bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Size effect, critical resolved shear stress, stacking fault energy, and solid solution strengthening in the CrMnFeCoNi high-entropy alloy
Authors: Okamoto Norihiko L. , Fujimoto Shu , Kambara Yuki , Kawamura Marino , Chen Zhenghao M. T. , Matsunoshita Hirotaka , Tanaka Katsushi , Inui Haruyuki , George Easo P.
Published: October 2016

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) comprise a novel class of scientifically and technologically interesting materials. Among these, equatomic CrMnFeCoNi with the face-centered cubic (FCC) structure is noteworthy because its ductility and strength increase with decreasing temperature while maintaining outstanding fracture toughness at cryogenic temperatures. Here we report for the first time by single-crystal micropillar compression that its bulk room temperature critical resolved shear stress (CRSS) is ~33–43 MPa, ~10 times higher than that of pure nickel. CRSS depends on pillar size with an inverse power-law scaling exponent of –0.63 independent of orientation. Planar ½ < 110 > {111} dislocations dissociate into Shockley partials whose separations range from ~3.5–4.5 nm near the screw orientation to ~5–8 nm near the edge, yielding a stacking fault energy of 30 ± 5 mJ/m2. Dislocations are smoothly curved without any preferred line orientation indicating no significant anisotropy in mobilities of edge and screw segments. The shear-modulus-normalized CRSS of the HEA is not exceptionally high compared to those of certain concentrated binary FCC solid solutions. Its rough magnitude calculated using the Fleischer/Labusch models corresponds to that of a hypothetical binary with the elastic constants of our HEA, solute concentrations of 20–50 at.%, and atomic size misfit of ~4%.
Pre-amyloid oligomers budding:a metastatic mechanism of proteotoxicity
Authors: Bernini Fabrizio , Malferrari Daniele , Pignataro Marcello , Bortolotti Carlo Augusto , Di Rocco Giulia , Lancellotti Lidia , Brigatti Maria Franca , Kayed Rakez , Borsari Marco , del Monte Federica , Castellini Elena
Published: October 2016

The pathological hallmark of misfolded protein diseases and aging is the accumulation of proteotoxic aggregates. However, the mechanisms of proteotoxicity and the dynamic changes in fiber formation and dissemination remain unclear, preventing a cure. Here we adopted a reductionist approach and used atomic force microscopy to define the temporal and spatial changes of amyloid aggregates, their modes of dissemination and the biochemical changes that may influence their growth. We show that pre-amyloid oligomers (PAO) mature to form linear and circular protofibrils, and amyloid fibers, and those can break reforming PAO that can migrate invading neighbor structures. Simulating the effect of immunotherapy modifies the dynamics of PAO formation. Anti-fibers as well as anti-PAO antibodies fragment the amyloid fibers, however the fragmentation using anti-fibers antibodies favored the migration of PAO. In conclusion, we provide evidence for the mechanisms of misfolded protein maturation and propagation and the effects of interventions on the resolution and dissemination of amyloid pathology.
Synergistic effect of sunlight induced photothermal conversion and H2O2 release based on hybridized tungsten oxide gel for cancer inhibition
Authors: Wang Cong , Gao Yibo , Gao Xinghua , Wang Hua , Tian Jingxuan , Wang Li , Zhou Bingpu , Ye Ziran , Wan Jun , Wen Weijia
Published: October 2016

A highly efficient photochromic hydrogel was successfully fabricated via casting precursor, which is based on amorphous tungsten oxide and poly (ethylene oxide)-block-poly (propylene oxide)-block-poly (ethylene oxide). Under simulated solar illumination, the hydrogel has a rapid and controlled temperature increasing ratio as its coloration degree. Localized electrons in the amorphous tungsten oxide play a vital role in absorption over a broad range of wavelengths from 400 nm to 1100 nm, encompassing the entire visible light and infrared regions in the solar spectrum. More importantly, the material exhibits sustainable released H2O2 induced by localized electrons, which has a synergistic effect with the rapid surface temperature increase. The amount of H2O2 released by each film can be tuned by the light irradiation, and the film coloration can indicate the degree of oxidative stress. The ability of the H2O2-releasing gels in vitro study was investigated to induce apoptosis in melanoma tumor cells and NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. The in vivo experimental results indicate that these gels have a greater healing effect than the control in the early stages of tumor formation.
Jointed magnetic skyrmion lattices at a small-angle grain boundary directly visualized by advanced electron microscopy
Authors: Matsumoto Takao , So Yeong-Gi , Kohno Yuji , Sawada Hidetaka , Ishikawa Ryo , Ikuhara Yuichi , Shibata Naoya
Published: October 2016

The interactions between magnetic skyrmions and structural defects, such as edges, dislocations, and grain boundaries (GBs), which are all considered as topological defects, will be important issues when magnetic skyrmions are utilized for future memory device applications. To investigate such interactions, simultaneous visualization of magnetic skyrmions and structural defects at high spatial resolution, which is not feasible by conventional techniques, is essential. Here, taking advantages of aberration-corrected differential phase-contrast scanning transmission electron microscopy, we investigate the interaction of magnetic skyrmions with a small-angle GB in a thin film of FeGe1−xSix. We found that the magnetic skyrmions and the small-angle GB can coexist each other, but a domain boundary (DB) was formed in the skyrmion lattice along the small-angle GB. At the core of the DB, unexpectedly deformed magnetic skrymions, which appear to be created by joining two portions of magnetic skyrmions in the adjacent lattices, were formed to effectively compensate misorientations between the two adjacent magnetic skyrmion lattices. These observations strongly suggest the flexible nature of individual magnetic skyrmions, and also the significance of defect engineering for future device applications.
Effect of location of opening incision on astigmatic correction after small-incision lenticule extraction
Authors: Chan Tommy C. Y. , Ng Alex LK , Cheng George P. M. , Wang Zheng , Woo Victor C. P. , Jhanji Vishal
Published: October 2016

We compared the visual and refractive outcomes between 2 different incisional sites in small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) for low myopic astigmatism. This was a contralateral eye study. Consecutive cases that underwent bilateral SMILE surgery were included. Procedures for both eyes were identical apart from the location of opening incision. The incision was set on the temporal side for the right eye (Group 1), while a superior incision was set for the left eye (Group 2). Twenty-nine patients with a mean age of 35.0 ± 9.6 years were included. Preoperative visual and refractive parameters were comparable between the 2 groups (p > 0.250). At 3 months, the logMAR uncorrected distance visual acuity was 0.074 ± 0.090 in Group 1 and 0.084 ± 0.130 in Group 2 (p = 0.861). No difference was found in the postoperative manifest spherical equivalent (p = 0.501) and manifest cylinder (p = 0.178) between the 2 groups. The efficacy index was 0.85 ± 0.16 in Group 1 and 0.85 ± 0.20 in Group 2 (p = 0.828). Astigmatic correction was not significantly affected by the location of opening incisions using vector analysis. Our study did not find significant differences in visual and refractive outcomes with temporal or superior opening incision during SMILE surgery.
Thromboxane A2 receptor antagonist SQ29548 reduces ischemic stroke-induced microglia/macrophages activation and enrichment, and ameliorates brain injury
Authors: Yan Aijuan , Zhang Tingting , Yang Xiao , Shao Jiaxiang , Fu Ningzhen , Shen Fanxia , Fu Yi , Xia Weiliang
Published: October 2016

Thromboxane A2 receptor (TXA2R) activation is thought to be involved in thrombosis/hemostasis and inflammation responses. We have previously shown that TXA2R antagonist SQ29548 attenuates BV2 microglia activation by suppression of ERK pathway, but its effect is not tested in vivo. The present study aims to explore the role of TXA2R on microglia/macrophages activation after ischemia/reperfusion brain injury in mice. Adult male ICR mice underwent 90-min transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO). Immediately and 24 h after reperfusion, SQ29548 was administered twice to the ipsilateral ventricle (10 μl, 2.6 μmol/ml, per dose). Cerebral infarction volume, inflammatory cytokines release and microglia/macrophages activation were measured using the cresyl violet method, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and immunofluorescence double staining, respectively. Expression of TXA2R was significantly increased in the ipsilateral brain tissue after ischemia/reperfusion, which was also found to co-localize with activated microglia/macrophages in the infarct area. Administration of SQ29548 inhibited microglia/macrophages activation and enrichment, including both M1 and M2 phenotypes, and attenuated ischemia-induced IL-1ß, IL-6, and TNF-α up-regulation and iNOS release. TXA2R antagonist SQ29548 inhibited ischemia-induced inflammatory response and furthermore reduced microglia/macrophages activation and ischemic/reperfusion brain injury.
Saharan dust inputs and high UVR levels jointly alter the metabolic balance of marine oligotrophic ecosystems
Authors: Cabrerizo Marco J. , Medina-Sánchez Juan Manuel , González-Olalla Juan Manuel , Villar-Argaiz Manuel , Carrillo Presentación
Published: October 2016

The metabolic balance of the most extensive bioma on the Earth is a controversial topic of the global-change research. High ultraviolet radiation (UVR) levels by the shoaling of upper mixed layers and increasing atmospheric dust deposition from arid regions may unpredictably alter the metabolic state of marine oligotrophic ecosystems. We performed an observational study across the south-western (SW) Mediterranean Sea to assess the planktonic metabolic balance and a microcosm experiment in two contrasting areas, heterotrophic nearshore and autotrophic open sea, to test whether a combined UVR × dust impact could alter their metabolic balance at mid-term scales. We show that the metabolic state of oligotrophic areas geographically varies and that the joint impact of UVR and dust inputs prompted a strong change towards autotrophic metabolism. We propose that this metabolic response could be accentuated with the global change as remote-sensing evidence shows increasing intensities, frequencies and number of dust events together with variations in the surface UVR fluxes on SW Mediterranean Sea. Overall, these findings suggest that the enhancement of the net carbon budget under a combined UVR and dust inputs impact could contribute to boost the biological pump, reinforcing the role of the oligotrophic marine ecosystems as CO2 sinks.
Opting out against defection leads to stable coexistence with cooperation
Authors: Zhang Bo-Yu , Fan Song-Jia , Li Cong , Zheng Xiu-Deng , Bao Jian-Zhang , Cressman Ross , Tao Yi
Published: October 2016

Cooperation coexisting with defection is a common phenomenon in nature and human society. Previous studies for promoting cooperation based on kin selection, direct and indirect reciprocity, graph selection and group selection have provided conditions that cooperators outcompete defectors. However, a simple mechanism of the long-term stable coexistence of cooperation and defection is still lacking. To reveal the effect of direct reciprocity on the coexistence of cooperation and defection, we conducted a simple experiment based on the Prisoner’s Dilemma (PD) game, where the basic idea behind our experiment is that all players in a PD game should prefer a cooperator as an opponent. Our experimental and theoretical results show clearly that the strategies allowing opting out against defection are able to maintain this stable coexistence.
The bacterial toxin CNF1 as a tool to induce retinal degeneration reminiscent of retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Guadagni Viviana , Cerri Chiara , Piano Ilaria , Novelli Elena , Gargini Claudia , Fiorentini Carla , Caleo Matteo , Strettoi Enrica
Published: October 2016

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) comprises a group of inherited pathologies characterized by progressive photoreceptor degeneration. In rodent models of RP, expression of defective genes and retinal degeneration usually manifest during the first weeks of postnatal life, making it difficult to distinguish consequences of primary genetic defects from abnormalities in retinal development. Moreover, mouse eyes are small and not always adequate to test pharmacological and surgical treatments. An inducible paradigm of retinal degeneration potentially extensible to large animals is therefore desirable. Starting from the serendipitous observation that intraocular injections of a Rho GTPase activator, the bacterial toxin Cytotoxic Necrotizing Factor 1 (CNF1), lead to retinal degeneration, we implemented an inducible model recapitulating most of the key features of Retinitis Pigmentosa. The model also unmasks an intrinsic vulnerability of photoreceptors to the mechanism of CNF1 action, indicating still unexplored molecular pathways potentially leading to the death of these cells in inherited forms of retinal degeneration.
γ-Glutamyltranspeptidase is an endogenous activator of Toll-like receptor 4-mediated osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Moriwaki Sawako , Into Takeshi , Suzuki Keiko , Miyauchi Mutsumi , Takata Takashi , Shibayama Keigo , Niida Shumpei
Published: October 2016

Chronic inflammation-associated bone destruction, which is observed in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and periodontitis, is mediated by excessive osteoclastogenesis. We showed previously that γ-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT), an enzyme involved in glutathione metabolism, acts as an endogenous activator of such pathological osteoclastogenesis, independent of its enzymatic activity. GGT accumulation is clinically observed in the joints of RA patients, and, in animals, the administration of recombinant GGT to the gingival sulcus as an in vivo periodontitis model induces an increase in the number of osteoclasts. However, the underlying mechanisms of this process remain unclear. Here, we report that Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) recognizes GGT to activate inflammation-associated osteoclastogenesis. Unlike lipopolysaccharide, GGT is sensitive to proteinase K treatment and insensitive to polymyxin B treatment. TLR4 deficiency abrogates GGT-induced osteoclastogenesis and activation of NF-κB and MAPK signaling in precursor cells. Additionally, GGT does not induce osteoclastogenesis in cells lacking the signaling adaptor MyD88. The administration of GGT to the gingival sulcus induces increased osteoclastogenesis in wild-type mice, but does not induce it in TLR4-deficient mice. Our findings elucidate a novel mechanism of inflammation-associated osteoclastogenesis, which involves TLR4 recognition of GGT and subsequent activation of MyD88-dependent signaling.
Neurobiochemical changes in the vicinity of a nanostructured neural implant
Authors: Bérces Zsófia , Tóth Kinga , Márton Gergely , Pál Ildikó , Kováts-Megyesi Bálint , Fekete Zoltán , Ulbert István , Pongrácz Anita
Published: October 2016

Neural interface technologies including recording and stimulation electrodes are currently in the early phase of clinical trials aiming to help patients with spinal cord injuries, degenerative disorders, strokes interrupting descending motor pathways, or limb amputations. Their lifetime is of key importance; however, it is limited by the foreign body response of the tissue causing the loss of neurons and a reactive astrogliosis around the implant surface. Improving the biocompatibility of implant surfaces, especially promoting neuronal attachment and regeneration is therefore essential. In our work, bioactive properties of implanted black polySi nanostructured surfaces (520–800 nm long nanopillars with a diameter of 150–200 nm) were investigated and compared to microstructured Si surfaces in eight-week-long in vivo experiments. Glial encapsulation and local neuronal cell loss were characterised using GFAP and NeuN immunostaining respectively, followed by systematic image analysis. Regarding the severity of gliosis, no significant difference was observed in the vicinity of the different implant surfaces, however, the number of surviving neurons close to the nanostructured surface was higher than that of the microstructured ones. Our results imply that the functionality of implanted microelectrodes covered by Si nanopillars may lead to improved long-term recordings.
Nutrient stoichiometry in winter wheat: Element concentration pattern reflects developmental stage and weather
Authors: Weih M. , Pourazari F. , Vico G.
Published: October 2016

At least 16 nutrient elements are required by plants for growth and survival, but the factors affecting element concentration and their temporal evolution are poorly understood. The objective was to investigate i) element concentration pattern in winter wheat as affected by crop developmental stage and weather, and ii) whether, in the short term, element stoichiometry reflects the type of preceding crop. We assessed the temporal trajectories of element concentration pattern (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Mn, Fe, Cu, Na, Zn) across the life cycle (from seed to seed) of winter wheat field-grown in cool-temperate Sweden during two years with contrasting weather and when cultivated in monoculture or after different non-wheat preceding crops. We found strong influence of developmental stage on concentration pattern, with the greatest deviation from grain concentrations found in plants at the start of stem elongation in spring. Inter-annual differences in weather affected stoichiometry, but no evidence was found for a short-term preceding–crop effect on element stoichiometry. Winter wheat element stoichiometry is similar in actively growing plant tissues and seeds. Nitrogen exerts a strong influence on the concentration pattern for all elements. Three groups of elements with concentrations changing in concert were identified.
On-chip generation of heralded photon-number states
Authors: Vergyris Panagiotis , Meany Thomas , Lunghi Tommaso , Sauder Gregory , Downes James , Steel M. J. , Withford Michael J. , Alibart Olivier , Tanzilli Sébastien
Published: October 2016

Beyond the use of genuine monolithic integrated optical platforms, we report here a hybrid strategy enabling on-chip generation of configurable heralded two-photon states. More specifically, we combine two different fabrication techniques, i.e., non-linear waveguides on lithium niobate for efficient photon-pair generation and femtosecond-laser-direct-written waveguides on glass for photon manipulation. Through real-time device manipulation capabilities, a variety of path-coded heralded two-photon states can be produced, ranging from product to entangled states. Those states are engineered with high levels of purity, assessed by fidelities of 99.5 ± 8% and 95.0 ± 8%, respectively, obtained via quantum interferometric measurements. Our strategy therefore stands as a milestone for further exploiting entanglement-based protocols, relying on engineered quantum states, and enabled by scalable and compatible photonic circuits.
Low-temperature-dependent property in an avalanche photodiode based on GaN/AlN periodically-stacked structure
Authors: Zheng Jiyuan , Wang Lai , Yang Di , Yu Jiadong , Meng Xiao , Hao Zhibiao , Sun Changzheng , Xiong Bing , Luo Yi , Han Yanjun , Wang Jian , Li Hongtao , Li Mo , Li Qian
Published: October 2016

In ultra-high sensitive APDs, a vibrate of temperature might bring a fatal decline of the multiplication performance. Conventional method to realize a temperature-stable APD focuses on the optimization of device structure, which has limited effects. While in this paper, a solution by reducing the carrier scattering rate based on an GaN/AlN periodically-stacked structure (PSS) APD is brought out to improve temperature stability essentially. Transport property is systematically investigated. Compared with conventional GaN homojunction (HJ) APDs, electron suffers much less phonon scatterings before it achieves ionization threshold energy and more electrons occupy high energy states in PSS APD. The temperature dependence of ionization coefficient and energy distribution is greatly reduced. As a result, temperature stability on gain is significantly improved when the ionization happens with high efficiency. The change of gain for GaN (10 nm)/AlN (10 nm) PSS APD from 300 K to 310 K is about 20% lower than that for HJ APD. Additionally, thicker period length is found favorable to ionization coefficient ratio but a bit harmful to temperature stability, while increasing the proportion of AlN at each period in a specific range is found favorable to both ionization coefficient ratio and temperature stability.
Enhanced methane steam reforming activity and electrochemical performance of Ni0.9Fe0.1-supported solid oxide fuel cells with infiltrated Ni-TiO2 particles
Authors: Li Kai , Jia Lichao , Wang Xin , Pu Jian , Chi Bo , Li Jian
Published: October 2016

Ni0.9Fe0.1 alloy-supported solid oxide fuel cells with NiTiO3 (NTO) infiltrated into the cell support from 0 to 4 wt.% are prepared and investigated for CH4 steam reforming activity and electrochemical performance. The infiltrated NiTiO3 is reduced to TiO2-supported Ni particles in H2 at 650 °C. The reforming activity of the Ni0.9Fe0.1-support is increased by the presence of the TiO2-supported Ni particles; 3 wt.% is the optimal value of the added NTO, corresponding to the highest reforming activity, resistance to carbon deposition and electrochemical performance of the cell. Fueled wet CH4 at 100 mL min−1, the cell with 3 wt.% of NTO demonstrates a peak power density of 1.20 W cm−2 and a high limiting current density of 2.83 A cm−2 at 650 °C. It performs steadily for 96 h at 0.4 A cm−2 without the presence of deposited carbon in the Ni0.9Fe0.1-support and functional anode. Five polarization processes are identified by deconvoluting and data-fitting the electrochemical impedance spectra of the cells under the testing conditions; and the addition of TiO2-supported Ni particles into the Ni0.9Fe0.1-support reduces the polarization resistance of the processes ascribed to CH4 steam reforming and gas diffusion in the Ni0.9Fe0.1-support and functional anode.
The effect of physiological levels of South African puff adder (Bitis arietans) snake venom on blood cells: an in vitro model
Authors: Strydom Morné A. , Bester Janette , Mbotwe Sthembile , Pretorius Etheresia
Published: October 2016

A significant burden of illness is caused globally by snakebites particularly by the puff adder, Bitis arietans. Presently there is no reliable and rapid method to confirm envenomation on blood chemistry; although coagulation parameters like prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, international normalized ratio and also serum electrolytes are tested. Here, we found that direct in vitro exposure of physiological relevant whole venom levels to human healthy blood (N = 32), caused significant physiological changes to platelet activity using a hematology analyzer, and measuring occlusion time, as well as lyses time, with the global thrombosis test (GTT). Disintegrated platelets were confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). We also confirmed the pathologic effects on erythrocytes (RBCs) (visible as eryptotic RBCs), by looking at both light microscopy and SEM. Thromboelastography showed that no clot formation in whole blood could be induced after addition of whole venom. We propose further clinical studies to investigate the use of light microscopy smears and hematology analyzer results immediately after envenomation, as a possible first-stage of clinical confirmation of envenomation.
Cell resistance to the Cytolethal Distending Toxin involves an association of DNA repair mechanisms
Authors: Bezine Elisabeth , Malaisé Yann , Loeuillet Aurore , Chevalier Marianne , Boutet-Robinet Elisa , Salles Bernard , Mirey Gladys , Vignard Julien
Published: October 2016

The Cytolethal Distending Toxin (CDT), produced by many bacteria, has been associated with various diseases including cancer. CDT induces DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), leading to cell death or mutagenesis if misrepaired. At low doses of CDT, other DNA lesions precede replication-dependent DSB formation, implying that non-DSB repair mechanisms may contribute to CDT cell resistance. To address this question, we developed a proliferation assay using human cell lines specifically depleted in each of the main DNA repair pathways. Here, we validate the involvement of the two major DSB repair mechanisms, Homologous Recombination and Non Homologous End Joining, in the management of CDT-induced lesions. We show that impairment of single-strand break repair (SSBR), but not nucleotide excision repair, sensitizes cells to CDT, and we explore the interplay of SSBR with the DSB repair mechanisms. Finally, we document the role of the replicative stress response and demonstrate the involvement of the Fanconi Anemia repair pathway in response to CDT. In conclusion, our work indicates that cellular survival to CDT-induced DNA damage involves different repair pathways, in particular SSBR. This reinforces a model where CDT-related genotoxicity primarily involves SSBs rather than DSBs, underlining the importance of cell proliferation during CDT intoxication and pathogenicity.
Very bright, enantiopure europium(iii) complexes allow time-gated chiral contrast imaging
Authors: Frawley Andrew T. , Pal Robert , Parker David
Published: October 2016

Chiral image contrast is reported with very bright enantiopure europium complexes that emit circularly polarized light.
Synthesis and coordination ability of a partially silicon based crown ether
Authors: Reuter Kirsten , Thiele Günther , Hafner Thomas , Uhlig Frank , von Hänisch Carsten
Published: October 2016

The synthesis of the first hybrid crown ether with two adjacent disilane fragments is described. Coordination experiments and DFT calculation show a considerably higher complexation ability towards Li+ in comparison to [12]crown-4.
Protocol for the purification of protected carbohydrates: toward coupling automated synthesis to alternate-pump recycling high-performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Nagy Gabe , Peng Tianyuan , Kabotso Daniel E. K. , Novotny Milos V. , Pohl Nicola L. B.
Published: October 2016

Analytical techniques that can be coupled to automated oligosaccharide synthesis platforms are needed to purify to homogeneity protected carbohydrates at levels of ≥99.5% purity.
Adsorption and diffusion of Li with S on pristine and defected graphene
Authors: Liang Zhicong , Fan Xiaofeng , Singh David J. , Zheng W. T.
Published: October 2016

The formation of LinS and diffusion of Li-ions on defected graphene as an encapsulation layer for Li–S batteries.
Effect of the meniscus contact angle during early regimes of spontaneous imbibition in nanochannels
Authors: Karna Nabin Kumar , Oyarzua Elton , Walther Jens H. , Zambrano Harvey A.
Published: October 2016

Time evolution of the capillary front and meniscus contact angle during the capillary filling of silica nanochannels.
Chemoselective reduction of carboxamides
Authors: Volkov Alexey , Tinnis Fredrik , Slagbrand Tove , Trillo Paz , Adolfsson Hans
Published: October 2016

This tutorial review presents the most prominent protocols developed for chemoselective amide reduction.
Highly selective oxidation of sulfides on a CdS/C3N4 catalyst with dioxygen under visible-light irradiation
Authors: Xu Yong , Fu Zi-Cheng , Cao Shuang , Chen Yong , Fu Wen-Fu
Published: October 2016

A CdS/C3N4 visible-light catalyst exhibits high product selectivity towards photocatalytic oxidation of sulfides into corresponding sulfoxides with dioxygen in methanol.
R/X exchange reactions in cis-[M(R)2{P(X)(NMeCH2)2}2] (M = Pd, Pt), via a phosphenium intermediate
Authors: Itazaki Masumi , Tsuchida Noriko , Shigesato Yuka , Takano Keiko , Nakazawa Hiroshi
Published: October 2016

R/X exchange reactions in cis-[M(R)2{P(X)(NMeCH2)2}2] (M = Pd, Pt; R = aryl, alkyl; X = Cl, Br) were achieved for the first time to give cis-[M(X)2{P(R)(NMeCH2)2}2]. DFT calculations suggested that the exchange reaction proceeds via a phosphenium intermediate.
Surface confinement of TbPc2-SMMs: structural, electronic and magnetic properties
Authors: Moreno Pineda Eufemio , Komeda Tadahiro , Katoh Keiichi , Yamashita Masahiro , Ruben Mario
Published: October 2016

The understanding of the SMM–surface interactions, as well as the surfaces where the SMM are deposited, is of utmost importance for the realisation of novel spintronic devices.
The wonderful world of pyridine-2,6-dicarboxamide based scaffolds
Authors: Kumar Pramod , Gupta Rajeev
Published: October 2016

This perspective focusses on a variety of scaffolds based on a pyridine-2,6-dicarboxamide fragment and their noteworthy roles in coordination chemistry, biomimetic studies, catalysis, and sensing.
The hydrogen dependent CO2 reductase: the first completely CO tolerant FeFe-hydrogenase
Authors: Ceccaldi Pierre , Schuchmann Kai , Müller Volker , Elliott Sean J.
Published: October 2016

The Hydrogen Dependent Carbon dioxide Reductase (HDCR) from Acetobacterium woodii presents a promising solution to the issue of H2 storage by reversibly coupling H2 oxidation to CO2 reduction.
The effect of sodium species on methanol synthesis and water–gas shift Cu/ZnO catalysts: utilising high purity zincian georgeite
Authors: Kondrat Simon A. , Smith Paul J. , Carter James H. , Hayward James S. , Pudge Geoffrey J. , Shaw Greg , Spencer Michael S. , Bartley Jonathan K. , Taylor Stuart H. , Hutchings Graham J.
Published: October 2016

The effect of sodium species on the physical and catalytic properties of Cu/ZnO catalysts derived from zincian georgeite has been investigated. Catalysts prepared with <100 ppm to 2.1 wt% Na+, using a supercritical CO2 antisolvent technique, were characterised and tested for the low temperature water–gas shift reaction and also CO2 hydrogenation to methanol. It was found that zincian georgeite catalyst precursor stability was dependent on the Na+ concentration, with the 2.1 wt% Na+-containing sample uncontrollably ageing to malachite and sodium zinc carbonate. Samples with lower Na+ contents (<100–2500 ppm) remained as the amorphous zincian georgeite phase, which on calcination and reduction resulted in similar CuO/Cu particle sizes and Cu surface areas. The aged 2.1 wt% Na+ containing sample, after calcination and reduction, was found to comprise of larger CuO crystallites and a lower Cu surface area. However, calcination of the high Na+ sample immediately after precipitation (before ageing) resulted in a comparable CuO/Cu particle size to the lower (<100–2500 ppm) Na+ containing samples, but with a lower Cu surface area, which indicates that Na+ species block Cu sites. Activity of the catalysts for the water–gas shift reaction and methanol yields in the methanol synthesis reaction correlated with Na+ content, suggesting that Na+ directly poisons the catalyst. In situ XRD analysis showed that the ZnO crystallite size and consequently Cu crystallite size increased dramatically in the presence of water in a syn-gas reaction mixture, showing that stabilisation of nanocrystalline ZnO is required. Sodium species have a moderate effect on ZnO and Cu crystallite growth rate, with lower Na+ content resulting in slightly reduced rates of growth under reaction conditions.
Oral administration of green algae, Euglena gracilis, inhibits hyperglycemia in OLETF rats, a model of spontaneous type 2 diabetes
Authors: Shimada Ryoko , Fujita Miho , Yuasa Masahiro , Sawamura Hiromi , Watanabe Toshiaki , Nakashima Ayaka , Suzuki Kengo
Published: October 2016

In the present study, the effects of Euglena and paramylon on hyperglycemia were examined in Otsuka Long–Evans Tokushima fatty (OLETF; type 2 diabetes mellitus model) rats.
Catalyst-free synthesis of fused 1,2,3-triazole and isoindoline derivatives via an intramolecular azide–alkene cascade reaction
Authors: Xie Yu-Yang , Wang Ying-Chun , He Yan , Hu Da-Chao , Wang Heng-Shan , Pan Ying-Ming
Published: October 2016

A simple and efficient methodology has been developed for the regioselective synthesis of fused 1,2,3-triazole and isoindoline derivatives under catalyst free conditions.
Correction: Electrocoalescence of paired droplets encapsulated in double-emulsion drops
Authors: Jia Yankai , Ren Yukun , Liu Weiyu , Hou Likai , Tao Ye , Hu Qingming , Jiang Hongyuan
Published: October 2016

Correction for ‘Electrocoalescence of paired droplets encapsulated in double-emulsion drops’ by Yankan Jia et al., Lab Chip, 2016, DOI: 10.1039/c6lc01052k.
Ultrafast colorimetric humidity-sensitive polyelectrolyte coating for touchless control
Authors: Yu Li , Xu Haolan , Monro Tanya M. , Lancaster David G. , Xie Yi , Zeng Hongbo , Chen George Y. , Liu Xiaokong
Published: October 2016

A touchless control system that can be operated by a humidity signal is developed based on colorimetric humidity-sensitive materials.
Computational electronic structure of the bee killer insecticide imidacloprid
Authors: Moreira Antônio A. G. , De Lima-Neto Pedro , Caetano Ewerton W. S. , Barroso-Neto Ito L. , Freire Valder N.
Published: October 2016

One conformer of imidacloprid in vacuum and three conformers in the aqueous phase were obtained by a DFT approach, and their structural and electronic properties were discussed.
Reversibility of the thia-Michael reaction of cytotoxic C5-curcuminoid and structure–activity relationship of bis-thiol-adducts thereof
Authors: Kohyama Aki , Fukuda Michihiro , Sugiyama Shunsuke , Yamakoshi Hiroyuki , Kanoh Naoki , Ishioka Chikashi , Shibata Hiroyuki , Iwabuchi Yoshiharu
Published: October 2016

A panel of GO-Y030-bis-thiol-adducts were synthesized and the structure–reactivity relationship regarding the retro thia-Michael reaction as well as the cell growth inhibitory activity against human colon cancer HCT116 were evaluated.
Transition metal-free decarboxylative alkylation reactions
Authors: Liu Ping , Zhang Guanghui , Sun Peipei
Published: October 2016

This review summarizes recent advances in the transition metal-free decarboxylative alkylation of carboxylic acids and their derivatives.
Correction: Stereoselective synthesis of (−)-desethyleburnamonine, (−)-vindeburnol and (−)-3-epitacamonine: observation of a substrate dependent diastereoselectivity reversal of an aldol reaction
Authors: Mondal Pravat , Argade Narshinha P.
Published: October 2016

Correction for ‘Stereoselective synthesis of (−)-desethyleburnamonine, (−)-vindeburnol and (−)-3-epitacamonine: observation of a substrate dependent diastereoselectivity reversal of an aldol reaction’ by Pravat Mondal et al., Org. Biomol. Chem., 2016, DOI: 10.1039/c6ob01438k.
Impressed pressure-facilitated seeded emulsion polymerization: design of fast swelling strategies for massive fabrication of patchy microparticles
Authors: Tian Lei , Li Xue , Zhao Panpan , Ali Zafar , Zhang Qiuyu
Published: October 2016

High-pressure and ultrasound swelling polymerization promote the fast and large-scale fabrication of patchy particles for potential applications.
[3 + 2] Cycloaddition of aza-oxyallyl cations with aldehydes
Authors: Jia Qianfa , Du Zhiyun , Zhang Kun , Wang Jian
Published: October 2016

We report here the [3 + 2] cycloaddition reactions of in situ-generated aza-oxyallyl cations with commercially available aldehydes.
Micro-Raman and electronic structure study on kinetics of electronic excitations induced monoclinic-to-tetragonal phase transition in zirconium oxide films
Authors: Rawat Mukesh , Das Arkaprava , Shukla D. K. , Rajput Parasmani , Chettah A. , Phase D. M. , Ramola R. C. , Singh Fouran
Published: October 2016

Monoclinic-to-tetragonal phase transformation (PT) in sputtering grown zirconium oxide (ZrO2) films on silicon substrates by electronic excitation (EE) induced by swift heavy ion (SHI) irradiation is reported.
The electrospinning behavior of poly(vinyl alcohol) in DMSO–water binary solvent mixtures
Authors: Gupta Deepika , Jassal Manjeet , Agrawal Ashwini K.
Published: October 2016

The fiber diameters obtained from PVA–DMSO–water ternary system are the result of the interplay between the solvent–solvent and solvent–polymer interactions.
A novel NBD-based pH “on–off” fluorescent probe equipped with the N-phenylpiperazine group for lysosome imaging
Authors: Ma Zhao , Lin Yuxing , Chen Hui , Du Lupei , Li Minyong
Published: October 2016

A novel PET-based fluorescent probe (LN6) targeting to lysosome was found from the synthesized NBD derivatives.
Effect of cobalt supported on meso–macro porous hydrotalcite in Fischer–Tropsch synthesis
Authors: Jung Jae-Sun , Hong Gi Hoon , Park Ji In , Yang Eun-Hyeok , Hodala Janardhan L. , Moon Dong Ju
Published: October 2016

Hydrotalcite based cobalt catalysts were prepared by a slurry precipitation method, followed by a slurry impregnation method.
Ambient-temperature fabrication of melamine-based sponges coated with hydrophobic lignin shells by surface dip adsorbing for oil/water separation
Authors: Lei Zhiwen , Deng Yonghong , Wang Chaoyang
Published: October 2016

The fabrication of hydrophobic MF-based sponges was developed by surface coating with lignin.
NiFe-layered double hydroxides: a bifunctional O2 electrode catalyst for non-aqueous Li–O2 batteries
Authors: Chitravathi S. , Kumar Surender , Munichandraiah N.
Published: October 2016

An improved Li–O2 battery that exhibited a lower voltage gap and better cycle performance using NiFe-LDH. This result, although preliminary opens-up the possibilities of using LDHs as a promising catalyst for Li–O2 battery systems.
Phytosterol nanoparticles with reduced crystallinity generated using nanoporous starch aerogels
Authors: Ubeyitogullari Ali , Ciftci Ozan N.
Published: October 2016

Phytosterol nanoparticles with reduced crystallinity were generated by impregnation of the phytosterols into nanoporous starch aerogels using supercritical carbon dioxide.
Potential single-phased white-emitting phosphor (Ca0.33Sr0.67)7(SiO3)6Cl2: Ce3+, Eu2+ for ultraviolet light-emitting diode
Authors: Geng Wanying , Zhou Xufeng , Wang Yuhua
Published: October 2016

A series of white-emitting and color temperature-tunable phosphors (Ca0.33Sr0.67)7(SiO3)6Cl2: Ce3+, Eu2+ were successful synthesized and the photoluminescence properties and energy transfer mechanism were studied in this work.
Dye-doped silica nanoparticle probes for fluorescence lifetime imaging of reductive environments in living cells
Authors: Petrizza Luca , Collot Mayeul , Richert Ludovic , Mely Yves , Prodi Luca , Klymchenko Andrey S.
Published: October 2016

Dye-doped silica nanoparticle probes with rationally designed FRET acceptors enable fluorescence lifetime imaging of reductive environments in living cells.
Prussian blue as positive electrode material for aqueous sodium-ion capacitor with excellent performance
Authors: Zhou Lei , Yang Zhengkai , Li Chunyang , Chen Bingwei , Wang Yanfeng , Fu Lijun , Zhu Yusong , Liu Xiang , Wu Yuping
Published: October 2016

An aqueous sodium-ion capacitor is reported that presents high energy density, good rate capability and long cycling life.
Effective construction of a AuNPs–DNA system for the implementation of various advanced logic gates
Authors: Zhou Chunyang , Wu Changtong , Liu Yaqing , Wang Erkang
Published: October 2016

Four advanced logic gates were successfully realized under enzyme-free conditions by integration of DNA and AuNPs.
Improved electrochemical performance of LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 with ultrathin and thickness-controlled TiO2 shell via atomic layer deposition technology
Authors: Dai Gaole , Du Hongjuan , Wang ShanShan , Cao Jiali , Yu Min , Chen Yanbin , Tang Yuefeng , Li Aidong , Chen Yanfeng
Published: October 2016

Thickness-controlled TiO2 shell and enhanced cycling performance.
Photodegradation behavior and mechanism of poly(ethylene glycol-co-1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol terephthalate) (PETG) random copolymers: correlation with copolymer composition
Authors: Chen Tingting , Zhang Jun , You Hongjun
Published: October 2016

Norrish type I and II mechanisms occurred in PETG copolymers. The inherent photostability of PETG decreased with increasing CHDM content. The higher CHDM content resulted in the higher crosslinking degree.
Palladium-catalyzed reductive Heck-type vinylative dearomatization of unfunctionalized halonaphthalene derivatives
Authors: Dou Yingchao , Yang Liting , Zhang Lu , Zhang Panke , Li Heng , Yang Guanyu
Published: October 2016

A novel strategy for the dearomatization of inactive 1-halonaphthalenes via palladium-catalyzed reductive Heck-type vinylative reaction was successfully developed.
Performances, kinetics and mechanisms of catalytic oxidative desulfurization from oils
Authors: Wei Sainan , He Huijun , Cheng Yan , Yang Chunping , Zeng Guangming , Qiu Lu
Published: October 2016

Ultra-deep desulfurization technologies are critical for cleaner oils and consequent better air quality.
Evaluation of physical structural features on influencing enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency of micronized wood
Authors: Jiang Jinxue , Wang Jinwu , Zhang Xiao , Wolcott Michael
Published: October 2016

Enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass is highly dependent on the changes in structural features after pretreatment.
An efficient one-pot catalyzed synthesis of 2,5-disubstituted-1,3,4-oxadiazoles and evaluation of their antimicrobial activities
Authors: Behalo Mohamed S.
Published: October 2016

A facile and convenient one-pot catalyzed synthesis of 2,5-disubstituted-1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives as efficient antimicrobial agents was described.
Pilot-scale open fermentation of food waste to produce lactic acid without inoculum addition
Authors: Wang Juan , Gao Ming , Wang Qunhui , Zhang Wenyu , Shirai Yoshihito
Published: October 2016

A pilot-scale study on lactic acid production from non-sterilized open fermentation of food waste with indigenous microorganisms.
Green synthesis of nitrogen-doped carbon dots from lentil and its application for colorimetric determination of thioridazine hydrochloride
Authors: Amjadi Mohammad , Hallaj Tooba , Mayan Masoumeh Aghdas
Published: October 2016

A simple and green hydrothermal method is introduced for synthesis of nitrogen-doped carbon dots (N-CDs) by using lentil. The interaction of as-prepared N-CDs with AgNPs was utilized for colorimetric detection of thioridazine hydrochloride.
Synthesis of bicyclic 2-pyridones by regioselective annulations of heterocyclic ketene aminals with anhydrides
Authors: Liu Jin , Yan Sheng-Jiao , Cao Zheng-Mao , Cui Shi-Sheng , Lin Jun
Published: October 2016

An efficient strategy for the synthesis of substituted bicyclic 2-pyridones is developed. The proposed approach is based on the regioselective N-acylation of heterocyclic ketene aminals (HKAs) with methacrylic anhydride or crotonic anhydride.
Gold–glutathione complex catalysts with carbon support for non-mercury catalytic acetylene hydrochlorination
Authors: Qi Xueyan , Li Wei , Gu Junjie , Guo Cuili , Zhang Jinli
Published: October 2016

Adjusting the pH of the catalysts to a suitable value can make Au active species more dispersed on the catalysts, which improve the performance of the catalysts.
Microstructural, electrical and carrier transport properties of Au/NiO/n-GaN heterojunction with a nickel oxide interlayer
Authors: Reddy V. Rajagopal , Reddy P. R. Sekhar , Reddy I. Neelakanta , Choi Chel-Jong
Published: October 2016

Nickel oxide (NiO) films are prepared on n-type GaN by an e-beam evaporation technique and its structural and chemical characteristics analysed by XRD, TEM and XPS measurements first at room temperature.
Low efficiency roll-off and high performance OLEDs employing alkyl group modified iridium(iii) complexes as emitters
Authors: Wen Li-Li , Yu Jing , Sun Hai-Zhu , Shan Guo-Gang , Xie Wen-Fa , Su Zhong-Min
Published: October 2016

Four Ir(iii) dyes employing modified 1,2-diphenyl-1H-benzoimidazole ligands were synthesized. Doped device using tBu-Ir-PI with tert-butyl group as emitter achieves high ηc of 42.0 cd A−1 and ηp of 27.0 lm W−1, respectively.
Synthesis of 4,8-dihydro-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-e][1,4]thiazepin-7(6H)-one derivatives by solid acid-catalyzed multi-component reaction in water
Authors: Zhang Furen , Li Chunmei , Qi Chenze
Published: October 2016

A solid acid is found to efficiently catalyze the condensation of substituent-pyrazoles, aldehydes, and thioglycollic acid to afford a wide range of pyrazolo[3,4-e][1,4]thiazepine derivatives with good to excellent yields.
How to make lithium iron phosphate better: a review exploring classical modification approaches in-depth and proposing future optimization methods
Authors: Yang Zhigao , Dai Yu , Wang Shengping , Yu Jingxian
Published: October 2016

This review discusses optimization methods for LiFePO4from the extent of electron and Li+migration and proposes two future optimization approaches.
Potassium–sodium niobate based lead-free ceramics: novel electrical energy storage materials
Authors: Shao Tengqiang , Du Hongliang , Ma Hua , Qu Shaobo , Wang Jun , Wang Jiafu , Wei Xiaoyong , Xu Zhuo
Published: October 2016

A design methodology for developing lead-free bulk ceramics with large recoverable energy storage density was proposed in this study.
Air-dried, high-density graphene hybrid aerogels for phase change composites with exceptional thermal conductivity and shape stability
Authors: Yang Jing , Li Xiaofeng , Han Shuang , Zhang Yiting , Min Peng , Koratkar Nikhil , Yu Zhong-Zhen
Published: October 2016

Air-dried, high-density graphene hybrid aerogels are fabricated for phase change composites with exceptional thermal conductivity and shape stability.
Controlled growth of vertical 3D MoS2(1−x)Se2x nanosheets for an efficient and stable hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Chen Xiaoshuang , Wang Zhiguo , Qiu Yunfeng , Zhang Jia , Liu Guangbo , Zheng Wei , Feng Wei , Cao Wenwu , Hu PingAn , Hu Wenping
Published: October 2016

Vertically oriented and component-controllable 3D MoS2(1−x)Se2x nanosheets were grown via a CVD technique. Mo(S0.53Se0.47)2 alloy nanosheets exhibited the best HER performance.
Preparation of a hybrid Cu2O/CuMoO4 nanosheet electrode for high-performance asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Du Dongwei , Lan Rong , Xu Wei , Beanland Richard , Wang Huanting , Tao Shanwen
Published: October 2016

A hybrid Cu2O/CuMoO4 nanosheet electrode was prepared for asymmetric supercapacitors which delivers high energy density with good stability.
Highly efficient metal-free electrocatalysts toward oxygen reduction derived from carbon nanotubes@polypyrrole core–shell hybrids
Authors: An Hongli , Zhang Ruikang , Li Zhenhua , Zhou Lei , Shao Mingfei , Wei Min
Published: October 2016

Nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes (NCNTs) are recognized as one of the most promising oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts, while developing a preparation protocol for CNT-based ORR catalysts with cost-effective synthesis, high activity and durability is still a challenge.
Controlling integrin-based adhesion to a degradable electrospun fibre scaffold via SI-ATRP
Authors: Rodda Andrew E. , Ercole Francesca , Glattauer Veronica , Nisbet David R. , Healy Kevin E. , Dove Andrew P. , Meagher Laurence , Forsythe John S.
Published: October 2016

Degradable polyester fibres with polymer brush coatings improve control of cell adhesion to three-dimensional scaffolds.
Large-scale room-temperature synthesis and optical properties of perovskite-related Cs4PbBr6fluorophores
Authors: Chen Daqin , Wan Zhongyi , Chen Xiao , Yuan Yongjun , Zhong Jiasong
Published: October 2016

An inhomogeneous interface reaction in a liquid–liquid immiscible two-phase system is developed to realize the large-scale room-temperature synthesis of perovskite-related Cs4PbBr6fluorophores.