bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rigorous intensity and phase-shift manipulation in optical frequency conversion
Authors: Yang Bo , Yue Yang-Yang , Lu Rong-er , Hong Xu-Hao , Zhang Chao , Qin Yi-Qiang , Zhu Yong-Yuan
Published: June 2016

A simple method is employed to investigate the nonlinear frequency conversion in optical superlattices (OSL) with pump depletion. Four rigorous phase-matching conditions for different purposes are obtained directly from the nonlinear coupled equations and the resulting OSL domain structures are generally aperiodic rather than periodic. With this method, not only the intensity but also the phase-shift of the harmonic waves can be manipulated at will. The second-harmonic generation of Gaussian beam is further investigated. This work may provide a guidance for the practical applications of designing nonlinear optical devices with high conversion efficiency.
Stimulation of superoxide production increases fungicidal action of miconazole against Candida albicans biofilms
Authors: De Cremer Kaat , De Brucker Katrijn , Staes Ines , Peeters Annelies , Van den Driessche Freija , Coenye Tom , Cammue Bruno P. A. , Thevissen Karin
Published: June 2016

We performed a whole-transcriptome analysis of miconazole-treatedCandida albicansbiofilms, using RNA-sequencing. Our aim was to identify molecular pathways employed by biofilm cells of this pathogen to resist action of the commonly used antifungal miconazole. As expected, genes involved in sterol biosynthesis and genes encoding drug efflux pumps were highly induced in biofilm cells upon miconazole treatment. Other processes were affected as well, including the electron transport chain (ETC), of which eight components were transcriptionally downregulated. Within a diverse set of 17 inhibitors/inducers of the transcriptionally affected pathways, the ETC inhibitors acted most synergistically with miconazole againstC. albicansbiofilm cells. Synergy was not observed for planktonically growingC. albicanscultures or when biofilms were treated in oxygen-deprived conditions, pointing to a biofilm-specific oxygen-dependent tolerance mechanism. In line, a correlation between miconazole’s fungicidal action againstC. albicansbiofilm cells and the levels of superoxide radicals was observed and confirmed both genetically and pharmacologically using a triple superoxide dismutase mutant and a superoxide dismutase inhibitor N-N′-diethyldithiocarbamate, respectively. Consequently, ETC inhibitors that result in mitochondrial dysfunction and affect production of reactive oxygen species can increase miconazole’s fungicidal activity againstC. albicansbiofilm cells.
Thyrostimulin-TSHR signaling promotes the proliferation of NIH:OVCAR-3 ovarian cancer cells via trans-regulation of the EGFR pathway
Authors: Huang Wei-Lin , Li Zhongyou , Lin Ting-Yu , Wang Sheng-Wen , Wu Fang-Ju , Luo Ching-Wei
Published: June 2016

Gonadotropin signaling plays an indispensable role in ovarian cancer progression. We previously have demonstrated that thyrostimulin and thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR), the most ancient glycoprotein hormone and receptor pair that evolved much earlier than the gonadotropin systems, co-exist in the ovary. However, whether thyrostimulin-driven TSHR activation contributes to ovarian cancer progression in a similar way to gonadotropin receptors has never been explored. In this study, we first found that TSHR is expressed in both rat normal ovarian surface epithelium and human epithelial ovarian cancers (EOCs). Using human NIH:OVCAR-3 as a cell model, we demonstrated that thyrostimulin promotes EOC cell proliferation as strongly as gonadotropins. Thyrostimulin treatment not only activated adenylyl cyclase and the subsequent PKA, MEK-ERK1/2 and PI3K-AKT signal cascades, but also trans-activated EGFR signaling. Signaling dissection using diverse inhibitors indicated that EOC cell proliferation driven by thyrostimulin-TSHR signaling is PKA independent, but does require the involvement of the MEK-ERK and PI3K-AKT signal cascades, which are activated mainly via the trans-activation of EGFR. Thus, not only have we proved that this ancient glycoprotein hormone system is involved in NIH:OVCAR-3 cell proliferation for the first time, but also that it may possibly become a novel oncotarget when studying ovarian cancer.
Detection of Burkholderia pseudomallei toxin-mediated inhibition of protein synthesis using a Caenorhabditis elegans ugt–29 biosensor
Authors: Wong Rui-Rui , Kong Cin , Lee Song-Hua , Nathan Sheila
Published: June 2016

Toxins are believed to play a crucial role inBurkholderia pseudomalleipathogenicity, however to date, only a few have been identified. The discovery of additional toxic molecules is limited by the lack of a sensitive indicator ofB. pseudomalleitoxicity. Previously, from a whole genome transcriptome analysis ofB. pseudomallei-infectedCaenorhabditis elegans, we noted significant overexpression of a number of worm genes encoding detoxification enzymes, indicating the host’s attempt to clear bacterial toxic molecules. One of these genes,ugt–29, a family member of UDP-glucuronosyltransferases, was the most robustly induced phase II detoxification gene. In this study, we show that strong induction ofugt–29is restricted to infections by the most virulent species among the pathogens tested. We also noted thatugt–29is activated upon disruption of host protein synthesis. Hence, we propose that UGT–29 could be a promising biosensor to detectB. pseudomalleitoxins that compromise host protein synthesis. The identification of bactobolin, a polyketide-peptide hybrid molecule, as a toxic molecule ofB. pseudomalleifurther verifies the utilization of this surveillance system to search for bacterial toxins. Hence, augt–29based reporter should be useful in screening for other molecules that inhibit host protein synthesis.
Serum stress responsive gene EhslncRNA of Entamoeba histolytica is a novel long noncoding RNA
Authors: Saha Arpita , Bhattacharya Sudha , Bhattacharya Alok
Published: June 2016

Non coding RNAs are known to play important roles in regulating gene expression at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels in metazoans. There is very little information available about non coding RNAs in protists such as Entamoeba histolytica. Antisense and micro RNAs have been reported in E. histolytica, however no long non coding RNAs has been reported yet. Here, we report our findings on an in vitro serum stress-inducible gene EhslncRNA, a member of B1 transmembrane kinase family of E. histolytica. EhslncRNA encodes a transcript of 2.6 kb and sequence analysis revealed that there is no ORF >150 bp within this transcript. The transcript was found to be polyadenylated and mainly associated with monosomes in the cytoplasm under serum starvation. In normal proliferating cells this RNA is mainly present in the nucleus. The promoter element was mapped between 437 to 346 nucleotides upstream of transcriptional start site and has both positive and negative regulatory elements. Deletion of the negative element converted the promoter to serum inducible type. Oxygen and heat stress also increased expression levels of EhslncRNA. These observations suggest that EhslncRNA may be a long non coding RNA and likely to help cells withstand stressful conditions in the host.
CdGAP/ARHGAP31, a Cdc42/Rac1 GTPase regulator, is critical for vascular development and VEGF-mediated angiogenesis
Authors: Caron Christine , DeGeer Jonathan , Fournier Patrick , Duquette Philippe M. , Luangrath Vilayphone , Ishii Hidetaka , Karimzadeh Fereshteh , Lamarche-Vane Nathalie , Royal Isabelle
Published: June 2016

Mutations in the CdGAP/ARHGAP31 gene, which encodes a GTPase-activating protein for Rac1 and Cdc42, have been reported causative in the Adams-Oliver developmental syndrome often associated with vascular defects. However, despite its abundant expression in endothelial cells, CdGAP function in the vasculature remains unknown. Here, we show that vascular development is impaired in CdGAP-deficient mouse embryos at E15.5. This is associated with superficial vessel defects and subcutaneous edema, resulting in 44% embryonic/perinatal lethality. VEGF-driven angiogenesis is defective in CdGAP−/− mice, showing reduced capillary sprouting from aortic ring explants. Similarly, VEGF-dependent endothelial cell migration and capillary formation are inhibited upon CdGAP knockdown. Mechanistically, CdGAP associates with VEGF receptor-2 and controls VEGF-dependent signaling. Consequently, CdGAP depletion results in impaired VEGF-mediated Rac1 activation and reduced phosphorylation of critical intracellular mediators including Gab1, Akt, PLCγ and SHP2. These findings are the first to demonstrate the importance of CdGAP in embryonic vascular development and VEGF-induced signaling and highlight CdGAP as a potential therapeutic target to treat pathological angiogenesis and vascular dysfunction.
Cryosurgery would be An Effective Option for Clinically Localized Prostate Cancer: A Meta-analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Gao Liang , Yang Lu , Qian Shengqiang , Tang Zhuang , Qin Feng , Wei Qiang , Han Ping , Yuan Jiuhong
Published: June 2016

Cryosurgery (CS) has been used on patients with clinically localized PCa for more than 10 years. However, clinical studies evaluating its effectiveness and safety have reported conflicting results. This systematic assessment was performed to obtain comprehensive evidence regarding the potential benefits and safety of CS compared with those of radiotherapy (RT) and radical prostatectomy (RP), respectively. All controlled trials comparing CS with RT or RP and single-arm studies reporting results of CS therapy were identified through comprehensive searches of PubMed, the Cochrane Library and Embase. Ten publications from seven trials, with totally 1252 patients, were included in the meta-analysis, which revealed no significant differences in comparisons of CS vs RT and CS vs RP for overall survival and disease specific survival. However, a significantly lower disease-free survival could be observed for CS than RP. Moreover, a systematic review of literature focusing on comparative data of databases and materials of single-arm trials revealed satisfactory survival results in both primary and salvage CS. Our results showed that cryosurgery would be a relatively effective method for clinically localized prostate cancer with survival results comparable to radiotherapy and radical prostatectomy. However, the large percentage of complications caused by cryosurgery should be carefully monitored.
Facile synthesis of sewage sludge-derived in-situ multi-doped nanoporous carbon material for electrocatalytic oxygen reduction
Authors: Yuan Shi-Jie , Dai Xiao-Hu
Published: June 2016

Developing efficient, low-cost and stable carbon-based catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) to replace the expensive platinum-based electrocatalysts remains a major challenge that hamper the practical application of fuel cells. Here, we report that N, Fe and S co-doped nanoporous carbon material, derived via a facile one-step pyrolysis of sewage sludge, the major byproduct of wastewater treatment, can serve as an effective electrocatalyst for ORR. Except for the comparable catalytic activity with commercial 20% Pt/C via a nearly four-electron transfer pathway in both alkaline and acid medium, the as-synthesized co-doped electrocatalyst also exhibits excellent methanol crossover resistance and outstanding long-term operation stability. The organic compounds in sewage sludge act as the carbon source and the in-situ N and S dopant in the fabrication, while the inorganic compounds serve as the in-built template and the in-situ Fe dopant. Our protocol demonstrates a new approach in the economic and eco-friendly benign reuse of sewage sludge and also provides a straightforward route for synthesizing excellent carbon-based electrocatalysts as promising candidates for ORR directly from a type of waste/pollution.
Assessment of Heterotrophic Growth Supported by Soluble Microbial Products in Anammox Biofilm using Multidimensional Modeling
Authors: Liu Yiwen , Sun Jing , Peng Lai , Wang Dongbo , Dai Xiaohu , Ni Bing-Jie
Published: June 2016

Anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) is known to autotrophically convert ammonium to dinitrogen gas with nitrite as the electron acceptor, but little is known about their released microbial products and how these are relative to heterotrophic growth in anammox system. In this work, we applied a mathematical model to assess the heterotrophic growth supported by three key microbial products produced by bacteria in anammox biofilm (utilization associated products (UAP), biomass associated products (BAP), and decay released substrate). Both One-dimensional and two-dimensional numerical biofilm models were developed to describe the development of anammox biofilm as a function of the multiple bacteria–substrate interactions. Model simulations show that UAP of anammox is the main organic carbon source for heterotrophs. Heterotrophs are mainly dominant at the surface of the anammox biofilm with small fraction inside the biofilm. 1-D model is sufficient to describe the main substrate concentrations/fluxes within the anammox biofilm, while the 2-D model can give a more detailed biomass distribution. The heterotrophic growth on UAP is mainly present at the outside of anammox biofilm, their growth on BAP (HetB) are present throughout the biofilm, while the growth on decay released substrate (HetD) is mainly located in the inner layers of the biofilm.
Dicer functions as an antiviral system against human adenoviruses via cleavage of adenovirus-encoded noncoding RNA
Authors: Machitani Mitsuhiro , Sakurai Fuminori , Wakabayashi Keisaku , Tomita Kyoko , Tachibana Masashi , Mizuguchi Hiroyuki
Published: June 2016

In various organisms, including nematodes and plants, RNA interference (RNAi) is a defense system against virus infection; however, it is unclear whether RNAi functions as an antivirus system in mammalian cells. Rather, a number of DNA viruses, including herpesviruses, utilize post-transcriptional silencing systems for their survival. Here we show that Dicer efficiently suppresses the replication of adenovirus (Ad) via cleavage of Ad-encoding small RNAs (VA-RNAs), which efficiently promote Ad replication via the inhibition of eIF2α phosphorylation, to viral microRNAs (mivaRNAs). The Dicer knockdown significantly increases the copy numbers of VA-RNAs, leading to the efficient inhibition of eIF2α phosphorylation and the subsequent promotion of Ad replication. Conversely, overexpression of Dicer significantly inhibits Ad replication. Transfection with mivaRNA does not affect eIF2α phosphorylation or Ad replication. These results indicate that Dicer-mediated processing of VA-RNAs leads to loss of activity of VA-RNAs for enhancement of Ad replication and that Dicer functions as a defence system against Ad in mammalian cells.
Electroconvulsive therapy and structural neuroplasticity in neocortical, limbic and paralimbic cortex
Authors: Pirnia T , Joshi S H , Leaver A M , Vasavada M , Njau S , Woods R P , Espinoza R , Narr K L
Published: June 2016

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a highly effective and rapidly acting treatment for severe depression. To understand the biological bases of therapeutic response, we examined variations in cortical thickness from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data in 29 patients scanned at three time points during an ECT treatment index series and in 29 controls at two time points. Changes in thickness across time and with symptom improvement were evaluated at high spatial resolution across the cortex and within discrete cortical regions of interest. Patients showed increased thickness over the course of ECT in the bilateral anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), inferior and superior temporal, parahippocampal, entorhinal and fusiform cortex and in distributed prefrontal areas. No changes across time occurred in controls. In temporal and fusiform regions showing significant ECT effects, thickness differed between patients and controls at baseline and change in thickness related to therapeutic response in patients. In the ACC, these relationships occurred in treatment responders only, and thickness measured soon after treatment initiation predicted the overall ECT response. ECT leads to widespread neuroplasticity in neocortical, limbic and paralimbic regions and changes relate to the extent of antidepressant response. Variations in ACC thickness, which discriminate treatment responders and predict response early in the course of ECT, may represent a biomarker of overall clinical outcome. Because post-mortem studies show focal reductions in glial density and neuronal size in patients with severe depression, ECT-related increases in thickness may be attributable to neuroplastic processes affecting the size and/or density of neurons and glia and their connections.
A mega-analysis of fixed-dose trials reveals dose-dependency and a rapid onset of action for the antidepressant effect of three selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
Authors: Hieronymus F , Nilsson S , Eriksson E
Published: June 2016

The possible dose-dependency for the antidepressant effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) remains controversial. We believe we have conducted the first comprehensive patient-level mega-analysis exploring this issue, one incentive being to address the possibility that inclusion of low-dose arms in previous meta-analyses may have caused an underestimation of the efficacy of these drugs. All company-sponsored, acute-phase, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose trials using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and conducted to evaluate the effect of citalopram, paroxetine or sertraline in adult major depression were included (11 trials, n=2859 patients). The single-item depressed mood, which has proven a more sensitive measure to detect an antidepressant signal than the sum score of all HDRS items, was designated the primary effect parameter. Doses below or at the lower end of the usually recommended dose range (citalopram: 10–20 mg, paroxetine: 10 mg; sertraline: 50 mg) were superior to placebo but inferior to higher doses, hence confirming a dose-dependency to be at hand. In contrast, among doses above these, there was no indication of a dose–response relationship. The effect size (ES) after exclusion of suboptimal doses was of a more respectable magnitude (0.5) than that usually attributed to the antidepressant effect of the SSRIs. In conclusion, the observation that low doses are less effective than higher ones challenges the oft-cited view that the effect of the SSRIs is not dose-dependent and hence not caused by a specific, pharmacological antidepressant action. Moreover, we suggest that inclusion of suboptimal doses in previous meta-analyses has led to an underestimation of the efficacy of these drugs.
Severe psychosocial deprivation in early childhood is associated with increased DNA methylation across a region spanning the transcription start site of CYP2E1
Authors: Kumsta R , Marzi S J , Viana J , Dempster E L , Crawford B , Rutter M , Mill J , Sonuga-Barke E J S
Published: June 2016

Exposure to adverse rearing environments including institutional deprivation and severe childhood abuse is associated with an increased risk for mental and physical health problems across the lifespan. Although the mechanisms mediating these effects are not known, recent work in rodent models suggests that epigenetic processes may be involved. We studied the impact of severe early-life adversity on epigenetic variation in a sample of adolescents adopted from the severely depriving orphanages of the Romanian communist era in the 1980s. We quantified buccal cell DNA methylation at ~400 000 sites across the genome in Romanian adoptees exposed to either extended (6–43 months; n=16) or limited duration (<6 months; n=17) of severe early-life deprivation, in addition to a matched sample of UK adoptees (n=16) not exposed to severe deprivation. Although no probe-wise differences remained significant after controlling for the number of probes tested, we identified an exposure-associated differentially methylated region (DMR) spanning nine sequential CpG sites in the promoter-regulatory region of the cytochrome P450 2E1 gene (CYP2E1) on chromosome 10 (corrected P=2.98 × 10−5). Elevated DNA methylation across this region was also associated with deprivation-related clinical markers of impaired social cognition. Our data suggest that environmental insults of sufficient biological impact during early development are associated with long-lasting epigenetic changes, potentially reflecting a biological mechanism linking the effects of early-life adversity to cognitive and neurobiological phenotypes.
Analytical methods for determination and sensing of fluoride in biotic and abiotic sources: a review
Authors: Dhillon Ankita , Nair Manjula , Kumar Dinesh
Published: June 2016

Detection and characterization of fluoride is an important part of understanding the benefits as well as the potential toxicity of fluoride in biotic and abiotic natural sources.
Quantum-confined bandgap narrowing of TiO2 nanoparticles by graphene quantum dots for visible-light-driven applications
Authors: Wang Shujun , Cole Ivan S. , Li Qin
Published: June 2016

We for the first time report a quantum-confined bandgap narrowing mechanism through which the absorption of two UV absorbers, namely the graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and TiO2 nanoparticles, can be easily extended into the visible light range in a controllable manner.
Expedient synthesis of tetrahydroquinoline-3-spirohydantoin derivatives via the Lewis acid-catalyzed tert-amino effect reaction
Authors: Briones John F. , Basarab Gregory S.
Published: June 2016

Magnesium triflate was found to effectively catalyze the tert-amino effect reaction (T-reaction) involving ethyl 3-(2-(dialkylamino)-phenyl)-2-nitroacrylates leading to tetrahydroquinoline nitroester derivatives.
Highly chemoresistive humidity sensing using poly(ionic liquid)s
Authors: Wang Lingling , Duan Xiaochuan , Xie Wuyuan , Li Qiuhong , Wang Taihong
Published: June 2016

A novel resistance type humidity sensor was fabricated using poly(ionic liquid)s, which exhibited high sensitivity, fast response, small hysteresis and good repeatability at a relative humidity (RH) in the range of 11–98%, making poly(ionic liquid)s as promising sensing materials for high-performance humidity sensors.
Spectroscopic Raman characterization of rutherfordine: a combined DFT and experimental study
Authors: Bonales L. J. , Colmenero F. , Cobos J. , Timón V.
Published: June 2016

Study of a natural rutherfordine mineral by means of Raman spectroscopy and DFT calculations.
Photodynamics of potent antioxidants: ferulic and caffeic acids
Authors: Horbury Michael D. , Baker Lewis A. , Quan Wen-Dong , Greenough Simon E. , Stavros Vasilios G.
Published: June 2016

The dynamics of ferulic acid (3-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-2-propenoic acid) and caffeic acid (3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoic acid) in acetonitrile, dioxane and water at pH 2.2 following photoexcitation to the first excited singlet (S1) state are reported.
Chemical reactivity of C–F bonds attached to graphene with diamines depending on their nature and location
Authors: Li Baoyin , He Taijun , Wang Zaoming , Cheng Zheng , Liu Yang , Chen Teng , Lai Wenchuan , Wang Xu , Liu Xiangyang
Published: June 2016

An insight into the dependence of chemical reactivity of fluorinated graphene on its structural characteristics is undertaken.
Factors controlling the selectivity for Na+over Mg2+in sodium transporters and enzymes
Authors: Dudev Todor , Mazmanian Karine , Lim Carmay
Published: June 2016

The paper discloses the key factors and physical bases that render a given binding site either Mg2+or Na+-selective.
Correction: Hybrid nanostructures of metal/two-dimensional nanomaterials for plasmon-enhanced applications
Authors: Li Xuanhua , Zhu Jinmeng , Wei Bingqing
Published: June 2016

Correction for ‘Hybrid nanostructures of metal/two-dimensional nanomaterials for plasmon-enhanced applications’ by Xuanhua Li et al., Chem. Soc. Rev., 2016, 45, 3145–3187.
Methane dry reforming over hydrotalcite-derived Ni–Mg–Al mixed oxides: the influence of Ni content on catalytic activity, selectivity and stability
Authors: Dębek Radosław , Motak Monika , Duraczyska Dorota , Launay Franck , Galvez Maria Elena , Grzybek Teresa , Da Costa Patrick
Published: June 2016

Ni-containing hydrotalcite-derived catalysts were prepared using different Ni loadings (from ca. 4 to 60 wt%) at the same MII/MIII ratio equal to 3.
2016 New talent Americas across academia and the U.S. National Laboratories
Authors: Arnold John , Nenoff Tina M.
Published: June 2016

Welcome to this themed issue of Dalton Transactions entitled ‘2016 New talent Americas across academia and the U.S. National Laboratories’ guest edited by Professor John Arnold, Dr James Boncella, Professor Pingyun Feng, Dr Tina M. Nenoff, and Professor Christine Thomas.
Proton-coupled electron transfer reactions: analytical rate constants and case study of kinetic isotope effects in lipoxygenase
Authors: Soudackov Alexander V. , Hammes-Schiffer Sharon
Published: June 2016

A general theory has been developed for proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET), which is vital to a wide range of chemical and biological processes. This theory describes PCET reactions in terms of nonadiabatic transitions between reactant and product electron–proton vibronic states and includes the effects of thermal fluctuations of the solvent or protein environment, as well as the proton donor–acceptor motion. Within the framework of this general PCET theory, a series of analytical rate constant expressions has been derived for PCET reactions in well-defined regimes. Herein, the application of this theory to PCET in the enzyme soybean lipoxygenase illustrates the regimes of validity for the various rate constant expressions and elucidates the fundamental physical principles dictating PCET reactions. Such theoretical studies provide significant physical insights that guide the interpretation of experimental data and lead to experimentally testable predictions. A combination of theoretical treatments with atomic-level simulations is essential to understanding PCET.
The long story of the Maillard reaction: the beginning of the second century
Authors: Fogliano Vincenzo
Published: June 2016

Guest Editor Vincenzo Fogliano introduces the themed collection on the Maillard reaction in food and nutrition.
Membrane manufacture for peptide separation
Authors: Kim DooLi , Salazar Octavio R. , Nunes Suzana Pereina
Published: June 2016

Polysulfone membranes are key tools in biomedical applications, such as hemodialysis and protein separation, in the food industry, and in seawater desalination. Ionic liquids are proposed as green solvent for membrane manufacture with tailored peptide selectivity.
Efficient adsorption and separation of dysprosium from NdFeB magnets in an acidic system by ion imprinted mesoporous silica sealed in a dialysis bag
Authors: Zheng Xudong , Liu Enli , Zhang Fusheng , Yan Yongsheng , Pan Jianming
Published: June 2016

A straightforward, one-pot approach for novel ion imprinted mesoporous silica materials (IMS) has been developed by co-condensation.
A microfluidic device integrating dual CMOS polysilicon nanowire sensors for on-chip whole blood processing and simultaneous detection of multiple analytes
Authors: Kuan Da-Han , Wang I-Shun , Lin Jiun-Rue , Yang Chao-Han , Huang Chi-Hsien , Lin Yen-Hung , Lin Chih-Ting , Huang Nien-Tsu
Published: June 2016

We report a microfluidic device integrating dual CMOS polysilicon nanowire sensors (MINS) for on-chip whole blood processing and simultaneous detection of Hb and HbA1c.
Histidine switch controlling pH-dependent protein folding and DNA binding in a transcription factor at the core of synthetic network devices
Authors: Deochand D. K. , Perera I. C. , Crochet R. B. , Gilbert N. C. , Newcomer M. E. , Grove A.
Published: June 2016

Reversible protonation of histidine at the dimer interface of HucR controls interconversion between molten globule and compact folded state.
SN1 reactions in supercritical carbon dioxide in the presence of alcohols: the role of preferential solvation
Authors: Delgado-Abad Thais , Martínez-Ferrer Jaime , Acerete Rafael , Asensio Gregorio , Mello Rossella , González-Núñez María Elena
Published: June 2016

No solvent, no reaction: ethanol inhibits SN1 reactions of alkyl halides in scCO2 by competing with the substrate for solvation.
A triple-monomer methodology to construct controllable supramolecular hyperbranched alternating polymers
Authors: Li Hui , Fan Xiaodong , Shang Xiaomeng , Qi Miao , Zhang Haitao , Tian Wei
Published: June 2016

A novel “D3–AC–E3” triple-monomer methodology was proposed to construct supramolecular hyperbranched alternating polymers.
Influence of the aromatic moiety in α- and β-arylalanines on their biotransformation with phenylalanine 2,3-aminomutase from Pantoea agglomerans
Authors: Varga Andrea , Bánóczi Gergely , Nagy Botond , Bencze László Csaba , Toşa Monica Ioana , Gellért Ákos , Irimie Florin Dan , Rétey János , Poppe László , Paizs Csaba
Published: June 2016

In this study enantiomer selective isomerization of various racemic α- and β-arylalanines catalysed by phenylalanine 2,3-aminomutase from Pantoea agglomerans (PaPAM) was investigated.
Accessible fabrication of Bi2MoO6/BiOCl for effectively conducting thermally-responsive catalytic decontamination of model pollutants
Authors: Luo Xuegang , Zhang Sizhao , Ding Feng , Lin Xiaoyan
Published: June 2016

Bi2MoO6/BiOCl (BMB) with thermally-responsive catalytic properties was synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal approach.
Charged surface groups of nanoparticles and the adsorbed proteins codetermine the fate of nanoparticles upon interacting with cells
Authors: Huang Ke , Hu Yang , Yu Changjun , Boerhan Rena , Jiang Guoqiang
Published: June 2016

Protein corona had impact on the endocytosis mechanism and then the intracellular transport of NPs, especially the exocytosis.
Investigation of intermolecular interactions of mixed extractants of quaternary phosphonium or ammonium chlorides and bis(2,4,4-ethylhexyl)phosphoric acid for metal separation
Authors: Li Ya , Hu Jiugang , Fu Mingbo , Tang Jia , Dong Linlin , Liu Shijun
Published: June 2016

The adjustable intermolecular interactions of mixed extractants to improve metal separation.
Preparation and evaluation of Nafion/SnO2 nanocomposite for improving the chemical durability of proton exchange membranes in fuel cells
Authors: Taghizadeh Mohammad Taghi , Vatanparast Morteza
Published: June 2016

A composite Nafion-based membrane using SnO2 nanoparticles as a radical scavenger was firstly investigated. The Nafion/SnO2 nanocomposite membrane exhibits more chemical durability than the pure Nafion membrane.
A nitrilase-mediated entry to 4-carboxymethyl-β-lactams from chemically prepared 4-(cyanomethyl)azetidin-2-ones
Authors: Decuyper Lena , Piens Nicola , Mincke Jens , Bomon Jeroen , De Schrijver Bert , Mollet Karen , De Winter Karel , Desmet Tom , D'hooghe Matthias
Published: June 2016

4-(Cyanomethyl)azetidin-2-ones were efficiently prepared from 1,2:5,6-di-O-isopropylidene-d-mannitol, followed by a nitrilase-catalyzed hydrolysis to 4-carboxymethyl β-lactams without affecting the sensitive four-membered ring system.
New hybrid materials based on the grafting of Pd(ii)-amino complexes on the graphitic surface of AC: preparation, structures and catalytic properties
Authors: Luz Godino-Salido M. , Gutiérrez-Valero María D. , López-Garzón Rafael , Arranz-Mascarós Paloma , Santiago-Medina Antonio , Melguizo Manuel , Domingo-García María , López-Garzón F. Javier , Abdelkader-Fernández Victor K. , Salinas-Martínez de Lecea Concepción , Román-Martínez M. Carmen
Published: June 2016

Two novel hybrid catalysts have been prepared by anchoring Pd(ii)-amino complexes on the graphitic surface of ACs and their catalytic activities on the 1-octene hydrogenation are presented.
Ni@Au nanoparticles for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy based ultrasensitive magnetic immunoassay on aflatoxin B1
Authors: Fang Congwei , Wei Chao , Xu Minmin , Yuan Yaxian , Gu Renao , Yao Jianlin
Published: June 2016

A facile approach for the fabrication of Ni@Au magnetic nanoparticles was developed as the immune substrates for the competitive magnetic immunoassay. The approach was used for quasi-quantitatively detection on the trace residue of AFB1in foods.
Continuous flow synthesis and cleaning of nano layered double hydroxides and the potential of the route to adjust round or platelet nanoparticle morphology
Authors: Flegler Andreas , Schneider Michael , Prieschl Johannes , Stevens Ralph , Vinnay Thomas , Mandel Karl
Published: June 2016

Continuous flow synthesis and cleaning of nano layered double hydroxides.
Gold-catalyzed formation of indole derivatives from 2-alkynyl arylazides and oxygen-containing heterocycles
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxiang , Sun Xiaoping , Fan Hui , Lyu Chang , Li Ping , Zhang Haifei , Rao Weidong
Published: June 2016

Gold-catalyzed ring-opening reactions of oxygen-containing heterocycles.
Hexavalent chromium induced tunable surface functionalization of graphite
Authors: Xiang Bo , Ling Dong , Gao Feng , Lou Han , Gu Hongbo , Guo Zhanhu
Published: June 2016

Graphite with the oxygen related functional groups was achieved by functionalized with hexavalent chromium in certain conditions.
A quantum chemistry investigation of a potential inhibitory drug against the dengue virus
Authors: Ourique G. S. , Vianna J. F. , Neto J. X. Lima , Oliveira J. I. N. , Mauriz P. W. , Vasconcelos M. S. , Caetano E. W. S. , Freire V. N. , Albuquerque E. L. , Fulco U. L.
Published: June 2016

The total interaction energy of the inhibitor Bz-nKRR-H bound to a serine protease of the dengue virus is mainly due to the action of Asn152, Met49, Tyr161, Asp129 and Gly151 (Met84, Met75, Asp81, Asp79 and Asp80) residues at the NS3 (NS2B) subunit.
Magnetic evolution of spinel Mn1−xZnxCr2O4 single crystals
Authors: Lin G. T. , Luo X. , Pei Q. L. , Chen F. C. , Yang C. , Song J. Y. , Yin L. H. , Song W. H. , Sun Y. P.
Published: June 2016

Mn1−xZnxCr2O4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) single crystals have been grown using the chemical vapor transport (CVT) method.
Design of controlled multi-probe coupled assay via bioinspired signal amplification approach for mercury detection
Authors: Mubarok Ahmad Zaki , Lin Szu-Ting , Mani Veerappan , Huang Chih-Hung , Huang Sheng-Tung
Published: June 2016

A bioinspired signal amplification approach is reported for mercury ion detection: a proof-of-concept.
Multimetallic catalysts of RuO2–CuO–Cs2O–TiO2/SiO2for direct gas-phase epoxidation of propylene to propylene oxide
Authors: Chukeaw T. , Seubsai A. , Phon-in P. , Charoen K. , Witoon T. , Donphai W. , Parpainainar P. , Chareonpanich M. , Noon D. , Zohour B. , Senkan S.
Published: June 2016

RuO2–CuO–Cs2O–TiO2/SiO2catalyst is highly active for the epoxidation of propylene to propylene oxide, producing 3015 gPOh−1kgcat−1, the highest PO formation rate reported to date.
Ionic liquid-assisted thermal decomposition synthesis of carbon dots and graphene-like carbon sheets for optoelectronic application
Authors: Wan Jia-Yun , Yang Ze , Liu Zhong-Guo , Wang Hang-Xing
Published: June 2016

A facile process route for the synthesis of carbon dots and graphene-like carbon sheets is reported, which relies on direct carbonization of small organic molecules in a liquid-phase by using ionic liquid as solvent.
A review on the recent progress, challenges and perspective of layered double hydroxides as promising photocatalysts
Authors: Mohapatra Lagnamayee , Parida Kulamani
Published: June 2016

The present review article evaluates the effectiveness and special features of LDH/modified LDH on photocatalytic activities.
Development of semitransparent CIGS thin-film solar cells modified with a sulfurized-AgGa layer for building applications
Authors: Saifullah Muhammad , Ahn SeJin , Gwak Jihye , Ahn Seungkyu , Kim Kihwan , Cho Junsik , Park Joo Hyung , Eo Young Joo , Cho Ara , Yoo Jin-Su , Yun Jae Ho
Published: June 2016

The insertion of sulfurized-AgGa layer at CIGS/ITO interface reduced the bulk and back surface recombination and thus ameliorated the PV performance without adversely affecting the cell’s visible transmittance.
Crystallisation dynamics in wide-bandgap perovskite films
Authors: Jaysankar M. , Qiu W. , Bastos J. , Tait J. G. , Debucquoy M. , Paetzold U. W. , Cheyns D. , Poortmans J.
Published: June 2016

An insight into how crystallisation dynamics influence the performance of wide-bandgap perovskite photovoltaics.
Kinetically controlled ammonia vapor diffusion synthesis of a Zn(ii) MOF and its H2O/NH3 adsorption properties
Authors: Chen Yang , Yang Chengyin , Wang Xiaoqing , Yang Jiangfeng , Ouyang Kun , Li Jinping
Published: June 2016

A unique method for synthesizing a Zn(ii) complex Zn(INA)2(H2O)4 (INA = isonicotinate) has been developed by kinetically controlled ammonia (NH3) vapor diffusion at low temperatures without any external energy input.
Atomically thin binary V–V compound semiconductor: a first-principles study
Authors: Yu Weiyang , Niu Chun-Yao , Zhu Zhili , Wang Xiangfu , Zhang Wei-Bing
Published: June 2016

Using first-principles calculations, we propose a class of unexplored binary V–V compound semiconductors with monolayer black phosphorene and blue phosphorene structures.
Mo2C microspheres and nanorods as counter electrode catalysts for iodide-free redox couples in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Zheng Haikuo , Guo Hongyue , An Dong , Wu Kezhong , Gao Chenjing , Han Qianji , Zhu Yajing , Lin Ya-nan , Wu Mingxing
Published: June 2016

Mo2C microspheres and nanorods were synthesized as highly effective counter electrode catalysts in iodide-free dye-sensitized solar cells.
Low‐cost feeding antenna using a shorted patch and rectangular waveguide
Authors: Oh S.‐S. , Choi J.‐W. , Park W.‐K.
Published: June 2016

A feeding antenna that uses a rectangular waveguide with a patch on it to equalise the principle planes is proposed. The patch is printed on a substrate grounded with shorting pins. Typically, corrugated horn antennas are used for feeding antennas, but they are expensive because of the complex fabrication process. In comparison, the proposed antenna is inexpensive because it uses a rectangular waveguide and a dielectric substrate. The simulation and experimental results gave similar 10 dB beamwidths, while the beamwidth of the conventional waveguide was markedly different. The proposed antenna could be used as a feeding antenna for reflectors at low cost.
Design of minimum order equiripple programmable band pass filter for transreceiver circuits
Authors: Mehra P. , Shiwani S. , Hemrajani N. , Gupta R.P.
Published: June 2016

This Letter presents the design of minimum order programmable bandpass filter for transreceiver circuits. The designed filter covers a wide range of 10–40 MHz which covers a variety of digital wireless applications. The wide bandwidth covers multiple wireless standards from TETRA, IS‐95, GSM to TACS. The magnitude responses of the designed filter for various bandwidths are also discussed.
Performance enhancement of OCDMA systems for LAN consideration
Authors: Mrabet Hichem , Mthali Sofien
Published: June 2016

In this study, the performance of optical code‐division‐multiple‐access (OCDMA) systems using 2D optical codes, taking into account an optical channel in local area network context is investigated. The authors demonstrate that one can enhance the 3‐dB multi‐mode fibre baseband bandwidth up to 4 GHz by exciting only two mode groups with the optimal axial launching. It has been demonstrated, that the OCDMA system performance can achieve a very low bit‐error‐rates in the range of −9 dBm. Furthermore, a large number of simultaneous users can be supported. In the authors’ treatment, the effect of both multiple access interference and modal dispersion are considered. Nonetheless, an OCDMA successive interference cancellation receiver is used to foster a better system performance.
Capacitor‐sharing two‐output series‐resonant inverter for induction cooking application
Authors: Devara Vijaya Bhaskar , Neti Vishwanathan , Maity Tanmoy , Shunmugam Porpandiselvi
Published: June 2016

Induction heating (IH) technique has been widely used in industrial and domestic heating applications. In IH cooking applications, multi‐output IH systems are increasing in demand. In this study, an inverter configuration is proposed for two‐output IH cooking applications. The objective of this proposal is to reduce the component count and thereby the size of the circuit and cost. In this proposed configuration, two IH loads are connected to a full‐bridge inverter output and these loads are sharing a common resonant capacitor. The output power is controlled using on–off control. Switching losses are reduced due to zero voltage switching operation. The two loads are independently controlled with high efficiency. The control logic of the proposed system is described in detail and prototype is designed, implemented and the validity is verified through experimental and simulation results.
On nontraditional quasi-geostrophic equations
Authors: Lucas Carine , McWilliams James C. , Rousseau Antoine
Published: June 2016

In this article, we work on nontraditional models where the so-called traditional approximation on the Coriolis force is removed. In the derivation of the quasi-geostrophic equations, we carefully consider terms in δ/ε, where δ (aspect ratio) and ε (Rossby number) are both small numbers. We provide here some rigorous crossed-asymptotics with regards to these parameters, prove some mathematical results and compare QHQG and QG models.
Fachmesse Krankenhaus Technologie: Premiere mit Perspektive
Authors: Kohrs Jens
Published: June 2016

Mit ihrer ersten Fachmesse Krankenhaus Technologie in Gelsenkirchen haben die FKT-Verantwortlichen offenbar einen Nerv getroffen. Das Konzept ging auf, die Neuauflage im kommenden Jahr ist bereits beschlossene Sache. Eine Nachlese.
Händehygiene: Desinfizieren, bitte!
Authors: Kohrs Jens
Published: June 2016

Monitoring-Systeme sollen helfen, die Händehygiene in Krankenhäusern zu verbessern. Moderne Desinfektionsmittelspender melden per WLAN, wann und wie sie genutzt werden, und sorgen so für exakte Compliance-Kontrolle.
Structural Ultrasound of the Medial Temporal Lobe in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Yilmaz Rezzak , Pilotto Andrea , Roeben Benjamin , Preische Oliver , Suenkel Ulrike , Heinzel Sebastian , Metzger Florian , Laske Christoph , Maetzler Walter , Berg Daniela
Published: June 2016

Purpose One of the anatomical hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the atrophy of the medial temporal lobe (MTL), yet cost-effective and broadly available methodological alternatives to the current imaging tools for screening of this brain area are not currently available.

Materials and Methods Using structural transcranial ultrasound (TCS), we attempted to visualize and measure the MTL, and compared the results of 32 AD patients and 84 healthy controls (HC). The MTL and the surrounding space were defined in the coronal plane on TCS. A ratio of the height of the MTL/height of the choroidal fissure (M/F) was calculated in order to obtain a regional proportion.

Results An insufficient temporal bone window was identified in 22 % of the AD patients and 12 % of the HCs. The results showed that the ratio of M/F was significantly smaller in the AD group on both sides (p = 0.004 right, p = 0.007 left side). Furthermore, the M/F ratio made it possible to discriminate AD patients from HCs with a sensitivity of 83 % (right)/73 % (left) and a specificity of 76 % (right)/72 % (left) which is basically comparable to results published for magnetic resonance imaging. The measurements showed substantial intra/interrater reliability (ICC:0.79/0.69).

Conclusion These results suggest that utilization of structural TCS may possibly constitute a cheap and easy-to-use supplement to other techniques for the diagnosis of AD. It may be especially useful as a screening tool in the large population of individuals with cognitive decline. Further studies are needed to validate this novel method.
The evolving role of the US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine in providing science and technology policy advice to the US government
Authors: Blair Peter D
Published: June 2016

For over a century and a half the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine have been called upon frequently by federal executive agencies of government and the U.S. Congress to empanel widely recognized experts as study committees that provide independent, objective, science-based advice on important and at times critical issues affecting the nation. The manner in which the Academies assemble such advice has evolved steadily over decades to accommodate different kinds of government needs. In the last 20 years, in particular, significant federal court decisions, legislation and executive orders, as well as changing sponsor needs have all contributed to changes in how the Academies operate in fulfilling their mission. This article chronicles the historical beginnings of the Academies’ role in providing science advice to the nation; describes significant changes in this role over the past two decades; probes some implications of the changing role; and recaps several new types of Academies convening activities that supplement traditional Academies reports as a means of providing advice to the government. These new types of activities are being utilized increasingly to better meet the needs of sponsors for more timely advice when timing is an imperative. This article is published as part of a thematic collection dedicated to scientific advice to governments.
Erratum: Competition and extinction explain the evolution of diversity in American automobiles
Authors: Gjesfjeld Erik , Chang Jonathan , Silvestro Daniele , Kelty Christopher , Alfaro Michael
Published: June 2016

Correction to: Palgrave Communications (2016) 2, Article number: 16019. doi: 10.1057/palcomms.2016.19; Published 10 May 2016; Updated 7 June 2016 The middle initial “E” was previously omitted from Michael Alfaro’s name in the author list. This has now been added and reads “Michael E Alfaro”. Erik Gjesfjeld and Michael Alfaro were not previously listed as co-corresponding authors as they should have been.
Development of a reaction cell for in-situ/operando studies of surface of a catalyst under a reaction condition and during catalysis
Authors: Nguyen Luan , Tao Franklin (Feng)
Published: June 2016

Tracking surface chemistry of a catalyst during catalysis is significant for fundamental understanding of catalytic performance of the catalyst since it allows for establishing an intrinsic correlation between surface chemistry of a catalyst at its working status and its corresponding catalytic performance. Ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy can be used for in-situ studies of surfaces of different materials or devices in a gas. To simulate the gaseous environment of a catalyst in a fixed-bed a flowing gaseous environment of reactants around the catalyst is necessary. Here, we report the development of a new flowing reaction cell for simulating in-situ study of a catalyst surface under a reaction condition in gas of one reactant or during catalysis in a mixture of reactants of a catalytic reaction. The homemade reaction cell is installed in a high vacuum (HV) or ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) environment of a chamber. The flowing gas in the reaction cell is separated from the HV or UHV environment through well sealings at three interfaces between the reaction cell and X-ray window, sample door and aperture of front cone of an energy analyzer. Catalyst in the cell is heated through infrared laser beam introduced through a fiber optics interfaced with the reaction cell through a homemade feedthrough. The highly localized heating on the sample holder and Au-passivated internal surface of the reaction cell effectively minimizes any unwanted reactions potentially catalyzed by the reaction cell. The incorporated laser heating allows a fast heating and a high thermal stability of the sample at a high temperature. With this cell, a catalyst at 800 °C in a flowing gas can be tracked readily.