bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative analysis of protease recognition by inhibitors in plasma using microscale thermophoresis
Authors: Dau T. , Edeleva E. V. , Seidel S. A. I. , Stockley R. A. , Braun D. , Jenne D. E.
Published: October 2016

High abundance proteins like protease inhibitors of plasma display a multitude of interactions in natural environments. Quantitative analysis of such interactions in vivo is essential to study diseases, but have not been forthcoming, as most methods cannot be directly applied in a complex biological environment. Here, we report a quantitative microscale thermophoresis assay capable of deciphering functional deviations from in vitro inhibition data by combining concentration and affinity measurements. We obtained stable measurement signals for the substrate-like interaction of the disease relevant inhibitor α-1-antitrypsin (AAT) Z-variant with catalytically inactive elastase. The signal differentiates between healthy and sick AAT-deficient individuals suggesting that affinity between AAT and elastase is strongly modulated by so-far overlooked additional binding partners from the plasma.
A Conserved Structural Signature of the Homeobox Coding DNA in HOX genes
Authors: Fongang Bernard , Kong Fanping , Negi Surendra , Braun Werner , Kudlicki Andrzej
Published: October 2016

The homeobox encodes a DNA-binding domain found in transcription factors regulating key developmental processes. The most notable examples of homeobox containing genes are the Hox genes, arranged on chromosomes in the same order as their expression domains along the body axis. The mechanisms responsible for the synchronous regulation of Hox genes and the molecular function of their colinearity remain unknown. Here we report the discovery of a conserved structural signature of the 180-base pair DNA fragment comprising the homeobox. We demonstrate that the homeobox DNA has a characteristic 3-base-pair periodicity in the hydroxyl radical cleavage pattern. This periodic pattern is significant in most of the 39 mammalian Hox genes and in other homeobox-containing transcription factors. The signature is present in segmented bilaterian animals as evolutionarily distant as humans and flies. It remains conserved despite the fact that it would be disrupted by synonymous mutations, which raises the possibility of evolutionary selective pressure acting on the structure of the coding DNA. The homeobox coding DNA may therefore have a secondary function, possibly as a regulatory element. The existence of such element may have important consequences for understanding how these genes are regulated.
Collapsed Reticular Network and its Possible Mechanism during the Initiation and/or Progression of Hepatic Fibrosis
Authors: Wen Shi-Lei , Feng Shi , Tang Shi-Hang , Gao Jin-Hang , Zhang Lin-hao , Tong Huan , Yan Zhao-Ping , Fang Ding Zhi
Published: October 2016

Among the researches on hepatic fibrosis, great attention was paid to both hepatocytes and extracellular matrix (ECM). However, little focus was drawn on reticular fibrous network, which is important for demarcation and support of hepatocytes. The aim of this study was to investigate the change pattern of reticular fibers in hepatic fibrosis/cirrhosis and its underlying mechanism. In this study, thioacetamide (TAA) and bile duct ligation (BDL) were utilized to induce rat hepatic fibrosis respectively, and Human liver cirrhotic microassay was analyzed with IHC to confirm the results in animal experiment and to detect the metalloproteinases (MMPs) expressions. As a result, the reticular fibers decreased markedly after 1 week in TAA and 1 day in BDL treated rats. Multiple representative regulators of MMPs and MMPs increased significantly in their expressions and activities. Further more, in human liver cirrhotic microassay, MMPs expressions also showed similar patterns as that of animal experiment. In Conclusions: Degradation or collapse of reticular fibers in hepatic sinusoid can be considered as a pathological feature during the initiation and/or progression of hepatic fibrosis. Moreover, such degradation is associated with and probably caused by the over/dysregulated expression of MMPs.
A novel IRS-1-associated protein, DGKζ regulates GLUT4 translocation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes
Authors: Liu TingYu , Yu BuChin , Kakino Mamoru , Fujimoto Hitoshi , Ando Yasutoshi , Hakuno Fumihiko , Takahashi Shin-Ichiro
Published: October 2016

Insulin receptor substrates (IRSs) are major targets of insulin receptor tyrosine kinases. Here we identified diacylglycerol kinase zeta (DGKζ) as an IRS-1-associated protein, and examined roles of DGKζ in glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) translocation to the plasma membrane. When DGKζ was knocked-down in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, insulin-induced GLUT4 translocation was inhibited without affecting other mediators of insulin-dependent signaling. Similarly, knockdown of phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate 5-kinase 1α (PIP5K1α), which had been reported to interact with DGKζ, also inhibited insulin-induced GLUT4 translocation. Moreover, DGKζ interacted with IRS-1 without insulin stimulation, but insulin stimulation decreased this interaction. Over-expression of sDGKζ (short-form DGKζ), which competed out DGKζ from IRS-1, enhanced GLUT4 translocation without insulin stimulation. Taking these results together with the data showing that cellular PIP5K activity was correlated with GLUT4 translocation ability, we concluded that IRS-1-associated DGKζ prevents GLUT4 translocation in the absence of insulin and that the DGKζ dissociated from IRS-1 by insulin stimulation enhances GLUT4 translocation through PIP5K1α activity.
Ratiometric ultrasensitive electrochemical immunosensor based on redox substrate and immunoprobe
Authors: Tang Zhongxue , Ma Zhanfang
Published: October 2016

In this work, we presented a ratiometric electrochemical immunosensor based on redox substrate and immunoprobe. Carboxymethyl cellulose-Au-Pb2+(CMC-Au-Pb2+) and carbon-Au-Cu2+(C-Au-Cu2+) nanocomposites were firstly synthesized and implemented as redox substrate and immunoprobe with strong current signals at −0.45 V and 0.15 V, respectively. Human immunoglobulin G (IgG) was used as a model analyte to examine the analytical performance of the proposed method. The current signals of CMC-Au-Pb2+(Isubstrate) and C-Au-Cu2+(Iprobe) were monitored. The effect of redox substrate and immunoprobe behaved as a better linear relationship between Iprobe/Isubstrateand Lg CIgG(ng mL−1). By measuring the signal ratio Iprobe/Isubstrate, the sandwich immunosensor for IgG exhibited a wide linear range from 1 fg mL−1to 100 ng mL−1, which was two orders of magnitude higher than other previous works. The limit of detection reached 0.26 fg mL−1. Furthermore, for human serum samples, the results from this method were consistent with those of the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), demonstrating that the proposed immunoassay was of great potential in clinical diagnosis.
Comparative virulence studies and transcriptome analysis of Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from animals
Authors: Iqbal Zahid , Seleem Mohamed N. , Hussain Hafiz Iftikhar , Huang Lingli , Hao Haihong , Yuan Zonghui
Published: October 2016

Several studies have been conducted to check the prevalence of methicillin-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in animals and animal-derived food products but limited data are available regarding their virulence and associated gene expression profile. In the present study, antibiotic resistance and virulence of MRSA and methicillin-sensitive S. aureus animal isolates were determined in vitro by agar dilution, biofilm formation, adhesion, invasion and intracellular survivability assays. In addition, the pathogenicity of these isolates was examined in a murine model of S. aureus sepsis. MRSA1679a, a strain isolated from chicken, was observed to be highly virulent, in cell culture and in mouse model, and exhibited extensive resistant profile. Comparative gene expression profile of MRSA1679a and the reference human MRSA strain (ATCC 29213) was performed using Illumina-based transcriptome and RT-qPCR analyses. Several virulence elements including 22 toxin genes were detected in MRSA animal-isolate. In addition, we observed enhanced expression of crucial virulence regulators, such as sarA and KdpDE in MRSA animal-isolate compared to the human isolate. Collectively, gene expression profile including several virulence and drug-resistance factors confirmed the unique and highly virulent determinants of the MRSA strain of poultry origin which warrants further attention due to significant threat to public health.
S. aureus blocks efferocytosis of neutrophils by macrophages through the activity of its virulence factor alpha toxin
Authors: Cohen Taylor S. , Jones-Nelson Omari , Hotz Meghan , Cheng Lily , Miller Lloyd S. , Suzich JoAnn , Stover C. Kendall , Sellman Bret R.
Published: October 2016

Bacterial pneumonia, such as those caused by Staphylococcus aureus, is associated with an influx of inflammatory neutrophils into the lung tissue and airways. Regulation and clearance of recruited neutrophils is essential for preventing tissue damage by “friendly fire”, a responsibility of macrophages in a process called efferocytosis. We hypothesized that S. aureus impairs efferocytosis by alveolar macrophages (AMs) through the activity of the secreted virulence factor alpha toxin (AT), which has been implicated in altering the antimicrobial function of AMs. Infection of mice lacking AMs resulted in significantly increased numbers of neutrophils in the lung, while clearance of neutrophils delivered intranasally into uninfected mice was reduced in AM depleted animals. In vitro, sublytic levels of AT impaired uptake of apoptotic neutrophils by purified AMs. In vivo, the presence of AT reduced uptake of neutrophils by AMs. Differential uptake of neutrophils was not due to changes in either the CD47/CD172 axis or CD36 levels. AT significantly reduced lung expression of CCN1 and altered AM surface localization of DD1α, two proteins known to influence efferocytosis. We conclude that AT may contribute to tissue damage during S. aureus pneumonia by inhibiting the ability of AM to clear neutrophils at the site of infection.
The effects of hypoxia on the stemness properties of human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs)
Authors: Ahmed Nermeen El-Moataz Bellah , Murakami Masashi , Kaneko Satoru , Nakashima Misako
Published: October 2016

Recent studies have demonstrated that culture under hypoxia has beneficial effects on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). However, there are limitations to achieving a stable condition in conventional hypoxic CO2 incubators. DPSCs are a unique type of MSCs which are promising in many regenerative therapies. In this study, we investigated the ideal hypoxic culture environment for DPSCs using a new system that can provide controlled O2 environment. The effects of hypoxia (3%, 5%) on the stemness properties of DPSCs. Their morphology, proliferation rate, expression of stem cell markers, migration ability, mRNA expression of angiogenic/neurotrophic factors and immunomodulatory genes were evaluated and compared. Additionally, the effect of the discrete secretome on proliferation, migration, and neurogenic induction was assessed. Hypoxic DPSCs were found to be smaller in size and exhibited larger nuclei. 5% O2 significantly increased the proliferation rate, migration ability, expression of stem cell markers (CXCR4 and G-CSFR), and expression of SOX2, VEGF, NGF, and BDNF genes of DPSCs. Moreover, secretome collected from 5%O2 cultures displayed higher stimulatory effects on proliferation and migration of NIH3T3 cells and on neuronal differentiation of SH-SY5Y cells. These results demonstrate that 5%O2 may be ideal for enhancing DPSCs growth, stem cell properties, and secretome trophic effect.
Microsatellite Loci Analysis Reveals Post-bottleneck Recovery of Genetic Diversity in the Tibetan Antelope
Authors: Du Yurong , Zou Xiaoyan , Xu Yongtao , Guo Xinyi , Li Shuang , Zhang Xuze , Su Mengyu , Ma Jianbin , Guo Songchang
Published: October 2016

The Tibetan antelope (chiru, Pantholops hodgsoni) is one of the most endangered mammals native to the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. The population size has rapidly declined over the last century due to illegal hunting and habitat damage. In the past 10 years, the population has reportedly been expanding due to conservation efforts. Several lines of evidence suggest that the Tibetan antelope has undergone a demographic bottleneck. However, the consequences of the bottleneck on genetic diversity and the post-bottleneck genetic recovery remain unknown. In this study, we investigate the genetic variation of 15 microsatellite loci from two Tibetan antelope populations sampled in 2003 (Pop2003) and 2013 (Pop2013). A higher level of genetic diversity (NA, 13.286; He, 0.840; PIC, 0.813; I, 2.114) was detected in Pop2013, compared to Pop2003 (NA, 12.929; He, 0.818; PIC, 0.789; I, 2.033). We observe that despite passing through the bottleneck, the Tibetan antelope retains high levels of genetic diversity. Furthermore, our results show significant or near significant increases in genetic diversity (He, PIC and I) in Pop2013 compared with Pop2003, which suggests that protection efforts did not arrive too late for the Tibetan antelope.
Erratum: A miRNA-based signature predicts development of disease recurrence in HER2 positive breast cancer after adjuvant trastuzumab-based treatment
Authors: Du F. , Yuan P. , Zhao Z. T. , Yang Z. , Wang T. , Zhao J. D. , Luo Y. , Ma F. , Wang J. Y. , Fan Y. , Cai R. G. , Zhang P. , Li Q. , Song Y. M. , Xu B. H.
Published: October 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 33825; published online: 21 September 2016; updated: 14 October 2016
Synthesis of Non-natural Polymers with Controlled Primary Structures
Authors: Ouahabi Abdelaziz Al , Roy Raj Kumar , Lutz Jean-François
Published: October 2016

This chapter summarizes advances made in the field of sequence-controlled polymers over the last years. Inspired by natural polymers such as DNA and proteins, sequence-controlled polymers are synthetic macromolecules with controlled primary structures. Although this new type of polymers is relevant for numerous applications, the present chapter focuses mainly on their synthesis. Recently reported strategies for preparing sequence-controlled polymers in chain-growth, step-growth, and multistep-growth polymerizations are described and critically analyzed. In a first section, monomer sequence regulation in chain-growth processes such as anionic, cationic, and controlled radical polymerization is discussed. Recent concepts for controlling monomer sequences in ring opening polymerizations are also presented in this section. Afterwards, the synthesis of precision periodic microstructures by step-growth polymerization is discussed in a dedicated section. In particular, emphasis is put on recent methods such as acyclic diene metathesis polymerization and copper-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition step-growth polymerizations. Recent approaches employing multicomponent reactions are also discussed in this second section of the chapter. In the third and last section, approaches allowing the synthesis of monodisperse macromolecules with perfectly defined monomer sequences are described. In particular, solid-phase iterative methodologies are discussed in detail. Some information on recent concepts involving templates and molecular machines is also provided. Overall, this chapter gives a comprehensive view on the development of the field during the last five years.
Polymeric Tubular Structures
Authors: Doninelli Samantha , Badoux Michael , Kilbinger Andreas F. M.
Published: October 2016

Nature makes use of tubular structures for the spatial separation of matter on many different length scales, ranging from the nanometer scale (selective channels based on folded proteins) up to the centimeter scale (blood vessels). Today, polymer chemists and engineers can prepare polymeric tubular structures via a variety of different methods also covering many lengthscales, from nanometers to meters. The synthetic approaches described in this chapter vary significantly from the folding of single polymer chains via the self-assembly of DNA fragments to coordinative metal-organic nanotubes to tubes engineerd from bulk polymers using a range of porous or fibrous templates. While all examples reported in this chapter form tubular structures and thereby mimic their naturally occuring counterparts, it is mainly the engineered tubes that are more straightforward to prepare that also show some bio-inspired function.
Bio-inspired Polymer Membranes
Authors: Mikhalevich Viktoria , Zelmer Christina , Car Anja , Palivan Cornelia , Meier Wolfgang
Published: October 2016

Bio-inspired polymer membranes are artificial membranes designed to be combined with biomolecules (proteins, enzymes, mimics, nucleic acids), and provide both an increased mechanical stability of the overall system and an environment to preserve the functionality of the biomolecules. Here, we present synthetic membranes resulting from the self-assembly of amphiphilic block copolymers, both as 3D assemblies (polymer vesicles), and as 2D planar membranes (free standing films or membranes on solid/porous supports). Whilst in their early stage of research, the advantages of bio-inspired membranes support them as ideal candidates for the development of hybrid materials with multifunctionality and selectivity resulting from the presence of the biomolecules, and with stability and robustness due to the synthetic membrane. By serving as mimics of natural membranes with improved properties, bio-inspired synthetic membranes are on focus today for various applications in domains such as medicine, environment, and technology.
Mechanically Adaptive Nanocomposites Inspired by Sea Cucumbers
Authors: Moatsou Dafni , Weder Christoph
Published: October 2016

Sea cucumbers own the fascinating capability to rapidly and reversibly change the stiffness of their dermis. This mechanical morphing is achieved through a distinctive architecture of the tissue, which is composed of a viscoelastic matrix that is reinforced with rigid collagen microfibrils. Neurosecretory proteins regulate the interactions among the latter, and thereby control the overall mechanical properties of the material. This architecture and functionality have been mimicked by researchers in artificial nanocomposites that feature similar, albeit significantly simplified, structure and mechanical morphing ability. The general design of such stimulus–responsive, mechanically adaptive materials involves a low-modulus polymer matrix and rigid, high-aspect ratio filler particles, which are arranged to form percolating networks within the polymer matrix. Stress transfer is controlled by switching the interactions among the nanofibers and/or between the nanofibers and the matrix polymer via an external stimulus. In first embodiments, water was employed to moderate hydrogen-bonding interactions in such nanocomposites, while more recent examples have been designed to respond to more specific stimuli, such as a change of the pH, or irradiation with ultraviolet light. This chapter provides an overview of the general design principles and materials embodiments of such sea-cucumber inspired materials.
Bio-inspired Polymer Artificial Muscles
Authors: Naficy Sina , Spinks Geoffrey M. , Baughman Ray H.
Published: October 2016

Continued rapid advances in materials science are closing the gap between the performance of polymer artificial muscles and natural skeletal muscle. Already, dielectric elastomers and polymer coil muscles can exceed the high strokes and fast response of natural muscle. The power densities of these artificial muscles are much greater than natural muscle and even exceed that of similarly sized conventional motors and engines. For example, polymer coil muscles have a power-to-weight ratio equivalent to a jet engine and 5 times higher than a car's petrol engine. These materials are cheap, strong, and easily fabricated from readily-available polymer fibres used for fishing lines and sewing threads. These and other polymer artificial muscles are inspiring new applications, especially where mechanical force and movement are needed and space is limited. Bio-inspired robotic applications include prosthetic hands, crawling worm-like robots, and swimming robot fish. This chapter summarises the different types of polymer artificial muscles, including performance comparisons, details on the operating mechanisms, and examples of bio-inspired robotic applications.
Bio-mimetic Structural Colour using Biopolymers
Authors: Middleton Rox , Steiner Ullrich , Vignolini Silvia
Published: October 2016

The most striking and brilliant colours in nature are obtained by structuring materials on the scale of the wavelength of light, especially when these are combined with absorbing pigments. Such colourations, called structural, are the result of the constructive interference of reflected light with periodically organised interfaces within nanostructured materials. This means colour can be created from any material, transforming otherwise transparent or slightly absorbing polymers and composites into evolutionary assets of shimmering colours and hues. This chapter addresses the use of biopolymers to create structural colour in chiral materials, both found in nature, and the artificial use of biopolymers to create biomimetic structurally coloured materials in the lab. A physical and mathematical introduction to the optics of chiral structural colour is given and explained, along with a brief introduction to liquid crystal theory. An overview of the manifestations of biopolymer structural colour across the biological world is provided before a description of the most prominent artificial use of chiral structural colour using cellulose. A significant review of research into chiral self-assembled cellulose and the control of its characteristics forms the final section. The chapter finishes with a discussion of the contemporary and future direction of chiral materials, in particular those based on biopolymers, especially in their use as sensors and in templating techniques.
Enhanced sensing of mercuric ions based on dinucleotide-functionalized silver nanoparticles
Authors: Maduraiveeran Govindhan , Ramaraj Ramasamy
Published: October 2016

A facile and green synthesis of NAD-functionalized anisotropic silver nanoparticles for the ultra-sensitive and selective optical detection of mercuric ions in water is demonstrated.
High-throughput dynamic microwave-assisted extraction coupled with liquid–liquid extraction for analysis of tetrabromobisphenol A in soil
Authors: Zhao Jiahui , Yan Xu , Li Huiyu , Zhang Ping , Zhou Tianyu , Li Yi , Chen Yanhua , Ding Lan
Published: October 2016

Fifteen soil samples can be treated simultaneously in 20 min with low cost and less solvent by the proposed method.
Colorimetric detection of lipopolysaccharides based on a lipopolysaccharide-binding peptide and AuNPs
Authors: Lei Chunyang , Qiao Zhaohui , Fu Yingchun , Li Yanbin
Published: October 2016

A facile colorimetric assay for the detection of lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) was proposed based on a LPS-binding peptide and AuNPs.
Synthesis of PANI/hematite/PB hybrid nanocomposites and fabrication as screen printed paper based sensors for cholesterol detection
Authors: Maluin Farhatun N. , M. Sharifah , Rattanarat Poomrat , Siangproh Weena , Chailapakul Orawon , A. M. Issam , Manan Ninie S. A.
Published: October 2016

The enzymatic reaction pathway between the cholesterol/enzyme/electrode paper-based biosensor PB/CPANI/SPE and cholesterol.
The human dimension: how social and behavioural research methods can help address microplastics in the environment
Authors: Pahl S. , Wyles K. J.
Published: October 2016

The present paper illustrates the breadth of research methods in the Social and Behavioural Sciences and how these may be applied to the issue of environmental microplastics.
A drastic change in the superhydrophilic crystal porosities of metallosupramolecular structures via a slight change in pH
Authors: Surinwong Sireenart , Yoshinari Nobuto , Kojima Tatsuhiro , Konno Takumi
Published: October 2016

Unique non-porous and porous metallosupramolecular frameworks are created from d-penicillaminato CoIII2AuI3 complex anions and zinc(ii) cations.
A ‘photorelease, catch and photorelease’ strategy for bioconjugation utilizing a p-hydroxyphenacyl group
Authors: Madea D. , Slanina T. , Klán P.
Published: October 2016

A bioorthogonal strategy, which combines photorelease of a strained alkyne, its cycloaddition withp-hydroxyphenacyl azide to form a 1,2,3-triazole adduct, and subsequent photochemical release of the triazole moietyviaa photo-Favorskii rearrangement, is presented.
Carbohydrates as efficient catalysts for the hydration of α-amino nitriles
Authors: Chitale Sampada , Derasp Joshua S. , Hussain Bashir , Tanveer Kashif , Beauchemin André M.
Published: October 2016

A general procedure for the alkaline hydration of α-amino nitriles has been developed using formaldehyde as catalyst.
A general synthesis of arylindoles and (1-arylvinyl)carbazoles via a one-pot reaction from N-tosylhydrazones and 2-nitro-haloarenes and their potential application to colon cancer
Authors: Bzeih Tourin , Naret Timothée , Hachem Ali , Jaber Nada , Khalaf Ali , Bignon Jerome , Brion Jean-Daniel , Alami Mouad , Hamze Abdallah
Published: October 2016

A synthesis of aryl-indoles, and carbazoles from a one-pot sequence involving the coupling of hydrazones with nitro-haloarenes has been developed.
Hydrodynamic thermal confinement: creating thermo-chemical microenvironments on surfaces
Authors: Cors J. F. , Stucki A. , Kaigala G. V.
Published: October 2016

We present a new, general concept termed Hydrodynamic Thermal Confinement (HTC), and its implementation for the creation of microscale dynamic thermo-chemical microenvironments on biological surfaces. We demonstrate selective DNA denaturation of single spots on a microarray using a 15% formamide solution at 60 °C.
Dynamic nuclear polarisation by thermal mixing: quantum theory and macroscopic simulations
Authors: Karabanov Alexander , Kwiatkowski Grzegorz , Perotto Carlo U. , Wiśniewski Daniel , McMaster Jonathan , Lesanovsky Igor , Köckenberger Walter
Published: October 2016

A quantum theory of thermal mixing dynamic nuclear polarisation in solids is developed displaying a good agreement with experiments.
Revisiting the zero-temperature phase diagram of stoichiometric SrCoO3 with first-principles methods
Authors: Rivero Pablo , Cazorla Claudio
Published: October 2016

By using first-principles methods based on density functional theory we revisited the zero-temperature phase diagram of stoichiometric SrCoO3, a ferromagnetic metallic perovskite that undergoes significant structural, electronic, and magnetic changes as its content of oxygen is decreased.
Early events in the photochemistry of 5-diazo Meldrum's acid: formation of a product manifold in C–N bound and pre-dissociated intersection seam regions
Authors: Li Huijing , Migani Annapaola , Blancafort Lluís , Li Quansong , Li Zesheng
Published: October 2016

Photolysis of 5-diazo Meldrum's acid yields three different primary products in a sub-ps scale. High-level computations show that this is due to the presence of an extended seam of intersection associated to different reaction paths.
Tuning the vibrational coupling of H3O+ by changing its solvation environment
Authors: Tan Jake A. , Li Jheng-Wei , Chiu Cheng-chau , Liao Hsin-Yi , Huynh Hai Thi , Kuo Jer-Lai
Published: October 2016

This study demonstrates how the intermode coupling in the hydronium ion (H3O+) is modulated by the composition of the first solvation shell.
Competing reaction pathways of 3,3,3-trifluoropropene at rhodium hydrido, silyl and germyl complexes: C–F bond activation versus hydrogermylation
Authors: Ahrens Theresia , Teltewskoi Michael , Ahrens Mike , Braun Thomas , Laubenstein Reik
Published: October 2016

The reactivity of the Rh complexes [Rh(L)(PEt3)3] (L = H, Si(OEt)3, GePh3) towards CH2CHCF3 was investigated which involve C–F bond activation and germylation reactions.
Synthesis, characterization, and gas-phase fragmentation of rhenium–carbonyl complexes bearing imidazol(in)ium-2-dithiocarboxylate ligands
Authors: Beltrán Tomás F. , Zaragoza Guillermo , Delaude Lionel
Published: October 2016

The various binding modes of NHC·CS2 zwitterions to mono- and bimetallic rhenium–carbonyl complexes were thoroughly investigated using a wide range of analytical techniques.
Accurate prediction of the age incidence of chronic myeloid leukemia with an improved two-mutation mathematical model
Authors: Lecca Paola , Sorio Claudio
Published: October 2016

A two-step mathematical model integrates haematopoietic turnover parameters and body mass index to predict the age incidence of chronic myelogenous leukemia.
Oxidative organophotoredox catalysis: a regioselective synthesis of 2-nitro substituted imidazopyridines and 3-substituted indoles, initiated by visible light
Authors: Yadav Snehlata , Srivastava Madhulika , Rai Pratibha , Tripathi Bhartendu Pati , Mishra Anu , Singh Jaya , Singh Jagdamba
Published: October 2016

Intramolecular C–N heterocyclization and C–C bond formation under visible light irradiation at room temperature was accomplished with a metal-free photoredox catalyst.
Solvation descriptors for porphyrins (porphines)
Authors: Abraham Michael H. , Acree William E.
Published: October 2016

Descriptors for porphyrin show that it is dipolar, a weak hydrogen-bond acid, a moderately strong hydrogen-bond base, and very hydrophobic.
Internal Lewis pair enhanced H-bond donor: boronate-urea and tertiary amine co-catalysis in ring-opening polymerization
Authors: Xu Songquan , Sun Herui , Liu Jingjing , Xu Jiaxi , Pan Xianfu , Dong He , Liu Yaya , Li Zhenjiang , Guo Kai
Published: October 2016

A new protocol of internal Lewis pair enhanced H-bond (LPHBD) catalysis for ring opening polymerisation was developed using boronate-urea (BU) as a representative LPHBD combined with tertiary amines.
Diselenide covalent chemistry at the interface: stabilizing an asymmetric diselenide-containing polymer via micelle formation
Authors: Xia Jiahao , Ji Shaobo , Xu Huaping
Published: October 2016

Diselenide metathesis at an oil/water interface has been demonstrated and an asymmetric diselenide-containing polymer was stabilized via the micelle formation method.
Facile fabrication of a 3D electrospun fibrous mat by ice-templating for a tumor spheroid culture
Authors: Li Yanru , Sun Lingbo , Fu Hongxia , Duan Xinrui
Published: October 2016

A 3D polycaprolactone fibrous mat was fabricated by using spherical ice as a template during electrospinning for stabilizing droplets in a spheroid culture.
Borage oil supplementation decreases lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation and skeletal muscle wasting in mice
Authors: Chen Pei-Yin , Liu Chin-San , Lin Li-Yun , Lin Yi-Chin , Sun Hai-Lun , Li Chien-Chun , Chen Haw-Wen , Wang Tsu-Shing , Wang John , Liu Kai-Li
Published: October 2016

Schematic outline of the proposed mechanism by which borage oil supplementation prevented LPS-induced inflammation and skeletal muscle wasting in mice.
Detection of oxidative stress biomarkers in myricetin treated red blood cells
Authors: Kumar Prabhanshu , Chaudhary Nidhee , Sharma Narendra Kumar , Maurya Pawan Kumar
Published: October 2016

Effect of myricetin on RBC membrane enzymes (Na+, K+-ATPase and Ca2+-ATPase) and Na+, H+exchanger.
Structure–composition relationships of bioactive borophosphosilicate glasses probed by multinuclear11B,29Si, and31P solid state NMR
Authors: Yu Yang , Edén Mattias
Published: October 2016

By combining11B,29Si, and31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experimental results, we present the first comprehensive structural investigation of 15 borophosphosilicate (BPS) glasses of the Na2O–CaO–B2O3–SiO2–P2O5system.
Growth, transmission, Raman spectrum and THz generation of DAST crystal
Authors: Cao Lifeng , Teng Bing , Xu Degang , Zhao Huaisong , Hao Lun , Yao Jianquan , Guo Jianqin
Published: October 2016

The tendency of transmittance as a function of THz frequency between the calculated and experimental values are consistent with each other. The absorption bands at around 1 THz can demonstrate the intrinsic absorption of the crystal.
Thermoelectric properties of copper chalcogenide alloys deposited via the solution-phase using a thiol–amine solvent mixture
Authors: Ma Yuanyu , Vartak Prathamesh B. , Nagaraj Prajwal , Wang Robert Y.
Published: October 2016

We use soluble precursors to deposit Cu2−xSeyS1−y and Ag-doped Cu2−xSeyS1−y thin films. We report the effects of Cu vacancies, Ag doping, and Se : S ratio on the thermoelectric properties at room temperature.
The optimized composition of Mg–Al–Cu metallic glass investigated by thermodynamic calculations and an atomistic approach
Authors: Zhao S. , Li J. H. , Liu B. X.
Published: October 2016

Issues related to the glass formation of ternary Mg–Al–Cu metallic glass are investigated by thermodynamic calculations and an atomistic approach.
Facile synthesis of novel hydrophilic and carboxyl-amine functionalized superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles for biomedical applications
Authors: Kandasamy Ganeshlenin , Surendran Sreeraj , Chakrabarty Anindita , Kale S. N. , Maity Dipak
Published: October 2016

We report a one-step facile synthesis of novel water-soluble and functionalized SPIONs, which could be promising candidates for cancer theranostics.
The effect of thermal annealing on the interfacial properties and photoelectrochemical performance of Ti doped Fe2O3 nanowire arrays
Authors: Su Jinzhan , Zhou Jinglan , Zong Shichao , Zhou Zhaohui , Liu Cong , Feng Bo
Published: October 2016

The effect of thermal annealing on the interfacial doping properties and the photoelectrochemical performance of Ti doped Fe2O3 nanowires was investigated.
Rate acceleration for 4,4′-dimethoxydiphenyl nitroxide mediated polymerization of methyl methacrylate
Authors: Zhu Zhecheng , Shan Guorong , Pan Pengju
Published: October 2016

Camphorsulfonic acid, acetylacetone, diethyl malonate and malononitrile were used to accelerate the polymerization of methyl methacrylate mediated by 4,4′-dimethoxydiphenyl nitroxide. The accelerating mechanism was discussed.
Fabrication of CeO2/ZnCo2O4 n–p heterostructured porous nanotubes via electrospinning technology for enhanced ethanol gas sensing performance
Authors: Alali Khaled Tawfik , Liu Tie , Liu Jingyuan , Liu Qi , Li Zhangshuang , Zhang Hongquan , Aljebawi Kassem , Wang Jun
Published: October 2016

A porous structure of the nanotubes, the conversion between Ce3+ and Ce4+, and an n–p heterojunction between n-CeO2/p-ZnCo2O4, these are the potential reasons to the improvement in gas sensing performance of CeO2/ZnCo2O4 nanotubes.
cm-Length free-standing Fe3C-filled thin graphite-like films and buckypaper-like films with high smoothness
Authors: Guo Jian , Lan Mu , He Yi , Hou Yidong , Zhang Xi , Zhang Sijie , Wang Shanling , Xiang Gang , Boi Filippo S.
Published: October 2016

We report the fabrication of cm-length smooth graphitic-films filled with Fe3C particles and of cm-length smooth buckypaper-like films comprising thin walled carbon nanotubes filled with Fe3C nanowires with reflectance in the 450–1000 nm region.
A simple, rapid, one-step approach for preparation of Ag@TiO2 nanospheres with multiple cores as effective catalyst
Authors: Wang Donghai , Jiao Zheng , Wu Minghong , Gu Lanbing , Chen Zhiwen , Zhang Haijiao
Published: October 2016

Novel Ag@TiO2 nanostructures with multiple Ag nanoparticles as cores and a crystalline TiO2 as the outer shell have been successfully achieved via a facile and one-step solvothermal route.
Rational design, synthesis and 2D-QSAR studies of antiproliferative tropane-based compounds
Authors: Ismail Nasser S. M. , George Riham F. , Serya Rabah A. T. , Baselious Fady N. , El-Manawaty May , Shalaby ElSayed M. , Girgis Adel S.
Published: October 2016

Novel tropane-based compounds were synthesized exhibiting antiproliferative properties against HepG2 and MCF7 carcinoma cell lines.
Thermally triggered optical tuning of π-conjugated graft copolymers based on reversible Diels–Alder reaction
Authors: Ahner J. , Micheel M. , Kötteritzsch J. , Dietzek B. , Hager M. D.
Published: October 2016

Conjugated polymer films with tunable optical properties by thermally triggered activation of energy transfer after processing have been successfully prepared.
Experimental investigation and thermodynamic evaluation of the C–O–Zr ternary system
Authors: Réjasse F. , Rapaud O. , Trolliard G. , Masson O. , Maître A.
Published: October 2016

Experimental and thermodynamic modelling of the ZrCxOy solid solution.
Mass transport and structure of liquid n-alkane mixtures in the vicinity of α-quartz substrates
Authors: Chilukoti Hari Krishna , Kikugawa Gota , Ohara Taku
Published: October 2016

The asymmetric self-diffusion characteristics of binary n-alkane mixtures in the first adsorption layer near α-quartz substrate were demonstrated and discussed.
Synthesis of well-defined core–shell nanoparticles based on bifunctional poly(2-oxazoline) macromonomer surfactants and a microemulsion polymerization process
Authors: Kampmann Anne-Larissa , Grabe Tobias , Jaworski Carolin , Weberskirch Ralf
Published: October 2016

Surface-functional nanoparticles have been fabricated by utilizing bifunctional poly(2-oxazoline) macromonomers as surfactants in a microemulsion process.
Ionic liquid [Dabco-H][AcO] as a highly efficient and recyclable catalyst for the synthesis of various bisenol derivatives via domino Knoevenagel–Michael reaction in aqueous media
Authors: Yang Cheng , Su Wan-Qi , Xu Da-Zhen
Published: October 2016

An efficient, green and reusable catalystic system for the synthesis of various bisenol derivatives is presented.
Design and synthesis of two novel functional metal–organic microcapsules; an investigation into ligand expansion effects on the metal–organic microcapsules' properties
Authors: Nouri R. , Abedi S. , Morsali A.
Published: October 2016

Effects of ligand expansion on the size, morphology and loading capacity of tetrazole-based metal–organic microcapsules.
Synthesis and anti-proliferative evaluation of novel 3,4-dihydro-2H-1,3-oxazine derivatives of bakuchiol
Authors: Gupta Nidhi , Sharma Sonia , Raina Arun , Dangroo Nisar A. , Bhushan Shashi , Sangwan Payare L.
Published: October 2016

Anti-proliferation study of new bakuchiol analogs revealed the anti-pancreatic potential of aliphatic oxazine derivatives of bakuchiol that activate caspase-9 and -3 and cleave PARP-1.
In-water facile synthesis of poly-substituted 6-arylamino pyridines and 2-pyrrolidone derivatives using tetragonal nano-ZrO2as reusable catalyst
Authors: Saha Arijit , Payra Soumen , Banerjee Subhash
Published: October 2016

Green synthesis of functionalized 6-arylamino pyridines and 2-pyrrolidinone derivatives using tetragonal ZrO2nanoparticles as reusable catalyst in aqueous ethanol.
Multiple competing pathways for chemical reaction: drastic reaction shortcut for the self-catalytic double-helix formation of helicene oligomers
Authors: Kushida Yo , Saito Nozomi , Shigeno Masanori , Yamaguchi Masahiko
Published: October 2016

A drastic reaction shortcut: thermal history determines the selection of competing pathways and reaction time for self-catalytic hetero-double-helix formation.
A novel open architecture built by ultra-fine single-crystal Co2(CO3)(OH)2 nanowires and reduced graphene oxide for asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Leng Xuning , Wu Libo , Liu Yan , Li Chunlin , Wei Sufeng , Jiang Zhonghao , Wang Guoyong , Lian Jianshe , Jiang Qing
Published: October 2016

A self-assembled novel open architecture based on ultra-fine single-crystal Co2(CO3)(OH)2 nanowires and reduced graphene oxide shows enhanced supercapacitive performance.
Engineering hollow electrodes for hybrid solar cells for efficient light harvesting and carrier collection
Authors: Yin Peng-Fei , Wang Jing-Jing , Zhou Yu-Zhu , Mao Jing , Qin Wen-Jing , Qiao Shi-Zhang , Ling Tao , Du Xi-Wen
Published: October 2016

Hybrid-structured solar cells with superior light absorption, charge separation and hole transportation exhibit enhanced photovoltaic performance.
Supported C60-IL-PdNPs as extremely active nanocatalysts for C–C cross-coupling reactions
Authors: Giacalone Francesco , Campisciano Vincenzo , Calabrese Carla , La Parola Valeria , Liotta Leonarda F. , Aprile Carmela , Gruttadauria Michelangelo
Published: October 2016

Novel hybrid materials based on Pd-nanoparticles immobilized onto different silica functionalized C60-IL conjugates showed the highest TOF in Suzuki couplings.
Composite batteries: a simple yet universal approach to 3D printable lithium-ion battery electrodes
Authors: Kohlmeyer Ryan R. , Blake Aaron J. , Hardin James O. , Carmona Eric A. , Carpena-Núñez Jennifer , Maruyama Benji , Daniel Berrigan J. , Huang Hong , Durstock Michael F.
Published: October 2016

A universal approach to develop 3D printable, free-standing, and current collector-embedded electrode inks has been established.
Halide-regulated growth of electrocatalytic metal nanoparticles directly onto a carbon paper electrode
Authors: Holade Yaovi , Hickey David P. , Minteer Shelley D.
Published: October 2016

Direct growth of hierarchical micro/nanostructured metal arrays on a 3D substrate is a powerful tool to enhance the catalytic efficiency of metal particles towards a wide range of substrates.
Melanin nanoparticles as an endogenous agent for efficient iron overload therapy
Authors: Yan Junjie , Ji Yu , Zhang Pengjun , Lu Xiaomei , Fan Quli , Pan Donghui , Yang Runlin , Xu Yuping , Wang Lizhen , Zhang Lei , Yang Min
Published: October 2016

Melanin was an efficient endogenous agent for iron-overload therapy in living mice due to its native biocompatibility, biodegradability and high iron-capturing volume.
A synthetic bridging patch of modified co-electrospun dual nano-scaffolds for massive rotator cuff tear
Authors: Sun Yaying , Han Fei , Zhang Peng , Zhi Yunlong , Yang Jianjun , Yao Xiaohan , Wang Hui , Lin Chao , Wen Xuejun , Chen Jiwu , Zhao Peng
Published: October 2016

An electrospun nano-scaffold with two different segments is fabricated to bridge a massive rotator cuff tear successfully.
Nano-rods of doxorubicin with poly(l-glutamic acid) as a carrier-free formulation for intratumoral cancer treatment
Authors: Yang Saina , Zhu Feiyan , Wang Qian , Liang Fuxin , Qu Xiaozhong , Gan Zhihua , Yang Zhenzhong
Published: October 2016

Nano-rods of doxorubicin (DOX) were prepared by co-assembly with poly(l-glutamic acid) (PGA) and demonstrated a desired release profile for intratumoral administration that significantly prolonged the survival time of tumor-bearing mice.
Influence of titanium dioxide nanorods with different surface chemistry on the differentiation of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Shrestha Surakshya , Mao Zhengwei , Fedutik Yuri , Gao Changyou
Published: October 2016

In this study, four kinds of TiO2 nanorods (TiO2 NRs), with similar aspect ratios but different surface functional groups, i.e. amines (–NH2), carboxyl groups (–COOH) and poly(ethylene glycol) (–PEG), were used to study their interaction with rat bone marrow stem cells (MSCs).
Aggregation-induced emission (AIE) active iridium complexes toward highly efficient single-layer non-doped electroluminescent devices
Authors: Li Peng , Zeng Qun-Ying , Sun Hai-Zhu , Akhtar Mansoor , Shan Guo-Gang , Hou Xue-Gang , Li Fu-Shan , Su Zhong-Min
Published: October 2016

For the first time, AIE-active Ir(iii) complexes are applied successfully in single-layer non-doped phosphorescent devices, and a high current efficiency of 25.7 cd A−1and 7.6% external quantum efficiency are achieved.
Domain structure of human complement C4b extends with increasing NaCl concentration: implications for its regulatory mechanism
Authors: Fung Ka Wai , Wright David W. , Gor Jayesh , Swann Marcus J. , Perkins Stephen J.
Published: October 2016

During the activation of complement C4 to C4b, the exposure of its thioester domain (TED) is crucial for the attachment of C4b to activator surfaces. In the C4b crystal structure, TED forms an Arg104–Glu1032 salt bridge to tether its neighbouring macroglobulin (MG1) domain. Here, we examined the C4b domain structure to test whether this salt bridge affects its conformation. Dual polarisation interferometry of C4b immobilised at a sensor surface showed that the maximum thickness of C4b increased by 0.46 nm with an increase in NaCl concentration from 50 to 175 mM NaCl. Analytical ultracentrifugation showed that the sedimentation coefficient s20,w of monomeric C4b of 8.41 S in 50 mM NaCl buffer decreased to 7.98 S in 137 mM NaCl buffer, indicating that C4b became more extended. Small angle X-ray scattering reported similar RG values of 4.89–4.90 nm for C4b in 137–250 mM NaCl. Atomistic scattering modelling of the C4b conformation showed that TED and the MG1 domain were separated by 4.7 nm in 137–250 mM NaCl and this is greater than that of 4.0 nm in the C4b crystal structure. Our data reveal that in low NaCl concentrations, both at surfaces and in solution, C4b forms compact TED–MG1 structures. In solution, physiologically relevant NaCl concentrations lead to the separation of the TED and MG1 domain, making C4b less capable of binding to its complement regulators. These conformational changes are similar to those seen previously for complement C3b, confirming the importance of this salt bridge for regulating both C4b and C3b.
Least‐squares support vector machine‐based Kalman filtering for GNSS navigation with dynamic model real‐time correction
Authors: Zhou Zebo , Li Yong , Fu Chen , Rizos Chris
Published: October 2016

The accuracy of Kalman filtering (KF) relies on the quality of the observations as well as the dynamic model. However, the dynamic model is usually assumed to be invariant, which is not realistic in real global navigation satellite system (GNSS) navigation applications due to unexpected vehicular motion. A new algorithm is proposed to enhance the KF by using the least‐squares support vector machine (LSSVM) technique. The LSSVM‐enhanced KF (LSSVM‐KF) adaptively estimates the dynamic modelling bias from historical information, and then uses the bias estimate to compensate the dynamic model. The algorithm treats the dynamic model bias as a time‐variant ambiguous function which is trained with the LSSVM. A k‐fold cross‐validation method is developed to tune the training parameters of the LSSVM. With the corrected dynamic model, the KF is implemented to estimate the navigation parameters. To integrate LSSVM with KF, the unscented transformation is introduced to numerically compute the covariance of the LSSVM training. To verify the algorithm, simulation, semi‐simulation and real GNSS vehicular experiments were carried out. The results show that the LSSVM‐KF can adequately adapt to time‐variant dynamics and achieve a reliable and accurate GNSS navigation solution.
N ‐PTS scheme with low complexity for PAPR reduction
Authors: Wei Shanlin , Shen Ying
Published: October 2016

Partial transmit sequence (PTS) is a promising technology for peak‐to‐average power ratio (PAPR) reduction because it introduces no distortion. However, the high computational complexity is the main drawback of PTS scheme. A low‐complexity PTS scheme, called N ‐PTS, is proposed for PAPR reduction. By constructing some sequences, the time‐domain signals are obtained by combining the original signal with two circular signals. Thus, only one inverse fast Fourier transform block is required to implement. Analyses and simulation results show that the N ‐PTS scheme achieves extremely low computational complexity while sacrificing a little bit of performance compared with the conventional PTS.