven by cancer stem cells (CSCs), but the metabolic determinants of CSC-like phenotype still remain elusive. Here, we present that hexosamine biosynthetic pathway (HBP) at least in part rescues cancer cell fate with inactivation of glycolysis. Firstly, metabolomic analysis profiled cellular metabolome in CSCs of hepatocellular carcinoma using CD133 cell-surface marker. The metabolic signatures of CD133-positive subpopulation compared to CD133-negative cells highlighted HBP as one of the distinct metabolic pathways, prompting us to uncover the role of HBP in maintenance of CSC-like phenotype. To address this, CSC-like phenotypes and cell survival were investigated in cancer cells under low glucose conditions. As a result, HBP inhibitor azaserine reduced CD133-positive subpopulation and CD133 expression under high glucose condition. Furthermore, treatment of N-Acetylglucosamine in part restores CD133-positive subpopulation when either 2.5 mM glucose in culture media or glycolytic inhibitor 2-deoxy-D-glucose in HCC cell lines was applied, enhancing CD133 expression as well as promoting cancer cell survival. Together, HBP might be a key metabolic determinant in the functions of hepatic CSC marker CD133.
Intranasal Insulin Prevents Anesthesia-Induced Spatial Learning and Memory Deficit in Mice
Authors: Zhang Yongli , Dai Chun-ling , Chen Yanxing , Iqbal Khalid , Liu Fei , Gong Cheng-Xin
Published: February 2016

Elderly individuals are at increased risk of cognitive decline after anesthesia. General anesthesia is believed to be a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). At present, there is no treatment that can prevent anesthesia-induced postoperative cognitive dysfunction. Here, we treated mice with daily intranasal administration of insulin (1.75 U/day) for one week before anesthesia induced by intraperitoneal injection of propofol and maintained by inhalation of sevoflurane for 1 hr. We found that the insulin treatment prevented anesthesia-induced deficit in spatial learning and memory, as measured by Morris water maze task during 1–5 days after exposure to anesthesia. The insulin treatment also attenuated anesthesia-induced hyperphosphorylation of tau and promoted the expression of synaptic proteins and insulin signaling in the brain. These findings show a therapeutic potential of intranasal administration of insulin before surgery to reduce the risk of anesthesia-induced cognitive decline and AD.
Allosteric coupling between proximal C-terminus and selectivity filter is facilitated by the movement of transmembrane segment 4 in TREK-2 channel
Authors: Zhuo Ren-Gong , Peng Peng , Liu Xiao-Yan , Yan Hai-Tao , Xu Jiang-Ping , Zheng Jian-Quan , Wei Xiao-Li , Ma Xiao-Yun
Published: February 2016

TREK-2, a member of two-pore-domain potassium channel family, regulates cellular excitability in response to diverse stimuli. However, how such stimuli control channel function remains unclear. Here, by characterizing the responses of cytosolic proximal C-terminus deletant (ΔpCt) and transmembrane segment 4 (M4)-glycine hinge mutant (G312A) to 2-Aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB), an activator of TREK-2, we show that the transduction initiated from pCt domain is allosterically coupled with the conformation of selectivity filter (SF) via the movements of M4, without depending on the original status of SF. Moreover, ΔpCt and G312A also exhibited blunted responses to extracellular alkalization, a model to induce SF conformational transition. These results suggest that the coupling between pCt domain and SF is bidirectional and M4 movements are involved in both processes. Further mechanistic exploration reveals that the function of Phe316, a residue close to the C-terminus of M4, is associated with such communications. However, unlike TREK-2, M4-hinge of TREK-1 only controls the transmission from pCt to SF, rather than SF conformational changes triggered by pHo changes. Together, our findings uncover the unique gating properties of TREK-2 and elucidate the mechanisms for how the extracellular and intracellular stimuli harness the pore gating allosterically.
Identification of a prostaglandin D2 metabolite as a neuritogenesis enhancer targeting the TRPV1 ion channel
Authors: Shibata Takahiro , Takahashi Katsuhiro , Matsubara Yui , Inuzuka Emi , Nakashima Fumie , Takahashi Nobuaki , Kozai Daisuke , Mori Yasuo , Uchida Koji
Published: February 2016

Mast cells play important roles in allergic inflammation by secreting various mediators. In the present study, based on the finding that the medium conditioned by activated RBL-2H3 mast cells enhanced the nerve growth factor (NGF)-induced neuritogenesis of PC12 cells, we attempted to isolate an active compound from the mast cell conditioned culture medium. Our experiment identified 15-deoxy-Δ12,14-PGJ2 (15d-PGJ2), one of the PGD2 metabolites, as a potential enhancer of neuritogenesis. 15d-PGJ2 strongly enhanced the neuritogenesis elicited by a low-concentration of NGF that alone was insufficient to induce the neuronal differentiation. This 15d-PGJ2 effect was exerted in a Ca2+-dependent manner, but independently of the NGF receptor TrkA. Importantly, 15d-PGJ2 activated the transient receptor potential vanilloid-type 1 (TRPV1), a non-selective cation channel, leading to the Ca2+ influx. In addition, we observed that (i) NGF promoted the insertion of TRPV1 into the cell surface membrane and (ii) 15d-PGJ2 covalently bound to TRPV1. These findings suggest that the NGF/15d-PGJ2-induced neuritogenesis may be regulated by two sets of mechanisms, one for the translocation of TRPV1 into the cell surface by NGF and one for the activation of TRPV1 by 15d-PGJ2. Thus, there is most likely a link between allergic inflammation and activation of the neuronal differentiation.
Copying hierarchical leaders’ voices? Acoustic plasticity in female Japanese macaques
Authors: Lemasson Alban , Jubin Ronan , Masataka Nobuo , Arlet Malgorzata
Published: February 2016

It has been historically claimed that call production in nonhuman primates has been shaped by genetic factors, although, recently socially-guided plasticity and cortical control during vocal exchanges have been observed. In humans, context-dependent vocal convergence with relatives, friends or leaders’ voices can be found. Comparative studies with monkeys and apes presenting tolerant social organizations have demonstrated that affiliative bonding is the determining factor of convergence. We tested whether vocal copying could also exist in a primate species with a despotic social organization. We compared the degree of inter-individual similarity of contact calls in two groups of Japanese macaques as a function of age, dominance rank, maternal kin and affiliative bonds. We found a positive relationship between dyadic acoustic similarity and female rank differences. Since most call exchanges were initiated by dominant females and since this species is known for the ability of responders to acoustically match initiators’ calls, we conclude that high social status may motivate vocal convergence in this despotic society. Accordingly, intra-individual comparisons showed that isolated calls were more stereotyped than exchanged calls and that dominants had more stereotyped voices than subordinates. This opens new lines of research with regard to social motivation guiding acoustic plasticity in primates.
Imperfection works: Survival, transmission and persistence in the system of Heliothis virescens ascovirus 3h (HvAV-3h), Microplitis similis and Spodoptera exigua
Authors: Li Shun-Ji , Hopkins Richard J. , Zhao Yi-Pei , Zhang Yun-Xuan , Hu Jue , Chen Xu-Yang , Xu Zhi , Huang Guo-Hua
Published: February 2016

Ascoviruses are insect-specific large DNA viruses that mainly infect noctuid larvae, and are transmitted by parasitoids in the fields. Heliothis virescens ascovirus 3h (HvAV-3h) has been recently isolated from Spodoptera exigua, without parasitoid vector identified previously. Here we report that Microplitis similis, a solitary endoparasitoid wasp, could transmit HvAV-3h between S. exigua larvae in the laboratory. When the female parasitoid wasp acquired the virus and served as a vector, the period of virion viability on the ovipositor was 4.1 ± 1.4 days. Infected host larvae were still acceptable for egg laying by parasitoids, and the parasitoids thereafter transmitted virus to healthy hosts. Virus acquisition occurred only from donor hosts between 3 and 9 days post infection. The peak of virus acquisition (80.9 ± 6.3%) was found when M. similis wasps oviposited in larvae that had been inoculated with the virus 7 days previously. When virus infection of the host took place during the life cycle of the parasitoid wasp, it caused 1- to 4-day-old immature parasitoids death in the host, whilst a small proportion of 5- to 6-day-old and the majority of 7-day-old parasitoids larvae survived from the virus-infected hosts. Viral contamination did not reduce the life span or fecundity of female M. similis.
EPR Steering inequalities with Communication Assistance
Authors: Nagy Sándor , Vértesi Tamás
Published: February 2016

In this paper, we investigate the communication cost of reproducing Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen (EPR) steering correlations arising from bipartite quantum systems. We characterize the set of bipartite quantum states which admits a local hidden state model augmented with c bits of classical communication from an untrusted party (Alice) to a trusted party (Bob). In case of one bit of information (c = 1), we show that this set has a nontrivial intersection with the sets admitting a local hidden state and a local hidden variables model for projective measurements. On the other hand, we find that an infinite amount of classical communication is required from an untrusted Alice to a trusted Bob to simulate the EPR steering correlations produced by a two-qubit maximally entangled state. It is conjectured that a state-of-the-art quantum experiment would be able to falsify two bits of communication this way.
Cobalt Sulfide/Graphene Composite Hydrogel as Electrode for High-Performance Pseudocapacitors
Authors: Meng Xiaoqian , Deng Jin , Zhu Junwu , Bi Huiping , Kan Erjun , Wang Xin
Published: February 2016

Graphene and its composite hydrogels with interconnected three-dimensional (3D) structure have raised continuous attention in energy storage. Herein, we describe a simple hydrothermal strategy to synthesize 3D CoS/graphene composite hydrogel (CGH), which contains the reduction of GO sheets and anchoring of CoS nanoparticles on graphene sheets. The formed special 3D structure endows this composite with high electrochemical performance. Remarkably, the obtained 3D CGH exhibits high specific capacitance (Cs) of 564 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1 (about 1.3 times higher than pure CoS), superior rate capability and high stability. It is worth mentioning that this methodology is readily adaptable to decorating CoS nanoparticles onto graphene sheets and may be extended to the preparation of other pseudocapacitive materials based on graphene hydrogels for electrochemical applications.
New low bandgap near-IR conjugated D–A copolymers for BHJ polymer solar cell applications
Authors: Keshtov M. L. , Kuklin S. A. , Radychev N. A. , Nikolaev A. Y. , Ostapov I. E. , Krayushkin M. M. , Konstantinov I. O. , Koukaras E. N. , Sharma Abhishek , Sharma G. D.
Published: February 2016

Two ultra low bandgap (Eg ≤ 1.2 eV) D–A copolymers, with UV to near-IR absorption, are synthesized and used as donors for polymer solar cells, obtaining PCEs of 7.27% and 6.68%.
Revisiting the BaO2/BaO redox cycle for solar thermochemical energy storage
Authors: Carrillo A. J. , Sastre D. , Serrano D. P. , Pizarro P. , Coronado J. M.
Published: February 2016

The barium peroxide-based redox cycle, proposed in the late 1970s, was re-evaluated as a thermochemical energy storage system.
Theoretical study on the surface stabilities, electronic structures and water adsorption behavior of the Ta3N5(110) surface
Authors: Wang Jiajia , Ma Aibin , Li Zhaosheng , Jiang Jinghua , Feng Jianyong , Zou Zhigang
Published: February 2016

DFT calculations were performed to study the surface stabilities, electronic structures and water adsorption behavior of the Ta3N5(100) surface.
Deciphering the true life cycle environmental impacts and costs of the mega-scale shale gas-to-olefins projects in the United States
Authors: He Chang , You Fengqi
Published: February 2016

Using detailed techno-economic-environmental models, we investigate the environmental impacts and production costs of the mega-scale shale gas-to-olefins projects in the U.S.
Effects of boiling and in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the antioxidant activity of Sonchus oleraceus leaves
Authors: Mawalagedera S. M. M. R. , Ou Zong-Quan , McDowell Arlene , Gould Kevin S.
Published: February 2016

Soluble fractions released byin vitrogastrointestinal digestion ofS. oleraceusleaves exhibited antioxidant activity in cultured human cells.
Hypoglycemic and anti-inflammatory effects of seabuckthorn seed protein in diabetic ICR mice
Authors: Yuan Huaibo , Zhu Xiping , Wang Wenjuan , Meng Lina , Chen Deyi , Zhang Cuan
Published: February 2016

In this paper, we have investigated the hypoglycemic and anti-inflammatory effects of seabuckthorn seed protein (SSP) on streptozocin (STZ)-induced diabetic IRC mice.
Simultaneous determination of chemical vapour generation forming elements (As, Bi, Sb, Se, Sn, Cd, Pt, Pd, Hg) and non-chemical vapour forming elements (Cu, Cr, Mn, Zn, Co) by ICP-OES
Authors: Guerrero M. M. López , Alonso E. Vereda , Pavón J. M. Cano , Cordero M. T. Siles , García de Torres A.
Published: February 2016

Silica-coated MNPs modified with PSTH used as adsorbent for SPE-CVG-ICP-OES determination of trace amounts of 14 elements in water.
The reactivation of tabun-inhibited mutant AChE with Ortho-7: steered molecular dynamics and quantum chemical studies
Authors: Lo Rabindranath , Chandar Nellore Bhanu , Ghosh Shibaji , Ganguly Bishwajit
Published: February 2016

Tabun inhibited AChE can be reactivated more easily with a single mutant than with a wild-type or double mutant: anin silicostudy.
Enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen production from Y2O3/TiO2 nano-composites: a comparative study on hydrothermal synthesis with and without an ionic liquid
Authors: Ravishankar T. N. , de Oliveira Vaz M. , Khan S. , Ramakrishnappa T. , Teixeira S. R. , Balakrishna Geetha R. , Nagaraju G. , Dupont J.
Published: February 2016

The synthesis of Y2O3/TiO2 nano-composites via hydrothermal and ionic liquid assisted hydrothermal methods, for photocatalytic hydrogen production.
Higher refractive index and lower wavelength dispersion of SiO2 glass by structural ordering evolution via densification at a higher temperature
Authors: Masuno A. , Nishiyama N. , Sato F. , Kitamura N. , Taniguchi T. , Inoue H.
Published: February 2016

Silica glasses permanently densified at high temperatures show unexpected increase of both the refractive index and the Abbe number. Glasses densified at a higher temperature underwent homogeneous evolution of their intermediate structural ordering.
Ultra-strong gel-spun ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibers filled with chitin nanocrystals
Authors: An Minfang , Xu Haojun , Lv You , Duan Tianchen , Tian Feng , Hong Liang , Gu Qun , Wang Zongbao
Published: February 2016

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)/chitin nanocrystals (CNC) and UHMWPE/acetylated chitin nanocrystals (ACNC) fibers were prepared.
Sulfur-mediated synthesis of N-doped carbon supported cobalt catalysts derived from cobalt porphyrin for ethylbenzene oxidation
Authors: Fu Lingling , Chen Yuan , Zhao Sufang , Liu Zhigang , Zhu Runliang
Published: February 2016

Nitrogen-doped carbon supported cobalt catalysts are synthesized by a sulfur-mediated heat treatment.
Microwave non-thermal effect reduces ELISA timing to less than 5 minutes
Authors: Ahirwar Rajesh , Tanwar Swati , Bora Utpal , Nahar Pradip
Published: February 2016

Microwave-mediated ELISA, which occurs in less than 5 minutes, is due to a microwave non-thermal effect. We postulate that the microwave non-thermal effect is a microwave catalytic effect acting by lowering the activation energy of reactants.
Cis–trans isomerism modulates the magnetic relaxation of dysprosium single-molecule magnets
Authors: Wu Jianfeng , Jung Julie , Zhang Peng , Zhang Haixia , Tang Jinkui , Le Guennic Boris
Published: February 2016

The rotation of the coordinating plane of the square-antiprismatic environment induces a magnetic relaxation path through higher excited states, offering a new way to modulate the geometries of lanthanides to facilitate magnetic relaxation climbing up to higher energy levels.
Energy harvesting from enzymatic biowaste reaction through polyelectrolyte functionalized 2D nanofluidic channels
Authors: Lin Lei , Zhang Ling , Wang Lida , Li Jinghong
Published: February 2016

We report a graphene-based energy harvesting system powered by enzymatic biowaste reaction through two-dimensional (2D) nanofluidic channels; the integrated 2D nanofluidic generator shows distinct advantages such as flexibility, low cost, and high output in ionic currents.
Ultrafast laser-assisted synthesis of hydrogenated molybdenum oxides for flexible organic solar cells
Authors: Dong Wan Jae , Ham Juyoung , Jung Gwan Ho , Son Jun Ho , Lee Jong-Lam
Published: February 2016

HyMoO3−xhas been synthesized by photon irradiation, and acts as an efficient hole transport layer in flexible organic solar cells.
From covalent–organic frameworks to hierarchically porous B-doped carbons: a molten-salt approach
Authors: Huang Yuan-Biao , Pachfule Pradip , Sun Jian-Ke , Xu Qiang
Published: February 2016

For the first time, hierarchically porous B-doped carbons have been derived from COF-5 via a molten-salt (MS) approach. The carbons with hierarchical micro-, meso-, and macro-porous architectures exhibit enhanced supercapacitive performance and H2 storage.
Tuning of glyconanomaterial shape and size for selective bacterial cell agglutination
Authors: Cid Martín J. J. , Assali M. , Fernández-García E. , Valdivia V. , Sánchez-Fernández E. M. , Garcia Fernández J. M. , Wellinger R. E. , Fernández I. , Khiar N.
Published: February 2016

Acting as veritable glue, 1D-coated mannose carbon nanotubes efficiently and selectively regulate the agglutination and proliferation of the enterobacteriaEscherichia colitype 1 fimbriae, much better than the mannose coated 3D-micelles.
Low molecular weight gels induced differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Hu Yalong , Gao Wenxia , Wu Fang , Wu Huayue , He Bin , He Jing
Published: February 2016

Four low molecular weight gels (LMWGs) with different moduli were fabricated as scaffolds to investigate the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs).
Perinatal exposure to low-dose bisphenol A disrupts learning/memory and DNA methylation of estrogen receptor alpha in the hippocampus
Authors: Chang Huailong , Wang Mu , Xia Wei , Chen Tian , Huo Wenqian , Mao Zhenxing , Zhu Yingshuang , Li Yuanyuan , Xu Shunqing
Published: February 2016

Developmental exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) has been indicated to pose long-lasting effects on brain development and behaviors in adulthood.
Fish-on-a-chip: microfluidics for zebrafish research
Authors: Yang Fan , Gao Chuan , Wang Ping , Zhang Guo-Jun , Chen Zuanguang
Published: February 2016

A review highlights the recent developments and future opportunities in using microfluidics technology to facilitate zebrafish-focused biomedical research.
Energetic and flexibility properties captured by long molecular dynamics simulations of a membrane-embedded pMHCII–TCR complex
Authors: Bello Martiniano , Correa-Basurto José
Published: February 2016

We performed three independent 300 ns-long UMDSs of pMHCII–TCR complexes to explore the structural and energetic properties of the recognition of pMHCII by the TCR. The results provide insight into the rocking motion of the TCR onto pMHCII and evidence of new electrostatic interactions.
Room temperature synthesis of non-isocyanate polyurethanes (NIPUs) using highly reactive N-substituted 8-membered cyclic carbonates
Authors: Yuen Alexander , Bossion Amaury , Gómez-Bengoa Enrique , Ruipérez Fernando , Isik Mehmet , Hedrick James L. , Mecerreyes David , Yang Yi Yan , Sardon Haritz
Published: February 2016

Non-isocyanate polyurethanes (NIPUs) were prepared via polyaddition of highly reactive 8-membered ‘bis-cyclic’ carbonates and various diamines under catalyst-free and room temperature conditions.
Control of resistive switching behaviors of solution-processed HfOX-based resistive switching memory devices by n-type doping
Authors: Akbari Masoud , Lee Jang-Sik
Published: February 2016

In this study, we investigated the effect of Ni and Ta doping on resistive switching behaviors of solution-processed HfOX-based resistive switching memory (RRAM) devices.
Sulfur-doping achieves efficient oxygen reduction in pyrolyzed zeolitic imidazolate frameworks
Authors: Zhang Chao , An Bing , Yang Ling , Wu Binbin , Shi Wei , Wang Yu-Cheng , Long La-Sheng , Wang Cheng , Lin Wenbin
Published: February 2016

Sulfurated carbon catalysts from pyrolysis of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks demonstrate oxygen reduction activity surpassing commercially available Pt/C in alkaline media.
Side coupling of multiple optical channels by spiral patterned zinc oxide coatings on large core plastic optical fibers
Authors: Rahim Hazli Rafis Bin Abdul , Manjunath Somarapalli , Fallah Hoorieh , Thokchom Siddharth , Harun Sulaiman Wadi , Mohammed Waleed Soliman , Hornyak Louis Gabor , Dutta Joydeep
Published: February 2016

Improved optical side coupling efficiency was demonstrated for spiral patterned zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods coated large core plastic optic fibers (POFs) as opposed to unpatterned continuous coatings. ZnO nanorods were grown by the hydrothermal method directly onto POF surfaces. Nanorods coating enhanced coupling inside the fiber by scattering light but were also capable of causing leakage. Structuring the growth to specific regions allows scattering from different segments along the fiber to contribute to the total coupled power. ZnO nanorods growth time of 12 h and temperature of 90 °C provided the best coupling voltage. Side coupling was measured to be a factor of 2.2 times better for spiral patterned coatings as opposed to unpatterned coatings. The formation of multiple segments was as well used for multiple‐wavelength channels excitation where different bands were side coupled from different segments.
Reconciling perturbative approaches in phonon-assisted transport junctions
Authors: Agarwalla Bijay Kumar , Segal Dvira
Published: February 2016

We present consistent results for molecular conduction using two central-complementary approaches: the non-equilibrium Green’s function technique and the quantum master equation method. Our model describes electronic conduction in a donor-acceptor junction in which electron transfer is coupled to nuclear motion, modeled by a harmonic vibrational mode. This primary mode is further coupled to secondary phonon modes, a thermal bath. Assuming weak electron-phonon coupling but an arbitrary large molecule-metal hybridization, we compute several non-equilibrium transport quantities: the mean phonon number of the primary mode, charge current statistics. We further present scaling relations for the cumulants valid in the large voltage regime. Our analysis illustrates that the non-equilibrium Green’s function technique and the quantum master equation method can be worked out consistently, when taking into account corresponding scattering processes.
The electronic structure formation of CuxTiSe2 in a wide range (0.04 < x < 0.8) of copper concentration
Authors: Shkvarin A. S. , Yarmoshenko Yu. M. , Yablonskikh M. V. , Merentsov A. I. , Shkvarina E. G. , Titov A. A. , Zhukov Yu. M. , Titov A. N.
Published: February 2016

An experimental study of the electronic structure of copper intercalated titanium dichalcogenides in a wide range of copper concentrations (x = 0.04–0.8) using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, resonant photoelectron spectroscopy, and x-ray absorption spectroscopy has been performed. Shift towards low energies of the Ti 2p and Se 3d core level spectra and a corresponding decrease in the photon energy of Ti 2p absorption spectra with the increase in copper concentration have been found. These sign-anomalous shifts may be explained by the shielding effect of the corresponding atomic shells as a result of the dynamic charge transfer during the formation of a covalent chemical bond between the copper atoms and the TiSe2 matrix.
Thermoelectric properties of inverse opals
Authors: Mahan G. D. , Poilvert N. , Crespi V. H.
Published: February 2016

Rayleigh's method [Philos. Mag. Ser. 5 34, 481 (1892)] is used to solve for the classical thermoelectric equations in inverse opals. His theory predicts that in an inverse opal, with periodic holes, the Seebeck coefficient and the figure of merit are identical to that of the bulk material. We also provide a major revision to Rayleigh's method, in using the electrochemical potential as an important variable, instead of the electrostatic potential. We also show that in some cases, the thermal boundary resistance is important in the effective thermal conductivity.
Second and third harmonic generation in few-layer gallium telluride characterized by multiphoton microscopy
Authors: Susoma Jannatul , Karvonen Lasse , Säynätjoki Antti , Mehravar Soroush , Norwood Robert A. , Peyghambarian Nasser , Kieu Khanh , Lipsanen Harri , Riikonen Juha
Published: February 2016

We report on the nonlinear optical properties of few-layer GaTe studied by multiphoton microscopy. Second and third harmonic generation from few-layer GaTe flakes were observed in this study with the laser pump wavelength of 1560 nm. These processes were found to be sensitive to the number of GaTe layers. The second- and third-order nonlinear susceptibilities of 2.7 × 10−9 esu (1.15 pm/V) and 1.4 × 10−8 esu (2 × 10−16 m2/V2) were estimated, respectively.
Effect of CVD carbon coatings on properties of SiC fibres
Authors: Cao S. Y. , Wang J. , Wang H.
Published: February 2016

Different thicknesses of smooth and uniform carbon coatings composed of disordered carbon and micro-crystallite graphite were prepared on KD-II silicon carbide (SiC) fibres by atmospheric pressure chemical vapour deposition. The effects of carbon coatings on the mechanical property and thermal stability of SiC fibres were investigated. Carbon coatings have both favourable and unfavourable influences on SiC fibres strength. The fibres with up to 0.3 µm carbon coatings showed higher strength than the uncoated fibres due to surface flaw healing effect of the thin coatings, in contrast, the 1 µm carbon-coated fibres showed lower strength than uncoated fibres owing to effect of soft nature of the thick coatings. Furthermore, the carbon coatings effectively improved the thermal stability of SiC fibres by suppressing thermal decomposition of SiCXOY and SiCXOYNZ phase.
Isolation and identification of berberine and berberrubine metabolites by berberine-utilizing bacterium Rhodococcus sp. strain BD7100
Authors: Ishikawa Kazuki , Takeda Hisashi , Wakana Daigo , Sato Fumihiko , Hosoe Tomoo
Published: February 2016

Based on the finding of a novel berberine (BBR)-utilizing bacterium, Rhodococcus sp. strain BD7100, we investigated the degradation of BBR and its analog berberrubine (BRU). Resting cells of BD7100 demethylenated BBR and BRU, yielding benzeneacetic acid analogs. Isolation of benzeneacetic acid analogs suggested that BD7100 degraded the isoquinoline ring of the protoberberine skeleton. This work represents the first report of cleavage of protoberberine skeleton by a microorganism.
Perceptual Biases in the Horizontal and Vertical Dimensions are Driven by Separate Cognitive Mechanisms
Authors: Churches Owen , Loetscher Tobias , Thomas Nicole A. , Nicholls Michael E. R.
Published: February 2016

Perceptual attention in healthy participants is characterized by two biases, one operating in the horizontal plane, which draws attention leftward, and the other operating in the vertical plane, which draws attention upward. Given that these biases are reliably found in the same individual, and appear similar at a surface level, a number of researchers have investigated the relationship between horizontal and vertical attentional biases. To date, these investigations have failed to find an association, and this may be due to the fact that one-dimensional vertical and horizontal stimuli were presented separately rather than being measured from a single, two-dimensional stimulus. Across three experiments, two dimensional stimuli were presented, and participants marked the centre of the stimuli. In addition, the shapes of the stimuli were manipulated to determine whether this produced the same modulation of the two biases. Across 13 stimuli and three experiments there were no correlations between the vertical and horizontal biases. In addition, manipulations of stimulus shape, which affected biases in one dimension, did not affect biases in the other dimension. There were, however, consistent correlations between the degree of bias within each dimension across the different stimuli. This study has produced converging evidence that horizontal and vertical biases in spatial judgments rely on separate cognitive mechanisms. To account for these results we discuss a model whereby horizontal asymmetries rely more on space-based mechanisms whereas vertical asymmetries rely more on object-based mechanisms.
Multiple cytosolic calcium buffers in posterior pituitary nerve terminals
Authors: McMahon Shane M. , Chang Che-Wei , Jackson Meyer B.
Published: February 2016

Cytosolic Ca2+ buffers bind to a large fraction of Ca2+ as it enters a cell, shaping Ca2+ signals both spatially and temporally. In this way, cytosolic Ca2+ buffers regulate excitation-secretion coupling and short-term plasticity of release. The posterior pituitary is composed of peptidergic nerve terminals, which release oxytocin and vasopressin in response to Ca2+ entry. Secretion of these hormones exhibits a complex dependence on the frequency and pattern of electrical activity, and the role of cytosolic Ca2+ buffers in controlling pituitary Ca2+ signaling is poorly understood. Here, cytosolic Ca2+ buffers were studied with two-photon imaging in patch-clamped nerve terminals of the rat posterior pituitary. Fluorescence of the Ca2+ indicator fluo-8 revealed stepwise increases in free Ca2+ after a series of brief depolarizing pulses in rapid succession. These Ca2+ increments grew larger as free Ca2+ rose to saturate the cytosolic buffers and reduce the availability of Ca2+ binding sites. These titration data revealed two endogenous buffers. All nerve terminals contained a buffer with a Kd of 1.5–4.7 µM, and approximately half contained an additional higher-affinity buffer with a Kd of 340 nM. Western blots identified calretinin and calbindin D28K in the posterior pituitary, and their in vitro binding properties correspond well with our fluorometric analysis. The high-affinity buffer washed out, but at a rate much slower than expected from diffusion; washout of the low-affinity buffer could not be detected. This work has revealed the functional impact of cytosolic Ca2+ buffers in situ in nerve terminals at a new level of detail. The saturation of these cytosolic buffers will amplify Ca2+ signals and may contribute to use-dependent facilitation of release. A difference in the buffer compositions of oxytocin and vasopressin nerve terminals could contribute to the differences in release plasticity of these two hormones.
Limits to dark matter annihilation cross-section from a combined analysis of MAGIC and Fermi-LAT observations of dwarf satellite galaxies
Authors:   MAGIC collaboration
Published: February 2016

We present the first joint analysis of gamma-ray data from the MAGIC Cherenkov telescopes and theFermiLarge Area Telescope (LAT) to search for gamma-ray signals from dark matter annihilation in dwarf satellite galaxies. We combine 158 hours of Segue 1 observations with MAGIC with 6-year observations of 15 dwarf satellite galaxies by theFermi-LAT. We obtain limits on the annihilation cross-section for dark matter particle masses between 10 GeV and 100 TeV—the widest mass range ever explored by a single gamma-ray analysis. These limits improve on previously publishedFermi-LAT and MAGIC results by up to a factor of two at certain masses. Our new inclusive analysis approach is completely generic and can be used to perform a global, sensitivity-optimized dark matter search by combining data from present and future gamma-ray and neutrino detectors.