bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How two-dimensional bending can extraordinarily stiffen thin sheets
Authors: Pini V. , Ruz J. J. , Kosaka P. M. , Malvar O. , Calleja M. , Tamayo J.
Published: July 2016

Curved thin sheets are ubiquitously found in nature and manmade structures from macro- to nanoscale. Within the framework of classical thin plate theory, the stiffness of thin sheets is independent of its bending state for small deflections. This assumption, however, goes against intuition. Simple experiments with a cantilever sheet made of paper show that the cantilever stiffness largely increases with small amounts of transversal curvature. We here demonstrate by using simple geometric arguments that thin sheets subject to two-dimensional bending necessarily develop internal stresses. The coupling between the internal stresses and the bending moments can increase the stiffness of the plate by several times. We develop a theory that describes the stiffness of curved thin sheets with simple equations in terms of the longitudinal and transversal curvatures. The theory predicts experimental results with a macroscopic cantilever sheet as well as numerical simulations by the finite element method. The results shed new light on plant and insect wing biomechanics and provide an easy route to engineer micro- and nanomechanical structures based on thin materials with extraordinary stiffness tunability.
Quantitative proteomics analysis of zebrafish exposed to sub-lethal dosages of β-methyl-amino-L-alanine (BMAA)
Authors: Frøyset Ann Kristin , Khan Essa Ahsan , Fladmark Kari Espolin
Published: July 2016

The non-protein amino acid β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is a neurotoxin present in microalgae and shown to accumulate in the food web. BMAA has been linked to the complex neurodegenerative disorder of Guam and to increased incidents sporadic ALS. Two main neurotoxic routes are suggested; an excitotoxic by acting as an agonist towards glutamate receptors and a metabolic by misincorporating into cellular proteins. We have used zebrafish, an increasingly used model for neurodegenerative diseases, to further identify signaling components involved in BMAA-induced toxicity. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to sub-lethal dosages of BMAA and a label-free proteomics analysis was conducted on larvae 4 days post fertilization. The exposed larvae showed no developmental abnormalities, but a reduced heart rate and increased expression of GSK3 isoforms. Search towards a reviewed database containing 2968 entries identified 480 proteins. Only 17 of these were regulated 2-fold or more in the exposed larvae. Seven of these proteins could be associated to glutamate receptor signaling and recycling. The remaining nine have all been linked to disturbance in protein homeostasis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) development or neuronal cell death. We also found that BMAA influenced the endocannabinoid system by up-regulation of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and that FAAH inhibitor URB597 reduced the BMAA effect on heart rate and GSK3 expression.
Polymorphisms in the Mannose-Binding Lectin Gene are Associated with Defective Mannose-Binding Lectin Functional Activity in Crohn’s Disease Patients
Authors: Choteau Laura , Vasseur Francis , Lepretre Frederic , Figeac Martin , Gower-Rousseau Corine , Dubuquoy Laurent , Poulain Daniel , Colombel Jean-Frederic , Sendid Boualem , Jawhara Samir
Published: July 2016

Mannose-binding lectin, together with mannose-associated serine proteases, activates the lectin pathway of the complement system and subsequent inflammatory mechanisms. An association between mannose-binding lectin deficiency and anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody levels is observed in Crohn’s disease and this deficiency is frequently associated with a severe Crohn’s disease phenotype. In the present study, we assessed the relationship between serum concentrations of mannose-binding lectin, mannose-binding lectin functional activity, MBL2 and NOD2 polymorphisms, anti-S. cerevisiae antibody levels and clinical Crohn’s disease phenotype in 69 Crohn’s disease patients and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. The results show that the MBL2 variant rs5030737 at codon 52 was associated with a low level of mannose-binding lectin and impaired mannose-binding lectin–mannose-associated serine protease (MBL-MASP) functional activity in Crohn’s disease patients. This MBL2 variant was also associated with a higher level of anti-S. cerevisiae antibodies. In addition, the NOD2 variant rs2066844, which is associated with susceptibility to Crohn’s disease, was significantly correlated with an impairment in MBL-MASP functional activity. These results provide evidence that Crohn’s disease patients have an impairment in MBL-MASP functional activity and that this defect is associated with MBL2 and NOD2 variants.
Key role in ecosystem functioning of scavengers reliant on a single common species
Authors: Inger Richard , Per Esra , Cox Daniel T.C. , Gaston Kevin J.
Published: July 2016

The importance of species richness in maintaining ecosystem function in the field remains unclear. Recent studies however have suggested that in some systems functionality is maintained by a few abundant species. Here we determine this relationship by quantifying the species responsible for a key ecosystem role, carcass removal by scavengers. We find that, unlike those within largely unaltered environments, the scavenger community within our highly altered system is dominated by a single species, the Carrion crow, despite the presence of a number of other scavenging species. Furthermore, we find no relationship between abundance of crows and carcass removal. However, the overall activity of crows predicts carcass biomass removal rate in an asymptotic manner, suggesting that a relatively low level of abundance and scavenging activity is required to maintain this component of ecosystem function.
BLT1 signalling protects the liver against acetaminophen hepatotoxicity by preventing excessive accumulation of hepatic neutrophils
Authors: Kojo Ken , Ito Yoshiya , Eshima Koji , Nishizawa Nobuyuki , Ohkubo Hirotoki , Yokomizo Takehiko , Shimizu Takao , Watanabe Masahiko , Majima Masataka
Published: July 2016

Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) is a potent chemoattractant for neutrophils. Signalling of LTB4 receptor type 1 (BLT1) has pro-inflammatory functions through neutrophil recruitment. In this study, we investigated whether BLT1 signalling plays a role in acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury by affecting inflammatory responses including the accumulation of hepatic neutrophils. BLT1-knockout (BLT1−/−) mice and their wild-type (WT) counterparts were subjected to a single APAP overdose (300 mg/kg), and various parameters compared within 24 h after treatment. Compared with WT mice, BLT1−/− mice exhibited exacerbation of APAP-induced liver injury as evidenced by enhancement of alanine aminotransferase level, necrotic area, hepatic neutrophil accumulation, and expression of cytokines and chemokines. WT mice co-treated with APAP and ONO-0457, a specific antagonist for BLT1, displayed amplification of the injury, and similar results to those observed in BLT1−/− mice. Hepatic neutrophils in BLT1−/− mice during APAP hepatotoxicity showed increases in the production of reactive oxygen species and matrix metalloproteinase-9. Administration of isolated BLT1-deficient neutrophils into WT mice aggravated the liver injury elicited by APAP. These results demonstrate that BLT1 signalling dampens the progression of APAP hepatotoxicity through inhibiting an excessive accumulation of activated neutrophils. The development of a specific agonist for BLT1 could be useful for the prevention of APAP hepatotoxicity.
Iron(II) supramolecular helicates interfere with the HIV-1 Tat–TAR RNA interaction critical for viral replication
Authors: Malina Jaroslav , Hannon Michael J. , Brabec Viktor
Published: July 2016

The interaction between the HIV-1 transactivator protein Tat and TAR (transactivation responsive region) RNA, plays a critical role in HIV-1 transcription. Iron(II) supramolecular helicates were evaluated for their in vitro activity to inhibit Tat–TAR RNA interaction using UV melting studies, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, and RNase A footprinting. The results demonstrate that iron(II) supramolecular helicates inhibit Tat-TAR interaction at nanomolar concentrations by binding to TAR RNA. These studies provide a new insight into the biological potential of metallosupramolecular helicates.
Novel Chemical Ligands to Ebola Virus and Marburg Virus Nucleoproteins Identified by Combining Affinity Mass Spectrometry and Metabolomics Approaches
Authors: Fu Xu , Wang Zhihua , Li Lixin , Dong Shishang , Li Zhucui , Jiang Zhenzuo , Wang Yuefei , Shui Wenqing
Published: July 2016

The nucleoprotein (NP) of Ebola virus (EBOV) and Marburg virus (MARV) is an essential component of the viral ribonucleoprotein complex and significantly impacts replication and transcription of the viral RNA genome. Although NP is regarded as a promising antiviral druggable target, no chemical ligands have been reported to interact with EBOV NP or MARV NP. We identified two compounds from a traditional Chinese medicine Gancao (licorice root) that can bind both NPs by combining affinity mass spectrometry and metabolomics approaches. These two ligands, 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid and licochalcone A, were verified by defined compound mixture screens and further characterized with individual ligand binding assays. Accompanying biophysical analyses demonstrate that binding of 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid to EBOV NP significantly reduces protein thermal stability, induces formation of large NP oligomers and disrupts the critical association of viral ssRNA with NP complexes whereas the compound showed no such activity on MARV NP. Our study has revealed the substantial potential of new analytical techniques in ligand discovery from natural herb resources. In addition, identification of a chemical ligand that influences the oligomeric state and RNA-binding function of EBOV NP sheds new light on antiviral drug development.
Expression of osteoprotegerin and its ligands, RANKL and TRAIL, in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Remuzgo-Martínez Sara , Genre Fernanda , López-Mejías Raquel , Ubilla Begoña , Mijares Verónica , Pina Trinitario , Corrales Alfonso , Blanco Ricardo , Martín Javier , Llorca Javier , González-Gay Miguel A.
Published: July 2016

Osteoprotegerin (OPG), receptor activator of nuclear factor-ΚB ligand (RANKL) and tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) have been involved in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pathophysiology. In this study, we assessed messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of these molecules by qPCR in peripheral blood from 26 patients with RA (12 of them with ischemic heart disease –IHD) and 10 healthy controls. Correlation coefficients between OPG, RANKL and TRAIL expression levels in RA patients and their clinical and demographic characteristics were also evaluated. Whereas OPG and OPG/TRAIL ratio expression were significantly increased in RA patients compared to controls (fold change = 1.79, p = 0.013 and 2.07, p = 0.030, respectively), RANKL/OPG ratio was significantly decreased (fold change = 0.50, p = 0.020). No significant differences were found between patients and controls in RANKL and TRAIL expression. Interestingly, TRAIL expression was significantly higher in RA patients with IHD compared to those without IHD (fold change = 1.46, p = 0.033). Moreover, biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) significantly decreased RANKL expression in RA patients (p = 0.016). Our study supports an important role of OPG and TRAIL in RA. Furthermore, it highlights an effect of biologic DMARDs in the modulation of RANKL.
Optimized volume models of earthquake-triggered landslides
Authors: Xu Chong , Xu Xiwei , Shen Lingling , Yao Qi , Tan Xibin , Kang Wenjun , Ma Siyuan , Wu Xiyan , Cai Juntao , Gao Mingxing , Li Kang
Published: July 2016

In this study, we proposed three optimized models for calculating the total volume of landslides triggered by the 2008 Wenchuan, China Mw 7.9 earthquake. First, we calculated the volume of each deposit of 1,415 landslides triggered by the quake based on pre- and post-quake DEMs in 20 m resolution. The samples were used to fit the conventional landslide “volume-area” power law relationship and the 3 optimized models we proposed, respectively. Two data fitting methods, i.e. log-transformed-based linear and original data-based nonlinear least square, were employed to the 4 models. Results show that original data-based nonlinear least square combining with an optimized model considering length, width, height, lithology, slope, peak ground acceleration, and slope aspect shows the best performance. This model was subsequently applied to the database of landslides triggered by the quake except for two largest ones with known volumes. It indicates that the total volume of the 196,007 landslides is about 1.2 × 1010 m3 in deposit materials and 1 × 1010 m3 in source areas, respectively. The result from the relationship of quake magnitude and entire landslide volume related to individual earthquake is much less than that from this study, which reminds us the necessity to update the power-law relationship.
Serum proteomic profiles of depressive subtypes
Authors: Lamers F , Bot M , Jansen R , Chan M K , Cooper J D , Bahn S , Penninx B W J H
Published: July 2016

Depression is a highly heterogeneous disorder. Accumulating evidence suggests biological and genetic differences between subtypes of depression that are homogeneous in symptom presentation. We aimed to evaluate differences in serum protein profiles between persons with atypical and melancholic depressive subtypes, and compare these profiles with serum protein levels of healthy controls. We used the baseline data from the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety on 414 controls, 231 persons with a melancholic depressive subtype and 128 persons with an atypical depressive subtype for whom the proteomic data were available. Depressive subtypes were previously established using a data-driven analysis, and 171 serum proteins were measured on a multi-analyte profiling platform. Linear regression models were adjusted for several covariates and corrected for multiple testing using false discovery rate q-values. We observed differences in analytes between the atypical and melancholic subtypes (9 analytes, q<0.05) and between atypical depression and controls (23 analytes, q<0.05). Eight of the nine markers differing between the atypical and melancholic subtype overlapped with markers from the comparison between atypical subtype and controls (mesothelin, leptin, IGFBP1, IGFBP2, FABPa, insulin, C3 and B2M), and were mainly involved in cellular communication and signal transduction, and immune response. No markers differed significantly between the melancholic subtype and controls. To conclude, although some uncertainties exist in our results as a result of missing data imputation and lack of proteomic replication samples, many of the identified analytes are inflammatory or metabolic markers, which supports the notion of atypical depression as a syndrome characterized by metabolic disturbances and inflammation, and underline the importance and relevance of subtypes of depression in biological and genetic research, and potentially in the treatment of depression.
Involvement of the agmatinergic system in the depressive-like phenotype of the Crtc1 knockout mouse model of depression
Authors: Meylan E M , Breuillaud L , Seredenina T , Magistretti P J , Halfon O , Luthi-Carter R , Cardinaux J-R
Published: July 2016

Recent studies implicate the arginine-decarboxylation product agmatine in mood regulation. Agmatine has antidepressant properties in rodent models of depression, and agmatinase (Agmat), the agmatine-degrading enzyme, is upregulated in the brains of mood disorder patients. We have previously shown that mice lacking CREB-regulated transcription coactivator 1 (CRTC1) associate behavioral and molecular depressive-like endophenotypes, as well as blunted responses to classical antidepressants. Here, the molecular basis of the behavioral phenotype of Crtc1−/− mice was further examined using microarray gene expression profiling that revealed an upregulation of Agmat in the cortex of Crtc1−/− mice. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses confirmed Agmat upregulation in the Crtc1−/− prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus, which were further demonstrated by confocal immunofluorescence microscopy to comprise an increased number of Agmat-expressing cells, notably parvalbumin- and somatostatin-positive interneurons. Acute agmatine and ketamine treatments comparably improved the depressive-like behavior of male and female Crtc1−/− mice in the forced swim test, suggesting that exogenous agmatine has a rapid antidepressant effect through the compensation of agmatine deficit because of upregulated Agmat. Agmatine rapidly increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels only in the PFC of wild-type (WT) females, and decreased eukaryotic elongation factor 2 (eEF2) phosphorylation in the PFC of male and female WT mice, indicating that agmatine might be a fast-acting antidepressant with N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist properties. Collectively, these findings implicate Agmat in the depressive-like phenotype of Crtc1−/− mice, refine current understanding of the agmatinergic system in the brain and highlight its putative role in major depression.
Association between cerebral cannabinoid 1 receptor availability and body mass index in patients with food intake disorders and healthy subjects: a [18F]MK-9470 PET study
Authors: Ceccarini J , Weltens N , Ly H G , Tack J , Van Oudenhove L , Van Laere K
Published: July 2016

Although of great public health relevance, the mechanisms underlying disordered eating behavior and body weight regulation remain insufficiently understood. Compelling preclinical evidence corroborates a critical role of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the central regulation of appetite and food intake. However, in vivo human evidence on ECS functioning in brain circuits involved in food intake regulation as well as its relationship with body weight is lacking, both in health and disease. Here, we measured cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) availability using positron emission tomography (PET) with [18F]MK-9470 in 54 patients with food intake disorders (FID) covering a wide body mass index (BMI) range (anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, functional dyspepsia with weight loss and obesity; BMI range=12.5–40.6 kg/m2) and 26 age-, gender- and average BMI-matched healthy subjects (BMI range=18.5–26.6 kg/m2). The association between regional CB1R availability and BMI was assessed within predefined homeostatic and reward-related regions of interest using voxel-based linear regression analyses. CB1R availability was inversely associated with BMI in homeostatic brain regions such as the hypothalamus and brainstem areas in both patients with FID and healthy subjects. However, in FID patients, CB1R availability was also negatively correlated with BMI throughout the mesolimbic reward system (midbrain, striatum, insula, amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex), which constitutes the key circuit implicated in processing appetitive motivation and hedonic value of perceived food rewards. Our results indicate that the cerebral homeostatic CB1R system is inextricably linked to BMI, with additional involvement of reward areas under conditions of disordered body weight.
The importance of correcting for variable probe–sample interactions in AFM-IR spectroscopy: AFM-IR of dried bacteria on a polyurethane film
Authors: Barlow Daniel E. , Biffinger Justin C. , Cockrell-Zugell Allison L. , Lo Michael , Kjoller Kevin , Cook Debra , Lee Woo Kyung , Pehrsson Pehr E. , Crookes-Goodson Wendy J. , Hung Chia-Suei , Nadeau Lloyd J. , Russell John N.
Published: July 2016

Interplay between AFM-IR probe – sample interactions and signal transduction for bacteria – PU bilayer.
Dynamic pH junction preconcentration in capillary electrophoresis- electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry for proteomics analysis
Authors: Zhu Guijie , Sun Liangliang , Dovichi Norman J.
Published: July 2016

Capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE)-electrospray ionization (ESI)-mass spectrometry (MS) is an interesting complimentary technique to reversed phase liquid chromatography (RPLC)-ESI-MS for proteomics research.
A novel spectral multivariate calibration approach based on a multiple fitting method
Authors: Chen Xiaojing , Lai Yongjie , Chen Xi , Shi Yijian , Zhu Dehua
Published: July 2016

This paper introduces a novel multivariate regression approach based on a multiple fitting algorithm that combines fitting functions to accordingly configure different regression models for the quantitative analysis of spectra data.
Correction: Self-validated detection of hydroquinone in medicated cosmetic products using a preanodized screen-printed ring disk carbon electrode
Authors: Yang Hsueh-Hui , Ting Hsiao-Han , Shih Ying
Published: July 2016

Correction for ‘Self-validated detection of hydroquinone in medicated cosmetic products using a preanodized screen-printed ring disk carbon electrode’ by Hsueh-Hui Yang et al., Anal. Methods, 2016, DOI: 10.1039/c6ay01000h.
Expression of concern: Remote sensing of formaldehyde fumes in indoor environments
Authors: Hughes Philippa
Published: July 2016

Expression of concern for ‘Remote sensing of formaldehyde fumes in indoor environments’ by P. G. Righetti et al., Anal. Methods, 2016, DOI: 10.1039/c6ay00976j.
Label-free bacterial detection using polydiacetylene liposomes
Authors: Park Jimin , Ku Seul Kathy , Seo Deokwon , Hur Kahyun , Jeon Hojeong , Shvartsman Dmitry , Seok Hyun-Kwang , Mooney David J. , Lee Kangwon
Published: July 2016

Label-free bacterial sensors using specific interplay between released-surfactin and polydiacetylene (PDA) liposomes.
A top-down strategy to synthesize wurtzite Cu2ZnSnS4 nanocrystals by green chemistry
Authors: Sun Yiwen , Hu Zhengqiao , Zhang Junjun , Wang Li , Wu Chunyan , Xu Jun
Published: July 2016

A top-down strategy to synthesize wurtzite CZTS nanocrystals with diameters of ∼5 nm evolved from Cu2O nanocubes is developed.
Structural and electronic characterisation of π-extended tetrathiafulvalene derivatives as active components in field-effect transistors
Authors: Campos Antonio , Oxtoby Neil , Galindo Sergi , Pfattner Raphael , Veciana Jaume , Bromley Stefan T. , Rovira Concepció , Mas-Torrent Marta
Published: July 2016

The rigidification of the molecule in π-extended tetrathiafulvalenes is beneficial for reducing the reorganisation energy but has an unfavorable impact on the electronic dimensionality, as observed in the resulting transistors.
Revisiting an old concept: the coupled oscillator model for VCD. Part 2: implications of the generalised coupled oscillator mechanism for the VCD robustness concept
Authors: Nicu Valentin Paul
Published: July 2016

The generalised coupled oscillator (GCO) mechanism implies that the stability of the computed VCD sign should be assigned by monitoring the uncertainties in the relative orientation of the GCO fragments and in the nuclear displacement vectors, i.e. not the magnitude of the dissymmetry factor.
Superconductivity in CaBi2
Authors: Winiarski M. J. , Wiendlocha B. , Gołąb S. , Kushwaha S. K. , Wiśniewski P. , Kaczorowski D. , Thompson J. D. , Cava R. J. , Klimczuk T.
Published: July 2016

Type-I superconductivity is observed with critical temperatureTc= 2.0 K in self-flux-grown single crystals of CaBi2. Calculations show the importance of spin–orbit interactions on the electronic structure.
Electrochemical construction of three-dimensional porous Mn3O4 nanosheet arrays as an anode for the lithium ion battery
Authors: Fan Xiao-Yong , Cui Yu , Liu Pan , Gou Lei , Xu Lei , Li Dong-Lin
Published: July 2016

The architectures of 3D pores, self-supported structure and nanosheet arrays synergistically improve the electrochemical performance of Mn3O4.
Mechano-switchable, luminescent gels derived from salts of a long-chained, fatty-acid gelator
Authors: Zhang Mohan , Weiss Richard G.
Published: July 2016

Stimulus-responsive molecular gel systems, based on metal salts of a luminescent gelator, 9,10-dioxooctadecanoic acid (DODA), are reported.
Effect of the environmental humidity on the bulk, interfacial and nanoconfined properties of an ionic liquid
Authors: Jurado L. Andres , Kim Hojun , Rossi Antonella , Arcifa Andrea , Schuh Jonathon K. , Spencer Nicholas D. , Leal Cecilia , Ewoldt Randy H. , Espinosa-Marzal Rosa M.
Published: July 2016

Structural and dynamical properties of ILs are altered by the weakening of ion–ion correlations in the presence of water.
The nature of resonance-assisted hydrogen bonds: a quantum chemical topology perspective
Authors: Guevara-Vela José Manuel , Romero-Montalvo Eduardo , Costales Aurora , Pendás Ángel Martín , Rocha-Rinza Tomás
Published: July 2016

We give a new interpretation of Resonance Assisted Hydrogen Bonds (RAHBs) in which RAHB formation leads to an overall electron localization excluding covalency as the main source of stabilization. The most relevant contributions to the RAHB energetics are electrostatics, polarization and charge transfer.
Application of modified CNTs with Ti(SO4)2 in selective oxidation of dimethyl ether
Authors: Zhang Qingde , Wang Wenfeng , Zhang Zhenzhou , Zhang Junfeng , Bai Yunying , Tsubaki Noritatsu , Han Yizhuo , Tan Yisheng
Published: July 2016

The possible reaction pathway of DME oxidation to DMM2 over Ti(SO4)2/CNTs.
Steroidal estrogen sources in a sewage-impacted coastal ocean
Authors: Griffith David R. , Kido Soule Melissa C. , Eglinton Timothy I. , Kujawinski Elizabeth B. , Gschwend Philip M.
Published: July 2016

Ambient estrone concentrations in Massachusetts Bay are derived largely from sources unrelated to wastewater effluent.
Systems biology-guided biodesign of consolidated lignin conversion
Authors: Lin Lu , Cheng Yanbing , Pu Yunqiao , Sun Su , Li Xiao , Jin Mingjie , Pierson Elizabeth A. , Gross Dennis C. , Dale Bruce E. , Dai Susie Y. , Ragauskas Arthur J. , Yuan Joshua S.
Published: July 2016

Lignin is the second most abundant biopolymer on the earth, yet its utilization for fungible products is complicated by its recalcitrant nature and remains a major challenge for sustainable lignocellulosic biorefineries.
Supported molybdenum oxides as effective catalysts for the catalytic fast pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass
Authors: Murugappan Karthick , Mukarakate Calvin , Budhi Sridhar , Shetty Manish , Nimlos Mark R. , Román-Leshkov Yuriy
Published: July 2016

Supported MoO3catalysts are effective catalytic fast pyrolysis catalysts that can generateca.30 C% hydrocarbons, including aromatics, olefins, and paraffins from pine.
Fractionation of phenolic compounds from lignin depolymerisation using polymeric aqueous biphasic systems with ionic surfactants as electrolytes
Authors: Santos João H. P. M. , Martins Margarida , Silvestre Armando J. D. , Coutinho João A. P. , Ventura Sónia P. M.
Published: July 2016

The ability of polymeric-based ABS to fractionate phenolic compounds from lignin depolymerisation was assessed.
The catalyst free synthesis of α-fluorinated aroylacyl imides
Authors: Vaithialingam Dhanamoorthy , Kumaraguru Duraimurugan , Ayyanar Siva
Published: July 2016

A convenient catalyst free one pot method to synthesize α-fluorinated aroylacyl imides with very good yields utilizing inexpensive reagents such as NaF and DMSO.
Ionosilicas as efficient adsorbents for the separation of diclofenac and sulindac from aqueous media
Authors: Bouchal Roza , Miletto Ivana , Thach Ut Dong , Prelot Bénédicte , Berlier Gloria , Hesemann Peter
Published: July 2016

Mesoporous and nanostructured ionosilica material containing ammonium groups was successfully applied for diclofenac and sulindac adsorption via ion exchange.
Effect of metal complexation on the equilibrium between methylphosphepine and methylphosphanorcaradiene and their benzo analogues
Authors: Chen Xiaohong , Yuan Li , Leng Xueqin , Jin Rong , Du Quan , Feng Hao , Xie Yaoming , Bruce King R. , Schaefer Henry F.
Published: July 2016

Methylphosphepine and its norcaradiene isomer as well as their benzo-derivatives are predicted to form energetically closely spaced η4-tetrahapto and η3-trihapto complexes with the transition metal units.
A new simple extraction method for the extraction of hesperitin from wastewater
Authors: Zhang Xian , Shi Fengqiong , Jiang Jinhui
Published: July 2016

The HES-MMIPs presented good extraction activity, selection and reusability in the extraction of hesperitin from wastewater.
Sustainable glucose-based block copolymers exhibit elastomeric and adhesive behavior
Authors: Nasiri Mohammadreza , Reineke Theresa M.
Published: July 2016

Herein, we present the direct modification of glucose, an abundant and inexpensive sugar molecule, to produce new sustainable and functional polymers.
MeOTf-catalyzed annulation of aldehydes and arylalkynes leading to 2,3-disubstituted indanones
Authors: Liu Yu , Zhao Peng , Zhang Bo , Xi Chanjuan
Published: July 2016

MeOTf-catalyzed arylalkyne–aldehyde metathesis and Nazarov cyclization represent a sustainable and atom-economical approach for the construction of indanones with high stereoselectivity.
Rice protein hydrolysates (RPHs) inhibit the LPS-stimulated inflammatory response and phagocytosis in RAW264.7 macrophages by regulating the NF-κB signaling pathway
Authors: Wen Li , Chen Yuehua , Zhang Li , Yu Huixin , Xu Zhou , You Haixi , Cheng Yunhui
Published: July 2016

Different RPH components inhibit LPS-induced NO and TNF-α production. RPHs-C-7-3 inhibits the expression of pro-inflammatory expression. RPHs-C-7-3 suppresses the LPS-stimulated phagocytic ability. RPHs-C-7-3 regulates the nuclear translocation of p65.
Template-based formation of ultrasound microbubble contrast agents
Authors: Huang Hsiu-Ying , Lin Cheng-An J. , Chang Walter H. , Yeh Chih-Kuang
Published: July 2016

Precisely controlling microbubble size is critical for medical ultrasound imaging, where large microbubble contrast agents may lead to pulmonary microvascular embolization. Here we introduced a method of preparing uniform microbubbles for ultrasound images.
PDEAEMA-based pH-sensitive amphiphilic pentablock copolymers for controlled anticancer drug delivery
Authors: Chen Quan , Lin Wenjing , Wang Haiying , Wang Jufang , Zhang Lijuan
Published: July 2016

The synthesis of a series of PDEAEMA-based pH-sensitive amphiphilic pentablock copolymers PEG-b-(PDEAEMA-b-PMMA)2 with different compositions proceeded via the combination of a bromination reaction andARGET ATRP.
Counteraction of lactose on the thermal stability and activity of α-chymotrypsin: thermodynamic, kinetic and docking studies
Authors: Farhadian Sadegh , Shareghi Behzad , Saboury Ali A. , Momeni Lida
Published: July 2016

Stabilized aqueous solutions of α-chymotrypsin have a therapeutic utility in the treatment of certain forms of asthma, bronchitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, as well as certain dermatological conditions such as leg ulcers and ringworm.
PtCu bimetallic alloy nanotubes with porous surface for oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Fu Shaofang , Zhu Chengzhou , Shi Qiurong , Du Dan , Lin Yuehe
Published: July 2016

PtCu bimetallic alloy nanotubes with porous surface were synthesized in aqueous solution using Te NWs as templates. The nanotubes with optimized composition present enhanced electrocatalytic performance for oxygen reduction reaction.
Confined crystallization of poly(butylene succinate) intercalated into organoclays: role of surfactant polarity
Authors: Teng Jian , Niu Ben , Zhang Liang-Qing , Ji Xu , Xu Ling , Yan Zheng , Tang Jian-Hua , Zhong Gan-Ji , Li Zhong-Ming
Published: July 2016

Understanding isothermal crystallization kinetics and crystalline morphology of PBS in the presence of a nanoclay is crucial to reveal the relationship between properties, morphology, as well as the processing of PBS/clay nanocomposites.
Novel hydrogen- and halogen-bonding anion receptors based on 3-iodopyridinium units
Authors: Amendola Valeria , Bergamaschi Greta , Boiocchi Massimo , Fusco Nadia , La Rocca Mario Vincenzo , Linati Laura , Lo Presti Eliana , Mella Massimo , Metrangolo Pierangelo , Miljkovic Ana
Published: July 2016

Iodopyridinium-based tripodal receptors strongly bind anionic species in their bowl-shaped cavity through the synergistic effect of hydrogen- and halogen-bonding interactions.
Imidazole-appended 9,10-anthracenedicarboxamide probe for sensing nitrophenols and selective determination of 2,4,6-trinitrophenol in an EtOH–water medium
Authors: Pandith Anup , Kumar Ashwani , Kim Hong Seok
Published: July 2016

A novel imidazole-appended anthracenedicarboxamide probe (AIM-D) discriminated TNP among nitrophenols based on ratiometric response in 1 : 1 EtOH–H2O with a very low detection limit of 1 nM.
Correction: MN15: A Kohn–Sham global-hybrid exchange–correlation density functional with broad accuracy for multi-reference and single-reference systems and noncovalent interactions
Authors: Yu Haoyu S. , He Xiao , Li Shaohong L. , Truhlar Donald G.
Published: July 2016

Correction for ‘MN15: A Kohn–Sham global-hybrid exchange–correlation density functional with broad accuracy for multi-reference and single-reference systems and noncovalent interactions’ by Haoyu S. Yu et al., Chem. Sci., 2016, DOI: 10.1039/c6sc00705h.
High performance lithium–sulfur batteries with a permselective sulfonated acetylene black modified separator
Authors: Zeng Fanglei , Jin Zhaoqing , Yuan Keguo , Liu Shuai , Cheng Xing , Wang Anbang , Wang Weikun , Yang Yu-sheng
Published: July 2016

In this paper, a sulfonated carbon coated separator is proposed with high permselectivity to lithium ions against polysulfide anions for improving the overall performance of Li–S batteries.
Robust vanadium pentoxide electrodes for sodium and calcium ion batteries: thermodynamic and diffusion mechanical insights
Authors: Wang Da , Liu Hao , Elliott Joshua David , Liu Li-Min , Lau Woon-Ming
Published: July 2016

We provide insights into thermodynamic and electrochemical response of V2O5 to Na/Ca intercalation, thus contributing to the design of NIBs/CIBs.
PDMS membranes containing ZIF-coated mesoporous silica spheres for efficient ethanol recovery via pervaporation
Authors: Naik Parimal V. , Wee Lik H. , Meledina Maria , Turner Stuart , Li Yanbo , Van Tendeloo Gustaaf , Martens Johan A. , Vankelecom Ivo F. J.
Published: July 2016

The design of functional micro- and mesostructured MSS–ZIF composite materials for improved bioethanol recovery.
A photostable AIE fluorogen for lysosome-targetable imaging of living cells
Authors: Lou Xiaoding , Zhang Mengshi , Zhao Zujin , Min Xuehong , Hakeem Abdul , Huang Fujian , Gao Pengcheng , Xia Fan , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: July 2016

We designed and synthesized a lysosome-targetable fluorescence probe, TPE-CA, which can sensitively and selectively monitor a subcellular organelle pH change.
Nano iron oxide-deposited calcium copper titanate/polyimide hybrid films induced by an external magnetic field: toward a high dielectric constant and suppressed loss
Authors: Chi Qing Guo , Dong Jiu Feng , Zhang Chang Hai , Wong Ching Ping , Wang Xuan , Lei Qing Quan
Published: July 2016

High dielectric permittivity and low dielectric loss of CCTO–Fe3O4/PI composites were obtained at low filler loading induced by magnetic field.
High-performance non-volatile field-effect transistor memories using an amorphous oxide semiconductor and ferroelectric polymer
Authors: Wang Yu , Kizu Takio , Song Lei , Zhang Yujia , Jiang Sai , Qian Jun , Wang Qijing , Shi Yi , Zheng Youdou , Nabatame Toshihide , Tsukagoshi Kazuhito , Li Yun
Published: July 2016

High-performance Fe-FET memories using InSiO and P(VDF–TrFE) as the semiconductor and dielectric, respectively, were fabricated with a carrier mobility of 84.1 cm V−1 s−1.
Proparacaine induces cytotoxicity and mitochondria-dependent apoptosis in corneal stromal cells both in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Fan Wen Yi , Sui Yun Long , Fan Ting Jun
Published: July 2016

Proparacaine (PPC) is a widely used topical anaesthetic in the eye clinic; its abuse may damage the cornea and result in impairment of vision. Although PPC has been reported to be cytotoxic to human keratocytes, there is no scientific report about its toxic mechanisms in human corneal stroma.
Structure and function of carbonic anhydrases
Authors: Supuran Claudiu T.
Published: July 2016

Carbonic anhydrases (CAs, EC 4.2.1.1) catalyse the interconversion between CO2 and bicarbonate as well as other hydrolytic reactions. Among the six genetic families known to date, the α-, β-, γ-, δ-, ζ- and η-CAs, detailed kinetic and X-ray crystallographic studies have allowed a deep understanding of the structure–function relationship in this superfamily of proteins. A metal hydroxide nucleophilic species of the enzyme, and a unique active site architecture, with half of it hydrophilic and the opposing part hydrophobic, allow these enzymes to act as some of the most effective catalysts known in Nature. The CA activation and inhibition mechanisms are also known in detail, with a large number of new inhibitor classes being described in the last years. Apart from the zinc binders, some classes of inhibitors anchor to the metal ion coordinated nucleophile, others occlude the entrance of the active site cavity and more recently, compounds binding outside the active site were described. CA inhibition has therapeutic applications for drugs acting as diuretics, antiepileptics, antiglaucoma, antiobesity and antitumour agents. Targeting such enzymes from pathogens may lead to novel anti-infectives. Successful structure-based drug design campaigns allowed the discovery of highly isoform selective CA inhibitors (CAIs), which may lead to a new generation of drugs targeting these widespread enzymes. The use of CAs in CO2 capture processes for mitigating the global temperature rise has also been investigated more recently.
The ADAMTS hyalectanase family: biological insights from diverse species
Authors: Dancevic Carolyn M. , McCulloch Daniel R. , Ward Alister C.
Published: July 2016

The a disintegrin-like and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin type-1 motifs (ADAMTS) family of metzincins are complex secreted proteins that have diverse functions during development. The hyalectanases (ADAMTS1, 4, 5, 8, 9, 15 and 20) are a subset of this family that have enzymatic activity against hyalectan proteoglycans, the processing of which has important implications during development. This review explores the evolution, expression and developmental functions of the ADAMTS family, focusing on the ADAMTS hyalectanases and their substrates in diverse species. This review gives an overview of how the family and their substrates evolved from non-vertebrates to mammals, the expression of the hyalectanases and substrates in different species and their functions during development, and how these functions are conserved across species.
TLR and TNF-R1 activation of the MKK3/MKK6–p38α axis in macrophages is mediated by TPL-2 kinase
Authors: Pattison Michael J. , Mitchell Olivia , Flynn Helen R. , Chen Chao-Sheng , Yang Huei-Ting , Ben-Addi Hakem , Boeing Stefan , Snijders Ambrosius P. , Ley Steven C.
Published: July 2016

Previous studies suggested that Toll-like receptor (TLR) stimulation of the p38α MAP kinase (MAPK) is mediated by transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) activation of MAPK kinases, MKK3, MKK4 and MKK6. We used quantitative mass spectrometry to monitor tumour progression locus 2 (TPL-2)-dependent protein phosphorylation following TLR4 stimulation with lipopolysaccharide, comparing macrophages from wild-type mice and Map3k8D270A/D270A mice expressing catalytically inactive TPL-2 (MAP3K8). In addition to the established TPL-2 substrates MKK1/2, TPL-2 kinase activity was required to phosphorylate the activation loops of MKK3/6, but not of MKK4. MKK3/6 activation required IκB kinase (IKK) phosphorylation of the TPL-2 binding partner nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB1) p105, similar to MKK1/2 activation. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) stimulation of MKK3/6 phosphorylation was similarly dependent on TPL-2 catalytic activity and IKK phosphorylation of NF-κB1 p105. Owing to redundancy of MKK3/6 with MKK4, Map3k8D270A mutation only fractionally decreased lipopolysaccharide activation of p38α. TNF activation of p38α, which is mediated predominantly via MKK3/6, was substantially reduced. TPL-2 catalytic activity was also required for MKK3/6 and p38α activation following macrophage stimulation with Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Listeria monocytogenes. Our experiments demonstrate that the IKK/NF-κB1 p105/TPL-2 signalling pathway, downstream of TAK1, regulates MKK3/6 and p38α activation in macrophages in inflammation.
What Factors Predict Who Will Have a Strong Social Network Following a Stroke?
Authors: Northcott Sarah , Marshall Jane , Hilari Katerina
Published: July 2016

Purpose

Measures of social networks assess the number and nature of a person's social contacts, and strongly predict health outcomes. We explored how social networks change following a stroke and analyzed concurrent and baseline predictors of social networks 6 months poststroke.

Method

We conducted a prospective longitudinal observational study. Participants were assessed 2 weeks (baseline), 3 months, and 6 months poststroke. Measures comprised the Stroke Social Network Scale (Northcott & Hilari, 2013), Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (Sherbourne & Stewart, 1991), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (Brott et al., 1989), Frenchay Aphasia Screening Test (Enderby, Wood, Wade, & Langton Hewer, 1987), Frenchay Activities Index (Wade, Legh-Smith, & Langton Hewer, 1985), and Barthel Index (Mahoney, Wood, & Barthel, 1958). Analyses of variance and standard multiple regression were used to analyze change and identify predictors.

Results

Eighty-seven participants (37% with aphasia) were recruited; 71 (16% with aphasia) were followed up at 6 months. Social network scores declined poststroke (
p
= .001). Whereas the Children and Relatives factors remained stable, the Friends factor significantly weakened (
p
< .001). Concurrent predictors of social network at 6 months were perceived social support, ethnicity, aphasia, and extended activities of daily living (adjusted
R
2
= .42). There were 2 baseline predictors: premorbid social network and aphasia (adjusted
R
2
= .60).

Conclusions

Social networks declined poststroke. Aphasia was the only stroke-related factor measured at the time of the stroke that predicted social network 6 months later.
Right Hemisphere Strokes
Authors: Blake Margaret Lehman
Published: July 2016

Although strokes occur about as often on the right as on the left side of the brain, much more attention is given to left hemisphere (LH) strokes, which results in biases in stroke severity assessments and medical treatment.
Discourse Production and Right Hemisphere Disorder
Authors: Minga Jamila
Published: July 2016

Discourse production deficits associated with right hemisphere disorder (RHD) can impede aspects of daily living, including socialization, community reintegration, and vocational duties. Adults with RHD are referred to speech-language pathologists (SLPs) infrequently. However, a growing interest in the pragmatic ramifications of acquired brain damage may result in an increase of referrals in the future. For this reason, it will be important for SLPs to be familiar with basic knowledge pertaining to communication behaviors across discourse genres. The purpose of this article is to provide a broad foundation of the behavioral manifestations of discourse production deficits following RHD, in hopes of providing practical information applicable to the practicing clinician.
Modelling, identification, and compensation of fractional‐order creep in frequency domain for piezoactuators
Authors: Liu Yanfang , Liu Hong , Zhu Dongfang
Published: July 2016

Unlike traditionally studied in time domain, the creep in a piezoelectric actuator is studied in frequency domain. It is modelled as a fractional‐order integrator, identified in frequency domain, and compensated for by connecting with a fractional‐order differentiator in serial. It is demonstrated that identification and compensation in frequency domain are much simpler to execute than that in time domain. Experimental results validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm and the creep non‐linearity reduces by greater than 80%.
Two‐dimension gradient projection method for sparse matrix reconstruction
Authors: He Xingyu , Tong Ningning , Hu Xiaowei
Published: July 2016

Sequential order one negative exponential (SOONE) function is used to measure the sparsity of a two‐dimensional (2D) signal. A 2D gradient projection (GP) method is developed to solve the SOONE function and thus the 2D‐GP‐SOONE algorithm is proposed. The algorithm can solve the sparse recovery of 2D signals directly. Theoretical analysis and simulation results show that the 2D‐GP‐SOONE algorithm has a better performance compared with the 2D smoothed L0 algorithm. Simulation results also show that the proposed algorithm has a better performance and requires less computation time than 2D iterative adaptive approach.
Automatic flipping magnet type electromagnetic energy harvester
Authors: Paul R. , George B.
Published: July 2016

A new flipping magnet type electromagnetic energy harvester (EEH) suitable for scavenging energy from low frequency vibrations is presented in this Letter. The proposed EEH has a spherical permanent magnet (SPM), which is free to move inside a spherical bobbin that carries coils. Two cylindrical permanent magnets are employed to flip the SPM fast, even if the frequency of vibration source is low. This induces sufficient voltage in the coil to convert to dc and use. No such scheme has been reported so far and the existing EEHs give very low induced voltage for low frequency vibrations <5 Hz. Two versions of the new EEH prototypes, were built and tested. The peak‐to‐peak open circuit voltage of version‐1 was 3.5 V and the power density was 445 µW/cm3 for a matched load of 52.5 Ω at 3.5 Hz vibration. The power density of the version‐2 harvester was 538.6 µW/cm3. One of the applications of the proposed EEH is to harvest energy from railway tracks, for powering trackside monitoring sensors. The prototype developed generated up to 2.44 mW for an emulated railway track vibration in the range of 4 Hz, which is a considerable improvement compared with the existing EEHs.
Design of controllable diode PL
Authors: Qi Tian , He Songbai
Published: July 2016

A design of controllable power limiter (CPL) using parallel reverse polarities Schotty diode is introduced. The main characteristic of the proposed PL are controllable, be difference with traditional PLs, the turning point is controllable and depend on the applied bias voltages on the diodes. For verification, a CPL using symmetry structure, with two controllable bias voltages, operating range from 1.9 to 2.7 GHz is fabricated. The measured results proved the feasibility of design, with <3 dB small signal insertion loss during the whole bandwidth the PL can limit output power at the level under 12 dBm while the large input power ranges over 30 dBm.
Driver state estimation by convolutional neural network using multimodal sensor data
Authors: Lim Sejoon , Yang Ji Hyun
Published: July 2016

A driver state estimation algorithm that uses multimodal vehicular and physiological sensor data is proposed. Deep learning is applied to the fused multimodal data rather than each modality being treated as a different feature. A convolutional neural network model is developed and the driver state estimation algorithm is implemented using Google TensorFlow. The results show that deep learning is a very promising approach for driver state estimation compared with previously studied algorithms, such as dynamic Bayesian networks.