bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Localized attacks on spatially embedded networks with dependencies
Authors: Berezin Yehiel , Bashan Amir , Danziger Michael M. , Li Daqing , Havlin Shlomo
Published: March 2015

Many real world complex systems such as critical infrastructure networks are embedded in space and their components may depend on one another to function. They are also susceptible to geographically localized damage caused by malicious attacks or natural disasters. Here, we study a general model of spatially embedded networks with dependencies under localized attacks. We develop a theoretical and numerical approach to describe and predict the effects of localized attacks on spatially embedded systems with dependencies. Surprisingly, we find that a localized attack can cause substantially more damage than an equivalent random attack. Furthermore, we find that for a broad range of parameters, systems which appear stable are in fact metastable. Though robust to random failures—even of finite fraction—if subjected to a localized attack larger than a critical size which is independent of the system size (i.e., a zero fraction), a cascading failure emerges which leads to complete system collapse. Our results demonstrate the potential high risk of localized attacks on spatially embedded network systems with dependencies and may be useful for designing more resilient systems.
Pattern Transformation of Heat-Shrinkable Polymer by Three-Dimensional (3D) Printing Technique
Authors: Zhang Quan , Yan Dong , Zhang Kai , Hu Gengkai
Published: March 2015

A significant challenge in conventional heat-shrinkable polymers is to produce controllable microstructures. Here we report that the polymer material fabricated by three-dimensional (3D) printing technique has a heat-shrinkable property, whose initial microstructure can undergo a spontaneous pattern transformation under heating. The underlying mechanism is revealed by evaluating internal strain of the printed polymer from its fabricating process. It is shown that a uniform internal strain is stored in the polymer during the printing process and can be released when heated above its glass transition temperature. Furthermore, the internal strain can be used to trigger the pattern transformation of the heat-shrinkable polymer in a controllable way. Our work provides insightful ideas to understand a novel mechanism on the heat-shrinkable effect of printed material, but also to present a simple approach to fabricate heat-shrinkable polymer with a controllable thermo-structural response.
Fabrication of SnO2-Reduced Graphite Oxide Monolayer-Ordered Porous Film Gas Sensor with Tunable Sensitivity through Ultra-Violet Light Irradiation
Authors: Xu Shipu , Sun Fengqiang , Yang Shumin , Pan Zizhao , Long Jinfeng , Gu Fenglong
Published: March 2015

A new graphene-based composite structure, monolayer-ordered macroporous film composed of a layer of orderly arranged macropores, was reported. As an example, SnO2-reduced graphite oxide monolayer-ordered macroporous film was fabricated on a ceramic tube substrate under the irradiation of ultra-violet light (UV), by taking the latex microsphere two-dimensional colloid crystal as a template. Graphite oxide sheets dispersed in SnSO4 aqueous solution exhibited excellent affinity with template microspheres and were in situ incorporated into the pore walls during UV-induced growth of SnO2. The growing and the as-formed SnO2, just like other photocatalytic semiconductor, could be excited to produce electrons and holes under UV irradiation. Electrons reduced GO and holes adsorbed corresponding negative ions, which changed the properties of the composite film. This film was directly used as gas-sensor and was able to display high sensitivity in detecting ethanol gas. More interestingly, on the basis of SnO2-induced photochemical behaviours, this sensor demonstrated tunable sensitivity when UV irradiation time was controlled during the fabrication process and post in water, respectively. This study provides efficient ways of conducting the in situ fabrication of a semiconductor-reduced graphite oxide film device with uniform surface structure and controllable properties.
Atomic interaction mechanism for designing the interface of W/Zr-based bulk metallic glass composites
Authors: Li Z. K. , Fu H. M. , Sha P. F. , Zhu Z. W. , Wang A. M. , Li H. , Zhang H. W. , Zhang H. F. , Hu Z. Q.
Published: March 2015

The interaction between active element Zr and W damages the W fibers and the interface and decreases the mechanical properties, especially the tensile strength of the W fibers reinforced Zr-based bulk metallic glass composites (BMGCs). From the viewpoint of atomic interaction, the W-Zr interaction can be restrained by adding minor elements that have stronger interaction with W into the alloy. The calculation about atomic interaction energy indicates that Ta and Nb preferred to segregate on the W substrate surface. Sessile drop experiment proves the prediction and corresponding in-situ coating appears at the interface. Besides, the atomic interaction mechanism was proven to be effective in many other systems by the sessile drop technique. Considering the interfacial morphology, Nb was added into the alloy to fabricate W/Zr-based BMGCs. As expected, the Nb addition effectively suppressed the W-Zr reaction and damage to W fibers. Both the compressive and tensile properties are improved obviously.
Highly selective fluorescent and colorimetric probe for live-cell monitoring of sulphide based on bioorthogonal reaction
Authors: Huo Fang-Jun , Kang Jin , Yin Caixia , Chao Jianbin , Zhang Yongbin
Published: March 2015

H2S is the third endogenously generated gaseous signaling compound and has also been known to involve a variety of physiological processes. To better understand its physiological and pathological functions, efficient methods for monitoring of H2S are desired. Azide fluorogenic probes are popular because they can take place bioorthogonal reactions. In this work, by employing a fluorescein derivative as the fluorophore and an azide group as the recognition unit, we reported a new probe 5-azidofluorescein for H2S with improved sensitivity and selectivety. The probe shows very low background fluorescence in the absence of H2S. In the presence of H2S, however, a significant enhancement for excited fluorescence were observed, resulting in a high sensitivity to H2S in buffered (10 mmol/L HEPES, pH 7.0) aqueous acetonitrile solution (H2O/CH3CN = 1:3, v/v) with a detection limit of 0.035 μmol/L observed, much lower than the previously reported probes. All these features are favorable for direct monitoring of H2S with satisfactory sensitivity, demonstrating its value of practical application.
Dislocation–Twin Boundary Interactions Induced Nanocrystalline via SPD Processing in Bulk Metals
Authors: Zhang Fucheng , Feng Xiaoyong , Yang Zhinan , Kang Jie , Wang Tiansheng
Published: March 2015

This report investigated dislocation–twin boundary (TB) interactions that cause the TB to disappear and turn into a high-angle grain boundary (GB). The evolution of the microstructural characteristics of Hadfield steel was shown as a function of severe plastic deformation processing time. Sessile Frank partial dislocations and/or sessile unit dislocations were formed on the TB through possible dislocation reactions. These reactions induced atomic steps on the TB and led to the accumulation of gliding dislocations at the TB, which resulted in the transition from coherent TB to incoherent GB. The factors that affect these interactions were described and a physical model was established to explain in detail the feasible dislocation reactions at the TB.
Cation-Induced Pesticide Binding and Release by a Functionalized Calix[4]arene Molecular Host
Authors: Luo Li , Zhang Xiaoyan , Feng Ningmei , Tian Demei , Deng Hongtao , Li Haibing
Published: March 2015

Ion-controlled switchable progress is very important in many biological behaviors. Here, we reported K+-controlled switch, this switch system exhibited excellent carbaryl (G) binding/release by fluorescent (FL), ultraviolet-visible (UV) spectrums and 1H NMR spectroscopy. More importantly, the K+-controlled G binding/release switch based on C4C5 not only in the solution, but also on the surface, promising for the application for the pesticide controlled release.
New avenues for phase matching in nonlinear hyperbolic metamaterials
Authors: Duncan C. , Perret L. , Palomba S. , Lapine M. , Kuhlmey B. T. , de Sterke C. Martijn
Published: March 2015

Nonlinear optical processes, which are of paramount importance in science and technology, involve the generation of new frequencies. This requires phase matching to avoid that light generated at different positions interferes destructively. Of the two original approaches to achieve this, one relies on birefringence in optical crystals and is therefore limited by the dispersion of naturally occurring materials, whereas the other, quasi-phase-matching, requires direct modulation of material properties, which is not universally possible. To overcome these limitations, we propose to exploit the unique dispersion afforded by hyperbolic metamaterials, where the refractive index can be arbitrarily large. We systematically analyse the ensuing opportunities and demonstrate that hyperbolic phase matching can be achieved with a wide range of material parameters, offering access to the use of nonlinear media for which phase matching cannot be achieved by other means. With the rapid development in the fabrication of hyperbolic metamaterials, our approach is destined to bring significant advantages over conventional techniques for the phase matching of a variety of nonlinear processes.
Performance modulation of α-MnO2 nanowires by crystal facet engineering
Authors: Li Wenxian , Cui Xiangyuan , Zeng Rong , Du Guodong , Sun Ziqi , Zheng Rongkun , Ringer Simon P. , Dou Shi Xue
Published: March 2015

Modulation of material physical and chemical properties through selective surface engineering is currently one of the most active research fields, aimed at optimizing functional performance for applications. The activity of exposed crystal planes determines the catalytic, sensory, photocatalytic and electrochemical behavior of a material. In the research on nanomagnets, it opens up new perspectives in the fields of nanoelectronics, spintronics and quantum computation. Herein, we demonstrate controllable magnetic modulation of α-MnO2nanowires, which displayed surface ferromagnetism or antiferromagnetism, depending on the exposed plane. First-principles density functional theory calculations confirm that both Mn- and O-terminated α-MnO2(1 1 0) surfaces exhibit ferromagnetic ordering. The investigation of surface-controlled magnetic particles will lead to significant progress in our fundamental understanding of functional aspects of magnetism on the nanoscale, facilitating rational design of nanomagnets. Moreover, we approved that the facet engineering pave the way on designing semiconductors possessing unique properties for novel energy applications, owing to that the bandgap and the electronic transport of the semiconductor can be tailored via exposed surface modulations.
Toward air-stable multilayer phosphorene thin-films and transistors
Authors: Kim Joon-Seok , Liu Yingnan , Zhu Weinan , Kim Seohee , Wu Di , Tao Li , Dodabalapur Ananth , Lai Keji , Akinwande Deji
Published: March 2015

Few-layer black phosphorus (BP), also known as phosphorene, is poised to be the most attractive graphene analogue owing to its high mobility approaching that of graphene and its thickness-tunable band gap that can be as large as that of molybdenum disulfide. In essence, phosphorene represents the much sought after high-mobility, large direct band gap two-dimensional layered crystal that is ideal for optoelectronics and flexible devices. However, its instability in air is of paramount concern for practical applications. Here, we demonstrate air-stable BP devices with dielectric and hydrophobic encapsulation. Microscopy, spectroscopy and transport techniques were employed to elucidate the aging mechanism, which can initiate from the BP surface for bare samples, or edges for samples with thin dielectric coating, highlighting the ineffectiveness of conventional scaled dielectrics. Our months-long studies indicate that a double layer capping of Al2O3 and hydrophobic fluoropolymer affords BP devices and transistors with indefinite air-stability for the first time, overcoming a critical material challenge for applied research and development.
Influence of drug transporters and stereoselectivity on the brain penetration of pioglitazone as a potential medicine against Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Chang Kai Lun , Pee Hai Ning , Yang Shili , Ho Paul C.
Published: March 2015

Pioglitazone is currently undergoing clinical trials for treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, poor brain penetration remains an obstacle to development of the drug for such intended clinical uses. In this study, we demonstrate that the inhibition of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) significantly increases brain penetration of pioglitazone, whereas inhibition of breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) has little effect. We also investigate the stereoselectivity of pioglitazone uptake in the brain. When mice were dosed with racemic pioglitazone, the concentration of (+)-pioglitazone was 46.6% higher than that of (-)-pioglitazone in brain tissue and 67.7% lower than that of (-)-pioglitazone in plasma. Dosing mice with pure (+)-pioglitazone led to a 76% increase in brain exposure levels compared to those from an equivalent dose of racemic pioglitazone. Pure (+)-pioglitazone was also shown to have comparable amyloid-lowering capabilities to the racemic pioglitazone in an in vitro AD model. These results suggest that P-gp may act as a stereoselective barrier to prevent pioglitazone entry into the brain. Dosing with (+)-pioglitazone instead of the racemic mixture may result in higher levels of brain exposure to pioglitazone, thus potentially improving the development of pioglitazone treatment of AD.
Molecular-based approaches to characterize coastal microbial community and their potential relation to the trophic state of Red Sea
Authors: Ansari Mohd Ikram , Harb Moustapha , Jones Burton , Hong Pei-Ying
Published: March 2015

Molecular-based approaches were used to characterize the coastal microbiota and to elucidate the trophic state of Red Sea. Nutrient content and enterococci numbers were monitored and used to correlate with the abundance of microbial markers. Microbial source tracking revealed the presence of >1 human-associated Bacteroides spp. at some of the near-shore sampling sites and at a heavily frequented beach. Water samples collected from the beaches had occasional exceedances in enterococci numbers, higher total organic carbon (TOC, 1.48–2.18 mg/L) and nitrogen (TN, 0.15–0.27 mg/L) than that detected in the near-shore waters. Enterococci abundances obtained from next-generation sequencing did not correlate well with the cultured enterococci numbers. The abundance of certain genera, for example Arcobacter, Pseudomonas and unclassified Campylobacterales, was observed to exhibit slight correlation with TOC and TN. Low abundance of functional genes accounting for up to 41 copies/L of each Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Campylobacter coli were detected. Arcobacter butzleri was also detected in abundance ranging from 111 to 238 copies/L. Operational taxonomic units (OTUs) associated with cyanobacteria, Prochlorococcus,Ostreococcus spp. and Gramella were more prevalent in waters that were likely impacted by urban runoffs and recreational activities. These OTUs could potentially serve as quantifiable markers indicative of the water quality.
Correlation of breaking forces, conductances and geometries of molecular junctions
Authors: Yoshida Koji , Pobelov Ilya V. , Manrique David Zsolt , Pope Thomas , Mészáros Gábor , Gulcur Murat , Bryce Martin R. , Lambert Colin J. , Wandlowski Thomas
Published: March 2015

Electrical and mechanical properties of elongated gold-molecule-gold junctions formed by tolane-type molecules with different anchoring groups (pyridyl, thiol, amine, nitrile and dihydrobenzothiophene) were studied in current-sensing force spectroscopy experiments and density functional simulations. Correlations between forces, conductances and junction geometries demonstrate that aromatic tolanes bind between electrodes as single molecules or as weakly-conductive dimers held by mechanically-weak π − π stacking. In contrast with the other anchors that form only S-Au or N-Au bonds, the pyridyl ring also forms a highly-conductive cofacial link to the gold surface. Binding of multiple molecules creates junctions with higher conductances and mechanical strengths than the single-molecule ones.
Quercetin Attenuates Lactate Production and Extracellular Matrix Secretion in Keratoconus
Authors: McKay T. B. , Lyon D. , Sarker-Nag A. , Priyadarsini S. , Asara J. M. , Karamichos D.
Published: March 2015

Keratoconus(KC) is an ecstatic corneal disease leading to corneal-thinning and the formation of a cone-like cornea. Elevated lactate levels, increased oxidative stress and myofibroblast formation have all been previously reported. In the current study, we assess the role of Quercetin on collagen secretion and myofibroblast formation in KC in vitro. Human corneal fibroblasts(HCFs) and human keratoconus cells(HKCs) were treated with a stable Vitamin C derivative and cultured for 4 weeks, stimulating formation of a self-assembled extracellular matrix. All samples were analyzed using Western blots and targeted tandem mass spectrometry. Our data showed that Quercetin significantly down regulates myofibroblast differentiation and fibrotic markers, such as α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and Collagen III (Col III), in both HCFs and HKCs. Collagen III secretion was reduced 80% in both HCFs and HKCs following Quercetin treatment. Furthermore, Quercetin reduced lactate production by HKCs to normal HCF levels. Quercetin down regulated TGF-βR2 and TGF-β2 expression in HKCs suggesting a significant link to the TGF-β pathway. These results assert that Quercetin is a key regulator of fibrotic markers and ECM assembly by modulating cellular metabolism and TGF-β signaling. Our study suggests that Quercetin is a potential therapeutic for treatment of corneal dystrophies, such as KC.
Dissection of keratin network formation, turnover and reorganization in living murine embryos
Authors: Schwarz Nicole , Windoffer Reinhard , Magin Thomas M. , Leube Rudolf E.
Published: March 2015

Epithelial functions are fundamentally determined by cytoskeletal keratin network organization. However, our understanding of keratin network plasticity is only based on analyses of cultured cells overexpressing fluorescently tagged keratins. In order to learn how keratin network organization is affected by various signals in functional epithelial tissues in vivo, we generated a knock-in mouse that produces fluorescence-tagged keratin 8. Homozygous keratin 8-YFP knock-in mice develop normally and show the expected expression of the fluorescent keratin network both in fixed and in vital tissues. In developing embryos, we observe for the first time de novo keratin network biogenesis in close proximity to desmosomal adhesion sites, keratin turnover in interphase cells and keratin rearrangements in dividing cells at subcellular resolution during formation of the first epithelial tissue. This mouse model will help to further dissect keratin network dynamics in its native tissue context during physiological and also pathological events.
Tim-3 protects decidual stromal cells from toll-like receptor-mediated apoptosis and inflammatory reactions and promotes Th2 bias at the maternal-fetal interface
Authors: Wang SongCun , Cao ChunMei , Piao HaiLan , Li YanHong , Tao Yu , Zhang XiaoMing , Zhang Di , Sun Chan , Zhu Rui , Wang Yan , Yuan MinMin , Li DaJin , Du MeiRong
Published: March 2015

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are important in mediating immune responses against various pathogens during pregnancy. However, uncontrolled TLR-triggered inflammation will endanger normal pregnancy, resulting in pregnancy loss. Therefore, maintenance of a moderate inflammatory response is crucial for successful pregnancy under conditions of infection. Here, we demonstrated significantly lowered expression of T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (Tim-3) in miscarried decidual stromal cells (DSCs), indicating that Tim-3 might play important roles in maintaining successful pregnancies. Activation of TLR signaling induced pro-inflammatory cytokine production and apoptosis of DSCs, which was accompanied by up-regulated Tim-3 expression. Tim-3, in turn, protected DSCs from TLR-mediated apoptosis in an ERK1/2 pathway-dependent manner. In addition, Tim-3 inhibited TLR signaling-induced inflammatory cytokine production by DSCs through suppressing NF-κB activation. Tim-3 increased production of T helper 2 (Th2)-type cytokines by DSCs and reversed the inhibitory effect of LPS on Th2 cytokine generation by up-regulation of interferon regulatory factor 4 expression. Tim-3 blockade abolished the effect of Tim-3 on the inflammatory response to LPS stimulation. Thus, Tim-3 signaling could represent a “self-control” mechanism in TLR-triggered inflammation during pregnancy. These findings identify Tim-3 as a key regulator of DSCs and suggest its potential as a target for the treatment of spontaneous abortion.
Fluorescent sensing of monofunctional platinum species
Authors: Shen Clara , Harris Benjamin D. W. , Dawson Lucy J. , Charles Kellie A. , Hambley Trevor W. , New Elizabeth J.
Published: March 2015

A fluorescein derivative exhibits increased fluorescence selectively in response to monofunctional platinum complexes, and can be used to study the metabolism of platinum-based chemotherapeutics.
Lipase active site covalent anchoring of Rh(NHC) catalysts: towards chemoselective artificial metalloenzymes
Authors: Basauri-Molina M. , Riemersma C. F. , Würdemann M. A. , Kleijn H. , Klein Gebbink R. J. M.
Published: March 2015

Artificial metallo-enzymes derived from active site-inhibited lipases show chemoselective reactivity in catalytic hydrogenations. Embedding of a non-natural metallic center leads to full and competitive selectivity.
Site preference of NH3-adsorption on Co, Pt and CoPt surfaces: the role of charge transfer, magnetism and strain
Authors: Bhattacharjee S. , Gupta K. , Jung N. , Yoo S. J. , Waghmare U. V. , Lee S. C.
Published: March 2015

Oxidation of Co at the surface poses a major problem in the cyclable use of CoPt, a cost-effective catalyst for proton exchange membrane fuel cells.
The cause for the low efficiency of dye sensitized solar cells with a combination of ruthenium dyes and cobalt redox
Authors: Omata Keita , Kuwahara Shota , Katayama Kenji , Qing Shen , Toyoda Taro , Lee Kun-Mu , Wu Chun-Guey
Published: March 2015

What makes the efficiency of the solar cell lower for the Ru dye and the Co redox combination?
Catalytic hydrogenation by noble-metal nanocrystals with well-defined facets: a review
Authors: Zang Wanting , Li Guozhu , Wang Li , Zhang Xiangwen
Published: March 2015

A brief overview of the activity and selectivity of noble-metal nanocrystals with well-defined facets in the field of catalytic hydrogenation .
DFT studies on the mechanism of alcohol oxidation by the (bpy)CuI-TEMPO/NMI catalytic system
Authors: Cheng Lin , Li Jie , Zhang Qiancheng , Ma Lisha , Yang Jucai
Published: March 2015

The oxidation of alcohol to acetaldehyde catalyzed by (bpy)CuI-TEMPO/NMI is investigated by the density functional method. On the basis of the studied catalytic cycle, a possible mechanism is presented to explain the experimental observations.
A series of new lanthanoid thioarsenates: insights into the influence of lanthanide contraction on the formation of new lanthanoid thioarsenates
Authors: Zhou Jian , Zhao Rong-Qing , Yang Tao , Liu Xing , Xiao Hong-Ping , Zou Hua-Hong , Tan Xiao-Feng
Published: March 2015

A series of new lanthanoid thioarsenates were prepared and they would be helpful for gaining insights into the influence of lanthanide contraction on the formation of other new lanthanoid thioarsenates.
Toward the rational design of non-precious transition metal oxides for oxygen electrocatalysis
Authors: Hong Wesley T. , Risch Marcel , Stoerzinger Kelsey A. , Grimaud Alexis , Suntivich Jin , Shao-Horn Yang
Published: March 2015

The rational design of non-precious transition metal perovskite oxide catalysts holds exceptional promise for understanding and mastering the kinetics of oxygen electrocatalysis instrumental to artificial photosynthesis, solar fuels, fuel cells, electrolyzers, and metal–air batteries.
[NiFe]-hydrogenases revisited: nickel–carboxamido bond formation in a variant with accrued O2-tolerance and a tentative re-interpretation of Ni-SI states
Authors: Volbeda Anne , Martin Lydie , Liebgott Pierre-Pol , De Lacey Antonio L. , Fontecilla-Camps Juan C.
Published: March 2015

Novel Ni-coordination in a [NiFe]-hydrogenase mutant and possible coexistence of hydride and sulfenic acid in the WT Ni-SIb state.
Positioning of the HKUST-1 metal–organic framework (Cu3(BTC)2) through conversion from insoluble Cu-based precursors
Authors: Toyao Takashi , Liang Kang , Okada Kenji , Ricco Raffaele , Styles Mark J. , Tokudome Yasuaki , Horiuchi Yu , Hill Anita J. , Takahashi Masahide , Matsuoka Masaya , Falcaro Paolo
Published: March 2015

A Cu-based metal–organic framework (HKUST-1) was synthesized from insoluble precursors and positioned using sol–gel based coatings.
Synthesis of biocarbon coated Li3V2(PO4)3/C cathode material for lithium ion batteries using recycled tea
Authors: Wei Chuanliang , He Wen , Zhang Xudong , Liu Shujiang , Jin Chao , Liu Shikun , Huang Zhen
Published: March 2015

A biocarbon coated Li3V2(PO4)3(LVP-C) cathode with high electrochemical performance was synthesized by a sol–gel method using recycled tea as both structural template and carbon source.
Efficient biodiesel production from waste cooking oil using p-toluenesulfonic acid doped polyaniline as a catalyst
Authors: Niu Meiju , Kong Xiangjin
Published: March 2015

p-Toluenesulfonic acid doped polyaniline was developed as a catalyst for the production of biodiesel from waste cooking oil.
Suspension flow: do particles act as mixers?
Authors: Boschan A. , Aguirre M. A. , Gauthier G.
Published: March 2015

Solute dispersion is much more affected by how macroscopic particles modify the flow structure than by their random diffusive motion.
Carbonized poly(vinylidene fluoride)/graphene oxide with three-dimensional multiscale-pore architecture as an advanced electrode material
Authors: Xue Mianqi , Chen Dong , Wang Xusheng , Chen Jitao , Chen G. F.
Published: March 2015

A low-cost, mass-produced, dry-gel-based method has been developed for fabricating high performance graphene-based electroactive materials with 3D multiscale-pore architecture.
Vertical stratification and its impact on device performance in a polycarbazole based copolymer solar cells
Authors: Wang Tao , Scarratt Nicholas W. , Yi Hunan , Coleman Iain F. , Zhang Yiwei , Grant Richard T. , Yao Jizhong , Skoda Maximilian W. A. , Dunbar Alan D. F. , Jones Richard A. L. , Iraqi Ahmed , Lidzey David G.
Published: March 2015

Vertical stratification in PCDTBT1:PC71BM bulk heterojunction solar cells were investigated by neutron reflectivity and found to have profound impacts on device performance.
Complementary hydrogen bonding interaction triggered co-assembly of an amphiphilic peptide and an anti-tumor drug
Authors: Cheng Hong , Cheng Yin-Jia , Bhasin Sushant , Zhu Jing-Yi , Xu Xiao-Ding , Zhuo Ren-Xi , Zhang Xian-Zheng
Published: March 2015

A new tumor-targeting amphiphilic peptide was designed to load and release the anti-tumor drug methotrexate (MTX), leading to reversible self-assembled morphology transition from spherical micelles to nanofibers.
Toward the discovery of dual inhibitors for botulinum neurotoxin A: concomitant targeting of endocytosis and light chain protease activity
Authors: Seki Hajime , Xue Song , Hixon Mark S. , Pellett Sabine , Remes̆ Marek , Johnson Eric A. , Janda Kim D.
Published: March 2015

A polypharmacological approach as a treatment for botulinum neurotoxin A intoxication is presented.
A universal method for the preparation of functional ITO electrodes with ultrahigh stability
Authors: Zhang Xiaowei , Lou Baohua , Li Dongyue , Hong Wei , Yu You , Li Jing , Wang Erkang
Published: March 2015

A novel electrodeposition strategy on an ITO surface: a universal method for electrodeposition of various materials onto the ITO substrate with unprecedented mechanical stability.
Enzyme logic AND-Reset and OR-Reset gates based on a field-effect electronic transducer modified with multi-enzyme membrane
Authors: Poghossian A. , Katz E. , Schöning M. J.
Published: March 2015

Integration of enzyme-based AND-Reset and OR-Reset logic gates with a field-effect electronic transducer modified with a multi-enzyme membrane.
GSH- and pH-responsive drug delivery system constructed by water-soluble pillar[5]arene and lysine derivative for controllable drug release
Authors: Wu Xuan , Li Yan , Lin Chen , Hu Xiao-Yu , Wang Leyong
Published: March 2015

GSH- and pH-responsive supramolecular vesicles constructed by a host–guest inclusion complex formed from water-soluble pillar[5]arene and lysine derivative were successfully developed.
Effective 1,5-stereocontrol in Pd(0)/InI promoted reactions of chiral N-Ts-4-vinylazetidin-2-ones with aldehydes. An efficient entry into nonracemic semi-protected (3Z)-2,6-anti-enediols
Authors: Klimczak Urszula K. , Zambroń Bartosz K.
Published: March 2015

ε-Amido-allylindiums generated from N-Ts-4-vinylazetidin-2-ones react with aldehydes with effective remote 1,5-stereocontrol to afford (3Z)-2,6-anti-enediols in good yield and with excellent diastereoselectivity.
Implantable nonenzymatic glucose/O2micro film fuel cells assembled with hierarchical AuZn electrodes
Authors: Noh Hui-Bog , Halappa Naveen M. , Choi Yong-Jin , Choe Eun Sang , Shim Yoon-Bo
Published: March 2015

A glucose/O2micro film fuel cell based on a polymer/AuZn bimetal dendrite was employed as a power source implanted into a living rat.
Concomitant polymorphs ofp-iso-propylcalix[4]arene
Authors: Smith Vincent J. , Marais Charl G. , Suwińska Kinga , Lipkowski Janusz , Szumna Agnieszka , Esterhuysen Catharine , Barbour Leonard J.
Published: March 2015

Sublimation ofp-iso-propylcalix[4]arene (form IP) under reduced pressure results in the concomitant formation of two new polymorphs (forms IIPand IIIP).
Anion selectivity in ion exchange reactions with surface functionalized ionosilicas
Authors: Petrova Maria , Guigue Mireille , Venault Laurent , Moisy Philippe , Hesemann Peter
Published: March 2015

Mesoporous imidazolium functionalized ionosilicas have been investigated as anion exchange materials for the adsorption of oxo-anions in aqueous media. Pertechnetate exchange in the presence of competing anionic species revealed Hofmeister selectivity.
Bio-inspired design of electrocatalysts for oxalate oxidation: a combined experimental and computational study of Mn–N–C catalysts
Authors: Matanovic Ivana , Babanova Sofia , Perry III Albert , Serov Alexey , Artyushkova Kateryna , Atanassov Plamen
Published: March 2015

A novel non-PGM MnAAPyr catalyst that shows electrochemical activity towards the oxidation of oxalic acid comparable to Pt.
Ligand effects on the electrochemical behavior of [Fe2(CO)5(L){μ-(SCH2)2(Ph)PO}] (L = PPh3, P(OEt)3) hydrogenase model complexes
Authors: Almazahreh Laith R. , Imhof Wolfgang , Talarmin Jean , Schollhammer Philippe , Görls Helmar , El-khateeb Mohammad , Weigand Wolfgang
Published: March 2015

In this paper we study the influence of substituting one CO ligand in [Fe2(CO)6{μ-(SCH2)2(Ph)PO}] (1) by better σ-donors (PPh3(2) and P(OMe)3(3)) in relation to the electrochemical behavior.
Gold nanoparticle and carbon dot coated SnO2 nanocomposite with high photo-electronic catalytic activity for oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Liu Naiyun , Liu Juan , Yang Yanmei , Qiao Shi , Huang Hui , Liu Yang , Kang Zhenhui
Published: March 2015

Here, we have reported the design, synthesis and catalytic properties of a gold nanoparticle/carbon dot/SnO2 nanocomposite photo-electronic catalyst for oxygen evolution reaction.
The enhanced photocatalytic activity and self-cleaning properties of mesoporous SiO2 coated Cu-Bi2O3 thin films
Authors: Shan Wenjie , Hu Yun , Zheng Mengmeng , Wei Chaohai
Published: March 2015

Mesoporous SiO2 coated Cu-Bi2O3 thin films were synthesized and they exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity and self-cleaning properties compared to pure Bi2O3 films.
Au-doped single layer graphene nanoribbons for a record-high efficiency ITO-free tandem polymer solar cell
Authors: Mohd Yusoff Abd. Rashid bin , Kim Dongcheon , Schneider Fabio Kurt , da Silva Wilson Jose , Jang Jin
Published: March 2015

We demonstrate an ITO-free tandem polymer solar cell employing Au-doped single layer graphene nanoribbons.
Analysis of sphingosine kinase activity in single natural killer cells from peripheral blood
Authors: Dickinson Alexandra J. , Meyer Megan , Pawlak Erica A. , Gomez Shawn , Jaspers Ilona , Allbritton Nancy L.
Published: March 2015

Heterogeneity of sphingosine kinase (SK) pathway activity in natural killer (NK) cells may enable cells to respond effectively to a diverse array of pathogens as well as incipient tumor cells.
Functional dissection of virus–human crosstalk mediated by miRNAs based on the VmiReg database
Authors: Shao Tingting , Zhao Zheng , Wu Aiwei , Bai Jing , Li Yongsheng , Chen Hong , Jiang Chunjie , Wang Yuan , Li Shengli , Wang Letian , Zhang Fengmin , Xu Juan , Li Xia
Published: March 2015

Systematically deciphering the characteristics of crosstalk mediated by viral and human miRNAs.
Synthetic artificial microRNAs targeting UCA1-MALAT1 or c-Myc inhibit malignant phenotypes of bladder cancer cells T24 and 5637
Authors: Fu Xing , Liu Yuchen , Zhuang Chengle , Liu Li , Cai Zhiming , Huang Weiren
Published: March 2015

We provided a platform for constructing artificial microRNAs that can silence both protein-coding genes and non-coding genes.
Lipid-membrane-incorporated hydrophobic photochromic molecules prepared by the exchange method using cyclodextrins
Authors: Ikeda Atsushi , Hino Shodai , Ashizawa Kengo , Sugikawa Kouta , Kikuchi Jun-ichi , Tsukamoto Manami , Yasuhara Kazuma
Published: March 2015

It was found that the exchange method for the preparation of lipid-membrane-incorporated guest molecules was applicable to not only fullerenes but also other hydrophobic molecules such as azobenzene and stilbene.
A diversity-oriented synthesis strategy enabling the combinatorial-type variation of macrocyclic peptidomimetic scaffolds
Authors: Isidro-Llobet Albert , Hadje Georgiou Kathy , Galloway Warren R. J. D. , Giacomini Elisa , Hansen Mette R. , Méndez-Abt Gabriela , Tan Yaw Sing , Carro Laura , Sore Hannah F. , Spring David R.
Published: March 2015

Macrocyclic peptidomimetics are associated with a broad range of biological activities.
Small gold nanoparticles for interfacial Staudinger–Bertozzi ligation
Authors: Gobbo Pierangelo , Luo Wilson , Cho Sung Ju , Wang Xiaoxiao , Biesinger Mark C. , Hudson Robert H. E. , Workentin Mark S.
Published: March 2015

Small gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) that possess interfacial methyl-2-(diphenylphosphino)benzoate moieties have been successfully synthesized (Staudinger-AuNPs), characterized and their interfacial reactivity was investigated.
Can bicarbonate replace phosphate to improve the sustainability of bioelectrochemical systems for H2production?
Authors: Liang Dawei , Xu Weiwei , Liu Yanyan , Peng Sikan , Xie Beizhen , Lu Shanfu , Xiang Yan , Liu Hong
Published: March 2015

Large (80%) replacement of PO43−with HCO3−is feasible to maintain the current density and improve the sustainability of MEC.
Role of SDS surfactant concentrations on the structural, morphological, dielectric and magnetic properties of CoFe2O4 nanoparticles
Authors: Vadivel M. , Babu R. Ramesh , Arivanandhan M. , Ramamurthi K. , Hayakawa Y.
Published: March 2015

Schematic illustration of the synthesis of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) added to cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) magnetic nanoparticles at various concentrations (0.04 and 0.08 M) and their morphological and magnetic characterizations.
Cow dung-derived nitrogen-doped carbon as a cost effective, high activity, oxygen reduction electrocatalyst
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Li Hao , Yang Yixin , Key Julian , Ji Shan , Ma Yuanyuan , Wang Hui , Wang Rongfang
Published: March 2015

By processing animal feces, making a fuel cell cathode catalyst can be comparable with the Pt/C.
Combining superior surface enhanced Raman scattering and photothermal conversion on one platform: a strategy of ill-defined gold nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Shuai , Ling Xi , Zhou Chengcheng , Zhang Jin , Huang Jianbin , Yan Yun
Published: March 2015

Ill-defined gold nanoparticles allow combination superior surface enhanced Raman scattering and photothermal conversion on one platform.
Significance of reagent addition sequence in the amidation of carboxylic acids mediated by PPh3 and I2
Authors: Wangngae Sirilak , Duangkamol Chuthamat , Pattarawarapan Mookda , Phakhodee Wong
Published: March 2015

The outcome of the amidation reaction mediated by PPh3–I2 was found to be highly dependent on the addition sequence of the reagents.
Reasoning about benefits, costs, and risks of chemical substances: mapping different levels of sophistication
Authors: Cullipher S. , Sevian H. , Talanquer V.
Published: March 2015

The ability to evaluate options and make informed decisions about problems in relevant contexts is a core competency in science education that requires the use of both domain-general and discipline-specific knowledge and reasoning strategies. In this study we investigated the implicit assumptions and modes of reasoning applied by individuals with different levels of training in chemistry when engaged in a task that demanded the evaluation of the benefits, costs, and risks (BCR) of using different chemical substances. We were interested in identifying and characterizing different levels of sophistication in the use of chemistry concepts and ideas in BCR reasoning. Our qualitative study elicited reasoning patterns that ranged from intuitive to mixed to normative, with students mostly in mid-undergraduate years demonstrating reasoning that was a mixture of intuitive and chemical ways of thinking. Intuitive reasoning was governed primarily by affective impressions about the substances under evaluation. Consideration of compositional, structural, and energetic features of substances was observed with increased training in chemistry, with a tendency to mix particle-level explanations with intuitive assumptions. Normative thinking shifted toward proactive use of appropriate disciplinary knowledge, recognition of a need for more data about bulk properties particularly on large scales, and consideration of pros, cons, and trade-offs. Implications are discussed for ways to improve the undergraduate chemistry curriculum so that students gain proficiency in making productive judgments and informed decisions.
Tuning self-assembly in elastin-derived peptides
Authors: Bochicchio Brigida , Pepe Antonietta , Crudele Maria , Belloy Nicolas , Baud Stephanie , Dauchez Manuel
Published: March 2015

Elastin-derived peptides as bioinspired materials with predictable architectures.
Structural changes of block copolymers with bi-modal orientation under fast cyclical stretching as observed by synchrotron SAXS
Authors: Stasiak J. , Brubert J. , Serrani M. , Talhat A. , De Gaetano F. , Costantino M. L. , Moggridge G. D.
Published: March 2015

Here we examine a block copolymer with cylindrical morphology having a bio-inspired microstructure of anisotropic orthogonally oriented layers and report changes of the microstructure under uniaxial strain.
Ultra-thin carbon nanofiber networks derived from bacterial cellulose for capacitive deionization
Authors: Liu Yong , Lu Ting , Sun Zhuo , Chua Daniel H. C. , Pan Likun
Published: March 2015

Ultra-thin carbon nanofiber networks were synthesized from natural-based bacterial cellulose pellicle through freeze-drying and thermal treatment for capacitive deionization.
Conversion of sewage sludge into high-performance bifunctional electrode materials for microbial energy harvesting
Authors: Yuan Yong , Liu Ting , Fu Peng , Tang Jiahuan , Zhou Shungui
Published: March 2015

Sewage sludge amended with biomass was converted into highly conductive biochar, which was used as a high-performance anode and cathode for microbial fuel cells.
A regular, compact but microporous packing structure: high-density graphene assemblies for high-volumetric-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Daoqing , Jia Zheng , Zhu Jiaxiong , Wang Dianlong
Published: March 2015

A graphene packing structure with the utmost compactness and suitable porosity was realized to achieve high volumetric performances for supercapacitors.
High-performance and high-durability perovskite photovoltaic devices prepared using ethylammonium iodide as an additive
Authors: Hsu Hsiang-Lin , Chang Ching-Chih , Chen Chih-Ping , Jiang Bing-Huang , Jeng Ru-Jong , Cheng Chien-Hong
Published: March 2015

Perovskite solar cells display great commercialization potential. Ethylammonium iodide (EAI) has been used as an additive for perovskite solar cells. TheEAI-derived devices displayed enhanced PCEs and long term thermal stability.
Fabrication of MoS2 thin film transistors via selective-area solution deposition methods
Authors: Xi Yang , Serna Martha Isabel , Cheng Lanxia , Gao Yang , Baniasadi Mahmoud , Rodriguez-Davila Rodolfo , Kim Jiyoung , Quevedo-Lopez Manuel A. , Minary-Jolandan Majid
Published: March 2015

We report a simple and selective solution method to prepare molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) thin films for functional thin film transistors (TFTs).
Akt-mediated regulation of antidepressant-sensitive serotonin transporter function, cell-surface expression and phosphorylation
Authors: Rajamanickam Jeyaganesh , Annamalai Balasubramaniam , Rahbek-Clemmensen Troels , Sundaramurthy Santhanalakshmi , Gether Ulrik , Jayanthi Lankupalle D. , Ramamoorthy Sammanda
Published: March 2015

The serotonin [5-HT (5-hydroxytryptamine)] transporter (SERT) controls serotonergic neurotransmission in the brain by rapid clearance of 5-HT from the synaptic cleft into presynaptic neurons. SERTs are primary targets for antidepressants for therapeutic intervention of mood disorders. Our previous studies have identified the involvement of several signalling pathways and protein kinases in regulating SERT function, trafficking and phosphorylation. However, whether Akt/PKB (protein kinase) regulates SERT function is not known. In the present study, we made the novel observation that inhibition of Akt resulted in the down-regulation of SERT function through the regulation of SERT trafficking and phosphorylation. Akt inhibitor Akt X {10-(4′-[N-diethylamino)butyl]-2-chlorophenoxazine} reduced the endogenously phosphorylated Akt and significantly decreased 5-HT uptake and 5-HT-uptake capacity. Furthermore, SERT activity is also reduced by siRNA down-regulation of total and phospho-Akt levels. The reduction in SERT activity is paralleled by lower levels of cell-surface SERT protein, reduced SERT exocytosis with no effect on SERT endocytosis and accumulation of SERT in intracellular endocytic compartments with the most prominent localization to late endosomes and lysosomes. Akt2 inhibitor was more effective than Akt1 inhibitor in inhibiting SERT activity. Inhibition of downstream Akt kinase GSK3α/β (glycogen synthase kinase α/β) stimulates SERT function. Akt inhibition leads to a decrease in SERT basal phosphorylation. Our results provide evidence that Akt regulates SERT function and cell-surface expression by regulating the intracellular SERT distribution and plasma membrane availability, which perhaps may be linked to SERT phosphorylation state. Thus any changes in the activation of Akt and/or GSK3α/β could alter SERT-mediated 5-HT clearance and subsequently serotonergic neurotransmission.
The purification and characterization of ATP synthase complexes from the mitochondria of four fungal species
Authors: Liu Sidong , Charlesworth Thomas J. , Bason John V. , Montgomery Martin G. , Harbour Michael E. , Fearnley Ian M. , Walker John E.
Published: March 2015

The ATP synthases have been isolated by affinity chromatography from the mitochondria of the fungal species Yarrowia lipolytica, Pichia pastoris, Pichia angusta and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The subunit compositions of the purified enzyme complexes depended on the detergent used to solubilize and purify the complex, and the presence or absence of exogenous phospholipids. All four enzymes purified in the presence of n-dodecyl-β-D-maltoside had a complete complement of core subunits involved directly in the synthesis of ATP, but they were deficient to different extents in their supernumerary membrane subunits. In contrast, the enzymes from P. angusta and S. cerevisiae purified in the presence of n-decyl-β-maltose neopentyl glycol and the phospholipids 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine, cardiolipin (diphosphatidylglycerol) and 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-[phospho-rac-(1-glycerol)] had a complete complement of core subunits and also contained all of the known supernumerary membrane subunits, e, f, g, j, k and ATP8 (or Aap1), plus an additional new membrane component named subunit l, related in sequence to subunit k. The catalytic domain of the enzyme from P. angusta was more resistant to thermal denaturation than the enzyme from S. cerevisiae, but less stable than the catalytic domain of the bovine enzyme, but the stator and the integrity of the transmembrane proton pathway were most stable in the enzyme from P. angusta. The P. angusta enzyme provides a suitable source of enzyme for studying the structure of the membrane domain and properties associated with that sector of the enzyme complex.
NUCKS: a potential biomarker in cancer and metabolic disease
Authors: Qiu Beiying , Han Weiping , Tergaonkar Vinay
Published: March 2015

Nuclear, casein kinase and cyclin-dependent kinase substrate (NUCKS), a protein similar to the HMG (high-mobility group) protein family, is one of the most modified proteins in the mammalian proteome. Although very little is known about the biological roles of NUCKS, emerging clinical evidence suggests that this protein can be a biomarker and therapeutic target in various human ailments, including several types of cancer. An inverse correlation between NUCKS protein levels and body mass index in humans has also been observed. Depletion of NUCKS in mice has been reported to lead to obesity and impaired glucose homoeostasis. Genome-wide genomic and proteomic approaches have revealed that NUCKS is a chromatin regulator that affects transcription. The time is now ripe for further understanding of the role of this novel biomarker of cancer and the metabolic syndrome, and how its sundry modifications can affect its function. Such studies could reveal how NUCKS could be a link between physiological cues and human ailments.