bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drug-loadable Mesoporous Bioactive Glass Nanospheres: Biodistribution, Clearance, BRL Cellular Location and Systemic Risk Assessment via 45Ca Labelling and Histological Analysis
Authors: Sui Baiyan , Zhong Gaoren , Sun Jiao
Published: September 2016

Mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG) nanospheres with excellent drug loading property have attracted significant attention in the field of nano-medicine. However, systemic metabolism and biosafety of MBG nanospheres which are crucial issues for clinical application are yet to be fully understood. Isotope quantitative tracing combined with biochemical parameters and histopatological changes were used to analyze biodistribution, excretion path and the effect on metabolism and major organs, and then we focused on the hepatocellular location and damaging effect of MBG. The results indicated MBG possessed a longer residence time in blood. After being cleared from circulation, nanospheres were mainly distributed in the liver and were slightly internalized in the form of exogenous phagosome by hepatocyte, whereby more than 96% of nanospheres were located in the cytoplasm (nearly no nuclear involvement). A little MBG was transferred into the mitochondria, but did not cause ROS reaction. Furthermore, no abnormal metabolism and histopathological changes was observed. The accumulation of MBG nanospheres in various organs were excreted mainly through feces. This study revealed comprehensively the systemic metabolism of drug-loadable MBG nanospheres and showed nanospheres have no obvious biological risk, which provides a scientific basis for developing MBG nanospheres as a new drug delivery in clinical application.
The persistence of pesticides in atmospheric particulate phase: An emerging air quality issue
Authors: Socorro Joanna , Durand Amandine , Temime-Roussel Brice , Gligorovski Sasho , Wortham Henri , Quivet Etienne
Published: September 2016

The persistent organic pollutants (POPs) due to their physicochemical properties can be widely spread all over the globe; as such they represent a serious threat to both humans and wildlife. According to Stockholm convention out of 24 officially recognized POPs, 16 are pesticides. The atmospheric life times of pesticides, up to now were estimated based on their gas-phase reactivity. It has been only speculated that sorption to aerosol particles may increase significantly the half‐lives of pesticides in the atmosphere. The results presented here challenge the current view of the half-lives of pesticides in the lower boundary layer of the atmosphere and their impact on air quality and human health. We demonstrate that semivolatile pesticides which are mostly adsorbed on atmospheric aerosol particles are very persistent with respect to the highly reactive hydroxyl radicals (OH) that is the self-cleaning agent of the atmosphere. The half-lives in particulate phase of difenoconazole, tetraconazole, fipronil, oxadiazon, deltamethrin, cyprodinil, permethrin, and pendimethalin are in order of several days and even higher than one month, implying that these pesticides can be transported over long distances, reaching the remote regions all over the world; hence these pesticides shall be further evaluated prior to be confirmed as POPs.
Methane storage in nanoporous material at supercritical temperature over a wide range of pressures
Authors: Wu Keliu , Chen Zhangxin , Li Xiangfang , Dong Xiaohu
Published: September 2016

The methane storage behavior in nanoporous material is significantly different from that of a bulk phase, and has a fundamental role in methane extraction from shale and its storage for vehicular applications. Here we show that the behavior and mechanisms of the methane storage are mainly dominated by the ratio of the interaction between methane molecules and nanopores walls to the methane intermolecular interaction, and a geometric constraint. By linking the macroscopic properties of the methane storage to the microscopic properties of a system of methane molecules-nanopores walls, we develop an equation of state for methane at supercritical temperature over a wide range of pressures. Molecular dynamic simulation data demonstrates that this equation is able to relate very well the methane storage behavior with each of the key physical parameters, including a pore size and shape and wall chemistry and roughness. Moreover, this equation only requires one fitted parameter, and is simple, reliable and powerful in application.
Atomic and electronic structure of trilayer graphene/SiC(0001): Evidence of Strong Dependence on Stacking Sequence and charge transfer
Authors: Pierucci Debora , Brumme Thomas , Girard Jean-Christophe , Calandra Matteo , Silly Mathieu G. , Sirotti Fausto , Barbier Antoine , Mauri Francesco , Ouerghi Abdelkarim
Published: September 2016

The transport properties of few-layer graphene are the directly result of a peculiar band structure near the Dirac point. Here, for epitaxial graphene grown on SiC, we determine the effect of charge transfer from the SiC substrate on the local density of states (LDOS) of trilayer graphene using scaning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy and angle resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES). Different spectra are observed and are attributed to the existence of two stable polytypes of trilayer: Bernal (ABA) and rhomboedreal (ABC) staking. Their electronic properties strongly depend on the charge transfer from the substrate. We show that the LDOS of ABC stacking shows an additional peak located above the Dirac point in comparison with the LDOS of ABA stacking. The observed LDOS features, reflecting the underlying symmetry of the two polytypes, were reproduced by explicit calculations within density functional theory (DFT) including the charge transfer from the substrate. These findings demonstrate the pronounced effect of stacking order and charge transfer on the electronic structure of trilayer or few layer graphene. Our approach represents a significant step toward understand the electronic properties of graphene layer under electrical field.
Tlr4-mutant mice are resistant to acute alcohol-induced sterol-regulatory element binding protein activation and hepatic lipid accumulation
Authors: Zhang Zhi-Hui , Liu Xiao-Qian , Zhang Cheng , He Wei , Wang Hua , Chen Yuan-Hua , Liu Xiao-Jing , Chen Xi , Xu De-Xiang
Published: September 2016

Previous studies demonstrated that acute alcohol intoxication caused hepatic lipid accumulation. The present study showed that acute alcohol intoxication caused hepatic lipid accumulation in Tlr4-wild-type mice but not in Tlr4-mutant mice. Hepatic sterol-regulatory element binding protein (SREBP)-1, a transcription factor regulating fatty acid and triglyceride (TG) synthesis, was activated in alcohol-treated Tlr4-wild-type mice but not in Tlr4-mutant mice. Hepatic Fas, Acc, Scd-1 and Dgat-2, the key genes for fatty acid and TG synthesis, were up-regulated in alcohol-treated Tlr4-wild-type mice but not in Tlr4-mutant mice. Additional experiment showed that hepatic MyD88 was elevated in alcohol-treated Tlr4-wild-type mice but not in Tlr4-mutant mice. Hepatic NF-κB was activated in alcohol-treated Tlr4-wild-type mice but not in Tlr4-mutant mice. Moreover, hepatic GSH content was reduced and hepatic MDA level was elevated in alcohol-treated Tlr4-wild-type mice but not in Tlr4-mutant mice. Hepatic CYP2E1 was elevated in alcohol-treated Tlr4-wild-type mice but not in Tlr4-mutant mice. Hepatic p67phox and gp91phox, two NADPH oxidase subunits, were up-regulated in alcohol-treated Tlr4-wild-type mice but not in Tlr4-mutant mice. Alpha-phenyl-N-t-butylnitrone (PBN), a free radical spin-trapping agent, protected against alcohol-induced hepatic SREBP-1 activation and hepatic lipid accumulation. In conclusion, Tlr4-mutant mice are resistant to acute alcohol-induced hepatic SREBP-1 activation and hepatic lipid accumulation.
Effects of Propofol General Anesthesia on Olfactory Relearning
Authors: Jia Li-Jie , Tang Pei , Brandon Nicole R. , Luo Yan , Yu Buwei , Xu Yan
Published: September 2016

How general anesthesia interferes with sensory processing to cause amnesia remains unclear. Here, we show that activation of a learning-associated immediate early gene in rat olfactory cortices is uninterrupted by propofol, an intravenous general anesthetic with putative actions on the inhibitory GABAA receptors. Once learned under anesthesia, a novel odor can no longer re-activate the same high-level transcription programming during subsequent conscious relearning. Behavioral tests indicate that the animals’ ability to consciously relearn a pure odorant, first experienced under general anesthesia, is indeed compromised. In contrast, when a mixture of two novel odorants is first experienced under anesthesia and then relearned consciously in pairs with one of the components, the animals show a deficit in relearning only the component but not the mixture. Our results reveal a previously unknown mechanism of unconscious memory due to irreplaceable neuronal commitment under general anesthesia and support the notion that general anesthesia acts at stages beyond cellular coding to disrupt sensory integration for higher-order association.
Distinct Roles for the N- and C-terminal Regions of M-Sec in Plasma Membrane Deformation during Tunneling Nanotube Formation
Authors: Kimura Shunsuke , Yamashita Masami , Yamakami-Kimura Megumi , Sato Yusuke , Yamagata Atsushi , Kobashigawa Yoshihiro , Inagaki Fuyuhiko , Amada Takako , Hase Koji , Iwanaga Toshihiko , Ohno Hiroshi , Fukai Shuya
Published: September 2016

The tunneling nanotube (TNT) is a structure used for intercellular communication, and is a thin membrane protrusion mediating transport of various signaling molecules and cellular components. M-Sec has potent membrane deformation ability and induces TNT formation in cooperation with the Ral/exocyst complex. Here, we show that the N-terminal polybasic region of M-Sec directly binds phosphatidylinositol (4,5)-bisphosphate for its localization to the plasma membrane during the initial stage of TNT formation. We further report a crystal structure of M-Sec, which consists of helix bundles arranged in a straight rod-like shape, similar to the membrane tethering complex subunits. A positively charged surface in the C-terminal domains is required for M-Sec interaction with active RalA to extend the plasma membrane protrusions. Our results suggest that the membrane-associated M-Sec recruits active RalA, which directs the exocyst complex to form TNTs.
Telocytes in gastric lamina propria of the Chinese giant salamander, Andrias davidianus
Authors: Zhang Hui , Zhong Shengwei , Yu Pengcheng , Ge Tingting , Peng Shasha , Guo Xiaoquan , Zhou Zuohong
Published: September 2016

In this study, we attempt to identify gastric telocytes (TCs) of the Chinese giant salamander Andrias davidianus, by light microscopy, immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) methods. Toluidine blue staining showed TCs with one to two very thin and long telopodes (Tps) that were located in gastric lamina propria. Tps had characteristic structures, including podoms, podomers and dichotomous branching. Immunohistochemistry showed the existence of CD34+/PDGFRα+ TCs with moniliform Tps in stroma and were close to gastric glands and blood vessels. TEM micrographs also demonstrated the presence of TCs in interstitium between gastric glands. TCs/Tps were located in close proximity to gastric glands, blood vessels, endocrine cells and stem cells. In particular, Tps frequently surrounded stem cells. TCs and Tps, Tps and stem cells established close contacts. Moreover, the exosomes were also found near TCs/Tps. Our data confirmed the presence of TCs in gastric lamina propria of the amphibian, and suggested that TCs cooperate with resident stem cells to regulate endocrine cells and gastric glands regeneration and homeostasis.
Complex inheritance in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension patients with several mutations
Authors: Pousada Guillermo , Baloira Adolfo , Valverde Diana
Published: September 2016

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) is a rare and progressive disease with low incidence and prevalence, and elevated mortality. PAH is characterized by increased mean pulmonary artery pressure. The aim of this study was to analyse patients with combined mutations in BMPR2, ACVRL1, ENG and KCNA5 genes and to establish a genotype-phenotype correlation. Major genes were analysed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and direct sequencing. Genotype-phenotype correlation was performed. Fifty-seven (28 idiopathic PAH, 29 associated PAH group I) were included. Several mutations in different genes, classified as pathogenic by in silico analysis, were present in 26% of PAH patients. The most commonly involved gene was BMPR2 (12 patients) followed by ENG gene (9 patients). ACVRL1 and KCNA5 genes showed very low incidence of mutations (5 and 1 patients, respectively). Genotype-phenotype correlation showed statistically significant differences for gender (p = 0.045), age at diagnosis (p = 0.035), pulmonary vascular resistance (p = 0.030), cardiac index (p = 0.035) and absence of response to treatment (p = 0.011). PAH is consequence of a heterogeneous constellation of genetic arrangements. Patients with several pathogenic mutations seem to display a more severe phenotype.
Postsynaptic SDC2 induces transsynaptic signaling via FGF22 for bidirectional synaptic formation
Authors: Hu Hsiao-Tang , Umemori Hisashi , Hsueh Yi-Ping
Published: September 2016

Functional synapse formation requires tight coordination between pre- and post-synaptic termini. Previous studies have shown that postsynaptic expression of heparan sulfate proteoglycan syndecan-2 (SDC2) induces dendritic spinogenesis. Those SDC2-induced dendritic spines are frequently associated with presynaptic termini. However, how postsynaptic SDC2 accelerates maturation of corresponding presynaptic termini is unknown. Because fibroblast growth factor 22 (FGF22), a heparan sulfate binding growth factor, has been shown to act as a presynaptic organizer released from the postsynaptic site, it seems possible that postsynaptic SDC2 presents FGF22 to the presynaptic FGF receptor to promote presynaptic differentiation. Here, we show that postsynaptic SDC2 uses its ectodomain to interact with and facilitate dendritic filopodial targeting of FGF22, triggering presynaptic maturation. Since SDC2 also enhances filopodial targeting of NMDAR via interaction with the CASK-mLIN7-MINT1 adaptor complex, presynaptic maturation promoted by FGF22 further feeds back to activate NMDAR at corresponding postsynaptic sites through increased neurotransmitter release and, consequently, promotes the dendritic filopodia-spines (F-S) transition. Meanwhile, via regulation of the KIF17 motor, CaMKII (activated by the NMDAR pathway) may further facilitate FGF22 targeting to dendritic filopodia that receive presynaptic stimulation. Our study suggests a positive feedback that promotes the coordination of postsynaptic and presynaptic differentiation.
Alterations in flowering strategies and sexual allocation of Caragana stenophylla along a climatic aridity gradient
Authors: Xie Lina , Guo Hongyu , Ma Chengcang
Published: September 2016

Plant can alter reproductive strategies for adaptation to different environments. However, alterations in flowering strategies and sexual allocation for the same species growing in different environments still remain unclear. We examined the sexual reproduction parameters ofCaragana stenophyllaacross four climatic zones from semi-arid, arid, very arid, to intensively arid zones in the Inner Mongolia Steppe, China. Under the relatively favorable climatic conditions of semi-arid zone,C. stenophyllatook aK-strategy for flowering (fewer but bigger flowers and higher seed set). In contrast, under the harsher climatic conditions of intensively arid zone,C. stenophyllatook anr-strategy for flowering (more but smaller flowers and lower seed set). In arid and very arid zones,C. stenophyllaexhibited intermediate flowering strategies betweenK-andr-strategies. In semi-arid, arid and very arid zones, sexual allocation and sexual allocation efficiency (SAE) ofC. stenophyllawere high and the population recruitment might be mainly through sexual reproduction; in intensively arid zone, however, sexual allocation and SAE were very low, seed production was very limited and clonal reproduction might compensate for the decrease in sexual reproduction. Our results suggested thatC. stenophyllaadapted to the climatic aridity gradient by alterations in flowering strategies and reproductive allocation.
Towards low-cost bioanalytical tools for sarcosine assays for cancer diagnostics
Authors: Mazzu-Nascimento Thiago , Gomes Carneiro Leão Paulo Augusto , Catai Jonatan Ricardo , Morbioli Giorgio Gianini , Carrilho Emanuel
Published: September 2016

Sarcosine is an amino acid that has been listed as a new indicator for prostate cancer.
Inkjet printing on transparency films for reagent storage with polyester–toner microdevices
Authors: Krauss Shannon T. , Remcho Thomas P. , Monazami Ehsan , Thompson Brandon L. , Reinke Petra , Begley Matthew R. , Landers James P.
Published: September 2016

The use of overhead transparencies as substrates for the fabrication of microfluidic devices brings new capabilities in the creation of fully-integrated systems.
Recent advances in microscale western blotting
Authors: Sanders Brittany J. , Kim Daniel C. , Dunn Robert C.
Published: September 2016

Recent innovations in microscale western blotting are surveyed, and the potential for enhancing detection using advances in label-free biosensing is briefly discussed.
Synthesis and photophysical properties of C3-symmetric tris(pyridyl)truxene scaffolds of Ru(ii) and Re(i)
Authors: Norouzi-Arasi Hassan , Pal Amlan K. , Nag Samik , Chartrand Daniel , Hanan Garry S.
Published: September 2016

Facial Ru(ii)- and Re(i)-complexes of a novel face-capping tris(pyridyl)truxene ligand were synthesised and characterised by various analytical techniques including single crystal XRD.
Orientation and stability of a bi-functional aromatic organic molecular adsorbate on silicon
Authors: O'Donnell K. M. , Hedgeland H. , Moore G. , Suleman A. , Siegl M. , Thomsen L. , Warschkow O. , Schofield S. R.
Published: September 2016

In this work we combine scanning tunneling microscopy, near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, X-ray photoemission spectroscopy and density functional theory to resolve a long-standing confusion regarding the adsorption behaviour of benzonitrile on Si(001) at room temperature.
Aggregation-induced emission and intermolecular charge transfer effect in triphenylamine fluorophores containing diphenylhydrazone structures
Authors: Yang Wen , Li Chunchun , Zhang Mengmeng , Zhou Weiqun , Xue Renyu , Liu Haili , Li Youyong
Published: September 2016

Three new compounds linked to triphenylamine and mono-, di- and tri-branched diphenylhydrazone were synthesized and characterized. Mono- and di-branched triphenylamines showed the increasing blue fluorescence and presented the AIEE effect in aggregated states. However, the tri-branched triphenylamine emitted green fluorescence and presented AIE effect.
Anomalies in thermal expansion and heat capacity of TmB50at low temperatures: magnetic phase transition and crystal electric field effect
Authors: Novikov V. V. , Zhemoedov N. A. , Mitroshenkov N. V. , Matovnikov A. V.
Published: September 2016

We experimentally study the heat capacity and thermal expansion of thulium boride (TmB50) at temperatures of 2–300 K.
Rare-earth metal diisopropylamide-catalyzed intramolecular hydroamination
Authors: Spallek Tatiana , Anwander Reiner
Published: September 2016

Well-defined rare-earth metal diisopropylamide complexes provide an exemplary case study to investigate the effect of donor solvent, alkali metal, chloro co-ligands, and in situ catalyst formation.
High current density, long duration cycling of soluble organic active species for non-aqueous redox flow batteries
Authors: Milshtein Jarrod D. , Kaur Aman Preet , Casselman Matthew D. , Kowalski Jeffrey A. , Modekrutti Subrahmanyam , Zhang Peter L. , Harsha Attanayake N. , Elliott Corrine F. , Parkin Sean R. , Risko Chad , Brushett Fikile R. , Odom Susan A.
Published: September 2016

Symmetric flow cell cycling of a soluble phenothiazine.
A passive dosing method to determine fugacity capacities and partitioning properties of leaves
Authors: Bolinius Damien Johann , MacLeod Matthew , McLachlan Michael S. , Mayer Philipp , Jahnke Annika
Published: September 2016

Passive dosing from silicone is used to determine the capacity of leaves to take up chemicals from air and water, which can result in transfer to food webs or soil.
Sargassum fusiforme polysaccharides activate antioxidant defense by promoting Nrf2-dependent cytoprotection and ameliorate stress insult during aging
Authors: Chen Peichao , He Dan , Zhang Ya , Yang Shanshan , Chen Liujun , Wang Shengqin , Zou Huixi , Liao Zhiyong , Zhang Xu , Wu Mingjiang
Published: September 2016

Feeding mice with the SFPS, a kind of polysaccharide extracted fromSargassum fusiforme, delays the aging process.
Oxidative cleavage of some cellulosic substrates by auxiliary activity (AA) family 9 enzymes influences the adsorption/desorption of hydrolytic cellulase enzymes
Authors: Hu Jinguang , Pribowo Amadeus , Saddler Jack N.
Published: September 2016

The addition of Lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase (LPMO's) increases the desorption of exoglucanases during the hydrolysis of cellulosic substrates.
Membranolytic anticancer peptides
Authors: Gabernet G. , Müller A. T. , Hiss J. A. , Schneider G.
Published: September 2016

Understanding the structure–activity relationships and mechanisms of action of membranolytic anticancer peptides could help them advance to therapeutic success.
Phosphorus–nitrogen compounds. Part 36. Syntheses, Langmuir–Blodgett thin films and biological activities of spiro-bino-spiro trimeric phosphazenes
Authors: Asmafiliz Nuran , Kılıç Zeynel , Civan Mehmet , Avcı Orhan , Yasemin Gönder (née Koç) L. , Açık Leyla , Aydın Betül , Türk Mustafa , Hökelek Tuncer
Published: September 2016

The syntheses, spectroscopic and crystallographic properties, LB films, antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of spiro-bino-spiro phosphazenes were investigated.
Triggering apoptosis in cancer cells with an analogue of cribrostatin 6 that elevates intracellular ROS
Authors: Asby D. J. , Radigois M. G. , Wilson D. C. , Cuda F. , Chai C. L. L. , Chen A. , Bienemann A. S. , Light M. E. , Harrowven D. C. , Tavassoli A.
Published: September 2016

A synthetic analogue of the marine natural product cribrostatin 6 is synthesized that selectively triggers apoptosis in cancer cells via elevation of intracellular ROS.
Fluorescent amphiphilic heterografted comb polymers comprising biocompatible PLA and PEtOx side chains
Authors: Yildirim Ilknur , Bus Tanja , Sahn Martin , Yildirim Turgay , Kalden Diana , Hoeppener Stephanie , Traeger Anja , Westerhausen Matthias , Weber Christine , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: September 2016

The comb polymers are synthesized in three independent steps by ROP, CROP, and RAFT.
Synergetic effect of the epoxide functional groups in the photocatalyzed atom transfer radical copolymerization of glycidyl methacrylate
Authors: Yang Qizhi , Balverde Sophie , Dumur Frédéric , Lalevée Jacques , Poly Julien
Published: September 2016

Methyl methacrylate (MMA) and glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) were copolymerized by photocatalyzed atom transfer radical polymerization under visible light irradiation. The polymerization was made faster by the epoxide group, which played the role of a reducing agent and thus favored the regeneration of the activator.
Bi nonstoichiometry and composition engineering in (1 − x)Bi1+yFeO3+3y/2− xBaTiO3ceramics
Authors: Zheng Ting , Ding Yi , Wu Jiagang
Published: September 2016

Rhombohedral–pseudocubic (R–C) phase boundary was formed in the ceramics through the addition of BaTiO3. Enhanced piezoelectricity and ferroelectricity can be achieved in a wide composition range due to the formation of R–C phase boundary.
Microbial assisted industrially important multiple enzymes from fish processing waste: purification, characterization and application for the simultaneous hydrolysis of lipid and protein molecules
Authors: Hepziba Suganthi S. , Ramani K.
Published: September 2016

Fish processing waste (FPW) was evaluated as the substrate for the concomitant production of industrially important alkaline lipase and protease byStreptomyces thermolineatusfor the hydrolysis of lipid and protein rich FPW.
Transport properties of microemulsions with ionic liquid apolar domains as a function of ionic liquid content
Authors: Piekart Jakub , Łuczak Justyna
Published: September 2016

The conductivity, dynamic viscosity and diffusion coefficient of aqueous ionic liquid microemulsions were measured as a function of ionic liquid content. ​The conclusions from transport properties were supported by UV-Vis as well as FTIR measurements.
On-line monitoring of the aggregate size distribution of Carthamus tinctorius L. cells with multi-frequency capacitance measurements
Authors: Liu Yu , Wang Ze-Jian , Li Lan , Cui Xiaolin , Chu Ju , Zhang Si-Liang , Zhuang Ying-Ping
Published: September 2016

This study provided an effective methodology for the aggregate size distribution measurement of Carthamus tinctorius L. cells during suspension culture.
One-step electrochemical fabrication of a nickel oxide nanoparticle/polyaniline nanowire/graphene oxide hybrid on a glassy carbon electrode for use as a non-enzymatic glucose biosensor
Authors: Zhuang Xuming , Tian Chunyuan , Luan Feng , Wu Xuran , Chen Lingxin
Published: September 2016

A non-enzymatic glucose biosensor was developed by the one-step electrodeposition fabrication of nickel oxide nanoparticles/polyaniline nanowire hybrids on a graphene oxide/glassy carbon electrode.
One-pot hydrothermal synthesis of ZSM-5–CeO2 composite as a support for Cr-based nanocatalysts: influence of ceria loading and process conditions on CO2-enhanced dehydrogenation of ethane
Authors: Rahmani Farhad , Haghighi Mohammad
Published: September 2016

The oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane in the presence of CO2 was investigated over a series of Cr impregnated ZSM-5–CeO2 nanocatalysts with the aim of exploring the ceria addition effect.
Lipid production by Yarrowia lipolytica grown on biodiesel-derived crude glycerol: optimization of growth parameters and their effects on the fermentation efficiency
Authors: Sara Magdouli , Brar Satinder Kaur , Blais Jean François
Published: September 2016

Yarrowia lipolytica, a well-known oleaginous strain for single cell oil (SCO) production was grown in nitrogen-limited flask cultures.
Thermal, mechanical and magnetic properties of functionalized magnetite/vinyl ester nanocomposites
Authors: Jiang Dawei , Huan Yinghong , Sun Caiying , Hu Chunping , Guo Jiang , Long Jun , Khan Mojammel A. , Young David P. , Guo Zhanhu
Published: September 2016

Thiol functionalized magnetite nanoparticles increased the mechanical properties of the polymer matrix while introducing magnetic properties.
Mesoporous iron oxide nanowires: synthesis, magnetic and photocatalytic properties
Authors: Gandha Kinjal , Mohapatra Jeotikanta , Hossain Mohammad Kabir , Elkins Kevin , Poudyal Narayan , Rajeshwar Krishnan , Liu J. Ping
Published: September 2016

Controlled synthesis of mesoporous iron oxide nanowire nanohybrids with enhanced visible light-driven photocatalytic activity.
An improved model for exploring the effect of physicochemical properties of alginate-based microcapsules on their fibrosis formation in vivo
Authors: Zheng Huizhen , Li Shen , Gao Meng , Ren Ying , Zheng Guoshuang , Xie Hongguo , Yu Weiting , Wang Xiuli , Ma Xiaojun
Published: September 2016

An effectivein vitromodel established forexploring the effect ofthephysicochemical properties of alginate-based microcapsules on their fibrosis formation.
The adsorption and catalytic oxidation of the element mercury over cobalt modified Ce–ZrO2 catalyst
Authors: Zhang X. P. , Cui Y. Z. , Tan B. J. , Wang J. X. , Li Z. F. , He G. H.
Published: September 2016

Co modification dramatically enhances Hg0 removal efficiency because of the increased surface active oxygen species.
Coumarin functionalized thiocarbonohydrazones as a new class of chromofluorescent receptors for selective detection of fluoride ion
Authors: Sahu Satya Narayan , Padhan Subrata Kumar , Sahu Prabhat Kumar
Published: September 2016

Thiocarbonohydrazone receptors selectively recognize fluoride ionsviaH-bond interactions and subsequent deprotonation to elicit a distinct visual and fluorescence colour change.
New holder configurations for use in the diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) technique
Authors: Ding Shiming , Wang Yan , Zhang Liping , Xu Lv , Gong Mengdan , Zhang Chaosheng
Published: September 2016

This study reports two new holder configurations that can be used in the diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) technique, including a dual-mode holder and a new flat-type holder.
Correction: Enhanced photovoltaic characteristics of MoS2/Si hybrid solar cells by metal Pd chemical doping
Authors: Hao L. Z. , Liu Y. J. , Gao W. , Liu Y. M. , Han Z. D. , Xue Q. Z. , Zhu J.
Published: September 2016

Correction for ‘Enhanced photovoltaic characteristics of MoS2/Si hybrid solar cells by metal Pd chemical doping’ by L. Z. Hao et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 1346–1350.
The interplay between chemistry and heat/mass transfer during the fast pyrolysis of cellulose
Authors: Westerhof R. J. M. , Oudenhoven S. R. G. , Marathe P. S. , Engelen M. , Garcia-Perez M. , Wang Z. , Kersten S. R. A.
Published: September 2016

The interplay of chemistry, heat and mass transfer at particle and reactor levels was studied for the fast pyrolysis of cellulose.
Diagnostic appraisal of grade 12 students' understanding of reaction kinetics
Authors: Yan Yaw Kai , Subramaniam R.
Published: September 2016

The study explored grade 12 students' understanding of reaction kinetics, a topic which has not been extensively explored in the chemistry education literature at this level. A 3-tier diagnostic instrument with 11 questions was developed – this format is of very recent origin and has been the subject of only a handful of studies. The findings reveal that reaction kinetics is not an easy topic for the students to understand. A total of 23 alternative conceptions (ACs) as well as some indication of their strengths and other confidence-related measures have been documented for the students (N = 137) – most of these ACs have not been reported before. When the overall scores of the students in the diagnostic test are ranked, it was found that there are a number of differences in the ACs held by students in the upper and lower 25% of the sample. While most of the ACs held by these groups are common to the overall sample, a number of these are not found in the overall sample. The findings further underscore the diagnostic utility of the 3-tier format. Some implications of the findings are discussed.
Stable α/δ phase junction of formamidinium lead iodide perovskites for enhanced near-infrared emission
Authors: Ma Fusheng , Li Jiangwei , Li Wenzhe , Lin Na , Wang Liduo , Qiao Juan
Published: September 2016

A stable α/δ phase junction of formamidinium lead iodide perovskites was realized via controllable precursors at a low annealing temperature for enhanced near-infrared emission.
Triazine-based covalent organic polymers: design, synthesis and applications in heterogeneous catalysis
Authors: Puthiaraj Pillaiyar , Lee Yu-Ri , Zhang Siqian , Ahn Wha-Seung
Published: September 2016

The development of triazine-based COPs using different building blocks or alternative synthetic chemical reactions and their potential application in heterogeneous catalysis.
Novel ultrasensitive homogeneous electrochemical aptasensor based on dsDNA-templated copper nanoparticles for the detection of ractopamine
Authors: Sheng Feifan , Zhang Xiaojun , Wang Guangfeng
Published: September 2016

Herein, we describe a novel homogenous electrochemical aptasensor for the ultrasensitive detection of ractopamine (RAC) based on the signal amplification of a hairpin DNA cascade amplifier (HDCA) and electrocatalysis of dsDNA-templated copper nanoparticles.
Dicyanovinyl-substituted indolo[3,2-b]indole derivatives: low-band-gap π-conjugated molecules for a single-component ambipolar organic field-effect transistor
Authors: Cho Illhun , Park Sang Kyu , Kang Boseok , Chung Jong Won , Kim Jin Hong , Yoon Won Sik , Cho Kilwon , Park Soo Young
Published: September 2016

Viathe cooperative effects of intramolecular charge transfer interactions and extension of conjugation, low-band gap organic semiconductors have successfully been prepared.
Effect of substituents in a series of carbazole-based host-materials toward high-efficiency carbene-based blue OLEDs
Authors: Nagai Yuji , Sasabe Hisahiro , Ohisa Satoru , Kido Junji
Published: September 2016

In this study, we systematically investigated the effect of substituents in a series of carbazole-based host material toward blue OLED performances using a carbene-based phosphorescent emitter, mer-tris(N-dibenzofuranyl-N′-methylimidazole)iridium(iii) [Ir(dbfmi)].
Apple peel polyphenols: a key player in the prevention and treatment of experimental inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Denis Marie-Claude , Roy Denis , Yeganeh Pantea Rahmani , Desjardins Yves , Varin Thibault , Haddad Nour , Amre Devendra , Sané Alain Théophile , Garofalo Carole , Furtos Alexandra , Patey Natalie , Delvin Edgard , Tremblay Eric , Marette André , Beaulieu Jean-François , Levy Emile
Published: September 2016

Diets rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce oxidative stress (OxS) and inflammation via several mechanisms. These beneficial effects may be due to their high polyphenol content. The aims of the present study are to evaluate the preventive and therapeutic aspects of polyphenols in dried apple peel powder (DAPP) on intestinal inflammation while elucidating the underlying mechanisms and clinical benefits. Induction of intestinal inflammation in mice was performed by oral administration of the inflammatory agent dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) at 2.5% for 10 days. Physiological and supraphysiological doses of DAPP (200 and 400 mg/kg/day respectively) were administered by gavage for 10 days pre- and post-DSS treatment. DSS-mediated inflammation caused weight loss, shortening of the colon, dystrophic detachment of the epithelium, and infiltration of mono- and poly-morphonuclear cells in the colon. DSS induced an increase in lipid peroxidation, a down-regulation of antioxidant enzymes, an augmented expression of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an elevated production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and a shift in mucosa-associated microbial composition. However, DAPP normalized most of these abnormalities in preventive or therapeutic situations in addition to lowering inflammatory cytokines while stimulating antioxidant transcription factors and modulating other potential healing pathways. The supraphysiological dose of DAPP in therapeutic situations also improved mitochondrial dysfunction. Relative abundance of Peptostreptococcaceae and Enterobacteriaceae bacteria was slightly decreased in DAPP-treated mice. In conclusion, DAPP exhibits powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action in the intestine and is associated with the regulation of cellular signalling pathways and changes in microbiota composition. Evaluation of preventive and therapeutic effects of DAPP may be clinically feasible in individuals with intestinal inflammatory bowel diseases.
1–2 GHz 2 mW injection‐locked ring oscillator based phase shifter in 0.18 µm CMOS technology
Authors: Jin Cai Long , Yu Xiao Peng , Sui Wen‐Quan
Published: September 2016

A new phase shifter based on injection‐locked ring oscillator is proposed. By using a multi‐stage phase generator with voltage‐controlled injection locking technique, the proposed phase shifter is able to generate a flexible combination of coarse and fine‐tuned phase delays over a wide range of operating frequencies while a small silicon area is maintained. Fabricated in a 0.18 µm RF CMOS process which only occupies 50 × 40 µm, a proposed three‐stage phase shifter achieves flexible phase delays and a measured operating frequency up to 2 GHz with a maximum power consumption of 2 mW from a 1.8 V supply.
Wideband RCS reduction of patch antenna using PRRS
Authors: Zou Shixi , Wei Jiaolong , Man Xin
Published: September 2016

A polarisation rotation reflective surface (PRRS) is proposed to achieve radar cross‐section (RCS) reduction of a patch antenna at a broadband. The PRRS consists of two pairs of L‐shaped patches, which are printed on a substrate backed by a metallic ground. By arranging the PRRS around the patch antenna in four orthogonal directions, a wideband RCS reduction can be obtained in the frequency band of 10–18 GHz. The proposed low‐RCS patch antenna is fabricated and measured in an anechoic chamber. The experimental results show that the designed PRRS makes the antenna RCS dramatically reduced. What is more, the introduction of PRRS has little influence on the antenna performance.
Sensitivity‐based relaxation and decomposition method to dynamic reactive power optimisation considering DGs in active distribution networks
Authors: Ding Tao , Liu Shiyu , Wu Zhongyu , Bie Zhaohong
Published: September 2016

With the development of active distribution networks, new challenges such as overvoltage and power loss become critical. The reactive power optimisation serves as a voltage control measure to minimise the total transmission loss by coordinating the continuous and discrete reactive power compensators while guaranteeing the specific physical and operating constraints. To address the daily operating times of discrete control variables, the dynamic reactive power optimisation (DRPO) is set up to minimise total energy loss over several time periods when considering the inter‐temporal constraints. However, DRPO is in fact a large‐scale mixed integer non‐linear non‐convex programming that is difficult to solve. Therefore, second‐order cones are employed to relax the non‐convex power flow equations to obtain a mixed integer second order cone programming model. Furthermore, a sensitivity‐based relaxation and decomposition method is proposed to further improve the computational performance. Solution quality and computational performance are compared with traditional methods on IEEE‐33, 123 and 615‐bus systems as well as two real‐world distribution networks in China. The Results demonstrate that the fast performance and effectiveness of the proposed technique.
Improvement of backward/forward sweep power flow method by using modified breadth‐first search strategy
Authors: Alinjak Tomislav , Pavić Ivica , Stojkov Marinko
Published: September 2016

This study presents an improvement of three phase backward/forward sweep (BFS) power flow calculation algorithm for radial distribution systems. BFS power flow method is an iterative method that is usually used for power flow calculations in distribution networks due to its convergence and easy applicability. The improvement of commonly used BFS method is based on using breadth‐first search method for creation of modified incidence matrix. Such incidence matrix ensures minimum number of searching for connections between nodes. The result is much faster algorithm without accuracy loss. The calculation duration is especially important for real time calculations in active management of distribution system. Reduction of calculation duration by the proposed method is especially expressed in power flow calculations of unbalanced radial networks such as low voltage networks. The proposed method is tested on several unbalanced distribution networks and compared with commonly used BFS method. Results show that the proposed algorithm is accurate and more efficient than compared method.
Study on the hybrid ion‐flow field of HVDC and HVAC transmission lines by the nodal discontinuous Galerkin time‐domain method
Authors: Tian Yi , Huang Xinbo , Tian Wenchao , Zhu Yongcan , Zhao Long , Zhang Ye
Published: September 2016

The high‐voltage direct current (HVDC) and HV alternating current (HVAC) hybrid transmission lines in the same corridor is an effective way to enhance the power transmission capacity of the corridor and save land resource. The transmission lines parameters such as the corridor width, the height of transmission lines, and electromagnetic environment can be analysed and optimised by the calculation of the hybrid ion‐flow field. In this study, nodal discontinuous Galerkin time‐domain method is for the first time applied to the calculation of the hybrid ion‐flow field. Furthermore, corona interactions between the HVDC and HVAC lines are considered in the process of numerical solution. Compared with measured results and previous methods, the proposed approach is verified to be able to obtain wiggle‐free numerical solution with significantly reducing the computational burden, and meanwhile, the calculation precision is increased greatly. The ground‐level electric field and ion current density of the hybrid lines in time domain are analysed, and then the time‐domain characteristic is explored. Finally, the ion‐flow fields of the hybrid ±800 kV DC/500 kV AC transmission lines in parallel and on the same tower have been made a comparative analysis and optimisation, which provide theoretical basis for real hybrid towers design.
Field trial of a photonics‐based dual‐band fully coherent radar system in a maritime scenario
Authors: Scotti Filippo , Laghezza Francesco , Onori Daniel , Bogoni Antonella
Published: September 2016

This study reports the experimental validation of the first photonics‐based dual‐band radar system in a real maritime scenario, detailing the operation principles as well as the implementation of the demonstrator. The prototype, exploiting photonics for both the generation and the detection of the radar signals, is able to simultaneously handle two radar waveforms in the S‐band and the X‐band, ensuring also their reciprocal phase coherence. The proposed system implementation is fully detailed and its characterisation is reported, demonstrating a minimum detectable signal of −124 dBm. Finally, the system is tested in a real scenario, nearby the port of Livorno (Italy), where it successfully detects multiple naval targets, and tracks a cooperative vessel for 8 NM. The obtained results are compared with reference data from automatic identification system and global positioning system recorders, showing a perfect match in terms of range and velocity, both in the S‐ and X‐band. Moreover a theoretical analysis of the power budget, considering also the radar cross section in the different frequency bands, is carried out and supported by the experimental observations. Beyond the actual implementation of the proposed system, the outcomes of these tests confirm that the photonics‐based approach can lead new advances in radar architecture, through the development of frequency‐agile photonic transceivers.
Micromachining approach for improving uniformity of the topography of microchannels
Authors: Kouravand Shahriar , Moetakef Imani Behnam , Kermani Ali Mashaallah
Published: September 2016

Surface topography has an important role in the motion of fluid in microchannels due to the fluid boundary layer. The cross surface roughness variations result in some problems such as turbulence, confusion in microchannel's work and in creating vortex. In this research, the topography of the floor in the microchannel is investigated experimentally. A large difference between surface topography of the sides and channel's centreline is observed. The main reason for this difference is the effect of the back cutting in trochoidal paths. A new approach is proposed to solve this problem and decrease the amount of cross surface roughness variations by eliminating the effect of back cutting. The efficiency of the proposed approach is confirmed by experiments. Scanning electron microscope images show that using this method the topography of the surface is uniformed.
Somatostatin Receptor Type 2 (SSTR2) Internalization and Intracellular Trafficking in Pituitary GH-Secreting Adenomas: Role of Scaffold Proteins and Implications for Pharmacological Resistance
Authors: Treppiedi D. , Peverelli E. , Giardino E. , Ferrante E. , Calebiro D. , Spada A. , Mantovani G.
Published: September 2016

Somatostatin receptor type 2 (SSTR2), together with SSTR5, represents the main target of medical treatment for growth hormone (GH)-secreting pituitary tumors, since it is expressed in most of these tumors and exerts both antiproliferative and cytostatic effects, and reduces hormone secretion, as well. However, clinical practice indicates a great variability in the frequency and entity of favorable responses of acromegalic patients to long-acting somatostatin analogues (SSAs), but the molecular mechanisms regulating this pharmacological resistance are not completely understood. So far, several potentially implied mechanisms have been suggested, including impaired expression of SSTRs, or post-receptor signal transduction alterations. More recently, new studies exploited the molecular factors involved in SSTRs intracellular trafficking regulation, this being a critical point for the modulation of the available active G-coupled receptors (GPCRs) amount at the cell surface. In this respect, the role of the scaffold proteins such as β-arrestins, and the cytoskeleton protein Filamin A (FLNA), have become of relevant importance for GH-secreting pituitary tumors. In fact, β-arrestins are linked to SSTR2 desensitization and internalization, and FLNA is able to regulate SSTR2 trafficking and stability at the plasma membrane. Therefore, the present review will summarize emerging evidence highlighting the role of β-arrestins and FLNA, as possible novel players in the modulation of agonist activated-SSTR2 receptor trafficking and response in GH-secreting pituitary tumors.
Gravitational waves generated by laser accelerated relativistic ions
Authors: Gelfer Evgeny G. , Kadlecová Hedvika , Klimo Ondřej , Weber Stefan , Korn Georg
Published: September 2016

The generation of gravitational waves by laser accelerated relativistic ions is investigated. The piston and light sail models of laser plasma acceleration are considered, and analytical expressions for space-time metric perturbation are derived. For both models, the dependence of gravitational wave amplitude on the laser and plasma parameters as well as gravitational wave spectrum and angular distribution is examined.
Observation of dust acoustic multi-solitons in a strongly coupled dusty plasma
Authors: Boruah A. , Sharma S. K. , Nakamura Y. , Bailung H.
Published: September 2016

The excitation and propagation of low frequency dust acoustic multi-solitons are investigated in an unmagnetized strongly coupled dusty plasma. A floating 2D dusty medium is produced in an RF discharge Ar plasma with silica micro-particles. Dust acoustic perturbations are excited by applying a negative sinusoidal pulse of frequency 1–2 Hz and amplitude 4–20 V to an exciter grid. An initial large amplitude dust density compression breaks into a number of solitary pulses which are identified as dust acoustic solitons. The observed multi-soliton evolution is compared with numerical simulations of modified Korteweg de Vries (KdV)-Burger equation. The characteristics of the generated solitons are in good agreement with the theory.
Free ergodic ℤ²-systems and complexity
Authors: Cyr Van , Kra Bryna
Published: September 2016

Using results relating the complexity of a two dimensional subshift to its periodicity, we obtain an application to the well-known conjecture of Furstenberg on a Borel probability measure on

[
0
,
1
)

[0,1)

which is invariant under both

x
↦
p
x

(
mod

1
)

x\mapsto px \pmod 1

and

x
↦
q
x

(
mod

1
)

x\mapsto qx \pmod 1

, showing that any potential counterexample has a nontrivial lower bound on its complexity.