Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Very High Mobility in Solution-Processed Organic Thin-Film Transistors of Highly Ordered [1]Benzothieno[3,2-b]benzothiophene Derivatives

Field-effect mobility as high as 5 cm2/(V s) is achieved in solution-processed organic thin-film transistors with the development of a method for growing highly-oriented crystalline films of [1]benzothieno[3,2-b]benzothiophene derivatives. A droplet of the solution is sustained at an edge of a structure on an inclined substrate, so that the crystalline domain grows in the direction of inclination. The oriented growth realizes excellent molecular ordering that manifests itself in micrometer-scale molecular terraces on the surface as a result of the self-organizing function of the material. The unprecedented performance achieved using an easy fabrication process has increased attractiveness of organic thin-film transistors for industrial applications.
Predicting Methane Emission from Bryophyte Distribution in Northern Canadian Peatlands

A predictive model for bryophyte distribution, water table position, and seasonal mean methane (CH{sub 4}) emission was developed for two areas of northern peatland: the Clay Belt of Ontario and the Labrador Trough of Quebec. Water table position and CH{sub 4} flux were the most important environmental variables in canonical correspondence analyses (CCA) of bryophyte data. Water chemistry constituted a second environmental gradient, independent of hydrology and CH{sub 4} flux. Weighted averaging regression and calibration were used to develop a model for predicting log CH{sub 4} flux from bryophyte distribution. The model showed an increase in log CH{sub 4} flux from hummock to carpet and pool species, corresponding with a decrease in height above the mean water table position. The exceptions were rich-fen pool species, which had low CH{sub 4} flux optima in spite of their moisture status. Tolerances were greatest for mid-hummock species and least for carpet and pool species. No overlap in tolerances occurred between hummock and pool species, suggesting that at either end of the height gradient are the best predictors of CH{sub 4} flux. Error analyses showed that bryophytes are equally as effective as water table position for predicting mean CH{sub 4} flux. Bryophytes are distributedmore » in well-defined zones along microtopographic gradients: they integrate long-term changes in the water table, which fluctuates on a daily and seasonal basis along with CH{sub 4} flux, and may be more easily mapped with remote-sensing techniques. Bryophytes, however, are only useful for predicting CH{sub 4} flux within a region; similar species values cannot be extrapolated to other northern peatlands where different climatic and biogeochemical factors may exist. The model may be used in paleoreconstructions of methane emission and for biological monitoring of climate change. 62 refs., 8 figs., 3 tabs. « less
Research of the atmosphere propagation characteristics of solar-blind ultraviolet communication

Solar-Blind Ultraviolet Optics Communication is a new type of communication system in atmosphere optics communication fields. Its excellent performances such as safety, 24-hour service, anti-interference, non-line-of-sight, make it different from infrared optics communication. Hence, the solar-blind ultraviolet optics communication gratified the need of special and confidential communication in army. The atmosphere propagation characteristics of the solar-blind ultraviolet is still a difficulty of the communication system. In order to solve this problem, this paper majored on the influences of the solar-blind ultraviolet propagation by the absorption of ozone, the scattering of atmospheric molecule and aerosol.
A generalized scaling of a chiral index for molecules

We propose a scaling of an intrinsic molecular chirality index calculated from atomic positions. Its application to the design of chiral molecules through a consideration of atomic or group chiral indices is discussed for a range of molecules from small molecules to liquid crystal molecules. It is found to indicate the trend in change of chirality of a molecule caused by an atom or group substitution. Comparison is made between the method of scaling and an analytic calculation of the index for an orthogonal tetrahedron. We investigate the effect of substitution of atoms and groups in real liquid crystal molecules by application of the generalized chiral index.
Handling Spillover Effects in Empirical Corporate Finance

Despite their importance, the discussion of spillover effects in empirical research often misses the rigor dedicated to endogeneity concerns. We analyze a broad set of workhorse models of firm interactions and show that spillovers naturally arise in many corporate finance settings. This has important implications for the estimation of treatment effects: i) even with random treatment, spillovers lead to an intricate bias, ii) fixed effects can exacerbate the spillover-induced bias. We develop guidance for empirical researchers, use our method to analyze the effect of a credit supply shock on employment, and highlight differences in results compared to current empirical practice.
Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Study of Essential Oil from the Leaves of Curcuma haritha Mangaly and Sabu

Abstract The essential oil obtained from the fresh leaves of Curcuma haritha by hydrodistillation was analysed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Forty one constituents, representing 97.0 % of the analysed oil constituted mainly by oxygenated mono and sesqui terpenes. Curdione (18.3 %), 1,8-cineole (11.8 %), camphor (11.8 %), furanogermenone (8.6 %) and furanodiene (8.9 %) were identified as the major constituents in C. haritha leaf oil. The in vitro antimicrobial activity of the leaf oil was studied by agar disc diffusion technique. The leaf essential oil was tested against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains and pathogenic fungal species of Candida. The leaf oil at 1:1 dilution with DMSO was found to be more active against fungal strains than bacterial strains. Antibacterial activity was significant only against Gram positive bacterium, Staphylococcus aureus.
Organic matter returns to soils must be higher under organic compared to conventional farming

The aim of this paper is to discuss the demand of fresh organic matter (FOM) supply to maintain soil organic matter (SOM) levels and productivity of arable soils under organic management. The basic question is whether the different frame conditions in organic vs. conventional farming result in a different and system-specific FOM demand. If this is the case, it would follow that the farming system has to be considered in the calculation of SOM balances. SOM balances are the most common decision support tools in organic matter management. A conversion to organic farming in practice usually leads to an increase of SOM levels as well as soil microbial activity over time. The system-specific driver of this effect is the indispensable extension of the share of (perennial) legumes in crop rotations at the expense of non-legumes such as cereals, row crops, and maize. Extended legume cropping is essential for N supply in crop rotations as the import of N fertilizer in total is limited by organic farming regulations and mineral N fertilizer may not be used at all. Based on this characteristic of organic management, we argue that the demand of FOM supply to soils must be higher than in conventional crop production. The most relevant factors are (1) the non-existence of mineral N fertilizer as an external N source that supports the maintenance of SOM by decreasing the demand for SOM-N, (2) benefits of increasing SOM stocks and turnover for soil productivity under organic management, and, (3) increased mass-losses of FOM and easily degradable SOM compartments due to higher microbial activity in soils. These effects have to be quantified and must be considered in SOM balances in order to avoid misleading assessments and erroneous decisions.
Examination of the molecular diversity of α1 antitrypsin in urine: Deficit of an α1 globulin fraction on cellulose acetate membrane electrophoresis

In the clinical field of nephrology, a noninvasive approach employing the analysis of electrophoretic patterns in urinary protein has been established. In this study a total of 52 urine samples with IgA nephropathy (IgAN), anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antigen‐associated crescentic glomerulonephritis (GN), and other types of GN were analyzed. Patients with high α1 globulin (α1G) fractions, which contained α1AT in cellulose acetate membrane electrophoresis (CAE), tended to have α1 antitrypsin (α1AT) of normal molecular weight (57 kDa and 49 kDa), while patients with a deficit α1G fraction tended to have α1AT of low molecular weight (<49 kDa) (P<0.01). The α1G fraction was significantly higher in patients with IgAN, and there were significantly more patients with normal molecular weight α1AT compared to patients with other diseases (P<0.01). The isoelectric point of α1AT with lower‐weight molecules was more on the alkali side compared to higher‐weight molecules in two‐dimensional electrophoresis. Detecting changes in α1G fractions in CAE may support the differential diagnosis of IgAN from other types of GN. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 19:16–21, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detailed Kinetic Study of the Partial Oxidation of Methane over La2O3 Catalyst. Part 1: Experimental Results

A complete kinetic study of the partial oxidation of methane has been performed in a “catalytic jet-stirred reactor”. The main goal of this study was to elucidate the interactions between gas-phase reactions and surface reactions and to propose a detailed heterogeneous−homogeneous mechanism. The catalyst used in this study was lanthanum oxide (La2O3). Various kinetic parameters were considered, including the temperature, the residence time, the contact time, and the amount of catalyst. The results revealed a complex behavior. In this first part of the study, the experimental results are given and discussed.
The Effects of Predrying Treatments and Different Drying Methods on Phytochemical Compound Retention and Drying Characteristics of Moringa Leaves (Moringa oleifera Lam.)

The most appropriate maturity stage of Moringa oleifera leaves was selected for drying based on phytochemical content, including quercetin and kaempferol. Desorption isotherms were developed and were best fit by the modified Henderson model. Prior to drying, samples were left untreated, blanched in boiling water, and blanched in NaHCO3/MgO. The leaves were dried by hot air tray drying (TD) and heat pump–dehumidified drying air (HPD) at air temperatures of 40, 50, and 60°C. Alternatively, leaves were subject to microwave drying (MWD) at 150, 450, and 900 W and to freeze drying (FD). The moisture versus time data were fitted to five drying models. In general, a three-parameter model gave the best fit. The drying constant was related to the drying temperature or microwave power using an Arrhenius model. Effective moisture diffusivity (D eff) increased with higher drying temperature, higher microwave power, or blanching treatments. Structural changes in the leaves after drying and upon rehydration were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Leaves blanched and dried using HPD at 50°C and fresh and dried using FD showed a partial breakdown of the tissue structure upon rehydration. HPD and blanching reduced the drying time by 8.3% and increased quercetin and kaempferol levels by 42.1 and 51.4%, respectively, compared to TD at 50°C. MWD provided the quickest drying followed by HPD and TD, respectively. HPD drying of M. oleifera after blanching resulted in relatively greater quality compared to TD and MWD.
SrNb2O6 nanotubes with enhanced photocatalytic activity

SrNb2O6 having a rhombic nanotubular structure with a diameter of 300 nm, average length of 3 μm and wall thickness of 50 nm was synthesized via a facile hydrothermal route. The prepared powders were characterized using X-ray diffraction, field-emission electron microscopy (FESEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and Raman spectroscopy. Compared to the same material prepared by the solid-state reaction method, the rhombic nanotubes of SrNb2O6 exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity for the production of H2 from pure water, which was mainly attributed to their higher surface area. Moreover, the increased optical absorption properties resulting from the variation of the crystal structure also contributed to their higher photocatalytic activity.
HEAT PUMP DRYER PART 2: RESULTS OF THE SIMULATION

Heat pump dryer characteristics of four configurations, two open and two closed systems, are presented. The results are based on the simulation models developed in Part 1. Emphasis is given to the effects of ambient conditions, recirculating air ratio and evaporator bypass air ratio on the system performance. The criteria for evaluating the system performance are the specific moisture extraction rate (SMER), the moisture extraction rate (MER) and the coefficient of performance (COP). It was found that the ambient conditions and dryer efficiency play an important role in the system behaviour. Optimum performance achieved for one ambient condition cannot be assumed optimum for the others. The recirculating air ratio substantially affects the system performance while the evaporator bypass air ratio shows insignificant effect. © 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Object-Centric Reflection: Unifying Reflection and Bringing It Back to Objects

Reflective applications are able to query and manipulate the structure and behavior of a running system. This is essential for highly dynamic software that needs to interact with objects whose structure and behavior are not known when the application is written. Software analysis tools, like debuggers, are a typical example. Oddly, although reflection essentially concerns run-time entities, reflective applications tend to focus on static abstractions, like classes and methods, rather than objects. This is phenomenon we call the object paradox, which makes developers less effective by drawing their attention away from run-time objects. To counteract this phenomenon, we propose a purely object-centric approach to reflection. Reflective mechanisms provide object-specific capabilities as another feature. Object-centric reflection proposes to turn this around and put object-specific capabilities as the central reflection mechanism. This change in the reflection architecture allows a unification of various reflection mechanisms and a solution to the object paradox. We introduce Bifr\"ost, an object-centric reflective system based on first-class meta-objects. Through a series of practical examples we demonstrate how object-centric reflection mitigates the object paradox by avoiding the need to reflect on static abstractions. We survey existing approaches to reflection to establish key requirements in the domain, and we show that an object-centric approach simplifies the meta-level and allows a unification of the reflection field. We demonstrate how development itself is enhanced with this new approach: talents are dynamically composable units of reuse, and object-centric debugging prevents the object paradox when debugging. We also demonstrate how software analysis is benefited by object-centric reflection with Chameleon, a framework for building object-centric analysis tools and MetaSpy, a domain-specific profiler
Electrochemical Preparation of H2S and H2Se.

H 2 S and H 2 Se have been electrolytically prepared by electrolysis in aqueous H 2 SO 4 solutions of composite cathodes made of S or Se and graphite. The efficiencies depended strongly on the electrolyte composition, in particular on the acid concentration and presence of K + . Faradaic efficiencies of 80% were obtained in dilute (0.05 M) acid, and this increased to 100% with added K 2 SO 4 . The efficiencies dropped drastically in concentrated acid (>a few moles). H 2 Te and AsH 3 generation were also briefly studied for comparison. The mechanisms of hydride formation are discussed. Both the reaction of nascent hydrogen with the free element and direct reduction of the element are considered. The latter is believed to be the dominant mechanism.
Partially soluble organics as cloud condensation nuclei: Role of trace soluble and surface active species

The ability of partially soluble organic species to act as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) has been studied. A Köhler model incorporating solute solubility and droplet surface tension describes the behavior of solid adipic and succinic acid particles, whereas solid azelaic acid activates much more efficiently that predicted. In addition, it was shown that trace levels of either sulfate or surface active species have a dramatic effect on the activation of adipic acid, a moderately soluble organic, as predicted by the full Köhler model. For internally mixed particles in the atmosphere, these effects will greatly enhance the role of organic aerosols as CCN.
The equilibrium for the Na/Ca ion-exchange reaction on bleached northern softwood kraft pulp

The thermodynamic equilibrium constant, K,, for the ion-exchange equilibrium (2Na+zCa+') between electrolyte solutions and bleached northern softwood kraft pulp fibers (carboxyl number = 35 mmo1/1000 g pulp) was determined at various ionic strengths at pH = 8. K, was not found to be a constant over the entire range of calcium fraction bound to the pulp, implying several different ionexchange sites exist in the pulp. At low calcium concentrations and at low solution concentrations the selectivity for calcium is high. As the fraction of calcium bound to the pulp and the solution concentration increases the selectivity for calcium decreases. The selectivity for calcium appears constant if the equivalent fraction of calcium on the pulp is in the range of 0.1 to 0.9. The ion-exchange properties and carboxyl ion activity coefficient, are described for the system studied.
Thin-film infrared spectroscopic method for low-temperature vapor pressure measurements

A new thin-film infrared (TFIR) technique is presented for measuring the vapor pressures of organics at low temperatures. It is based on the measurement of the loss rate of the sample at a particular temperature. This loss rate is measured by monitoring a characteristic infrared absorption feature for the compound. The method was calibrated by using solid CO{sub 2} for which previous low-temperature vapor pressure data are available in the literature. The vapor pressures of solid C{sub 4}H{sub 2} and C{sub 4}N{sub 2} were also determined. Results differ from extrapolated values of high-temperature measurements by as much as a factor of 25.
Effect of spent yeast fortification on physical parameters, volatiles and sensorial characteristics of home‐made bread

Summary The impact of bread fortification with dry spent yeast from brewing industry on physical, chemical and sensorial characteristics of home-made bread was evaluated with the goal of increasing its β-glucan content. A serving of 50 g of bread fortified with dry spent yeast increased β-glucan intake from 65 to 125 mg, which is within the guidelines suggested by European Food Safety Authority. Although this fortification darkened the crumb and increased crumb and crust springiness and had impact on volatile profile, concerning key odours only hexanal presented a significant increase in fortified bread. Two machine types (with 1 or 2 paddles) were tested but had a minor impact on bread characteristics. Descriptive analyses performed by a trained panel showed no significant differences in sensorial attributes. Dry spent yeast can be used as ingredient in home-made bread to increase β-glucan intake, and contribute to valorisation of this brewing by-product.
Preparation and Evaluation of Melamine Molecularly Imprinted Polymers by Thermal‐ and Photo‐initiation Methods

Melamine imprinted polymers (MIPs) have been prepared using identical polymer formulation by both thermal- and photo-initiation method, respectively. Physical characterization of the polymers revealed that the different polymerization methods led to the slight differences in both polymer structures and performance by scanning electron microscope (SEM), infrared absorption (IR), and mercury analyzer (MA). Both MIPs were used as selective sorbents for the solid phase extraction (SPE) of melamine in milk powders, followed by the determination coupled to HPLC. The recoveries of melamine in spiked milk powders were obtained in the range of 92.4-97.7% and 94.6-99.7%, for both MIPthermal and MIPphoto, respectively.
Fine Particle Behavior in the Air Flow Past a Triangular Cylinder

This study investigates the fine particle behavior in the laminar airflow past a triangular cylinder. To track particles in motion for the investigation, a visualization system integrated with an effective postprocessing method is developed. Then it is perhaps for the first time that several individual fine particles moving in the flow near the base corners of the cylinder are tracked both simultaneously and continuously. These particles are found to follow closely the airflow pathlines, except very near the corners where the microscopic Stokes number is high. It is also revealed that all the particle tracks vacillate discernibly due to the Brownian motion. Taking this into account, an improved numerical simulation is conducted based on CFD software package FLUENT, with which dithering tracks of the moving particles are reproduced. Copyright 2013 American Association for Aerosol Research
Synthesis of High Molecular Weight Poly[3-{tris(trimethylsiloxy)silyl}tricyclononenes-7] and Their Gas Permeation Properties

N and its derivatives can be polymerized, producing high molecular weight products of entirely different structure of the main chain depending on the choice of the catalysts. In the presence of the catalysts such as WCl6, RuCl3, Re2O7/Al2O3, or Grubbs Ru carbene complexes, ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) proceeds leading to formation of cyclolinear unsaturated polymers. On the other hand, norbornenes can be also polymerized via opening of double bonds like vinyl monomers in the presence of Ni and Pd catalysts. This addition-type polymerization leads to bulky bicyclic repeat units that do not contain unsaturated bonds. Most of the ROMP polynorbornenes are glassy polymers (Tg in the range ca. 40 100 C) with relatively small gas permeability (P(O2) = 1 100 barrer). However, introduction of silicon-containing substituents in monomer units significantly increases this parameter. Addition-type polynorbornenes have rigid main chains, their glass transition temperatures in most cases are above the onset of thermal decomposition (>400 C), and those that contain bulky Me3Si groups are characterized by much higher gas permeability (P(O2) = 90
Particle Size Limits of RAFT Living Emulsion Polymerization, with Xanthate-Based Transfer Agent

With a xanthate-based low activity RAFT (reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer) agent, the living emulsion polymerization system follows zero-one kinetics and particles are smaller than their characteristic cross over diameter. The size and kinetic limitations in RAFT emulsion were investigated by using the concept of crossover size, based on a mechanistic approach. The main reason for these limitations is attributed to the low transfer constant, which tends to render desorption of a radical from particles difficult, the incoming z-mer has a higher probability to propagate relative to the addition process in RAFT equilibrium. In contrast, the living mini-emulsion polymerization follows either zero-one or pseudo-bulk kinetics, depending on the initial droplet size and reaction conditions.