bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiological Evaluation of Abdominal Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Thakor Avnesh S. , Tanner James , Ong Shao J. , Hughes-Roberts Ynyr , Ilyas Shahzad , Cousins Claire , See Teik C. , Klass Darren , Winterbottom Andrew P.
Published: May 2015

Endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) is an alternative to open surgical repair of aortic aneurysms offering lower perioperative mortality and morbidity. As experience increases, clinicians are undertaking complex repairs with hostile aortic anatomy using branched or fenestrated devices or extra components such as chimneys to ensure perfusion to visceral branch vessels whilst excluding the aneurysm. Defining the success of EVAR depends on both clinical and radiographic criteria, but ultimately depends on complete exclusion of the aneurysm from the circulation. Aortic stent grafts are monitored using a combination of imaging modalities including computed tomography angiography (CTA), ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, plain films, and nuclear medicine studies. This article describes when and how to evaluate aortic stent grafts using each of these modalities along with the characteristic features of several of the main stent grafts currently used in clinical practice. The commonly encountered complications from EVAR are also discussed and how they can be detected using each imaging modality. As the radiation burden from serial follow up CTA imaging is now becoming a concern, different follow-up imaging strategies are proposed depending on the complexity of the repair and based on the relative merits and disadvantages of each imaging modality.
Congenital and Acquired Conditions of the Mesial Temporal Lobe: A Pictorial Essay
Authors: Ochoa-Escudero Martin , Herrera Diego A. , Vargas Sergio A. , Dublin Arthur B.
Published: May 2015

Purpose

Our goal is to pictorially review a wide spectrum of congenital and acquired conditions affecting the medial aspect of the temporal lobe.

Conclusion

After completing this article, the reader will have knowledge of the imaging appearance of diverse developmental, malformative, and acquired lesions of the mesial temporal lobe, which will be useful when evaluating pathology in this location.
HECT‐type E3 ubiquitin ligases in nerve cell development and synapse physiology
Authors: Ambrozkiewicz Mateusz Cyryl , Kawabe Hiroshi
Published: May 2015

The development of neurons is precisely controlled. Nerve cells are born from progenitor cells, migrate to their future target sites, extend dendrites and an axon to form synapses, and thus establish neural networks. All these processes are governed by multiple intracellular signaling cascades, among which ubiquitylation has emerged as a potent regulatory principle that determines protein function and turnover. Dysfunctions of E3 ubiquitin ligases or aberrant ubiquitin signaling contribute to a variety of brain disorders like X‐linked mental retardation, schizophrenia, autism or Parkinson's disease. In this review, we summarize recent findings about molecular pathways that involve E3 ligases of the Homologous to E6‐AP C‐terminus (HECT) family and that control neuritogenesis, neuronal polarity formation, and synaptic transmission.
Screening and identification of tobacco mutants resistant to tobacco and cucumber mosaic viruses
Authors: SHEN L. L. , SUN H. J. , QIAN Y. M. , CHEN D. , ZHAN H. X. , YANG J. G. , WANG F. L.
Published: May 2015

Deploying resistant cultivars is an economical and essential management method in controlling viral diseases, and there are several mutational resources for tobacco. In the present study, the inoculation of tobacco plants with tobacco viruses was performed in a greenhouse from 2011 to 2014 to identify mutants resistant to tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) and cucumber mosaic virus (CMV). The high-throughput screening included seeding uniformly, transplanting in seedbeds, inoculating by cloth brushes and reporting symptoms based on disease indices. A total of 4000 second generation segregating (M2) mutants of tobacco cultivar Zhongyan100 were screened. Seeds from highly resistant mutant M2plants were selected and planted separately. The M3were grown and mutational stability was measured. For TMV, ten highly resistant plants were selected in the M2generation and the mutation rate was 0·012%. In the M3generation, there were seven mutants with hereditary high resistance and, according to the results of real-time polymerase chain reaction, theNgene was detected in all seven M3. Two hereditary immune M4mutants, one of which was a male sterile line, were identified and evaluated in the glasshouse and in the field. For CMV, seven highly resistant plants were selected from the M2generation and the mutation rate was 0·009%. In the M3generation, there was one mutant with hereditary high resistance. The results indicate that hereditary mutants may be identified in the M4generation and back-crossed to wild-type Zhongyan100 to identify anti-viral genes.
CX3CL1/CX3CR1-Mediated Microglia Activation Plays a Detrimental Role in Ischemic Mice Brain via p38MAPK/PKC Pathway
Authors: Liu Yong , Wu Xiao-Mei , Luo Qian-Qian , Huang Suna , Yang Qing-Wu Qian , Wang Fa-Xiang , Ke Ya , Qian Zhong-Ming
Published: May 2015

The exact roles of activated microglia and fractalkine (CX3CL1)/fractalkine receptor (CX3CR1) signaling are not fully understood in brain ischemic injury and the findings reported are controversial. Here, we investigated the effects of CX3CR1 siRNA on the expression of CX3CR1, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK), Protein Kinase C (PKC) and inflammatory cytokines, microglia activation, white matter lesions, and cognitive function in mice treated with bilateral common carotid artery stenosis (BCAS) in vivo as well as effects of exogenous CX3CL1, CX3CR1 siRNA, and SB2035080 on expression of inflammatory cytokines in BV2 microglia treated with oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) in vitro. We showed that CX3CR1 siRNA significantly inhibited the increased expression of CX3CR1, p38MAPK, PKC as well as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6, and also attenuated microglia activation, white matter lesions, and cognitive deficits induced by BCAS in mice brain. We also showed that exogenous CX3CL1 could induce a further enhancement in TNF-α and IL-1β expression, which could be suppressed by CX3CR1 siRNA or by the p38MAPK inhibitor in OGD-treated BV2 microglial cells in vitro. Our findings indicated that CX3CL1/CX3CR1-mediated microglial activation plays a detrimental role in ischemic brain via p38MAPK/PKC signaling and also suggested that CX3CL1/CX3CR1 axis might be a putative therapeutic target to disrupt the cascade of deleterious events that lead to brain ischemic injury.
Pigment cell movement is not required for generation of Turing patterns in zebrafish skin
Authors: Bullara D. , De Decker Y.
Published: May 2015

The zebrafish is a model organism for pattern formation in vertebrates. Understanding what drives the formation of its coloured skin motifs could reveal pivotal to comprehend the mechanisms behind morphogenesis. The motifs look and behave like reaction–diffusion Turing patterns, but the nature of the underlying physico-chemical processes is very different, and the origin of the patterns is still unclear. Here we propose a minimal model for such pattern formation based on a regulatory mechanism deduced from experimental observations. This model is able to produce patterns with intrinsic wavelength, closely resembling the experimental ones. We mathematically prove that their origin is a Turing bifurcation occurring despite the absence of cell motion, through an effect that we call differential growth. This mechanism is qualitatively different from the reaction–diffusion originally proposed by Turing, although they both generate the short-range activation and the long-range inhibition required to form Turing patterns.
Investigation of exotic stable calcium carbides using theory and experiment
Authors: Li Yan-Ling , Wang Sheng-Nan , Oganov Artem R. , Gou Huiyang , Smith Jesse S. , Strobel Timothy A.
Published: May 2015

It is well known that pressure causes profound changes in the properties of atoms and chemical bonding, leading to the formation of many unusual materials. Here we systematically explore all stable calcium carbides at pressures from ambient to 100 GPa using variable-composition evolutionary structure predictions using the USPEX code. We find that Ca5C2, Ca2C, Ca3C2, CaC, Ca2C3 and CaC2 have stability fields on the phase diagram. Among these, Ca2C and Ca2C3 are successfully synthesized for the first time via high-pressure experiments with excellent structural correspondence to theoretical predictions. Of particular significance is the base-centred monoclinic phase (space group C2/m) of Ca2C, a quasi-two-dimensional metal with layers of negatively charged calcium atoms, and the primitive monoclinic phase (space group P21/c) of CaC with zigzag C4 groups. Interestingly, strong interstitial charge localization is found in the structure of R-3m-Ca5C2 with semi-metallic behaviour.
FUS regulates AMPA receptor function and FTLD/ALS-associated behaviour via GluA1 mRNA stabilization
Authors: Udagawa Tsuyoshi , Fujioka Yusuke , Tanaka Motoki , Honda Daiyu , Yokoi Satoshi , Riku Yuichi , Ibi Daisuke , Nagai Taku , Yamada Kiyofumi , Watanabe Hirohisa , Katsuno Masahisa , Inada Toshifumi , Ohno Kinji , Sokabe Masahiro , Okado Haruo , Ishigaki Shinsuke , Sobue Gen
Published: May 2015

FUS is an RNA/DNA-binding protein involved in multiple steps of gene expression and is associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and fronto-temporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). However, the specific disease-causing and/or modifying mechanism mediated by FUS is largely unknown. Here we evaluate intrinsic roles of FUS on synaptic functions and animal behaviours. We find that FUS depletion downregulates GluA1, a subunit of AMPA receptor. FUS binds GluA1 mRNA in the vicinity of the 3′ terminus and controls poly (A) tail maintenance, thus regulating stability. GluA1 reduction upon FUS knockdown reduces miniature EPSC amplitude both in cultured neurons and in vivo. FUS knockdown in hippocampus attenuates dendritic spine maturation and causes behavioural aberrations including hyperactivity, disinhibition and social interaction defects, which are partly ameliorated by GluA1 reintroduction. These results highlight the pivotal role of FUS in regulating GluA1 mRNA stability, post-synaptic function and FTLD-like animal behaviours.
Directional cell movement through tissues is controlled by exosome secretion
Authors: Sung Bong Hwan , Ketova Tatiana , Hoshino Daisuke , Zijlstra Andries , Weaver Alissa M.
Published: May 2015

Directional cell movement through tissues is critical for multiple biological processes and requires maintenance of polarity in the face of complex environmental cues. Here we use intravital imaging to demonstrate that secretion of exosomes from late endosomes is required for directionally persistent and efficient in vivo movement of cancer cells. Inhibiting exosome secretion or biogenesis leads to defective tumour cell migration associated with increased formation of unstable protrusions and excessive directional switching. In vitro rescue experiments with purified exosomes and matrix coating identify adhesion assembly as a critical exosome function that promotes efficient cell motility. Live-cell imaging reveals that exosome secretion directly precedes and promotes adhesion assembly. Fibronectin is found to be a critical motility-promoting cargo whose sorting into exosomes depends on binding to integrins. We propose that autocrine secretion of exosomes powerfully promotes directionally persistent and effective cell motility by reinforcing otherwise transient polarization states and promoting adhesion assembly.
Label-Free Capacitance-Based Identification of Viruses
Authors: Ahmad Mahmoud Al , Mustafa Farah , Ali Lizna M. , Karakkat Jimsheena V. , Rizvi Tahir A.
Published: May 2015

This study was undertaken to quantitate a single virus suspension in culture medium without any pre-processing. The electrical capacitance per virus particle was used to identify the kind of virus present by measuring the suspension (virus plus medium) capacitance, de-embedding the medium contribution and dividing by the virus count. The proposed technique is based on finding the single virus effective dielectric constant which is directly related to the virus composition. This value was used to identify the virus type accordingly. Two types of viruses thus tested were further quantified by a biochemical technique to validate the results. Furthermore, non-organic nanoparticles with known concentration and capacitance per particle were identified using the proposed method. The selectivity of the method was demonstrated by performing electrical measurements on a third virus, revealing that the proposed technique is specific and sensitive enough to permit detection of a few hundred virus particles per milliliter within a few minutes.
Chitosan encapsulation modulates the effect of capsaicin on the tight junctions of MDCK cells
Authors: Kaiser M. , Pereira S. , Pohl L. , Ketelhut S. , Kemper B. , Gorzelanny C. , Galla H. -J. , Moerschbacher B. M. , Goycoolea F. M.
Published: May 2015

Capsaicin has known pharmacological effects including the ability to reversibly open cellular tight junctions, among others. The aim of this study was to develop a strategy to enhance the paracellular transport of a substance with low permeability (FITC-dextran) across an epithelial cell monolayer via reversible opening of cellular tight junctions using a nanosystem comprised by capsaicin and of chitosan. We compared the biophysical properties of free capsaicin and capsaicin-loaded chitosan nanocapsules, including their cytotoxicity towards epithelial MDCK-C7 cells and their effect on the integrity of tight junctions, membrane permeability and cellular uptake. The cytotoxic response of MDCK-C7 cells to capsaicin at a concentration of 500 μM, which was evident for the free compound, is not observable following its encapsulation. The interaction between nanocapsules and the tight junctions of MDCK-C7 cells was investigated by impedance spectroscopy, digital holographic microscopy and structured illumination fluorescence microscopy. The nanocapsules modulated the interaction between capsaicin and tight junctions as shown by the different time profile of trans-epithelial electrical resistance and the enhanced permeability of monolayers incubated with FITC-dextran. Structured illumination fluorescence microscopy showed that the nanocapsules were internalized by MDCK-C7 cells. The capsaicin-loaded nanocapsules could be further developed as drug nanocarriers with enhanced epithelial permeability.
Hepatitis B virus replication and sex-determining region Y box 4 production are tightly controlled by a novel positive feedback mechanism
Authors: Shang Jian , Zheng Yuan , Guo Xiaohong , Mo Jiayin , Xie Xueping , Xiong Ying , Liu Yingle , Wu Kailang , Wu Jianguo
Published: May 2015

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major cause of liver diseases. However, the mechanisms underlying HBV infection and pathogenesis remain largely unknown. The sex-determining region Y box 4 (Sox4) is a transcriptional factor, which preferentially regulates the development of various organs, tissues and cancers. But, the role of Sox4 in viral infection and pathogenesis has not been elucidated. Here, we demonstrated that Sox4 is up-regulated by HBV and revealed the mechanism by which HBV regulates Sox4 expression. First, HBV stimulates Sox4 expression through transcriptional factor Yin Yang 1 (YY1), which binds to Sox4 promoter to activate Sox4 transcriptional activity. Second, miR-335, miR-129-2 and miR-203 inhibit Sox4 expression by targeting its mRNA 3’UTR, while HBV suppresses the microRNAs expression, resulting in up-regulating Sox4 post-transcriptionally. Third, Sox4 protein is degraded by proteasome, while HBV surface protein (HBsAg) prevents Sox4 from degradation by directly interacting with the protein, thereby enhancing Sox4 production post-translationlly. More interestingly, HBV-activated Sox4 in turn facilitates HBV replication by direct binding to the viral genome via its HMG box. Thus, this study revealed a novel positive feedback mechanism by which Sox4 production and HBV replication are tightly correlated.
ROS-mediated iron overload injures the hematopoiesis of bone marrow by damaging hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells in mice
Authors: Chai Xiao , Li Deguan , Cao Xiaoli , Zhang Yuchen , Mu Juan , Lu Wenyi , Xiao Xia , Li Chengcheng , Meng Juanxia , Chen Jie , Li Qing , Wang Jishi , Meng Aimin , Zhao Mingfeng
Published: May 2015

Iron overload, caused by hereditary hemochromatosis or repeated blood transfusions in some diseases, such as beta thalassemia, bone marrow failure and myelodysplastic syndrome, can significantly induce injured bone marrow (BM) function as well as parenchyma organ dysfunctions. However, the effect of iron overload and its mechanism remain elusive. In this study, we investigated the effects of iron overload on the hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) from a mouse model. Our results showed that iron overload markedly decreased the ratio and clonogenic function of murine HSPCs by the elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This finding is supported by the results of NAC or DFX treatment, which reduced ROS level by inhibiting NOX4 and p38MAPK and improved the long-term and multi-lineage engrafment of iron overload HSCs after transplantation. Therefore, all of these data demonstrate that iron overload injures the hematopoiesis of BM by enhancing ROS through NOX4 and p38MAPK. This will be helpful for the treatment of iron overload in patients with hematopoietic dysfunction.
On-chip passive three-port circuit of all-optical ordered-route transmission
Authors: Liu Li , Dong Jianji , Gao Dingshan , Zheng Aoling , Zhang Xinliang
Published: May 2015

On-chip photonic circuits of different specific functions are highly desirable and becoming significant demands in all-optical communication network. Especially, the function to control the transmission directions of the optical signals in integrated circuits is a fundamental research. Previous schemes, such as on-chip optical circulators, are mostly realized by Faraday effect which suffers from material incompatibilities between semiconductors and magneto-optical materials. Achieving highly functional circuits in which light circulates in a particular direction with satisfied performances are still difficult in pure silicon photonics platform. Here, we propose and experimentally demonstrate a three-port passive device supporting optical ordered-route transmission based on silicon thermo-optic effect for the first time. By injecting strong power from only one port, the light could transmit through the three ports in a strict order (1→2, 2→3, 3→1) while be blocked in the opposite order (1→3, 3→2, 2→1). The blocking extinction ratios and operation bandwidths have been investigated in this paper. Moreover, with compact size, economic fabrication process and great extensibility, this proposed photonic integrated circuit is competitive to be applied in on-chip all-optical information processing systems, such as path priority selector.
A tin–bismuth alloy electrode for the cathodic stripping voltammetric determination of iron in coastal waters
Authors: Lin Mingyue , Pan Dawei , Hu Xueping , Li Fei , Han Haitao
Published: May 2015

We employed a home-made tin–bismuth alloy electrode (SnBiE) as the working electrode with 1-(2-piridylazo)-2-naphthol (PAN) as the complexing ligand to detect trace iron.
A sensitive fluorescence method for sequence-specific recognition of single-stranded DNA by using glucose oxidase
Authors: Li Yubin , Zhang Hong , Zhu Houya , Ling Liansheng
Published: May 2015

A sensitive fluorescence method was developed for sequence-specific recognition of single-stranded DNA on the surface of silver-coated glass by means of the amplification properties of glucose oxidase.
Protein nanoparticles for therapeutic protein delivery
Authors: Herrera Estrada L. P. , Champion J. A.
Published: May 2015

This review describes nanoparticles made from protein by self-assembly or desolvation as carriers for the delivery of therapeutic proteins.
A triazine-based covalent organic polymer for efficient CO2adsorption
Authors: Gomes Ruth , Bhanja Piyali , Bhaumik Asim
Published: May 2015

A new triazine functionalized hexagonally ordered covalent organic polymer (TRITER-1) with a high BET surface area (716 m2g−1) has been synthesizedviathe Schiff-base condensation reaction between a triamine and terephthaldehyde. TRITER-1 shows an excellent CO2uptake capacity of 58.9 wt% at 273 K and 5 bar pressure.
AIE-induced fluorescent vesicles containing amphiphilic binding pockets and the FRET triggered by host–guest chemistry
Authors: Zhang Meng , Yin Xianpeng , Tian Tian , Liang Yun , Li Weina , Lan Yue , Li Jian , Zhou Meimei , Ju Yong , Li Guangtao
Published: May 2015

Synergetic combination of TPE and bile acid units could directly afford uniform fluorescent vesicles with amphiphilic binding sites.
The opposite gating behaviors of solid-state nanochannels modified with long and short polymer chains
Authors: Zhang Juntao , Liu Nannan , Wei Benmei , Ou Xiaowen , Xu Xuemei , Lou Xiaoding , Xia Fan
Published: May 2015

The opposite gating behaviors of polymeric nanochannels caused by long and short polymer chains were studied.
Recent development of biotin conjugation in biological imaging, sensing, and target delivery
Authors: Ren Wen Xiu , Han Jiyou , Uhm Soojin , Jang Yu Jin , Kang Chulhun , Kim Jong-Hoon , Kim Jong Seung
Published: May 2015

Biotin is a promising targeting unit for carcinoma cell lines and the avidin–biotin technology is an exceedingly flexible tool for pretargeting and vector targeting. Thus, biotin conjugation is an attractive choice for achieving site-specific sensing, labeling, and delivery.
Blue-emitting pyrene-based aggregates
Authors: Valera Jorge S. , Calbo Joaquín , Gómez Rafael , Ortí Enrique , Sánchez Luis
Published: May 2015

The self-assembling features and gel formation of two pyrene imidazoles are presented. The supramolecular aggregation of these synthesised molecules results in an unusual blue-monomeric emission, which is rationalized by a combined experimental and theoretical investigation.
Graphene oxide–Li+@C60 donor–acceptor composites for photoenergy conversion
Authors: Supur Mustafa , Kawashima Yuki , Ohkubo Kei , Sakai Hayato , Hasobe Taku , Fukuzumi Shunichi
Published: May 2015

An ionic endohedral metallofullerene (Li+@C60) with mild hydrophilic nature was combined with graphene oxide (GO) to construct a donor–acceptor composite in neat water.
Low-temperature VUV photoluminescence and thermoluminescence of UV excited afterglow phosphor Sr3AlxSi1−xO5:Ce3+,Ln3+ (Ln = Er, Nd, Sm, Dy and Tm)
Authors: Luo Hongde , Bos Adrie J. J. , Dobrowolska Anna , Dorenbos Pieter
Published: May 2015

Low-temperature thermoluminescence measurements of Ce doped Sr3SiO5 show that Ce3+ is the recombination centre and Nd, Sm, Dy and Tm work as electron traps with trap depths of 0.95 eV, 1.89 eV, 1.02 eV, and 1.19 eV, respectively.
Catalytic behaviors of Ni/γ-Al2O3and Co/γ-Al2O3during the hydrodeoxygenation of palm oil
Authors: Srifa Atthapon , Viriya-empikul Nawin , Assabumrungrat Suttichai , Faungnawakij Kajornsak
Published: May 2015

The non-precious metals (Ni, Co) supported on alumina having a good regenerability selectively catalyze the palm-oil hydrodeoxygenation to diesel-range alkanes.
Energy transfer and unusual decay behaviour of BaCa2Si3O9:Eu2+,Mn2+ phosphor
Authors: Müller Matthias , Jüstel Thomas
Published: May 2015

In this work the photoluminescence (PL) of BaCa2Si3O9:Eu2+, Mn2+ and the energy transfer between Eu2+ and Mn2+ were examined. Further, PL as well as luminescence lifetime measurements were performed at various temperatures.
Slow magnetic relaxation in mononuclear seven-coordinate cobalt(ii) complexes with easy plane anisotropy
Authors: Chen Lei , Chen Shu-Yang , Sun Yi-Chen , Guo Yu-Mei , Yu Lu , Chen Xue-Tai , Wang Zhenxing , Ouyang Z. W. , Song You , Xue Zi-Ling
Published: May 2015

Two mononuclear pentagonal bipyramid cobalt(ii) complexes with positive zero-field splittingDvalues were demonstrated to exhibit field-induced slow relaxation behaviour.
Liquid-phase step-by-step growth of an iron cyanide coordination framework on LiCoO2 particle surfaces
Authors: Makiura Rie , Teragawa Shingo , Tsuchiyama Kohei , Hayashi Akitoshi , Tadanaga Kiyoharu , Tatsumisago Masahiro
Published: May 2015

The facile surface modification of LiCoO2 (LCO) – a positive electrode material for a lithium ion battery – with a framework compound, Prussian blue, in a step-by-step manner under operationally simple ambient conditions is described.
Synthesis and characterization of M(ii) (M = Mn, Fe and Co) azafulvene complexes and their X3− derivatives
Authors: Matson Ellen M. , Park Yun Ji , Bertke Jeffery A. , Fout Alison R.
Published: May 2015

Structural and electronic flexibility in a tripodal ligand platform featuring a secondary coordination sphere.
Titanium pyridonates for the homo- and copolymerization of rac-lactide and ε-caprolactone
Authors: Gilmour Damon J. , Webster Ruth L. , Perry Mitchell R. , Schafer Laurel L.
Published: May 2015

A series of titanium pyridonate complexes have been synthesized under very mild reaction conditions from a common precursor, Ti(NMe2)4. These complexes have been explored as initiators for the ring-opening polymerization of rac-lactide and ε-caprolactone and have proven to be competitive with leading titanium initiators.
Extraordinary aluminum coordination in a novel homometallic double complex salt
Authors: Mandai Toshihiko , Masu Hyuma , Johansson Patrik
Published: May 2015

A novel aluminum-based homometallic double complex salt incorporating octa-coordinated cationic and hexa-coordinated anionic complexes was characterized for the first time.
A dopant free linear acene derivative as a hole transport material for perovskite pigmented solar cells
Authors: Kazim Samrana , Ramos F. Javier , Gao Peng , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja , Grätzel Michael , Ahmad Shahzada
Published: May 2015

Linear acene derivatives as hole transporters in perovskite solar cells.
Theoretical capacity achieved in a LiMn0.5Fe0.4Mg0.1BO3 cathode by using topological disorder
Authors: Kim Jae Chul , Seo Dong-Hwa , Ceder Gerbrand
Published: May 2015

Theoretical capacity and improved rate capability achieved in LiMn0.5Fe0.4Mg0.1BO3 by defect engineering to enable channel-to-channel Li migration.
Impact of activated carbon on the catabolism of 14C-phenanthrene in soil
Authors: Oyelami Ayodeji O. , Ogbonnaya Uchenna , Muotoh Chitom , Semple Kirk T.
Published: May 2015

Activated carbon amendment to contaminated soil has been proposed as an alternative remediation strategy to the management of persistent organic pollutant in soils and sediments.
Ginkgo biloba extract (Egb761) attenuates zinc-induced tau phosphorylation at Ser262 by regulating GSK3β activity in rat primary cortical neurons
Authors: Kwon Kyoung Ja , Lee Eun Joo , Cho Kyu Suk , Cho Du-Hyong , Shin Chan Young , Han Seol-Heui
Published: May 2015

Egb761 attenuates zinc-induced tau hyperphosphorylation at Ser262 and inhibits GSK3beta (Ser9) phosphorylation ROS-dependently and -independently.
Gecko gaskets for self-sealing and high-strength reversible bonding of microfluidics
Authors: Wasay A. , Sameoto D.
Published: May 2015

We report a novel reversible bonding method for microfluidic devices using gecko-inspired dry adhesives that result in an instant high-strength bond suitable for pressure driven flows. The concept also provides for viable stick and play interconnections.
New selective A2Aagonists and A3antagonists for human adenosine receptors: synthesis, biological activity and molecular docking studies
Authors: Rodríguez Anna , Guerrero Angel , Gutierrez-de-Terán Hugo , Rodríguez David , Brea José , Loza María I. , Rosell Gloria , Pilar Bosch M.
Published: May 2015

Synthesis and pharmacological characterization of a new series of adenosine derivatives on the four human adenosine receptors are reported.
Selenium, selenoproteins and neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Cardoso Bárbara Rita , Roberts Blaine R , Bush Ashley I , Hare Dominic J
Published: May 2015

It is unsurprising that our understanding of the role of selenium in neurological function is somewhat immature, considering its relatively recent discovery as an essential element to human health. Selenocysteine, the 21st amino acid, is the defining feature of the 25 selenoprotein-encoding genes so far discovered within the human genome. The low abundance of these proteins in the brain belies the integral role they play in normal neurological function, from well-characterised antioxidant activity in the periphery to poorly understood mechanisms that modulate mitochondrial function and response to brain pathology. Selenium has been identified as playing a role in several neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, though its function as a ‘cause or effect’ of disease process remains unclear. This review discusses selenium metabolism in detail, specifically with regard to the role it plays within the central nervous system, and examines the most current literature investigating how selenium may be involved in chronic diseases of the central nervous system.
Activation of the sol–gel process by visible light-emitting diodes (LEDs) for the synthesis of inorganic films
Authors: Shi Suqing , Allonas Xavier , Croutxé-Barghorn Céline , Chemtob Abraham
Published: May 2015

Photosensitized acid generation opens the possibility of using a visible LED light source for inorganic photo sol–gel process. It also provides a simple approach for sustainable synthesis of inorganic or hybrid materials under solar irradiance.
Nickel-catalyzed synthesis of diarylsulfides and sulfones via C–H bond functionalization of arylamides
Authors: Reddy Vutukuri Prakash , Qiu Renhua , Iwasaki Takanori , Kambe Nobuaki
Published: May 2015

The sulfenylation and sulfonylation of (sp2)C–H bonds of benzamides were achieved with the aid of a bidentate directing group.
Electrodeposited multi-walled carbon nanotubes on Ag-loaded TiO2 nanotubes/Ti plates as a new photocatalyst for dye degradation
Authors: Mohaghegh Neda , Faraji Masoud , Gobal Fereydoon , Gholami Mohammad Reza
Published: May 2015

MWCNTs/Ag/TiO2NTs plates were synthesized via electrochemical reduction of functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on Ag/TiO2NTs.
Polymer nanocomposite foam filled with carbon nanomaterials as an efficient electromagnetic interference shielding material
Authors: Dhakate Sanjay R. , Subhedar Kiran M. , Singh Bhanu Pratap
Published: May 2015

Among different carbon nanomaterial foam-filled polymer composites, graphene-based foam gives superior specific shielding effectiveness when compared to typical metals.
The removal of fluoranthene by Agaricus bisporus immobilized in Ca-alginate modified by Lentinus edodes nanoparticles
Authors: Xie Han , Chen Yijiao , Wang Can , Shi Wenjin , Zuo Lei , Xu Heng
Published: May 2015

Fruiting bodies of Agaricus bisporus (A. bisporus) were entrapped in Ca-alginate modified by Lentinus edodes nanoparticles (CA-LENP) to adsorb and biodegrade fluoranthene (FLU) efficiently from an aqueous solution in a fluidized bed bioreactor.
Tailoring PES nanofiltration membranes through systematic investigations of prominent design, fabrication and operational parameters
Authors: Alaei Shahmirzadi Mohammad Amin , Hosseini Seyed Saeid , Ruan Guoling , Tan N. R.
Published: May 2015

Design and fabrication of nanofiltration (NF) membranes with the desired characteristics and separation performance is of paramount importance.
Applications of graphene and its derivatives as an adsorbent for heavy metal and dye removal: a systematic and comprehensive overview
Authors: Yusuf Mohammed , Elfghi F. M. , Zaidi Shabi Abbas , Abdullah E. C. , Khan Moonis Ali
Published: May 2015

Because of their persistency and toxicity, dyes and heavy metal ions discharged to water bodies have become a worrisome issue.
Multi-functional fluorescent carbon dots with antibacterial and gene delivery properties
Authors: Dou Qingqing , Fang Xiaotian , Jiang Shan , Chee Pei Lin , Lee Tung-Chun , Loh Xian Jun
Published: May 2015

Dual-functionality carbon dots with both anti-microbial and gene transfection abilities were developed and their properties elaborated in this paper.
pH-responsive and switchable triplex-based DNA hydrogels
Authors: Ren Jiangtao , Hu Yuwei , Lu Chun-Hua , Guo Weiwei , Aleman-Garcia Miguel Angel , Ricci Francesco , Willner Itamar
Published: May 2015

pH-responsive DNA hydrogels based on Hoogsteen CG·C+ or TA·T triplex structures undergo reversible pH-induced hydrogel/solution transitions.
Cyclo-oligomerization of isocyanates with Na(PH2) or Na(OCP) as “P−” anion sources
Authors: Heift Dominikus , Benkő Zoltán , Grützmacher Hansjörg , Jupp Andrew R. , Goicoechea Jose M.
Published: May 2015

Na(OCP) initiates the catalytic cyclo-trimerization of isocyanates involving the mutual formation of P-heterocycles and spiro phosphoranides (shown on the right) as reactive intermediates.
Does the thermal evolution of molecular structures critically affect the magnetic anisotropy?
Authors: Qian Kang , Baldoví José J. , Jiang Shang-Da , Gaita-Ariño Alejandro , Zhang Yi-Quan , Overgaard Jacob , Wang Bing-Wu , Coronado Eugenio , Gao Song
Published: May 2015

In the absence of a critical phase transition, one can safely use the crystal structure information determined at liquid nitrogen temperature in magnetic anisotropy research.
Confronting the complexity of CNT materials
Authors: Vargas-Lara Fernando , Douglas Jack F.
Published: May 2015

The morphology of commercial carbon nanotube (CNT) materials is normally quite complex and we combine molecular dynamics and path-integral computational methods, along with effective medium theory, to model the conductive properties of CNT composites based on a more realistic description of this class of materials. Image shows a simulated “gel” composed of interpenetrating CNT domains.
Nanocolumnar 1-dimensional TiO2 photoanodes deposited by PVD-OAD for perovskite solar cell fabrication
Authors: Ramos F. Javier , Oliva-Ramirez Manuel , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja , Grätzel Michael , González-Elipe Agustín R. , Ahmad Shahzada
Published: May 2015

1-Dimensional homogenous nanocolumnar structures prepared without any template method for efficient perovskite solar cell fabrication.
Synthesis of graphene oxide anchored porous manganese sulfide nanocrystals via the nanoscale Kirkendall effect for supercapacitors
Authors: Tang Yongfu , Chen Teng , Yu Shengxue , Qiao Yuqing , Mu Shichun , Hu Jie , Gao Faming
Published: May 2015

Graphene oxide (GO) anchored porous manganese sulfide nanocrystals (MnS/GO-NH3) were obtained via a facile hydrothermal method based on the Kirkendall effect.
Roll to roll processing of ultraconformable conducting polymer nanosheets
Authors: Zucca A. , Yamagishi K. , Fujie T. , Takeoka S. , Mattoli V. , Greco F.
Published: May 2015

A roll-to-roll process is reported for the preparation of free-standing conductive polymer nanosheets on large areas. Nanosheets are transferred in conformal contact with target surfaces (including skin) and act as unperceivable bio-electrodes.
Nuclear cyclophilins affect spliceosome assembly and function in vitro
Authors: Adams B.M. , Coates Miranda N. , Jackson S. RaElle , Jurica Melissa S. , Davis Tara L.
Published: May 2015

Cyclophilins are ubiquitously expressed proteins that bind to prolines and can catalyse cis/trans isomerization of proline residues. There are 17 annotated members of the cyclophilin family in humans, ubiquitously expressed and localized variously to the cytoplasm, nucleus or mitochondria. Surprisingly, all eight of the nuclear localized cyclophilins are found associated with spliceosomal complexes. However, their particular functions within this context are unknown. We have therefore adapted three established assays for in vitro pre-mRNA splicing to probe the functional roles of nuclear cyclophilins in the context of the human spliceosome. We find that four of the eight spliceosom-associated cyclophilins exert strong effects on splicing in vitro. These effects are dose-dependent and, remarkably, uniquely characteristic of each cyclophilin. Using both qualitative and quantitative means, we show that at least half of the nuclear cyclophilins can act as regulatory factors of spliceosome function in vitro. The present work provides the first quantifiable evidence that nuclear cyclophilins are splicing factors and provides a novel approach for future work into small molecule-based modulation of pre-mRNA splicing.
Reduction in mdx mouse muscle degeneration by low-intensity endurance exercise: a proteomic analysis in quadriceps muscle of exercised compared with sedentary mdx mice
Authors: Fontana Simona , Schillaci Odessa , Frinchi Monica , Giallombardo Marco , Morici Giuseppe , Liberto Valentina Di , Alessandro Riccardo , De Leo Giacomo , Perciavalle Vincenzo , Belluardo Natale , Mudò Giuseppa
Published: May 2015

In our recent study was shown a significant recovery of damaged skeletal muscle of mice with X-linked muscular dystrophy (mdx) following low-intensity endurance exercise, probably by reducing the degeneration of dystrophic muscle. Consequently, in the present work, we aimed to identify proteins involved in the observed reduction in degenerating fibres. To this end, we used proteomic analysis to evaluate changes in the protein profile of quadriceps dystrophic muscles of exercised compared with sedentary mdx mice. Four protein spots were found to be significantly changed and were identified as three isoforms of carbonic anhydrase 3 (CA3) and superoxide dismutase [Cu-Zn] (SODC). Protein levels of CA3 isoforms were significantly up-regulated in quadriceps of sedentary mdx mice and were completely restored to wild–type (WT) mice values, both sedentary and exercised, in quadriceps of exercised mdx mice. Protein levels of SODC were down-regulated in quadriceps of sedentary mdx mice and were significantly restored to WT mice values, both sedentary and exercised, in quadriceps of exercised mdx mice. Western blot data were in agreement with those obtained using proteomic analysis and revealed the presence of one more CA3 isoform that was significantly changed. Based on data found in the present study, it seems that low-intensity endurance exercise may in part contribute to reduce cell degeneration process in mdx muscles, by counteracting oxidative stress.
Flicker transfer for three‐phase voltage source converter in distribution network
Authors: Zhou Niancheng , Pan Shu , Wang Qianggang
Published: May 2015

Flicker transfer is significantly affected by the dynamic impedance of the three‐phase voltage source converter (VSC) in the distribution network. A methodology to determine the flicker transfer coefficient in a distribution system with a VSC is proposed. The formula of VSC dynamic impedance in the phase domain is derived based on the linearisation model of the VSC with the inner‐loop current control and outer‐loop power control as well as the phase‐locked loop block taken into consideration.
Transparent 0° phase shifter using micro‐metal mesh conductive film
Authors: Sa'ad B.M. , Rahim S.K.A , Peter T.
Published: May 2015

The design of a novel transparent 0° phase shifter (PS) using a proprietary self‐assembling nano‐particle technology‐based micro‐metal mesh (MM) conductive film is presented. The transparent MM conductive film has a sheet resistance of 0.7 Ω/sq and a visible‐light transmission of 75%, resulting in high transparency and good conductivity. The proposed transparent PS is placed on a 2 mm‐thick glass substrate of dielectric 5.7 and designed to operate at 2.45 GHz. A layer of MM film placed at the back of the glass serves as a ground. The transparent PS delivered a measured phase shift of 2.5°. The transparent PS can be used as a building block for realising a transparent Butler matrix (BM) beam forming network for inter/intra‐vehicle wireless communication in the intelligent transport system. Besides being transparent, the proposed PS has a 0.25 mm profile excluding the glass substrate. These advantages greatly enhance the PS's potential to be used also as a BM building component that can be mounted onto the glass surfaces of buildings for future fifth generation (5G) indoor wireless communications.
Compact broadband circularly polarised slot antenna for universal UHF RFID readers
Authors: Xu Bo , Zhang Shuai , Liu Yusha , Hu Jun , He Sailing
Published: May 2015

A compact broadband circularly polarised slot antenna is designed for universal ultra‐high‐frequency (UHF) radio‐frequency identification (RFID) readers. The antenna consists of an L‐shaped metal strip and a square‐slot‐loaded ground plane with four tuning stubs. The total size is 100 × 100 × 1.6 mm3. The measured –10 dB impedance bandwidth is 40.7% (772–1166 MHz) and the measured 3 dB axial ratio (AR) bandwidth is 13.9% (840–965 MHz). Both the impedance and the AR bandwidth cover the worldwide UHF RFID band.
Average of arbitrary powers of Gaussian Q‐function over η–μ and κ–μ fading channels
Authors: López‐Benítez M.
Published: May 2015

The average of integer powers of the Gaussian Q‐function over fading distributions is commonly found in the evaluation of the average error performance of wireless communication systems over fading channels. Expressions known in the literature for η–μ and κ–μ fading channels only include solutions for the average of one Gaussian Q‐function and the product of two Gaussian Q‐functions. This limitation has been overcome by providing a general solution for the average of arbitrary powers of the Gaussian Q‐function over η–μ and κ–μ fading channels.
One watt gallium arsenide class‐E power amplifier with a thin‐film bulk acoustic resonator filter embedded in the output network
Authors: Holzer Kyle , Walling Jeffrey S.
Published: May 2015

Integration of a class‐E power amplifier (PA) and a thin‐film bulk acoustic wave resonator (FBAR) filter is shown to provide high power added efficiency in addition to superior out‐of‐band spectrum suppression. A discrete gallium arsenide pseudomorphic high‐electron‐mobility transistor is implemented to operate as a class‐E amplifier from 2496 to 2690 MHz. The ACPF7041 compact bandpass FBAR filter is incorporated to replace the resonant LC tank in a traditional class‐E PA. To reduce drain voltage stress, the supply choke is replaced by a finite inductance. The fabricated PA provides up to 1 W of output power with a peak power added efficiency (PAE) of 58%. The improved out‐of‐band spectrum filtering is compared to a traditional class‐E with discrete LC resonant filtering. Such PAs can be combined with linearisation techniques to reduce out‐of‐band emissions.
Unidirectional wireless power transfer using near-field plates
Authors: Imani Mohammadreza F. , Grbic Anthony
Published: May 2015

One of the obstacles preventing wireless power transfer from becoming ubiquitous is their leakage of power: high-amplitude electromagnetic fields that can interfere with other electronic devices, increase health concerns, or hinder power metering. In this paper, we present near-field plates (NFPs) as a novel method to tailor the electromagnetic fields generated by a wireless power transfer system while maintaining high efficiency. NFPs are modulated arrays or surfaces designed to form prescribed near-field patterns. The NFP proposed in this paper consists of an array of loaded loops that are designed to confine the electromagnetic fields of a resonant transmitting loop to the desired direction (receiving loop) while suppressing fields in other directions. The step-by-step design procedure for this device is outlined. Two NFPs are designed and examined in full-wave simulation. Their performance is shown to be in close agreement with the design predictions, thereby verifying the proposed design and operation. A NFP is also fabricated and experimentally shown to form a unidirectional wireless power transfer link with high efficiency.
Rapid determination of Faraday rotation in optical glasses by means of secondary Faraday modulator
Authors: Sofronie M. , Elisa M. , Sava B. A. , Boroica L. , Valeanu M. , Kuncser V.
Published: May 2015

A rapid high sensitive method for determining the Faraday rotation of optical glasses is proposed. Starting from an experimental setup based on a Faraday rod coupled to a lock-in amplifier in the detection chain, two methodologies were developed for providing reliable results on samples presenting low and large Faraday rotations. The proposed methodologies were critically discussed and compared, via results obtained in transmission geometry, on a new series of aluminophosphate glasses with or without rare-earth doping ions. An example on how the method can be used for a rapid examination of the optical homogeneity of the sample with respect to magneto-optical effects is also provided.
Collisionless shock experiments with lasers and observation of Weibel instabilities
Authors: Park H.-S. , Huntington C. M. , Fiuza F. , Drake R. P. , Froula D. H. , Gregori G. , Koenig M. , Kugland N. L. , Kuranz C. C. , Lamb D. Q. , Levy M. C. , Li C. K. , Meinecke J. , Morita T. , Petrasso R. D. , Pollock B. B. , Remington B. A. , Rinderknecht H. G. , Rosenberg M. , Ross J. S. , Ryutov D. D. , Sakawa Y. , Spitkovsky A. , Takabe H. , Turnbull D. P. , Tzeferacos P. , Weber S. V. , Zylstra A. B.
Published: May 2015

Astrophysical collisionless shocks are common in the universe, occurring in supernova remnants, gamma ray bursts, and protostellar jets. They appear in colliding plasma flows when the mean free path for ion-ion collisions is much larger than the system size. It is believed that such shocks could be mediated via the electromagnetic Weibel instability in astrophysical environments without pre-existing magnetic fields. Here, we present laboratory experiments using high-power lasers and investigate the dynamics of high-Mach-number collisionless shock formation in two interpenetrating plasma streams. Our recent proton-probe experiments on Omega show the characteristic filamentary structures of the Weibel instability that are electromagnetic in nature with an inferred magnetization level as high as ∼1% [C. M. Huntington et al., “Observation of magnetic field generation via the weibel instability in interpenetrating plasma flows,” Nat. Phys. 11, 173–176 (2015)]. These results imply that electromagnetic instabilities are significant in the interaction of astrophysical conditions.
Effect of BaTiO3 nano-particles on breakdown performance of propylene carbonate
Authors: Hou Yanpan , Zhang Zicheng , Zhang Jiande , Liu Zhuofeng , Song Zuyin
Published: May 2015

As an alternative to water, propylene carbonate (PC) has a good application prospect in the compact pulsed power sources for its breakdown strength higher than that of water, resistivity bigger than 109 Ω m, and low freezing temperature (−49 °C). In this paper, the investigation into dielectric breakdown of PC and PC-based nano-fluids (NFs) subjected to high amplitude electric field is presented with microsecond pulses applied to a 1 mm gap full of PC or NFs between spherical electrodes. One kind of NF is composed of PC mixed with 0.5-1.4 vol. % BaTiO3 (BT) nano-particles of mean diameter ≈100 nm and another is mixed with 0.3-0.8 vol. % BT nano-particles of mean diameter ≈30 nm. The experimental results demonstrate the rise of permittivity and improvement of the breakdown strength of NFs compared with PC. Moreover, it is found that there exists an optimum fraction for these NFs corresponding to tremendous surface area in nano-composites with finite mesoscopic thickness. In concrete, the dielectric breakdown voltage of NFs is 33% higher than that of PC as the volume concentration of nano-particles with a 100 nm diameter is 0.9% and the breakdown voltage of NFs is 40% higher as the volume concentration of nano-particles with a 30 nm diameter is 0.6%. These phenomena are considered as the dielectric breakdown voltage of PC-based NFs is increased because the interfaces between nano-fillers and PC matrices provide myriad trap sites for charge carriers, which play a dominant role in the breakdown performance of NFs.