bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CellMethy: Identification of a focal concordantly methylated pattern of CpGs revealed wide differences between normal and cancer tissues
Authors: Wang Fang , Zhang Shaojun , Liu Hongbo , Wei Yanjun , Wang Yihan , Han Xiaole , Su Jianzhong , Zhang Dongwei , Xie Baodong , Zhang Yan
Published: December 2015

DNA methylation patterns may serve as a key in determining cell phenotypes and functions. Adjacent CpG patterns may provide insight into methylation functional mechanisms. Some regions display different DNA methylation patterns between normal and cancer tissues, but the same average methylation level. Here, we developed a method (CellMethy) to infer a region in which all CpGs exhibit concordant methylation (CM) and to quantify the extent of CM in the region. Using simulation data, CellMethy showed high performance in discovering the concordant methylation patterns (AUC = 0.89). CellMethy was then applied to RRBS data including 11 normal tissues and 12 tumors. We found that the extent of CM exhibited wider differentials among tissues than did the average methylation levels from the CM regions, with 45% of CM regions occurring specifically in one tissue and mainly in tumors. Then, we identified CM regions through genome wide bisulfite sequencing (GWBS) data on breast cancer. Approximately 82% of CM regions revealed a significantly different extent of CM between cancer and normal tissues. CellMethy can accurately describe concordantly methylated regions and the results suggest that CM might also serve as a stable marker of cell sub-populations.
Nanoparticle-assisted optical tethering of endosomes reveals the cooperative function of dyneins in retrograde axonal transport
Authors: Chowdary Praveen D. , Che Daphne L. , Kaplan Luke , Chen Ou , Pu Kanyi , Bawendi Moungi , Cui Bianxiao
Published: December 2015

Dynein-dependent transport of organelles from the axon terminals to the cell bodies is essential to the survival and function of neurons. However, quantitative knowledge of dyneins on axonal organelles and their collective function during this long-distance transport is lacking because current technologies to do such measurements are not applicable to neurons. Here, we report a new method termed nanoparticle-assisted optical tethering of endosomes (NOTE) that made it possible to study the cooperative mechanics of dyneins on retrograde axonal endosomes in live neurons. In this method, the opposing force from an elastic tether causes the endosomes to gradually stall under load and detach with a recoil velocity proportional to the dynein forces. These recoil velocities reveal that the axonal endosomes, despite their small size, can recruit up to 7 dyneins that function as independent mechanical units stochastically sharing load, which is vital for robust retrograde axonal transport. This study shows that NOTE, which relies on controlled generation of reactive oxygen species, is a viable method to manipulate small cellular cargos that are beyond the reach of current technology.
Duration of Untreated Psychosis and Brain Function during Verbal Fluency Testing in First-Episode Schizophrenia: A Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Study
Authors: Chou Po-Han , Lin Wei-Hao , Lin Chih-Chien , Hou Po-Hsun , Li Wan-Rung , Hung Chia-Chun , Lin Ching-Po , Lan Tsuo-Hung , Chan Chin-Hong
Published: December 2015

A longer duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) has been associated with poor clinical outcomes in patients with schizophrenia (SZ); however, it remains unclear whether this is due to neurotoxic effects of psychosis. The purpose of this study was to use near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to investigate the influence of DUP on brain function using two verbal fluency tests (VFTs) in patients with first-episode SZ (FES). A total of 28 FES patients and 29 healthy controls (HC) underwent NIRS during VFTs. Group comparisons of cortical activity were made using two-tailed t-tests and the false discovery rate method. We then examined the associations between DUP and hemodynamic changes in each channel to identify any effects of DUP on brain cortical activity. During the letter VFT, the HC group exhibited significantly greater cortical activations over bilateral frontotemporal regions compared to FES patients. However, this distinction was not observed while performing a category version of the VFT. In addition, no associations between DUP and brain cortical activity were observed in the FES group during either VFT. In conclusion, we did not find an association between DUP and frontotemporal cortical activities. This might be because neurodevelopmental disturbances result in neurocognitive deficits long before psychotic symptoms onset.
Discovery of Anti-inflammatory Ingredients in Chinese Herbal Formula Kouyanqing Granule based on Relevance Analysis between Chemical Characters and Biological Effects
Authors: Liu Hong , Zheng Yan-fang , Li Chu-yuan , Zheng Yu-ying , Wang De-qin , Wu Zhong , Huang Lin , Wang Yong-gang , Li Pei-bo , Peng Wei , Su Wei-wei
Published: December 2015

Kouyanqing Granule (KYQG) is a traditional Chinese herbal formula composed of Flos lonicerae (FL), Radix scrophulariae (RS), Radix ophiopogonis (RO), Radix asparagi (RA) and Radix et rhizoma glycyrrhizae (RG). In contrast with the typical method of separating and then biologicalily testing the components individually, this study was designed to establish an approach in order to define the core bioactive ingredients of the anti-inflammatory effects of KYQG based on the relevance analysis between chemical characters and biological effects. Eleven KYQG samples with different ingredients were prepared by changing the ratios of the 5 herbs. Thirty-eight ingredients in KYQG were identified using Ultra-fast liquid chromatography-Diode array detector-Quadrupole-Time-of-flight-Tandem mass spectrometry (UFLC-DAD-Q-TOF-MS/MS) technology. Human oral keratinocytes (HOK) were cultured for 24 hours with 5% of Cigarette smoke extract (CSE) to induce inflammation stress. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were evaluated after treatment with the eleven KYQG samples. Grey relational analysis(GRA), Pearson’s correlations (PCC) and partial least-squares (PLS) were utilized to evaluate the contribution of each ingredient. The results indicated that KYQG significantly reduced interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, interleukin-8 and tumour necrosis factor-α levels, in which lysine, γ-aminobutyric acid, chelidonic acid, tyrosine, harpagide, neochlorogenic acid, chlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, isoquercitrin, luteolin-7-o-glucoside, 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, angoroside C, harpagoside, cinnamic acid and ruscogenin play a vital role.
FgMon1, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor of FgRab7, is important for vacuole fusion, autophagy and plant infection in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Li Ying , Li Bing , Liu Luping , Chen Huaigu , Zhang Haifeng , Zheng Xiaobo , Zhang Zhengguang
Published: December 2015

The Ccz1-Mon1 protein complex, the guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) of the late endosomal Rab7 homolog Ypt7, is required for the late step of multiple vacuole delivery pathways, such as cytoplasm-to-vacuole targeting (Cvt) pathway and autophagy processes. Here, we identified and characterized the yeast Mon1 homolog in Fusarium graminearum, named FgMon1. FgMON1 encodes a trafficking protein and is well conserved in filamentous fungi. Targeted gene deletion showed that the ∆Fgmon1 mutant was defective in vegetative growth, asexual/sexual development, conidial germination and morphology, plant infection and deoxynivalenol production. Cytological examination revealed that the ∆Fgmon1 mutant was also defective in vacuole fusion and autophagy and delayed in endocytosis. Yeast two hybrid and in vitro GST-pull down assays approved that FgMon1 physically interacts with a Rab GTPase FgRab7 which is also important for the development, infection, membrane fusion and autophagy in F. graminearum. FgMon1 likely acts as a GEF of FgRab7 and constitutively activated FgRab7 was able to rescue the defects of the ∆Fgmon1 mutant. In summary, our study provides evidences that FgMon1 and FgRab7 are critical components that modulate vesicle trafficking, endocytosis and autophagy and thereby affect the development, plant infection and DON production of F. graminearum.
CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of factors in non-homologous end joining pathway enhances gene targeting in silkworm cells
Authors: Zhu Li , Mon Hiroaki , Xu Jian , Lee Jae Man , Kusakabe Takahiro
Published: December 2015

Gene targeting can be achieved by precise genetic modifications through homology-directed repair (HDR) after DNA breaks introduced by genome editing tools such as CRISPR/Cas9 system. The most common form of HDR is homologous recombination (HR). Binding to the DNA breaks by HR factors is thought to compete with non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), an alternative DNA repair pathway. Here, we knocked out the factors in NHEJ by CRISPR/Cas9 system in silkworm cells, so that increased the activities of HR up to 7-fold. Also efficient HR-mediated genome editing events occurred between the chromosomal BmTUDOR-SN gene and donor DNA sequences with an EGFP gene in the middle of two homologous arms for the target gene. Utilizing the NHEJ-deficient silkworm cells, we found that homologous arms as short as 100 bp in donor DNA could be designed to perform precise genome editing. These studies should greatly accelerate investigations into genome editing of silkworm.
Ballistic Thermal Transport in Carbyne and Cumulene with Micron-Scale Spectral Acoustic Phonon Mean Free Path
Authors: Wang Mingchao , Lin Shangchao
Published: December 2015

The elastic modulus of carbyne, a one-dimensional carbon chain, was recently predicted to be much higher than graphene. Inspired by this discovery and the fundamental correlation between elastic modulus and thermal conductivity, we investigate the intrinsic thermal transport in two carbon allotropes: carbyne and cumulene. Using molecular dynamics simulations, we discover that thermal conductivities of carbyne and cumulene at the quantum-corrected room temperature can exceed 54 and 148 kW/m/K, respectively, much higher than that for graphene. Such conductivity is attributed to high phonon energies and group velocities, as well as reduced scattering from non-overlapped acoustic and optical phonon modes. The prolonged spectral acoustic phonon lifetime of 30–110 ps and mean free path of 0.5–2.5 μm exceed those for graphene and allow ballistic phonon transport along micron-length carbon chains. Tensile extensions can enhance the thermal conductivity of carbyne due to the increased phonon density of states in the acoustic modes and the increased phonon lifetime from phonon bandgap opening. These findings provide fundamental insights into phonon transport and band structure engineering through tensile deformation in low-dimensional materials and will inspire studies on carbyne, cumulene and boron nitride chains for their practical deployments in nano-devices.
Serum Metabolomics to Identify the Liver Disease-Specific Biomarkers for the Progression of Hepatitis to Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Gao Rong , Cheng Jianhua , Fan Chunlei , Shi Xiaofeng , Cao Yuan , Sun Bo , Ding Huiguo , Hu Chengjin , Dong Fangting , Yan Xianzhong
Published: December 2015

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignancy that has region specific etiologies. Unfortunately, 85% of cases of HCC are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Reliable biomarkers for the early diagnosis of HCC are urgently required to reduced mortality and therapeutic expenditure. We established a non-targeted gas chromatography–time of flight–mass spectrometry (GC-TOFMS) metabolomics method in conjunction with Random Forests (RF) analysis based on 201 serum samples from healthy controls (NC), hepatitis B virus (HBV), liver cirrhosis (LC) and HCC patients to explore the metabolic characteristics in the progression of hepatocellular carcinogenesis. Ultimately, 15 metabolites were identified intimately associated with the process. Phenylalanine, malic acid and 5-methoxytryptamine for HBV vs. NC, palmitic acid for LC vs. HBV and asparagine and β-glutamate for HCC vs. LC were screened as the liver disease-specific potential biomarkers with an excellent discriminant performance. All the metabolic perturbations in these liver diseases are associated with pathways for energy metabolism, macromolecular synthesis and maintaining the redox balance to protect tumor cells from oxidative stress.
NMR structure and function of Helicoverpa armigera sterol carrier protein-2, an important insecticidal target from the cotton bollworm
Authors: Ma Haihao , Ma Yuemin , Liu Xuehui , Dyer David H. , Xu Pingyong , Liu Kaiyu , Lan Que , Hong Huazhu , Peng Jianxin , Peng Rong
Published: December 2015

The cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera, has developed strong resistance to many insecticides. Sterol Carrier Protein-2 (SCP-2) is an important non-specific lipid transfer protein in insects and appears to be a potential new target. In order to elucidate the structure and function of Helicoverpa armigera SCP-2 (HaSCP-2), NMR spectroscopy, docking simulations, mutagenesis and bioassays were performed. HaSCP-2 composed of five α-helices and four stranded β-sheets. The folds of α-helices and β-sheets interacted together to form a hydrophobic cavity with putative entrance and exit openings, which served as a tunnel for accommodating and transporting of lipids. Several sterols and fatty acids could interact with HaSCP-2 via important hydrophobic sites, which could be potential targets for insecticides. Mutagenesis experiments indicated Y51, F53, F89, F110, I117 and Q131 may be the key functional sites. HaSCP-2 showed high cholesterol binding activity and SCP-2 inhibitors (SCPIs) could inhibit the biological activity of HaSCP-2. SCPI-treated larvae at young stage showed a significant decrease of cholesterol uptake in vivo. Our study describes for the first time a NMR structure of SCP-2 in lepidopteran H. armigera and reveals its important function in cholesterol uptake, which facilitates the screening of effective insecticides targeting the insect cholesterol metabolism.
The Effect of Irreversible Electroporation on the Femur: Experimental Study in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Song Yue , Zheng Jingjing , Yan Mingwei , Ding Weidong , Xu Kui , Fan Qingyu , Li Zhao
Published: December 2015

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a novel ablation method that has been tested in humans with lung, prostate, kidney, liver, lymph node and presacral cancers. As a new non-thermal treatment, the use of IRE to ablate tumors in the musculoskeletal system might reduce the incidence of fractures. We aimed to determine the ablation threshold of cortical bone and to evaluate the medium- and long-term healing process and mechanical properties of the femur in a rabbit model post-IRE ablation. The ablation threshold of cortical bone was between 1090 V/cm and 1310 V/cm (120 pulses). IRE-ablated femurs displayed no detectable fracture but did exhibit signs of recovery, including osteoblast regeneration, angiogenesis and bone remodeling. In the ablation area, revascularization appeared at 4 weeks post-IRE. Osteogenic activity peaked 8 weeks post-IRE and remained high at 12 weeks. The mechanical strength decreased briefly 4 weeks post-IRE but returned to normal levels within 8 weeks. Our experiment revealed that IRE ablation preserved the structural integrity of the bone cortex and the ablated bone was able to regenerate rapidly. IRE may hold unique promise forin situbone tissue ablation because rapid revascularization and active osteogenesis in the IRE ablation area are possible.
Ionic Liquid Directed Mesoporous Carbon Nanoflakes as an Effiencient Electrode material
Authors: Kong Lirong , Chen Wei
Published: December 2015

Supercapacitors are considered to be the most promising approach to meet the pressing requirements for energy storage devices. The electrode materials for supercapacitors have close relationship with their electrochemical properties and thus become the key point to improve their energy storage efficiency. Herein, by using poly (vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) and ionic liquid as the dual templates, polyacrylonitrile as the carbon precursor, a flake-like carbon material was prepared by a direct carbonization method. In this method, poly (vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) worked as the separator for the formation of isolated carbon flakes while aggregated ionic liquid worked as the pore template. The obtained carbon flakes exhibited a specific capacitance of 170 F/g at 0.1 A/g, a high energy density of 12.2 Wh/kg and a high power density of 5 kW/kg at the current of 10 A/g. It also maintained a high capacitance retention capability with almost no declination after 500 charge-discharge cycles. The ionic liquid directed method developed here also provided a new idea for the preparation of hierarchically porous carbon nanomaterials.
Switchable directional scattering of electromagnetic radiation with subwavelength asymmetric silicon dimers
Authors: Albella Pablo , Shibanuma Toshihiko , Maier Stefan A.
Published: December 2015

High refractive index dielectric nanoparticles show high promise as a complementary nanophotonics platform due to compared with plasmonic nanostructures low absorption losses and the co-existence of magnetic and electric resonances. Here we explore their use as resonantly enhanced directional scatterers. We theoretically demonstrate that an asymmetric dimer of silicon nanoparticles shows tuneable directional scattering depending on the frequency of excitation. This is due to the interference between electric and magnetic dipoles excited in each nanoparticle, enabling directional control of the scattered light. Interestingly, this control can be achieved regardless of the polarization direction with respect to the dimer axis; however, difference in the polarization can shift the wavelengths at which the directional scattering is achieved. We also explore the application of such an asymmetric nanoantenna as a tuneable routing element in a nanometer scale, suggesting applications in optical nanocircuitry.
An ultrasensitive aptamer biosensor for the detection of codeine based on a Au nanoparticle/polyamidoamine dendrimer-modified screen-printed carbon electrode
Authors: Niu Xiaofang , Huang Liangliang , Zhao Jinhang , Yin Mengdi , Luo Dan , Yang Yunhui
Published: December 2015

In this work, we utilized a codeine aptamer to construct a signal-off biosensor based on a AuNP/PAMAM-modified screen-printed carbon electrode.
Development of an ID ICP-MS reference method for the determination of Cd, Hg and Pb in a cosmetic powder certified reference material
Authors: Kim Sook Heun , Lim Youngran , Hwang Euijin , Yim Yong-Hyeon
Published: December 2015

Accurate measurement of hazardous elements in cosmetics is considerably important in response to cosmetic safety issues.
Synthesis of chiral α-hydroxy acids via palladium-catalyzed C(sp3)–H alkylation of lactic acid
Authors: Chen Kai , Li Xin , Zhang Shuo-Qing , Shi Bing-Feng
Published: December 2015

A palladium-catalyzed alkylation of lactic acid with alkyl iodides is described.
Tuning the properties of a novel short cell-penetrating peptide by intramolecular cyclization with a triazole bridge
Authors: Horn M. , Reichart F. , Natividad-Tietz S. , Diaz D. , Neundorf I.
Published: December 2015

Cyclic versus linear: cyclic triazole-bridged cell-penetrating peptides are optimally arranged within the membrane, thus at the same time inducing suitable DNA complexation and successful peptide membrane insertion.
The dynamic response of a flexible indium based metal–organic framework to gas sorption
Authors: Li Xingjun , Chen Xueyuan , Jiang Feilong , Chen Lian , Lu Shan , Chen Qihui , Wu Mingyan , Yuan Daqiang , Hong Maochun
Published: December 2015

This work presents a flexible indium based MOF which exhibits a novel dynamic response to N2, Ar and CO2 sorption.
On determining the height of the potential barrier at grain boundaries in ion-conducting oxides
Authors: Kim Sangtae , Kim Seong K. , Khodorov Sergey , Maier Joachim , Lubomirsky Igor
Published: December 2015

Combining the linear diffusion and resistivity ratio models, one can distinguish the grain boundary resistance related to space charge from the resistance from other sources.
Rational design of ethanol steam reforming catalyst based on analysis of Ni/La2O3 metal–support interactions
Authors: Liu Jyong-Yue , Su Wei-Nien , Rick John , Yang Sheng-Chiang , Pan Chun-Jern , Lee Jyh-Fu , Chen Jin-Ming , Hwang Bing-Joe
Published: December 2015

Ni/La2O3 nanocatalyst with strong interactions, compared to Ni/SiO2, generated higher H2 yield by suppressing the methanation reaction and coke deposition.
A reusable material with high performance for removing NO at room temperature: performance, mechanism and kinetics
Authors: Lu Pei , Xing Yi , Li Caiting , Qing Renpeng , Su Wei , Liu Nian
Published: December 2015

Removing NO from the air with a reusable material at room temperature is challenging.
Facile synthesis of magnetic hierarchical copper silicate hollow nanotubes for efficient adsorption and removal of hemoglobin
Authors: Zhang Min , Wang Baoyu , Zhang Yanwei , Li Weizhen , Gan Wenjun , Xu Jingli
Published: December 2015

Novel magnetic hierarchical copper silicate hollow nanotubes were synthesized with SiO2/Fe3O4/Ag NWs as templates, which can be used to remove abundant proteins in human blood.
Tetrahydro-pyrimido-indoles as selective LIMK inhibitors: synthesis, selectivity profiling and structure–activity studies
Authors: Alen J. , Bourin A. , Boland S. , Geraets J. , Schroeders P. , Defert O.
Published: December 2015

Extensive structure–activity studies on three different modification sites resulted in a series of LIM kinase inhibitors, containing a novel tricyclic hinge-binding motif based on the pyrrolopyrimidine scaffold.
Detection of nerve gases using surface-enhanced Raman scattering substrates with high droplet adhesion
Authors: Hakonen Aron , Rindzevicius Tomas , Schmidt Michael Stenbæk , Andersson Per Ola , Juhlin Lars , Svedendahl Mikael , Boisen Anja , Käll Mikael
Published: December 2015

Threats from chemical warfare agents, commonly known as nerve gases, constitute a serious security issue of increasing global concern because of surging terrorist activity worldwide.
Novel cobalt quantum dot/graphene nanocomposites as highly efficient electrocatalysts for water splitting
Authors: Govindhan Maduraiveeran , Mao Brennan , Chen Aicheng
Published: December 2015

A non-noble metal based electrocatalyst comprised of Co quantum dots and reduced graphene oxide sheets exhibits high activity and stability for oxygen evolution.
Trichiconlides A and B: two novel limonoids from the fruits of Trichilia connaroides
Authors: An Fa-Liang , Luo Jun , Wang Xiao-Bing , Yang Ming-Hua , Kong Ling-Yi
Published: December 2015

Trichiconlides A (1) and B (2), two novel limonoids, were isolated from the fruits of Trichilia connaroides.
Copper-catalyzed C–H ethoxycarbonyldifluoromethylation of imidazoheterocycles
Authors: Mishra Subhajit , Mondal Pallab , Ghosh Monoranjan , Mondal Susmita , Hajra Alakananda
Published: December 2015

A regioselective copper-catalyzed ethoxycarbonyldifluoromethylation of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines has been developed through sp2 C–H bond functionalization with BrCF2CO2Et under ambient air.
Regiospecific synthesis of distally chlorinated ketones via C–C bond cleavage of cycloalkanols
Authors: Fan Xuefeng , Zhao Huijun , Yu Jiajia , Bao Xiaoguang , Zhu Chen
Published: December 2015

A variety of distally Csp3-chlorinated ketones were efficiently synthesized via silver-catalyzed ring opening of cycloalkanols under mild reaction conditions.
New insights into the asymmetric Diels–Alder reaction: the endo- and S-selective retro-Diels–Alder reaction
Authors: Li Na , Liang Xianrui , Su Weike
Published: December 2015

Theendo- andS-selective retro-Diels–Alder reactions have been proposed and verified in an imidazolethione-catalyzed asymmetric Diels–Alder reaction.
Real-time imaging of lead nanoparticles in solution – determination of the growth mechanism
Authors: Delach Diana. L. , Dukes Madeline J. , Varano A. Cameron , Kelly Deborah F. , Dukes III Albert D.
Published: December 2015

In situ electron microscopy is a tool which offers great promise for studying the mechanisms responsible for nanoparticle growth.
Electron induced chemistry of thioformaldehyde
Authors: Limbachiya Chetan , Chaudhari Ashok , Desai Hardik , Vinodkumar Minaxi
Published: December 2015

A comprehensive theoretical study was carried out for electron interactions with thioformaldehyde (H2CS) over a wide range of impact energies (0.01 eV to 5000 eV).
3D lanthanide metal–organic frameworks constructed from lanthanide formate skeletons and 3,5-bis(4′-carboxy-phenyl)-1,2,4-triazole connectors: synthesis, structure and luminescence
Authors: Wang Shengyan , Xu Jianing , Fan Yong , Jia Jia , Gao Lijuan , Sun Jing , Shan Liang , Chen Xiaodong , Wang Li , Seo Hyo Jin
Published: December 2015

3D Ln-MOFs constructed from lanthanide formate skeletons and 3,5-bis(4′-carboxy-phenyl)-1,2,4-triazole connectors show tunable luminescence emission including white light emission.
Self-assembled lipase nanosphere templated one-pot biogenic synthesis of silica hollow spheres in ionic liquid [Bmim][PF6]
Authors: Sarkar Sampa , Mantri Kshudiram , Kumar Dinesh , Bhargava Suresh K. , Soni Sarvesh K.
Published: December 2015

Self-assembly of hydrophobic lipase enzyme in hydrophobic and hydrophilic ionic liquids and a correlation in structure–function and activity.
A targeted metabolomics approach to characterize acetogenin profiles in avocado fruit (Persea americana Mill.)
Authors: Rodríguez-López Carlos Eduardo , Hernández-Brenes Carmen , Díaz de la Garza Rocío I.
Published: December 2015

Lauraceous acetogenins are fatty acid derivatives with an odd-carbon aliphatic chain found in avocado (Persea americana Mill.).
Correction: Cancer cell extinction through a magnetic fluid hyperthermia treatment produced by superparamagnetic Co–Zn ferrite nanoparticles
Authors: Bohara Raghvendra A. , Thorat Nanasaheb D. , Chaurasia Akhilesh K. , Pawar Shivaji H.
Published: December 2015

Correction for ‘Cancer cell extinction through a magnetic fluid hyperthermia treatment produced by superparamagnetic Co–Zn ferrite nanoparticles’ by Raghvendra A. Bohara et al., RSC Adv., 2015, 5, 47225–47234.
Using modified aptamers for site specific protein–aptamer conjugations
Authors: Wang Ruowen , Lu Danqing , Bai Huarong , Jin Cheng , Yan Guobei , Ye Mao , Qiu Liping , Chang Rongshan , Cui Cheng , Liang Hao , Tan Weihong
Published: December 2015

We have developed a new method for the selective conjugation of target proteins at lysine residues through a protein–aptamer template-directed reaction.
Tailor-made porosities of fluorene-based porous organic frameworks for the pre-designable fabrication of palladium nanoparticles with size, location and distribution control
Authors: Zhong Hong , Liu Caiping , Wang Yangxin , Wang Ruihu , Hong Maochun
Published: December 2015

Supported palladium nanoparticles with pre-designable size, location and distribution were presented through tailor-made porosities of fluorene-based porous organic frameworks.
Core–shell amorphous cobalt phosphide/cadmium sulfide semiconductor nanorods for exceptional photocatalytic hydrogen production under visible light
Authors: Sun Zijun , Lv Bihu , Li Jingshi , Xiao Min , Wang Xiaoyong , Du Pingwu
Published: December 2015

We report that a photocatalyst made of amorphous cobalt phosphide (CoPx) integrated with CdS NRs for H2 production under visible light. The CoPx/CdS NRs gave an apparent quantum yield at ∼35% (λ = 450 nm).
Photoresponsive real time monitoring silicon quantum dots for regulated delivery of anticancer drugs
Authors: Paul Amrita , Jana Avijit , Karthik S. , Bera Manoranjan , Zhao Yanli , Singh N. D. Pradeep
Published: December 2015

Photoluminescent silicon quantum dots (SiQDs) decorated using o-nitrobenzyl (ONB) derivative as a phototrigger for real-time monitoring of chlorambucil (Cbl) based on Photoinduced Electron Transfer (PET).
Modeling the toxicity of chemical pesticides in multiple test species using local and global QSTR approaches
Authors: Basant Nikita , Gupta Shikha , Singh Kunwar P.
Published: December 2015

The safety assessment processes require the toxicity data of chemicals in multiple test species and thus, emphasize the need for computational methods capable of toxicity prediction in multiple test species. Pesticides are designed toxic substances and find extensive applications worldwide. In this study, we have established local and global QSTR (quantitative structure–toxicity relationship) and ISC QSAAR (interspecies correlation quantitative structure activity–activity relationship) models for predicting the toxicities of pesticides in multiple aquatic test species using the toxicity data in crustacean (Daphnia magna, Americamysis bahia, Gammarus fasciatus, and Penaeus duorarum) and fish (Oncorhynchus mykiss and Lepomis macrochirus) species in accordance with the OECD guidelines. The ensemble learning based QSTR models (decision tree forest, DTF and decision tree boost, DTB) were constructed and validated using several statistical coefficients derived on the test data. In all the QSTR and QSAAR models, Log P was an important predictor. The constructed local, global and interspecies QSAAR models yielded high correlations (R2) of >0.941; >0.943 and >0.826, respectively between the measured and model predicted endpoint toxicity values in the test data. The performances of the local and global QSTR models were comparable. Furthermore, the chemical applicability domains of these QSTR/QSAAR models were determined using the leverage and standardization approaches. The results suggest for the appropriateness of the developed QSTR/QSAAR models to reliably predict the aquatic toxicity of structurally diverse pesticides in multiple test species and can be used for the screening and prioritization of new pesticides.
Anti-ADAMTS5 monoclonal antibodies: implications for aggrecanase inhibition in osteoarthritis
Authors: Apte Suneel S.
Published: December 2015

The extracellular matrix of articular cartilage is structurally specialized for efficient absorption of mechanical impact. In particular, giant aggregates of the large chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan, aggrecan, with the glycosaminoglycan, hyaluronan, allow cartilage to resist compressive load. Proteolysis of aggrecan by members of the proteinase family ADAMTS (A disintegrin-like and metalloproteinase domain with thrombospondin type 1 motif), was identified as an early step in the inexorable destruction of cartilage in osteoarthritis (OA). Of the investigated proteinases, ADAMTS5 has emerged as a principal mediator of aggrecan loss in OA, convincingly so in mouse models, and with high probability in humans. ADAMTS5 has a bipartite organization, comprising a proteinase domain and an ancillary domain containing exosites for interaction with aggrecan and other substrates. In a recent issue of this journal, Santamaria et al. characterized anti-ADAMTS5 monoclonal antibodies isolated from a phage display library. By blocking the catalytic site of the ADAMTS5 immunogen with a synthetic inhibitor, the authors of the paper biased selection of antibodies to the ancillary domain. This work, together with other antibodies targeting ADAMTS5, offers diverse, high-affinity and, as far as can be determined, selective aggrecanase inhibitors. Mapping of their epitopes provided novel insights into ADAMTS5 interactions with aggrecan. These monoclonal antibodies deserve continued investigation for potential arthritis therapy, although their successful use will require a comprehensive understanding of the physiological roles of ADAMTS5, and its regulation, intrinsic properties and intermolecular interactions.
Accurate and cost‐effective technique for jitter and noise separation based on single‐frequency measurement
Authors: Wu Minshun , Liu Zhiqiang , Xu Li , Chen Degang
Published: December 2015

A simple and cost‐effective technique is proposed for jitter and noise separation in ADC test. On the basis of the property that clock jitter is modulated by the slope of input signal, few simple mathematical manipulations are performed on a single data record of ADC output to separate jitter and noise. The proposed method requires only one high‐frequency signal test and eliminates the need for a second low‐frequency test in conventional dual‐frequency jitter tests. Compared with existing single‐frequency test, the new method is accurate and robust to non‐harmonic distortion, without requiring any additional data acquisition time. Therefore, both hardware overhead and data acquisition time are saved significantly. Experimental results show that both jitter and signal‐to‐noise ratio are estimated accurately, and the accuracy of jitter estimation is comparable with that of conventional dual‐frequency test.
Odd‐weight‐column SEC–DED–TAED codes
Authors: Liu Shan Shan , Reviriego Pedro , Sánchez‐Macián Alfonso , Xiao Liyi , Maestro Juan Antonio
Published: December 2015

Single‐error correction, double‐error detection (SEC–DED) codes are a type of error‐correction codes widely used in electronics to protect memory devices from data corruption. Odd‐weight‐column SEC–DED codes are a type of these codes where the parity‐check matrix is built with every column including an odd number of ones. With this approach, double errors have an even‐weight syndrome and can be differentiated from single errors and, consequently, easily detected. There are applications, such as avionics or space, where a multiple error usually affects adjacent cells. Adapting SEC–DED codes to protect against triple‐adjacent errors is interesting in these applications. A modification to existing odd‐weight‐column SEC–DED codes to add triple‐adjacent error detection (TAED), creating SEC–DED–TAED codes, is presented. The implementation of the additional triple‐adjacent detection logic for these codes can be performed with limited performance and area overhead.
3D printing technique for the development of non‐planar electromagnetic bandgap structures for antenna applications
Authors: Jun S. , Sanz‐Izquierdo B. , Parker E.A.
Published: December 2015

The use of 3D printing for the development of non‐planar electromagnetic bandgap (EBG) structures for antenna applications is proposed. A coplanar waveguide (CPW) fed antenna is tested on a non‐planar EBG substrate, fabricated using additive manufacturing techniques. Inexpensive fuse filament fabrication is used as the fabrication process. Silver‐loaded conducting ink is employed for the metallic components of the EBG. The CPW antenna on the non‐planar EBG structure has a satisfactory reflection coefficient at 2.45 GHz, which is suitable for Bluetooth/WLAN communications. The radiation patterns have reduced back lobes and improved gain compared with the antenna in free space.
Optical pulse generation by polarisation modulation and fibre dispersion
Authors: Zhang Fangzheng , Gao Bindong , Pan Shilong
Published: December 2015

Optical pulse generation based on polarisation modulation and fibre dispersion is proposed that has the ability of generating multiform optical pulse trains by applying a single electro‐optic modulator and a low frequency driving signal. In the experiment, using a 10 GHz RF source, the generation of a 20 GHz time and polarisation interleaved optical pulse train, a 10 GHz single‐polarisation pulse train and a 20 GHz single‐polarisation pulse train is demonstrated. By using differential group delay in a polarisation maintaining fibre to realise time‐division‐multiplexing, the repetition rate of the pulse train can be further increased. Based on this principle, the generation of a 40 GHz time and polarisation interleaved optical pulse train, and a 40 GHz single‐polarisation pulse train is successfully implemented.
Wideband tissue‐equivalent liquid for multiband specific absorption rate measurements (850 MHz–2.5 GHz)
Authors: Mouthaan R. , Loader B.
Published: December 2015

A tissue‐equivalent liquid has been developed that yields permittivity and conductivity values within ±10% of the IEEE 1528, IEC 62209 and FCC OET65‐C target ‘head’ values between 850 MHz and 2.5 GHz. The formulation of the new tissue‐equivalent liquid is presented along with measurements of the dielectric properties, thermal properties and density.
Rollout strategies for real‐time multi‐energy scheduling in microgrid with storage system
Authors: Lan Yu , Guan Xiaohong , Wu Jiang
Published: December 2015

The rising climatic concerns force the conventional power system to minimise the gas emissions. Microgrid integrating with renewable energy plays a key role in utilising power systems in a more environment friendly way. Compared with single renewable energy system, the microgrid with multi‐energy systems is more attractive in practice. The schedule problem is considered to schedule wind power, combined heating and power generation (CHP), battery, and power grid in order to satisfy the electricity load and heat loads in the microgrid with the minimal cost in real time. Owing to the stochastic nature of wind power generation, it is a challenge to solve the multi‐energy scheduling problem when using the obtained real‐time information. In this study, the joint scheduling of the microgrid with multi‐energy systems is formulated as a rolling horizon Markov decision process (MDP). Moreover, then the rollout algorithm is applied to solve the problem in order to deal with the large state and decision space of MDP, which is caused by the increase of the number of CHPs. The feasible base policy needed in the rollout algorithm is constructed using a greedy algorithm. Numerical results demonstrate that the algorithm can achieve the requirement of real‐time scheduling effectively.
Equivalent realisation circuit for a class of non‐ideal voltage‐controlled memristors
Authors: Pan Saihu , Jiang Pan , Bao Bocheng
Published: December 2015

In this study, an equivalent realisation circuit with off‐the‐shelf components and devices is proposed, which can be used to equivalently implement a class of non‐ideal voltage‐controlled memristors. The mathematical models of the equivalent realisation circuit with three function arithmetic circuits are built and their fingerprints are analysed by the pinched hysteresis loops with bipolar periodic voltage stimuli. The numerical simulations are easily verified by experimental measurements, which indicate that when three function arithmetic circuits are linked, the equivalent realisation circuit can realise three non‐ideal voltage‐controlled memristors with different non‐linearities.
Mixing and scalar dissipation rate statistics in a starting gas jet
Authors: Soulopoulos N. , Hardalupas Y. , Taylor A. M. K. P.
Published: December 2015

We quantify the temporal development of the mixing field of a starting jet by measuring the mixture fraction and the scalar dissipation rate and their statistics in an isothermal, impulsively started, gaseous jet. The scalar measurements are performed using planar laser induced fluorescence and, with appropriate processing of the resulting images, allow scalar dissipation rate measurements within 20%. The probability density functions of the mixture fraction, measured within a region of the order of 3 times the Batchelor length scale of the flow, are bimodal and skewed around a well-mixed radial location, which depends on the downstream distance and the time after the start of injection. The instantaneous distributions of the scalar dissipation rate reveal regions of high mixing at the jet periphery and at the developing vortex ring. The normalised probability density function (pdf) of the scalar dissipation rate at various flow positions and times after the start of injection has the same characteristic shape but differs from the usually suggested lognormal distribution at both low and high dissipation values; the same, also, holds true for the pdf conditioned on different values of the mixture fraction. The mean of the scalar dissipation rate conditional on mixture fraction shows a variation across the mixture fraction range, which differs between flow locations and times after the start of injection; however, at later times and for larger downstream distances the conditional mean between flow locations has similar distributions. Implications of the measurements for the auto-ignition of gaseous jets are examined and demonstrate that near the nozzle exit or at earlier times conditions are un-favourable for auto-ignition.
Short-time evolution of Lagrangian velocity gradient correlations in isotropic turbulence
Authors: Fang L. , Bos W. J. T. , Jin G. D.
Published: December 2015

We show by direct numerical simulation (DNS) that the Lagrangian cross correlation of velocity gradients in homogeneous isotropic turbulence increases at short times, whereas its auto-correlation decreases. Kinematic considerations allow to show that two invariants of the turbulent velocity field determine the short-time velocity gradient correlations. In order to get a more intuitive understanding of the dynamics for longer times, heuristic models are proposed involving the combined action of local shear and rotation. These models quantitatively reproduce the effects and disentangle the different physical mechanisms leading to the observations in the DNS.
High intensity high charge state ion beam production with an evaporative cooling magnet ECRIS
Authors: Lu W. , Qian C. , Sun L. T. , Zhang X. Z. , Fang X. , Guo J. W. , Yang Y. , Feng Y. C. , Ma B. H. , Xiong B. , Ruan L. , Zhao H. W. , Zhan W. L. , Xie D.
Published: December 2015

LECR4 (Lanzhou ECR ion source No. 4) is a room temperature electron cyclotron resonance ion source, designed to produce high current, high charge state ion beams for the SSC-LINAC injector (a new injector for sector separated cyclotron) at the Institute of Modern Physics. LECR4 also serves as a PoP machine for the application of evaporative cooling technology in accelerator field. To achieve those goals, LECR4 ECR ion source has been optimized for the operation at 18 GHz. During 2014, LECR4 ion source was commissioned at 18 GHz microwave of 1.6 kW. To further study the influence of injection stage to the production of medium and high charge state ion beams, in March 2015, the injection stage with pumping system was installed, and some optimum results were produced, such as 560 eμA of O7+, 620 eμA of Ar11+, 430 eμA of Ar12+, 430 eμA of Xe20+, and so on. The comparison will be discussed in the paper.
Ordered heteromolecular overlayers formed by metal phthalocyanines and porphyrins on rutile titanium dioxide surface studied at room temperature
Authors: Zając Łukasz , Olszowski Piotr , Godlewski Szymon , Such Bartosz , Jöhr Res , Pawlak Rémy , Hinaut Antoine , Glatzel Thilo , Meyer Ernst , Szymonski Marek
Published: December 2015

Molecular heterostructures are formed from meso-tetraphenyl porphyrins-Zn(ii) (ZnTPP) and Cu(ii)-phthalocyanines (CuPc) on the rutile TiO2(011) surface. We demonstrate that ZnTPP molecules form a quasi-ordered wetting layer with flat-lying molecules, which provides the support for growth of islands comprised of upright CuPc molecules. The incorporation of the ZnTPP layer and the growth of heterostructures increase the stability of the system and allow for room temperature scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) measurements, which is contrasted with unstable STM probing of only CuPc species on TiO2. We demonstrate that within the CuPc layer the molecules arrange in two phases and we identify molecular dimers as basic building blocks of the dominant structural phase.
Binary pseudo-random patterned structures for modulation transfer function calibration and resolution characterization of a full-field transmission soft x-ray microscope
Authors: Yashchuk V. V. , Fischer P. J. , Chan E. R. , Conley R. , McKinney W. R. , Artemiev N. A. , Bouet N. , Cabrini S. , Calafiore G. , Lacey I. , Peroz C. , Babin S.
Published: December 2015

We present a modulation transfer function (MTF) calibration method based on binary pseudo-random (BPR) one-dimensional sequences and two-dimensional arrays as an effective method for spectral characterization in the spatial frequency domain of a broad variety of metrology instrumentation, including interferometric microscopes, scatterometers, phase shifting Fizeau interferometers, scanning and transmission electron microscopes, and at this time, x-ray microscopes. The inherent power spectral density of BPR gratings and arrays, which has a deterministic white-noise-like character, allows a direct determination of the MTF with a uniform sensitivity over the entire spatial frequency range and field of view of an instrument. We demonstrate the MTF calibration and resolution characterization over the full field of a transmission soft x-ray microscope using a BPR multilayer (ML) test sample with 2.8 nm fundamental layer thickness. We show that beyond providing a direct measurement of the microscope’s MTF, tests with the BPRML sample can be used to fine tune the instrument’s focal distance. Our results confirm the universality of the method that makes it applicable to a large variety of metrology instrumentation with spatial wavelength bandwidths from a few nanometers to hundreds of millimeters.
Steady-state low thermal resistance characterization apparatus: The bulk thermal tester
Authors: Burg Brian R. , Kolly Manuel , Blasakis Nicolas , Gschwend Dominic , Zürcher Jonas , Brunschwiler Thomas
Published: December 2015

The reliability of microelectronic devices is largely dependent on electronic packaging, which includes heat removal. The appropriate packaging design therefore necessitates precise knowledge of the relevant material properties, including thermal resistance and thermal conductivity. Thin materials and high conductivity layers make their thermal characterization challenging. A steady state measurement technique is presented and evaluated with the purpose to characterize samples with a thermal resistance below 100 mm2 K/W. It is based on the heat flow meter bar approach made up by two copper blocks and relies exclusively on temperature measurements from thermocouples. The importance of thermocouple calibration is emphasized in order to obtain accurate temperature readings. An in depth error analysis, based on Gaussian error propagation, is carried out. An error sensitivity analysis highlights the importance of the precise knowledge of the thermal interface materials required for the measurements. Reference measurements on Mo samples reveal a measurement uncertainty in the range of 5% and most accurate measurements are obtained at high heat fluxes. Measurement techniques for homogeneous bulk samples, layered materials, and protruding cavity samples are discussed. Ultimately, a comprehensive overview of a steady state thermal characterization technique is provided, evaluating the accuracy of sample measurements with thermal resistances well below state of the art setups. Accurate characterization of materials used in heat removal applications, such as electronic packaging, will enable more efficient designs and ultimately contribute to energy savings.