bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-Assembled 3D Flower-Like Nickel Hydroxide Nanostructures and Their Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Parveen Nazish , Cho Moo Hwan
Published: June 2016

Three-dimensional (3D) nanostructures have attracted considerable attention because of their high surface areas and unique properties which gives outstanding performance in catalysis and energy storage applications. This paper proposes the growth mechanism of 3D flower-like β-Ni(OH)2constructed through a two dimensional sheet framework using a one-step oleylamine-assisted solvothermal approach, where oleylamine acts as the surfactant, co-solvent, stabilizer and reducing agent. A detailed examination of the product morphology after various reaction times suggested that the self-assembly of flower occurs through a mechanism involving nucleation, Ostwald ripening and recrystallization. The associated characterization revealed it to be pure β-Ni(OH)2without any sign of contamination. The effect of the morphology (sheet to 3D flower-like β-Ni(OH)2) on the electrochemical supercapacitive behavior was assessed by cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge-discharge tests. The results showed that 3D flower-like β-Ni(OH)2exhibited better specific capacitance of ~1567 F g−1at a current density of 1 A g−1and retained ~25% capacitance at a high current density of 10 A g−1compared to the other reference materials. The superior electrochemical properties of the 3D flower-like β-Ni(OH)2originate from their large specific surface area and unique structure.
Overexpression of a Chimeric Gene, OsDST-SRDX, Improved Salt Tolerance of Perennial Ryegrass
Authors: Cen Huifang , Ye Wenxing , Liu Yanrong , Li Dayong , Wang Kexin , Zhang Wanjun
Published: June 2016

The Drought and Salt Tolerance gene (DST) encodes a C2H2 zinc finger transcription factor, which negatively regulates salt tolerance in rice (Oryza sativa). Phylogenetic analysis of six homologues of DST genes in different plant species revealed that DST genes were conserved evolutionarily. Here, the rice DST gene was linked to an SRDX domain for gene expression repression based on the Chimeric REpressor gene-Silencing Technology (CRES-T) to make a chimeric gene (OsDST-SRDX) construct and introduced into perennial ryegrass by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. Integration and expression of the OsDST-SRDX in transgenic plants were tested by PCR and RT-PCR, respectively. Transgenic lines overexpressing the OsDST-SRDX fusion gene showed obvious phenotypic differences and clear resistance to salt-shock and to continuous salt stresses compared to non-transgenic plants. Physiological analyses including relative leaf water content, electrolyte leakage, proline content, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, H2O2 content and sodium and potassium accumulation indicated that the OsDST-SRDX fusion gene enhanced salt tolerance in transgenic perennial ryegrass by altering a wide range of physiological responses. To our best knowledge this study is the first report of utilizing Chimeric Repressor gene-Silencing Technology (CRES-T) in turfgrass and forage species for salt-tolerance improvement.
Macrophage-mediated inflammatory response decreases mycobacterial survival in mouse MSCs by augmenting NO production
Authors: Yang Kun , Wu Yongjian , Xie Heping , Li Miao , Ming Siqi , Li Liyan , Li Meiyu , Wu Minhao , Gong Sitang , Huang Xi
Published: June 2016

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) is a hard-to-eradicate intracellular microbe, which escapes host immune attack during latent infection. Recent studies reveal that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) provide a protective niche for MTB to maintain latency. However, the regulation of mycobacterial residency in MSCs in the infectious microenvironment remains largely unknown. Here, we found that macrophage-mediated inflammatory response during MTB infection facilitated the clearance of bacilli residing in mouse MSCs. Higher inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression and nitric oxide (NO) production were observed in mouse MSCs under macrophage-mediated inflammatory circumstance. Blocking NO production in MSCs increased the survival of intracellular mycobacteria, indicating NO-mediated antimycobacterial activity. Moreover, both nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathways were involved in iNOS expression and NO production in inflammatory microenvironment. Furthermore, pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β could trigger NO production in MSCs and exert anti-mycobacterial activity via NF-κB signaling pathway. Neutralization of interleukin-1β in macrophage-mediated inflammatory microenvironment dampened the ability of mouse MSCs to produce NO. Together, our findings demonstrated that macrophage-mediated inflammatory response during mycobacterial infection promotes the clearance of bacilli in mouse MSCs by increasing NO production, which may provide a better understanding of latent MTB infection.
Morphological Transformation between Nanocoils and Nanoribbons via Defragmentation Structural Rearrangement or Fragmentation-recombination Mechanism
Authors: Zhang Yibin , Zheng Yingxuan , Xiong Wei , Peng Cheng , Zhang Yifan , Duan Ran , Che Yanke , Zhao Jincai
Published: June 2016

Kinetic control over the assembly pathways towards novel metastable functional materials or far-from-equilibrium systems has been much less studied compared to the thermodynamic equilibrium self-assembly. Herein, we report the distinct morphological transformation between nanocoils and nanoribbons in the self-assembly of unsymmetric perylene diimide (PDI) molecules. We demonstrate that the morphological transformation of the kinetically trapped assemblies into the thermodynamically stable forms proceeds via two distinct mechanisms, i.e., a direct structural rearrangement (molecule 1 or 2) and a fragmentation-recombination mechanism (molecule 4), respectively. The subtle interplay of the steric hindrance of the bulky substituents and the flexibility of the linker structure between the bulky moiety and the perylene core was demonstrated to enable the effective modulation of the energetic landscape of the assemblies and thus modulation of the assembly pathways. Herein, our work presents a new approach to control the self-assembly pathways and thereby can be used to achieve novel far-from-equilibrium systems.
A method for measuring rotation of a thermal carbon nanomotor using centrifugal effect
Authors: Cai Kun , Yu Jingzhou , Shi Jiao , Qin Qing H.
Published: June 2016

A thermal nanomotor is relatively easy to fabricate and regulate as it contains just a few or even no accessory devices. Since the double-wall carbon nanotube (CNT)-based rotary nanomotor was established in a thermostat, assessment of the rotation of the rotor (inner tube) in the stator (outer tube) of the nanomotor has been critical, but remains challenging due to two factors: the small size of the rotor (only a few nanometers) and the high rotational frequency (»1 GHz). To measure the rotation of the nanomotor, in the present study, a probe test method is proposed. Briefly, the rotor is connected to an end-tube (CNT) through a graphene (GN) nanoribbon. As the CNT-probe is on the trajectory of the end-tube which rotates with the rotor, it will collide with the end-tube. The sharp fluctuation indicating the probe tip deflection can be observed and recorded. As a curly GN by hydrogenation is adopted for connecting the rotor and the end-tube, collision between the end-tube and the probe tip occurs only when the centrifugal force is higher than a threshold which can be considered as the rotational frequency of the rotor being measured by the present method.
Simultaneous identification of multi-combustion-intermediates of alkanol-air flames by femtosecond filament excitation for combustion sensing
Authors: Li Helong , Chu Wei , Xu Huailiang , Cheng Ya , Chin See-Leang , Yamanouchi Kaoru , Sun Hong-Bo
Published: June 2016

Laser filamentation produced by the propagation of intense laser pulses in flames is opening up new possibility in application to combustion diagnostics that can provide useful information on understanding combustion processes, enhancing combustion efficiency and reducing pollutant products. Here we present simultaneous identification of multiple combustion intermediates by femtosecond filament excitation for five alkanol-air flames fueled by methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, n-butanol and n-pentanol. We experimentally demonstrate that the intensities of filament-induced photoemission signals from the combustion intermediates C, C2, CH, CN increase with the increasing number of carbons in the fuel molecules and the signal ratios between the intermediates (CH/C, CH/C2, CN/C, CH/C2, CN/CH) are different for different alkanol combustion flames. Our observation provides a way for sensing multiple combustion components by femtosecond filament excitation in various combustion conditions that strongly depend on the fuel species.
Integrated electrodes and electrospray emitter for polymer microfluidic nanospray–MS interface
Authors: Forzano Anna V. , Becirovic Vedada , Martin R. Scott , Edwards James L.
Published: June 2016

The goal of this work is to develop a stable nanospray chip–MS interface that contains easily integrated electrodes and an embedded capillary emitter to mitigate current chip–MS problems.
Solid phase extraction to enhance sensitivity when headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometer is used: determination of phenol in environmental samples
Authors: Criado-García L. , Arce L. , Valcárcel M.
Published: June 2016

Ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) provides quick and reliable responses when applied in the environmental field.
A pressure-based bioassay for the rapid, portable and quantitative detection of C-reactive protein
Authors: Ji Tianhai , Liu Dan , Liu Fang , Li Jiuxing , Ruan Qingyu , Song Yanling , Tian Tian , Zhu Zhi , Zhou Leiji , Lin Hui , Yang Chaoyong , Wang Dong
Published: June 2016

A portable method for the rapid detection of the disease biomarker C-reactive protein with a hand-held pressuremeter was developed.
Improved optical properties of silica/UV-cured polymer composite films made of hollow silica nanoparticles with a hierarchical structure for light diffuser film applications
Authors: Suthabanditpong W. , Takai C. , Fuji M. , Buntem R. , Shirai T.
Published: June 2016

This study successfully improved the optical properties of silica/UV-cured polymer composite films made of hollow silica nanoparticles having a hierarchical structure.
How transmembrane peptides insert and orientate in biomembranes: a combined experimental and simulation study
Authors: Yue Tongtao , Sun Mingbin , Zhang Shuai , Ren Hao , Ge Baosheng , Huang Fang
Published: June 2016

After the synthesis of transmembrane peptides/proteins (TMPs), their insertion into a lipid bilayer is a fundamental biophysical process.
Photochemistry of rose bengal in water and acetonitrile: a comprehensive kinetic analysis
Authors: Ludvíková Lucie , Friš Pavel , Heger Dominik , Šebej Peter , Wirz Jakob , Klán Petr
Published: June 2016

A comprehensive investigation of the photophysical properties and the photochemistry of rose bengal provided detailed information about the kinetics and the optical properties of all major intermediates involved.
The role of the environment in the ion induced fragmentation of uracil
Authors: Markush Pal , Bolognesi Paola , Cartoni Antonella , Rousseau Patrick , Maclot Sylvain , Delaunay Rudy , Domaracka Alicja , Kocisek Jaroslav , Castrovilli Mattea C. , Huber Bernd A. , Avaldi Lorenzo
Published: June 2016

The fragmentation of uracil molecules and pure and nano-hydrated uracil clusters by 12C4+ ion impact is investigated.
Metal organic frameworks mimicking natural enzymes: a structural and functional analogy
Authors: Nath Ipsita , Chakraborty Jeet , Verpoort Francis
Published: June 2016

In this review, we have portrayed the structure, synthesis and applications of a variety of biomimetic MOFs from an unprecedented angle.
Size-selective electrocatalytic activity of (Pt)n/MoS2 for oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Bothra Pallavi , Pandey Mohnish , Pati Swapan K.
Published: June 2016

In the present work, we have investigated the electrocatalytic activity of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), O2 + 4H+ + 4e− → 2H2O, for (Pt)n clusters (n = 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 12) adsorbed on semiconducting (2H) and metallic (1T) MoS2 monolayers using first principles density functional theory.
Synthesis, structure, and biological evaluation of a copper(ii) complex with fleroxacin and 1,10-phenanthroline
Authors: Xiao Ying , Wang Qing , Huang Yanmei , Ma Xiangling , Xiong Xinnuo , Li Hui
Published: June 2016

A novel mixed-ligand Cu(ii) complex combined with the quinolone drug fleroxacin and 1,10-phenanthroline was synthesized in this work.
Efficient functionalization of magnetite nanoparticles with phosphonate using a one-step continuous hydrothermal process
Authors: Thomas Guillaume , Demoisson Frédéric , Boudon Julien , Millot Nadine
Published: June 2016

Most likely PHA conformations on Fe3O4NPs synthesized using a fast and continuous hydrothermal method.
Carving a 1D CoII-carboranylcarboxylate system by using organic solvents to create stable trinuclear molecular analogues: complete structural and magnetic studies
Authors: Fontanet Mònica , Rodríguez Montserrat , Fontrodona Xavier , Romero Isabel , Teixidor Francesc , Viñas Clara , Aliaga-Alcalde Núria
Published: June 2016

An unprecedented strategy for the synthesis of a 1D CoII carboranylcarboxylate polymer and their linear trinuclear derivatives.
Enhancing charge separation on high symmetry SrTiO3exposed with anisotropic facets for photocatalytic water splitting
Authors: Mu Linchao , Zhao Yue , Li Ailong , Wang Shengyang , Wang Zhiliang , Yang Jingxiu , Wang Yi , Liu Taifeng , Chen Ruotian , Zhu Jian , Fan Fengtao , Li Rengui , Li Can
Published: June 2016

Spatial charge separation achieved on the anisotropic facets of high symmetry SrTiO3nanocrystals for highly efficient photocatalytic overall water splitting.
An overview of advances in biomass gasification
Authors: Sikarwar Vineet Singh , Zhao Ming , Clough Peter , Yao Joseph , Zhong Xia , Memon Mohammad Zaki , Shah Nilay , Anthony Edward J. , Fennell Paul S.
Published: June 2016

The article reviews diverse areas of conventional and advanced biomass gasification discussing their feasibility and sustainability vis-à-vis technological and socio-environmental impacts.
Elimination of the light soaking effect and performance enhancement in perovskite solar cells using a fullerene derivative
Authors: Shao Shuyan , Abdu-Aguye Mustapha , Qiu Li , Lai Lai-Hung , Liu Jian , Adjokatse Sampson , Jahani Fatemeh , Kamminga Machteld E. , ten Brink Gert H. , Palstra Thomas T. M. , Kooi Bart J. , Hummelen Jan C. , Antonietta Loi Maria
Published: June 2016

The higher dielectric constant and electron donating properties of PTEG-1 electron extraction layer synergistically helps to eliminate the light soaking effect and enhance device performance.
Towards characterization of photo-excited electron transfer and catalysis in natural and artificial systems using XFELs
Authors: Alonso-Mori R. , Asa K. , Bergmann U. , Brewster A. S. , Chatterjee R. , Cooper J. K. , Frei H. M. , Fuller F. D. , Goggins E. , Gul S. , Fukuzawa H. , Iablonskyi D. , Ibrahim M. , Katayama T. , Kroll T. , Kumagai Y. , McClure B. A. , Messinger J. , Motomura K. , Nagaya K. , Nishiyama T. , Saracini C. , Sato Y. , Sauter N. K. , Sokaras D. , Takanashi T. , Togashi T. , Ueda K. , Weare W. W. , Weng T.-C. , Yabashi M. , Yachandra V. K. , Young I. D. , Zouni A. , Kern J. F. , Yano J.
Published: June 2016

The ultra-bright femtosecond X-ray pulses provided by X-ray Free Electron Lasers (XFELs) open capabilities for studying the structure and dynamics of a wide variety of biological and inorganic systems beyond what is possible at synchrotron sources. Although the structure and chemistry at the catalytic sites have been studied intensively in both biological and inorganic systems, a full understanding of the atomic-scale chemistry requires new approaches beyond the steady state X-ray crystallography and X-ray spectroscopy at cryogenic temperatures. Following the dynamic changes in the geometric and electronic structure at ambient conditions, while overcoming X-ray damage to the redox active catalytic center, is key for deriving reaction mechanisms. Such studies become possible by using the intense and ultra-short femtosecond X-ray pulses from an XFEL, where sample is probed before it is damaged. We have developed methodology for simultaneously collecting X-ray diffraction data and X-ray emission spectra, using an energy dispersive spectrometer, at ambient conditions, and used this approach to study the room temperature structure and intermediate states of the photosynthetic water oxidizing metallo-protein, photosystem II. Moreover, we have also used this setup to simultaneously collect the X-ray emission spectra from multiple metals to follow the ultrafast dynamics of light-induced charge transfer between multiple metal sites. A Mn–Ti containing system was studied at an XFEL to demonstrate the efficacy and potential of this method.
Kramers' theory for diffusion on a periodic potential
Authors: Ianconescu Reuven , Pollak Eli
Published: June 2016

Kramers' turnover theory, based on the dynamics of the collective unstable normal mode (also known as PGH theory), is extended to the motion of a particle on a periodic potential interacting bilinearly with a dissipative harmonic bath. This is achieved by considering the small parameter of the problem to be the deviation of the collective bath mode from its value along the reaction coordinate, defined by the unstable normal mode. With this change, the effective potential along the unstable normal mode remains periodic, albeit with a renormalized mass, or equivalently a renormalized lattice length. Using second order classical perturbation theory, this not only enables the derivation of the hopping rates and the diffusion coefficient, but also the derivation of finite barrier corrections to the theory. The analytical results are tested against numerical simulation data for a simple cosine potential, ohmic friction, and different reduced barrier heights.
Low-temperature chemistry using the R-matrix method
Authors: Tennyson Jonathan , McKemmish Laura K. , Rivlin Tom
Published: June 2016

Techniques for producing cold and ultracold molecules are enabling the study of chemical reactions and scattering at the quantum scattering limit, with only a few partial waves contributing to the incident channel, leading to the observation and even full control of state-to-state collisions in this regime. A new R-matrix formalism is presented for tackling problems involving low- and ultra-low energy collisions. This general formalism is particularly appropriate for slow collisions occurring on potential energy surfaces with deep wells. The many resonance states make such systems hard to treat theoretically but offer the best prospects for novel physics: resonances are already being widely used to control diatomic systems and should provide the route to steering ultracold reactions. Our R-matrix-based formalism builds on the progress made in variational calculations of molecular spectra by using these methods to provide wavefunctions for the whole system at short internuclear distances, (a regime known as the inner region). These wavefunctions are used to construct collision energy-dependent R-matrices which can then be propagated to give cross sections at each collision energy. The method is formulated for ultracold collision systems with differing numbers of atoms.
Photorelaxation of imidazole and adenine via electron-driven proton transfer along H2O wires
Authors: Szabla Rafał , Góra Robert W. , Janicki Mikołaj , Šponer Jiří
Published: June 2016

Photochemically created πσ* states were classified among the most prominent factors determining the ultrafast radiationless deactivation and photostability of many biomolecular building blocks. In the past two decades, the gas phase photochemistry of πσ* excitations was extensively investigated and was attributed to N–H and O–H bond fission processes. However, complete understanding of the complex photorelaxation pathways of πσ* states in the aqueous environment was very challenging, owing to the direct participation of solvent molecules in the excited-state deactivation. Here, we present non-adiabatic molecular dynamics simulations and potential energy surface calculations of the photoexcited imidazole–(H2O)5 cluster using the algebraic diagrammatic construction method to the second-order [ADC(2)]. We show that electron driven proton transfer (EDPT) along a wire of at least two water molecules may lead to the formation of a πσ*/S0 state crossing, similarly to what we suggested for 2-aminooxazole. We expand on our previous findings by direct comparison of the imidazole–(H2O)5 cluster to non-adiabatic molecular dynamics simulations of imidazole in the gas phase, which reveal that the presence of water molecules extends the overall excited-state lifetime of the chromophore. To embed the results in a biological context, we provide calculations of potential energy surface cuts for the analogous photorelaxation mechanism present in adenine, which contains an imidazole ring in its structure.
Non-cereal ingredients for the attenuation of glycaemic response to bread: a review of the clinical evidence
Authors: Stamataki Nikoleta S. , Yanni Amalia E. , Karathanos Vaios T.
Published: June 2016

Enrichment of bread with non-cereal ingredients could favourably influence postprandial glucose response to bread.
Fundamentals of elasto-inertial particle focusing in curved microfluidic channels
Authors: Xiang Nan , Zhang Xinjie , Dai Qing , Cheng Jie , Chen Ke , Ni Zhonghua
Published: June 2016

We experimentally explore the elasto-inertial particle focusing in curved microfluidic channels and propose a six-stage process model illustrating the particle focusing with increasing flow rate.
Library-based display technologies: where do we stand?
Authors: Galán Asier , Comor Lubos , Horvatić Anita , Kuleš Josipa , Guillemin Nicolas , Mrljak Vladimir , Bhide Mangesh
Published: June 2016

Display technology is a collection of methods for creating libraries of modularly coded biomolecules and submit them to directed evolution to obtain arrays of desired properties with multiple applications.
Benzophenone-imbedded benzoyltriptycene with high triplet energy for application as a universal host material in phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes (PhOLEDs)
Authors: Jhulki Samik , Chow Tahsin J. , Moorthy Jarugu Narasimha
Published: June 2016

Benzoyltriptycene functions as a very good host material for blue, green, yellow and red dopants in PhOLED devices.
TBAI–HBr system mediated generation of various thioethers with benzenesulfonyl chlorides in PEG400
Authors: Wang Dingyi , Guo Shengmei , Zhang Rongxing , Lin Sen , Yan Zhaohua
Published: June 2016

An efficient procedure was developed for the synthesis of aryl sulfides in good to excellent yields using TBAI–HBr system promoted direct sulfenylation of various compounds, such as phenols, pyrazolones, indoles and related heteroarenes.
Short peptide mediated self-assembly of platinum nanocrystals with selective spreading property
Authors: Wang Jiqian , Tao Kai , Yang Yazhen , Zhang Liyan , Wang Dong , Cao Meiwen , Sun Yawei , Xia Daohong
Published: June 2016

Nanosize spherical assemblies of platinum nanocrystals with core/shell configurations and selective spreading properties are prepared through short peptide mediation.
Electronic structures of p-type impurity in ZrS2 monolayer
Authors: Wang Yuping , Geng Zhenduo
Published: June 2016

N substituting for a S atom may offer effective p-type carriers in ZrS2 nanosheets and be realized under Zr-rich experimental conditions.
Theoretical study of the physisorption of organic molecules on conjugated microporous polymers: the critical role of skeleton structures on binding strength
Authors: Fan Wen-Jie , Yang Gui-Juan , Chi Jian-Wei , Yu You , Tan Da-Zhi
Published: June 2016

By enlarging the size (area) in the linker or adding substituent group in the node, the binding energy between CMPs and adsorbates will increase significantly, which demonstrates the critical role of skeleton structures on binding strength.
Surface molecularly imprinted electrochemical sensor for phenol based on SiO2nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Gaixia , Fang Li , Li Feifei , Gao Baojiao
Published: June 2016

A novel surface molecularly imprinted electrochemical sensor for the recognition and detection of phenol was constructed. It has a specific recognition ability for phenol over other phenolic compounds for real samples with excellent repeatability.
High energy density of quasi-solid-state supercapacitor based on redox-mediated gel polymer electrolyte
Authors: Sun Kanjun , Ran Feitian , Zhao Guohu , Zhu Yanrong , Zheng Yanping , Ma Mingguang , Zheng Xiaoping , Ma Guofu , Lei Ziqiang
Published: June 2016

A novel redox-mediated gel polymer (PVA–H2SO4–ARS) is prepared, and a symmetric supercapacitor using the gel polymer as electrolyte and activated carbon as electrode is also assembled.
NaB integrated graphene oxide membranes for enhanced cell viability and stem cell properties of human adipose stem cells
Authors: Mokkapati V. R. S. S. , Tasli Neslihan P. , Khan Zaeema , Tufani Ali , Pandit Santosh , Budak Hikmet , Sahin Fikrettin
Published: June 2016

A ready-made NaB integrated GO membrane platform to study the long term stem cell viability and enhanced proliferation of hASCs.
Paper carbon dot based fluorescence sensor for distinction of organic and inorganic sulphur in analytes
Authors: Majumdar Sristi , Baruah Upama , Majumdar Gitanjali , Thakur Debajit , Chowdhury Devasish
Published: June 2016

In this work a paper carbon dot (PCDs) based fluorescence sensor was developed which can distinguish between the organic and inorganic sulphur in analytes.
Extremely high external quantum efficiency of inverted organic light-emitting diodes with low operation voltage and reduced efficiency roll-off by using sulfide-based double electron injection layers
Authors: Guo Kunping , Li Weiling , Zhang Jianhua , Zhang Xiaowen , Wang Xiao , Chen Guo , Xu Tao , Yang Lianqiao , Zhu Wenqing , Wei Bin
Published: June 2016

We developed efficiency roll-up blue fluorescent and green phosphorescent inverted light-emitting diodes with very-low energy consumption by using advanced double electron injection layers composing of metal sulfide.
Decorated multi-walled carbon nanotubes with Sm doped fluorapatites: synthesis, characterization and catalytic activity
Authors: Gangu Kranthi Kumar , Maddila Suresh , Maddila Surya Narayana , Jonnalagadda Sreekantha B.
Published: June 2016

Novel and sustainable heterogeneous catalysts, namely, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) decorated with Sm doped fluorapatite nanocomposites (MWCNT/Sm-FAp) were prepared with different loadings of Sm (1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, and 7%).
Vapor grown carbon fiber combined with polyaniline and gold nanoparticles in composite bioelectrodes and their application in glucose fuel cells
Authors: Ji Ya , Lai Linke , Yau Li Sam Fong
Published: June 2016

In this study, novel VGCF-based composite bioelectrodes PANI/VGCF/GOx and AuNPsNGCF/GOx are fabricated and compared to CNT-based bioelectrodes.
Synthesis, structure and upconversion luminescence of Yb3+, Ho3+co-doped Gd3Al5O12garnet phosphor prepared by the Pechini sol–gel method
Authors: Tang Jianfeng , Gou Jie , Li Guannan , Li Yuan , He Hong , Li Chunmei , Yang Jun
Published: June 2016

A pure-phase phosphor of Gd3Al5O12garnet (GAG) co-doped with Yb3+and Ho3+ions has been synthesized by the Pechini sol–gel method.
A mild AlCl3-catalyzed ethanol pretreatment and its effects on the structural changes of Eucalyptus wood lignin and the saccharification efficiency
Authors: Wang Bing , Shen Xiao-Jun , Wen Jia-Long , Sun Run-Cang
Published: June 2016

The aluminium chloride catalyzed ethanol/water deconstructing strategy was developed for obtaining dissociated lignin and easily digestible substrates.
A coaxial yarn electrode based on hierarchical MoS2 nanosheets/carbon fiber tows for flexible solid-state supercapacitors
Authors: Gao Lili , Li Xuelian , Li Xiaodong , Cheng Jianli , Wang Bin , Wang Zhiyu , Li Changming
Published: June 2016

The carbon fiber tows/hierarchical MoS2 nanosheets (ACFTs/MoS2) yarn electrodes synthesized via hydrothermal approach represent hierarchical morphology, coaxial structure, high specific area, excellent electrochemical performance and bending flexibility.
N-Doped carbon supported Co3O4nanoparticles as an advanced electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction in Al–air batteries
Authors: Liu Kun , Zhou Zhi , Wang Haiyan , Huang Xiaobing , Xu Jingyan , Tang Yougen , Li Jingsha , Chu Hailiang , Chen Jiajie
Published: June 2016

Low cost Co3O4/N-KB was proposed as a high performance catalyst for Al-air battery. The full battery using this catalyst in air electrode displayed a high discharge voltage plateau of ~1.52 V, comparable to that of the commercial Pt/C (20wt%).
Native honeybee silk membrane: a potential matrix for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine
Authors: Kumar Manishekhar , Jain Deepak , Bhardwaj Nandana , Gupta Prerak , Nandi Samit K. , Mandal Biman B.
Published: June 2016

Biomimetic natural origin biomaterials are noteworthy targets for further innovation in biomedical and tissue engineering.
Gold nanocomposite assemblies using functionalized Ru(ii)-polypyridyl complexes
Authors: Vilvamani Narayanasamy , Chhatwal Megha , Bhowmick Indrani , Gupta Rinkoo Devi , Awasthi Satish Kumar
Published: June 2016

Ru(ii)-polypyridyl complexes with various surface anchoring functional groups were prepared and utilized as capping and engineering agents to attain surface functionalized gold nanocomposites (Au NCs) with unique morphologies.
Graphene as a chain extender of polyurethanes for biomedical applications
Authors: Patel Dinesh K. , Singh Rajesh K. , Singh Santosh K. , Aswal Vinod K. , Rana Dipak , Ray Biswajit , Maiti Pralay
Published: June 2016

Chemically tagged graphene nanohybrid for a controlled drug delivery vehicle.
A greener procedure for the synthesis of [Bu4N]2-cis-[Ru(4-carboxy-4′-carboxylate-2,2′-bipyridine)2(NCS)2] (N719), a benchmark dye for DSSC applications
Authors: Vierucci S. , Muzzioli S. , Righi P. , Borzatta V. , Gorni G. , Zama I.
Published: June 2016

A previously reported protocol for the synthesis of the commercial dye N719 was thoroughly optimized in terms of the amount of input materials needed, reaction times and temperatures achieving significant reductions in all the three synthetic steps.
Emission color tuning and white-light generation based on photochromic control of energy transfer reactions in polymer micelles
Authors: Bälter Magnus , Li Shiming , Morimoto Masakazu , Tang Sicheng , Hernando Jordi , Guirado Gonzalo , Irie Masahiro , Raymo Françisco M. , Andréasson Joakim
Published: June 2016

An all-photonic FRET-based system with emission color reversibly changed from blue,viawhite, to yellow is devised.
A Co3O4 nano-needle mesh for highly efficient, high-flux emulsion separation
Authors: Chen Yuee , Wang Nü , Guo Fengyun , Hou Lanlan , Liu Jingchong , Liu Jing , Xu Yue , Zhao Yong , Jiang Lei
Published: June 2016

Highly efficient, high-flux emulsion separation by using a Co3O4 nano-needle mesh not only for neutral emulsions but also for strong alkali and high-concentration salt emulsions.
Microparticles formulated from a family of novel silylated polysaccharides demonstrate inherent immunostimulatory properties and tunable hydrolytic degradability
Authors: Gallovic Matthew D. , Bandyopadhyay Saibal , Borteh Hassan , Montjoy Douglas G. , Collier Michael A. , Peine Kevin J. , Wyslouzil Barbara E. , Bachelder Eric M. , Ainslie Kristy M.
Published: June 2016

Acid-degradable polymers are well-suited for drug delivery vehicles because numerous physiological sites are acidic.
Dipolar glass and magneto-electric coupling within a π-stacked organic system
Authors: Berlie Adam , Terry Ian , Liu Yun , Szablewski Marek
Published: June 2016

There is much interest for the search for novel materials that show magneto-electric coupling, such as that observed in multiferroics. TEA(TCNQ)2 shows promise in this area with features in the dielectric data at the magnetic transition, related to an uneven electron density across the TCNQ dimers.
Discovery, characterization and in vivo activity of pyocin SD2, a protein antibiotic from Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: McCaughey Laura C. , Josts Inokentijs , Grinter Rhys , White Paul , Byron Olwyn , Tucker Nicholas P. , Matthews Jacqueline M. , Kleanthous Colin , Whitchurch Cynthia B. , Walker Daniel
Published: June 2016

Increasing rates of antibiotic resistance among Gram-negative pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa means alternative approaches to antibiotic development are urgently required. Pyocins, produced by P. aeruginosa for intraspecies competition, are highly potent protein antibiotics known to actively translocate across the outer membrane of P. aeruginosa. Understanding and exploiting the mechanisms by which pyocins target, penetrate and kill P. aeruginosa is a promising approach to antibiotic development. In this work we show the therapeutic potential of a newly identified tRNase pyocin, pyocin SD2, by demonstrating its activity in vivo in a murine model of P. aeruginosa lung infection. In addition, we propose a mechanism of cell targeting and translocation for pyocin SD2 across the P. aeruginosa outer membrane. Pyocin SD2 is concentrated at the cell surface, via binding to the common polysaccharide antigen (CPA) of P. aeruginosa lipopolysaccharide (LPS), from where it can efficiently locate its outer membrane receptor FpvAI. This strategy of utilizing both the CPA and a protein receptor for cell targeting is common among pyocins as we show that pyocins S2, S5 and SD3 also bind to the CPA. Additional data indicate a key role for an unstructured N-terminal region of pyocin SD2 in the subsequent translocation of the pyocin into the cell. These results greatly improve our understanding of how pyocins target and translocate across the outer membrane of P. aeruginosa. This knowledge could be useful for the development of novel anti-pseudomonal therapeutics and will also support the development of pyocin SD2 as a therapeutic in its own right.
Sex and gender differences in chronic kidney disease: progression to end-stage renal disease and haemodialysis
Authors: Cobo Gabriela , Hecking Manfred , Port Friedrich K. , Exner Isabella , Lindholm Bengt , Stenvinkel Peter , Carrero Juan Jesús
Published: June 2016

Sex and gender differences are of fundamental importance in most diseases, including chronic kidney disease (CKD). Men and women with CKD differ with regard to the underlying pathophysiology of the disease and its complications, present different symptoms and signs, respond differently to therapy and tolerate/cope with the disease differently. Yet an approach using gender in the prevention and treatment of CKD, implementation of clinical practice guidelines and in research has been largely neglected. The present review highlights some sex- and gender-specific evidence in the field of CKD, starting with a critical appraisal of the lack of inclusion of women in randomized clinical trials in nephrology, and thereafter revisits sex/gender differences in kidney pathophysiology, kidney disease progression, outcomes and management of haemodialysis care. In each case we critically consider whether apparent discrepancies are likely to be explained by biological or psycho-socioeconomic factors. In some cases (a few), these findings have resulted in the discovery of disease pathways and/or therapeutic opportunities for improvement. In most cases, they have been reported as merely anecdotal findings. The aim of the present review is to expose some of the stimulating hypotheses arising from these observations as a preamble for stricter approaches using gender for the prevention and treatment of CKD and its complications.
Mitochondrial [dys]function; culprit in pre-eclampsia?
Authors: McCarthy Cathal Michael , Kenny Louise Clare
Published: June 2016

Mitochondria are extensively identified for their bioenergetic capacities; however, recently these metabolic hubs are increasingly being appreciated as critical regulators of numerous cellular signalling systems. Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species have evolved as a mode of cross-talk between mitochondrial function and physiological systems, to sustain equipoise and foster adaption to cellular stress. Redox signalling mediated by exaggerated mitochondrial-ROS (reactive oxygen species) has been incriminated in a plethora of disease pathologies. Excessive production of mitochondrial ROS is intrinsically linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. Furthermore, mitochondrial dysfunction is a key facilitator of oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and metabolism. These are key pathogenic intermediaries of pre-eclampsia, hence we hypothesize that mitochondrial dysfunction is a pathogenic mediator of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia. We hypothesize that mitochondrial-targeted antioxidants may restrain production of ROS-mediated deleterious redox signalling pathways. If our hypothesis proves correct, therapeutic strategies directly targeting mitochondrial superoxide scavenging should be actively pursued as they may alleviate maternal vascular dysfunction and dramatically improve maternal and fetal health worldwide.
Dynamic commutation torque‐ripple reduction for brushless DC motor based on quasi‐Z‐source net
Authors: Xia Kun , Lu Jing , Bi Chao , Tan Yuan , Dong Bin
Published: June 2016

The commutation torque ripple in the six‐step square‐wave driving mode of the brushless DC motor affects the motor performance and generates mechanical vibrations and noise when used for industrial applications. The cause of commutation torque ripple is analysed in this study and a non‐linear transient model of the phase current during the commutation interval is developed. According to the transient‐current model, the commutation voltage and the time required to produce a constant torque can be calculated without current sampling; this makes the control system easier to realise in industrial applications, and reduces the need for a high performance controller. Based on the pulse‐with modulated chopping method and quasi‐Z‐source net, the proposed control system can adjust the motor speed using a constant‐voltage power supply and reduce the commutation torque ripple over the entire speed‐adjustable range. A torque transducer is used to measure the dynamic torque ripple in the experiment. The results show that the proposed commutation torque‐ripple reduction strategy can reduce the dynamic torque ripple by about 70% in both simulation and experiment compared with the traditional driving methods.
Novel blind colour image watermarking technique using Hessenberg decomposition
Authors: Su Qingtang
Published: June 2016

In this study, a novel blind image watermarking technique using Hessenberg decomposition is proposed to embed colour watermark image into colour host image. In the process of embedding watermark, the watermark information of colour image is embedded into the second row of the second column element and the third row of the second column element in the orthogonal matrix obtained by Hessenberg decomposition. In the process of extracting watermark, neither the original host image nor the original watermark image is needed and it is impossible to retrieve them without the authorised keys. Experimental results show that the proposed colour image watermarking technique based on Hessenberg decomposition outperforms other watermarking methods and it is robust to resist a wide range of attacks, e.g. image compression, filtering, cropping, rotation, adding noise, blurring, scaling, sharpening and rotation and so on. Especially, the proposed method has lower computational complexity than other methods based on singular value decomposition or QR decomposition.
Planar pattern reconfigurable antenna with eight switchable beams for WiMax and WLAN applications
Authors: Alam Md Shahidul , Abbosh Amin
Published: June 2016

A planar pattern reconfigurable antenna designed for IEEE 802.11 b/g standard 2.4 GHz WiMax and WLAN applications is presented. The design is realised using a uniform arrangement of eight switch‐controlled tapered strips symmetrically placed around a central circular disc on the top layer of an FR4 board. The antenna has a compact circular structure with overall diameter of 0.64λ0 in the free space for 2.4 GHz. To control the radiation pattern of the antenna, each of the tapered strips is connected to the ground via a PIN diode. Depending on the switching status of the eight PIN diodes, the tapered strips work in grounded or open‐ended mode and thus the antenna offers eight switchable patterns. To validate the design, the antenna is prototyped and its performance is verified in a far‐field anechoic chamber. The simulated and measured results prove the antenna's reconfigurability of the main beam in eight directions with 45° steps in the azimuth plane and a vertical tilting angle of 36°. Over the operating band 2.35–2.61 GHz, the antenna has a stable gain of around 4.5 dBi, and front‐to‐back ratio of more than 18 dB. Compared with recent designs, this antenna is more compact, has larger beam deflection off the boresight and more beam steering states.
Experimental investigation of a multifunctional grid interactive photovoltaic system operating in partial shading conditions
Authors: Shah Nilesh , Rajagopalan Chudamani
Published: June 2016

In this study, a multifunctional grid interactive photovoltaic (PV) system working in partial shading conditions using a novel algorithm for tracking global peak power point (GPPP) is proposed. The system is capable of performing multiple functions like reactive power compensation and harmonic elimination besides injecting active power produced by PV array, into grid. The PV array is connected at the DC link of shunt active power filter via a DC–DC step‐up converter whose switching is controlled by the proposed GPPP tracking algorithm. The proposed algorithm determines the global peak amongst multiple peak points on the power–voltage (P–V) curve under partially shaded condition without getting trapped at a local maximum. The algorithm determines the approximate location of global peak by sampling the complete P–V curve in larger steps at regular interval and then uses fuzzy logic for finding the real peak. This method gives faster convergence and minimum oscillations around the GPPP. The algorithm is capable of tracking the GPPP under uniform insolation as well as partially shaded condition. The outcomes of the simulation study carried out using MATLAB/SIMULINK show the effectiveness of a proposed multifunctional PV system using fuzzy logic controlled GPPP tracking algorithm. The experimental results authenticate the simulation study.
Tilings by 1 × 1 and 2 × 2
Authors: Rolin Nicolas , Ugolnikova Alexandra
Published: June 2016

We consider tilings of a k ×
n board by 1 × 1 and 2 × 2 squares and get combinatorical results
on proportions of small squares for k ≤ 10 in plain case and for k ≤ 8 in cylindrical
case.
High-Output Cardiac Failure Due to Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia: A Case of an Extra-Cardiac Left to Right Shunt
Authors: Wu Patrick , Horwith Amber , Mai Stephanie , Parikh Milind , Tyagi Gaurav , Pai Ramdas
Published: June 2016

High-output cardiac failure is a rare complication of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and can potentially be mistaken for other entities. We present a case of high-output cardiac failure because of large hepatic arteriovenous malformations, review the literature regarding the cardiac manifestations of the disease, and discuss the possible differential diagnoses.
Excitation intensity dependent photoluminescence of annealed two-dimensional MoS2 grown by chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Kaplan D. , Mills K. , Lee J. , Torrel S. , Swaminathan V.
Published: June 2016

Here, we present detailed results of Raman and photoluminescence (PL) characterization of monolayers of MoS2 grown by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) on SiO2/Si substrates after thermal annealing at 150 °C, 200 °C, and 250 °C in an argon atmosphere. In comparison to the as-grown monolayers, annealing in the temperature range of 150–250 °C brings about significant changes in the band edge luminescence. It is observed that annealing at 150 °C gives rise to a 100-fold increase in the PL intensity and produces a strong band at 1.852 eV attributed to a free-to-bound transition that dominates over the band edge excitonic luminescence. This band disappears for the higher annealing temperatures. The improvement in PL after the 200 °C anneal is reduced in comparison to that obtained after the 150 °C anneal; this is suggested to arise from a decrease in the non-radiative lifetime caused by the creation of sulfur di-vacancies. Annealing at 250 °C degrades the PL in comparison to the as-grown sample because of the onset of disorder/decomposition of the sample. It is clear that the PL features of the CVD-grown MoS2 monolayer are profoundly affected by thermal annealing in Ar atmosphere. However, further detailed studies are needed to identify, unambiguously, the role of native defects and/or adsorbed species in defining the radiative channels in annealed samples so that the beneficial effect of improvement in the optical efficiency of the MoS2 monolayers can be leveraged for various device applications.
A direct numerical simulation study on the possibility of macroscopic turbulence in porous media: Effects of different solid matrix geometries, solid boundaries, and two porosity scales
Authors: Uth M.-F. , Jin Y. , Kuznetsov A. V. , Herwig H.
Published: June 2016

In this study, we address the question of whether turbulent structures in a porous medium are restricted in size by the pore scale or whether the size of eddies may exceed the pore scale, leading to the formation of macroscopic coherent structures. Based on direct numerical simulations in porous media, we conclude that the size of turbulent eddies is restricted by the pore size, leading to the pore scale prevalence hypothesis (PSPH). We prove this hypothesis by considering four different porous matrices. In particular, we simulated turbulent flow in a two-dimensional matrix, a three-dimensional unbounded matrix, a three-dimensional matrix bounded by two parallel solid walls, and a three-dimensional matrix with two characteristic pore scales. The obtained results for the four simulated porous matrices support the PSPH. However, there is a partly open question of whether turbulent structures can reach the size of the largest pore scale if the solid matrix is characterized by more than one length scale.