bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in the metabolome of rats after exposure to arginine and N-carbamylglutamate in combination with diquat, a compound that causes oxidative stress, assessed by1H NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Liu Guangmang , Xiao Liang , Cao Wei , Fang Tingting , Jia Gang , Chen Xiaoling , Zhao Hua , Wu Caimei , Wang Jing
Published: December 2015

Numerous factors can induce oxidative stress in animal production and lead to growth retardation, disease, and even death.
Environmentally friendly recycling and effective repairing of cathode powders from spent LiFePO4 batteries
Authors: Chen Jiangping , Li Qingwen , Song Jishun , Song Dawei , Zhang Lianqi , Shi Xianxing
Published: December 2015

Extensive use of LiFePO4 batteries will afford a lot of spent LiFePO4 batteries, which cannot be recycled properly by using traditional processes at present.
Acoustofluidic particle manipulation inside a sessile droplet: four distinct regimes of particle concentration
Authors: Destgeer Ghulam , Cho Hyunjun , Ha Byung Hang , Jung Jin Ho , Park Jinsoo , Sung Hyung Jin
Published: December 2015

We have investigated the motion of polystyrene microparticles inside a sessile droplet actuated by surface acoustic waves (SAWs). Four distinct regimes (R1–R4) of particle concentration are identified based on the particle diameters and the SAW frequencies.
Mechanistic insights into the phosphatidylinositol binding properties of the pleckstrin homology domain of lamellipodin
Authors: Gorai Sukhamoy , Paul Debasish , Haloi Nandan , Borah Rituparna , Santra Manas Kumar , Manna Debasis
Published: December 2015

Lpd-PH domain strongly interacts with PI(3,4)P2containing liposome without any membrane penetration.
Microwave-assisted regioselective direct C–H arylation of thiazole derivatives leading to increased σ1 receptor affinity
Authors: Kokornaczyk Artur , Schepmann Dirk , Yamaguchi Junichiro , Itami Kenichiro , Wünsch Bernhard
Published: December 2015

Regioselective direct CH arylation of 2a led to thiazoles 2b and 2c with a 4-tolyl moiety in C5- and C4-position displaying 5- to 9-fold increased σ1 affinity.
Multipod-like silica/polystyrene clusters
Authors: Désert Anthony , Morele Jérémy , Taveau Jean-Christophe , Lambert Olivier , Lansalot Muriel , Bourgeat-Lami Elodie , Thill Antoine , Spalla Olivier , Belloni Luc , Ravaine Serge , Duguet Etienne
Published: December 2015

Experimental and digital syntheses are compared to achieve batches of original and highly symmetrical clusters as checked by cryo-electron tomography.
Single molecule Raman spectra of porphycene isotopologues
Authors: Gawinkowski Sylwester , Pszona Maria , Gorski Alexandr , Niedziółka-Jönsson Joanna , Kamińska Izabela , Nogala Wojciech , Waluk Jacek
Published: December 2015

Single molecule surface-enhanced resonance Raman scattering (SERRS) spectra have been obtained for the parent porphycene (Pc-d0) and its deuterated isotopologue (Pc-d12), located on gold and silver nanoparticles.
Synthesis and AIE properties of PEG–PLA–PMPC based triblock amphiphilic biodegradable polymers
Authors: Li Chuanyang , Liu Xinli , He Shasha , Huang Yubin , Cui Dongmei
Published: December 2015

The synthesis of a novel AIE-active micelle based on living immortal polymerization of cyclic esters and a “click” reaction of azide functionalized TPE is described.
Redox-controlled upper critical solution temperature behaviour of a nitroxide containing polymer in alcohol–water mixtures
Authors: Bertrand Olivier , Vlad Alexandru , Hoogenboom Richard , Gohy Jean-François
Published: December 2015

Research on stimuli responsive polymers builds momentum as nature-inspired applications using man-made materials are increasingly sought.
New nanoplatforms based on upconversion nanoparticles and single-walled carbon nanohorns for sensitive detection of acute promyelocytic leukemia
Authors: Xu Yanxia , Meng Xianfu , Liu Jinliang , Zhu Shuyun , Sun Lining , Shi Liyi
Published: December 2015

New nanoplatforms were prepared by using upconversion nanoparticles as energy donor and single-walled carbon nanohorns as energy acceptor.
DNA and BSA binding, anticancer and antimicrobial properties of Co(ii), Co(ii/iii), Cu(ii) and Ag(i) complexes of arylhydrazones of barbituric acid
Authors: Palmucci Jessica , Mahmudov Kamran T. , Guedes da Silva M. Fátima C. , Marchetti Fabio , Pettinari Claudio , Petrelli Dezemona , Vitali Luca A. , Quassinti Luana , Bramucci Massimo , Lupidi Giulio , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: December 2015

Novel arylhydrazones of barbituric acid were synthesized and their water soluble AgI, CoII, CoII/III and CuII complexes obtained. The AgI compound shows remarkable cytotoxic and antibacterial activity.
Highly effective utilization of ethylene tar for mesophase development via a molecular fractionation process
Authors: Ge Chuanzhang , Yang Haixiao , Wang Jitong , Qiao Wenming , Long Donghui , Ling Licheng
Published: December 2015

A facile vacuum distillation process is proposed for the fractionation of ethylene tar to realize its highly effective utilization. Potential market can be stimulated by the developing of high-purity chemicals and high value carbon materials.
Electronic structure and optical properties of Fe-doped SnS2 from first-principle calculations
Authors: Sun Lili , Zhou Wei , Liu Yanyu , Yu Dandan , Liang Yinghua , Wu Ping
Published: December 2015

The Fe doping can increase the visible absorption of SnS2 and extend the absorption into the infrared region.
Synthesis of porous ZnO based materials using an agarose gel template for H2S desulfurization
Authors: Tran Dat T.
Published: December 2015

Synthesis of porous ZnO based sorbent containing highly dispersed NiO nanoparticles using agarose gel template results in a significant H2S desulfurization performance.
Modulating spin dynamics of LnIII-radical complexes by using different coligands
Authors: Li Ting , Zhou Shang Yong , Li Xin , Tian Li , Liao Dai Zheng , Liu Zhong Yi , Guo Jian Hua
Published: December 2015

Six LnIII-triazole-radical complexes have been synthesized by using different β-diketonate coligand. They exhibit interesting magnetic properties. 3 and 5 show magnetic slow relaxation resembling SMM behavior.
A flexible sandwiched graphite nanoplatelets/copper nanowires/graphite nanoplatelets paper with superior electrical conductivity
Authors: Tian Xiaojuan , Li Genghui , Tu Zhiqiang , Yang Wang , Li Yongfeng , Zhang Liqiang , Yang Fan , Jia Xilai
Published: December 2015

Flexible G/NWs/G paper with stable conductivity higher than that of the reported graphene based papers.
New sterically hindered tin(iv) siloxane precursors to tinsilicate materials: synthesis, spectral, structural and photocatalytic studies
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Mohan , Palanisami Nallasamy
Published: December 2015

A series of sterically hindered tin(iv) siloxanes (1–8) were synthesized and characterized. The single-source precursors1and3were well suited for producing tinsilicate materials and it act as a photocatalyst for degradation of methylene blue.
Controlled synthesis of barium chromate multi-layered microdiscs and their photocatalytic activity
Authors: Japa Mattawan , Panoy Patchareeporn , Anuchai Supanan , Phanichphant Sukon , Nimmanpipug Piyarat , Kaowphong Sulawan , Tantraviwat Doldet , Inceesungvorn Burapat
Published: December 2015

BaCrO4 microdiscs composed of multi-layered microplates were successfully synthesized by a facile oxalate-assisted precipitation method. Based on time-dependent experiments, a dissolution–recrystallization–self-assembly process has been proposed.
Modeling and simulation of an ultrasensitive electron tunneling position/force nanosensor
Authors: Fan Zheng , Tao Xinyong , Dharuman Gautham , Li Xiaodong , Dong Lixin
Published: December 2015

We report the theoretical characterization of an ultrasensitive electron tunneling nanosensor with an alignment-free inter-segment nanogap embedded.
Copper borate as a photocathode in p-type dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Jiang Tengfei , Bujoli-Doeuff Martine , Farré Yoann , Blart Errol , Pellegrin Yann , Gautron Eric , Boujtita Mohammed , Cario Laurent , Odobel Fabrice , Jobic Stéphane
Published: December 2015

Copper borate as a photocathode in p-type dye-sensitized solar cells.
A facile, one-pot procedure for the conversion of aromatic aldehydes to esters, as well as thioesters and amides, via acyl hydrazide intermediates
Authors: Maruani Antoine , Lee Maximillian T. W. , Watkins George , Akhbar Ahmed R. , Baggs Henry , Shamsabadi André , Richards Daniel A. , Chudasama Vijay
Published: December 2015

A facile, one-pot procedure for the conversion of aromatic aldehydes to esters, as well as thioesters and amides, via acyl hydrazide intermediates.
Electroactive poly(sulfobetaine-3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PSBEDOT) with controllable antifouling and antimicrobial properties
Authors: Cao Bin , Lee Chen-Jung , Zeng Zhipeng , Cheng Fang , Xu Fujian , Cong Hongbo , Cheng Gang
Published: December 2015

A multifunctional zwitterionic PSBEDOT material, which can switch between antifouling and antimicrobial states by controlling the potential of the surface, is synthesized.
Metallic Co9S8 nanosheets grown on carbon cloth as efficient binder-free electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction in neutral media
Authors: Feng Liang-Liang , Fan Meihong , Wu Yuanyuan , Liu Yipu , Li Guo-Dong , Chen Hui , Chen Wei , Wang Dejun , Zou Xiaoxin
Published: December 2015

We report the direct growth of metallic Co9S8 nanosheets on carbon cloth (CC), which can serve as efficient binder-free electrocatalysts for the HER in neutral media.
Stable high-areal-capacity nanoarchitectured germanium anodes on three-dimensional current collectors for Li ion microbatteries
Authors: Lee Gwang-Hee , Lee Seun , Lee Chan Woo , Choi Changhoon , Kim Dong-Wan
Published: December 2015

Ge nanoarrays anchored on 3D Cu nanoframework current collectors have demonstrated high areal capacity and stable cycling performance. The newly developed electrode design enabled high mass loading of active Ge and efficient conductive pathways for high-energy Li-ion microbatteries.
MIL-91(Ti), a small pore metal–organic framework which fulfils several criteria: an upscaled green synthesis, excellent water stability, high CO2selectivity and fast CO2transport
Authors: Benoit Virginie , Pillai Renjith S. , Orsi Angelica , Normand Périne , Jobic Hervé , Nouar Farid , Billemont Pierre , Bloch Emily , Bourrelly Sandrine , Devic Thomas , Wright Paul A. , de Weireld Guy , Serre Christian , Maurin Guillaume , Llewellyn Philip L.
Published: December 2015

MIL-91(Ti) is shown to be one of the very few MOFs of real interest for CO2capture.
Analysis of forces in single‐side linear induction motor with lateral displacement for linear metro
Authors: Lv Gang , Liu Zhiming , Sun Shouguang
Published: December 2015

This study investigates the influence of lateral displacement of the primary on the thrust, vertical and lateral forces in a single‐side linear induction motor for linear metro. A three‐dimensional analytical model, which is able to consider the longitudinal and transversal end effects, overhang of the primary windings and lateral displacement, is developed to obtain the air‐gap flux density distributions along longitudinal and transverse directions as well as forces. Variations of the thrust, vertical and lateral forces with the lateral displacements are comprehensive investigated when the motor is torque motoring, negative sequence braking or regenerative braking operation. The analytically predicted results are experimentally validated by measurements on reciprocal power‐fed test rig. It shows that the thrust and vertical force of single‐side linear induction motor decrease almost linearly with the increase of the lateral displacement in all regions, and lateral force is restoring which helps centralising the railcar in the regenerative braking and most parts of motoring regions.
Investigation of current‐mode controlled cascade boost converter systems: dynamics and stability issues
Authors: Chincholkar Satyajit Hemant , Chan Chok‐You
Published: December 2015

This study presents a comparative study of linear current‐mode controllers for the regulation of a two‐stage cascade boost converter having a single active switch. The current‐mode controllers used in this study are designed using the input and output inductor currents of the converter. The objective of this study is to find the most suitable inductor current for feedback purposes. The analyses of the current‐controlled systems are carried out using the state‐space and frequency‐response approaches. It is shown that the controller using the output inductor current is preferred over the controller using the input inductor current. Experimental and simulation results are also provided to validate the theoretical conclusions.
From static ternary adders to high‐performance race‐free dynamic ones
Authors: Rezaie Shirin , Faghih Mirzaee Reza , Navi Keivan , Hashemipour Omid
Published: December 2015

This study explores the suitability of dynamic logic style in ternary logic. It presents high‐performance dynamic ternary half and full adders, which are essential components in computer arithmetic. The complete transformation from a static ternary design into its dynamic form is comprehensively investigated. The proposed dynamic strategy does not suffer from any race or charge sharing problems. These dynamic logic problems are dealt with in this study. In addition, the number of successive pass‐transistors is reduced by a design technique which shortens the critical path of ternary circuits. The new adder cells are simulated by using Synopsys HSPICE and 32 nm carbon nanotube field‐effect transistor technology. Simulation results demonstrate the superiority of dynamic ternary circuits. The proposed dynamic ternary half adder operates 21% faster, consumes 23% less power, and has even 14 fewer transistors than its static counterpart.
Ultrafast gating of a mid-infrared laser pulse by a sub-pC relativistic electron beam
Authors: Cesar D. B. , Musumeci P. , Alesini D.
Published: December 2015

In this paper we discuss a relative time-of-arrival measurement scheme between an electron beam and a mid-infrared laser pulse based on the electron-beam controlled transmission in semiconductor materials. This technique can be used as a time-stamping diagnostic in ultrafast electron diffraction or microscopy. In particular, our characterization of Germanium demonstrates that sub-ps time-of-arrival sensitivity could be achieved in a single shot and with very low charge beams (<1 pC). Detailed measurements as a function of the beam charge and the laser wavelength offer insights on the free carrier dynamics in the semiconductor upon excitation by the electron beam.
Quantitative analysis of desorption and decomposition kinetics of formic acid on Cu(111): The importance of hydrogen bonding between adsorbed species
Authors: Shiozawa Yuichiro , Koitaya Takanori , Mukai Kozo , Yoshimoto Shinya , Yoshinobu Jun
Published: December 2015

Quantitative analysis of desorption and decomposition kinetics of formic acid (HCOOH) on Cu(111) was performed by temperature programmed desorption (TPD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and time-resolved infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy. The activation energy for desorption is estimated to be 53–75 kJ/mol by the threshold TPD method as a function of coverage. Vibrational spectra of the first layer HCOOH at 155.3 K show that adsorbed molecules form a polymeric structure via the hydrogen bonding network. Adsorbed HCOOH molecules are dissociated gradually into monodentate formate species. The activation energy for the dissociation into monodentate formate species is estimated to be 65.0 kJ/mol at a submonolayer coverage (0.26 molecules/surface Cu atom). The hydrogen bonding between adsorbed HCOOH species plays an important role in the stabilization of HCOOH on Cu(111). The monodentate formate species are stabilized at higher coverages, because of the lack of vacant sites for the bidentate formation.
Nanomanufacturing of titania interfaces with controlled structural and functional properties by supersonic cluster beam deposition
Authors: Podestà Alessandro , Borghi Francesca , Indrieri Marco , Bovio Simone , Piazzoni Claudio , Milani Paolo
Published: December 2015

Great emphasis is placed on the development of integrated approaches for the synthesis and the characterization of ad hoc nanostructured platforms, to be used as templates with controlled morphology and chemical properties for the investigation of specific phenomena of great relevance in interdisciplinary fields such as biotechnology, medicine, and advanced materials. Here, we discuss the crucial role and the advantages of thin film deposition strategies based on cluster-assembling from supersonic cluster beams. We select cluster-assembled nanostructured titania (ns-TiO2) as a case study to demonstrate that accurate control over morphological parameters can be routinely achieved, and consequently, over several relevant interfacial properties and phenomena, like surface charging in a liquid electrolyte, and proteins and nanoparticles adsorption. In particular, we show that the very good control of nanoscale morphology is obtained by taking advantage of simple scaling laws governing the ballistic deposition regime of low-energy, mass-dispersed clusters with reduced surface mobility.
Comparison of electrical and optical characteristics in gas-phase and gas-liquid phase discharges
Authors: Qazi H. I. A. , Nie Qiu-Yue , Li He-Ping , Zhang Xiao-Fei , Bao Cheng-Yu
Published: December 2015

This paper presents an AC-excited argon discharge generated using a gas-liquid (two-phase) hybrid plasma reactor, which mainly consists of a powered needle electrode enclosed in a conical quartz tube and grounded deionized water electrode. The discharges in the gas-phase, as well as in the two-phase, exhibit two discharge modes, i.e., the low current glow-like diffuse mode and the high current streamer-like constrict mode, with a mode transition, which exhibits a negative resistance of the discharges. The optical emission spectral analysis shows that the stronger diffusion of the water vapor into the discharge region in the two-phase discharges boosts up the generation of OH (A–X) radicals, and consequently, leads to a higher rotational temperature in the water-phase plasma plume than that of the gas-phase discharges. Both the increase of the power input and the decrease of the argon flow rate result in the increase of the rotational temperature in the plasma plume of the water-phase discharge. The stable two-phase discharges with a long plasma plume in the water-phase under a low power input and gas flow rate may show a promising prospect for the degradation of organic pollutants, e.g., printing and dyeing wastewater, in the field of environmental protection.
Conductance slope and curvature coefficient of InGaAs/GaAsSb heterojunctions at varying band alignments and its implication on digital and analog applications
Authors: Iutzi Ryan M. , Fitzgerald Eugene A.
Published: December 2015

We assess InGaAs/GaAsSb heterojunctions at varying band alignments for applications in both tunnel field effect transistors (TFETs) as well as for nonlinear analog components such as millimeter wave detectors. We use conductance slope measurements as a fundamental figure of merit, as it is not affected by the three-terminal parasitics of subthreshold-slope in a TFET and represents the ideal subthreshold slope intrinsic to the junction in the absence of three-terminal parasitics. We prove that conductance slope/subthreshold slope is not equivalent to curvature coefficient, indicating that it is actually easier to exceed the thermal limit of curvature for analog applications than it is to exceed the subthreshold slope limit for digital applications. In addition, we show that no published heterojunction that exceeds the curvature limit would be capable of exceeding the subthreshold slope limit. We experimentally demonstrate the formation of epitaxial InGaAs/GaAsSb heterojunctions at varying band alignments accomplished using lattice-mismatched epitaxy with graded buffers. We show a dependence of conductance slope on material quality, adding further proof that “steepness” is limited by materials defects and inhomogeneity. We demonstrate that the conductance slope does not depend on temperature for type-II band alignment, adding further proof that TFETs, which show strong temperature dependencies, are dominated by thermal parasitics. Finally, we develop and demonstrate an InGaAs/GaAsSb heterojunction system integrated on an InP platform with a record 76 mV/decade conductance slope and 43 V−1 curvature coefficient near zero-bias, with the capability of up to 60 V−1 curvature coefficient.
Simulation on the translocation of homopolymers through sandwich-like compound channels
Authors: Wang Chao , Chen Ying-Cai , Wu Fan , Luo Meng-Bo
Published: December 2015

The forced translocation of homopolymers through αβα sandwich-like compound channels was investigated by Monte Carlo simulation. The interaction between polymer and part α is strongly attractive, whereas that between polymer and part β is purely repulsive. Simulation results show that the translocation is influenced obviously by the length of part β (Lβ) and the starting position of part β (Lα1). For small Lβ, the translocation is mainly governed by the escaping process, and polymer is trapped near the exit of the channel. However, the translocation time can be tuned by varying Lα1 and the fastest translocation can be achieved at relatively large Lα1. Whereas for large Lβ and small Lα1, the translocation is mainly controlled by the filling process. It is difficult for polymer to enter the channel, and polymer is trapped at the first αβ interface. Finally, the dynamics for the filling process and the escaping process are discussed from the view of free-energy landscape, respectively.
Fluorescence enhancement in large-scale self-assembled gold nanoparticle double arrays
Authors: Chekini M. , Filter R. , Bierwagen J. , Cunningham A. , Rockstuhl C. , Bürgi T.
Published: December 2015

Localized surface plasmon resonances excited in metallic nanoparticles confine and enhance electromagnetic fields at the nanoscale. This is particularly pronounced in dimers made from two closely spaced nanoparticles. When quantum emitters, such as dyes, are placed in the gap of those dimers, their absorption and emission characteristics can be modified. Both processes have to be considered when aiming to enhance the fluorescence from the quantum emitters. This is particularly challenging for dimers, since the electromagnetic properties and the enhanced fluorescence sensitively depend on the distance between the nanoparticles. Here, we use a layer-by-layer method to precisely control the distances in such systems. We consider a dye layer deposited on top of an array of gold nanoparticles or integrated into a central position of a double array of gold nanoparticles. We study the effect of the spatial arrangement and the average distance on the plasmon-enhanced fluorescence. We found a maximum of a 99-fold increase in the fluorescence intensity of the dye layer sandwiched between two gold nanoparticle arrays. The interaction of the dye layer with the plasmonic system also causes a spectral shift in the emission wavelengths and a shortening of the fluorescence life times. Our work paves the way for large-scale, high throughput, and low-cost self-assembled functionalized plasmonic systems that can be used as efficient light sources.
Generalized magnetofluid connections in pair plasmas
Authors: Asenjo Felipe A. , Comisso Luca , Mahajan Swadesh M.
Published: December 2015

We extend the magnetic connection theorem of ideal magnetohydrodynamics to nonideal relativistic pair plasmas. Adopting a generalized Ohm's law, we prove the existence of generalized magnetofluid connections that are preserved by the plasma dynamics. We show that these connections are related to a general antisymmetric tensor that unifies the electromagnetic and fluid fields. The generalized magnetofluid connections set important constraints on the plasma dynamics by forbidding transitions between configurations with different magnetofluid connectivity. An approximated solution is explicitly shown where the corrections due to current inertial effects are found.
Structural and optical study of Ce segregation in Ce-doped SiO1.5 thin films
Authors: Beainy G. , Weimmerskirch-Aubatin J. , Stoffel M. , Vergnat M. , Rinnert H. , Castro C. , Pareige P. , Talbot E.
Published: December 2015

Cerium doped SiO1.5 thin films fabricated by evaporation and containing silicon nanocrystals were investigated by atom probe tomography. The effect of post-growth annealing treatment has been systematically studied to correlate the structural properties obtained by atom probe tomography to the optical properties measured by photoluminescence spectroscopy. The atom probe results demonstrated the formation of Ce-Si rich clusters upon annealing at 900 °C which leads to a drastic decrease of the Ce-related luminescence. At 1100 °C, pure Si nanocrystals and optically active cerium silicate compounds are formed. Consequently, the Ce-related luminescence is found to re-appear at this temperature while no Si-nanocrystal related luminescence is observed for films containing more than 3% Ce.
The Vlasov-Poisson system with low steady spatial asymptotics
Authors: Chen Zili
Published: December 2015

We consider a collisionless plasma interacting with a fixed background of positive charge, the density of which depends only upon velocity variable v and decays as v→∞. We suppose that mobile negative ions balance the positive charge as the spatial variable x→∞, then on the mesoscopic level the system is characterized by the three-dimensional Vlasov-Poisson system with steady spatial asymptotics. Under rather weak conditions which can contain the situation that the initial total charge of such system is infinite, smooth solutions with low asymptotic behavior are shown to exist locally in time, and an “almost optimal” criterion for the continuation of these solutions is established.
Communication: CDFT-CI couplings can be unreliable when there is fractional charge transfer
Authors: Mavros Michael G. , Van Voorhis Troy
Published: December 2015

Constrained density functional theory with configuration interaction (CDFT-CI) is a useful, low-cost tool for the computational prediction of electronic couplings between pseudo-diabatic constrained electronic states. Such couplings are of paramount importance in electron transfer theory and transition state theory, among other areas of chemistry. Unfortunately, CDFT-CI occasionally fails significantly, predicting a coupling that does not decay exponentially with distance and/or overestimating the expected coupling by an order of magnitude or more. In this communication, we show that the eigenvalues of the difference density matrix between the two constrained states can be used as an a priori metric to determine when CDFT-CI are likely to be reliable: when the eigenvalues are near 0 or ±1, transfer of a whole electron is occurring, and CDFT-CI can be trusted. We demonstrate the utility of this metric with several illustrative examples.
Facile microwave-assisted synthesis of titanium dioxide decorated graphene nanocomposite for photodegradation of organic dyes
Authors: Gayathri Shunmugiah , Kottaisamy Muniasamy , Ramakrishnan Veerabahu
Published: December 2015

An efficient and facile method was adopted to prepare TiO2-graphene (TG) nanocomposites with TiO2 nanoparticles uniformly distributed on graphene. By adjusting the amount of TiO2 precursor, both high and low dense TiO2 nanoparticles on graphene were effectively attained via electrostatic attraction between graphene oxide sheets and TiO2 nanoparticles. The prepared nanocomposites were characterized by various characterization techniques. The TG nanocomposite showed an excellent activity for the photodegradation of the organic dyes such as methylene blue (MB) and rose bengal (RB) under ultra violet (UV) light irradiation. The TG nanocomposite of TG 2.5 showed better photocatalytic performance than bare TiO2 nanoparticles and other composites. The enhanced activity of the composite material is attributed to the reduction in charge recombination and interaction of organic dyes with graphene. The decrease in charge recombination was evidenced from the photoluminescence (PL) spectra. The observed results suggest that the synthesized TG composites have a potential application to treat the industrial effluents, which contain organic dyes.
Structural evolution of epitaxial SrCoOx films near topotactic phase transition
Authors: Jeen Hyoungjeen , Lee Ho Nyung
Published: December 2015

Control of oxygen stoichiometry in complex oxides via topotactic phase transition is an interesting avenue to not only modifying the physical properties, but utilizing in many energy technologies, such as energy storage and catalysts. However, detailed structural evolution in the close proximity of the topotactic phase transition in multivalent oxides has not been much studied. In this work, we used strontium cobaltites (SrCoOx) epitaxially grown by pulsed laser epitaxy (PLE) as a model system to study the oxidation-driven evolution of the structure, electronic, and magnetic properties. We grew coherently strained SrCoO2.5 thin films and performed post-annealing at various temperatures for topotactic conversion into the perovskite phase (SrCoO3-δ). We clearly observed significant changes in electronic transport, magnetism, and microstructure near the critical temperature for the topotactic transformation from the brownmillerite to the perovskite phase. Nevertheless, the overall crystallinity was well maintained without much structural degradation, indicating that topotactic phase control can be a useful tool to control the physical properties repeatedly via redox reactions.
Conjugate transfer of heat and mass in unsteady flow of a micropolar fluid with wall couple stress
Authors: Khalid Asma , Khan Ilyas , Khan Arshad , Shafie Sharidan
Published: December 2015

This is an attempt to investigate the unsteady flow of a micropolar fluid with free convection caused due to temperature and concentration differences. Micropolar fluid is taken over a vertical plate oscillating in its own plane. Wall couple stress is engaged at the bounding plate together with isothermal temperature and constant mass diffusion. Problem is modelled in terms of coupled partial differential equations together with some physical conditions and then written in non-dimensional form. Exact solutions are determined using the Laplace transform method. For convenience, they are expressed in simplified form using exponential functions and complementary error functions. Using computational software MATHCAD, analytical results of velocity, temperature, microrotation and concentration are plotted in graphs and discussed for various embedded parameters. Results of skin friction, wall couple stress, rate of heat transfer (Nusselt number) and rate of mass transfer (Sherwood number) are also evaluated. Present results of micropolar fluid are graphically compared with published results of Newtonian fluid. It is found that micropolar fluid velocity is smaller than Newtonian fluid.
Long-term responses in soil solution and stream-water chemistry at Hubbard Brook after experimental addition of wollastonite
Authors: Shao Shuai , Driscoll Charles T. , Johnson Chris E. , Fahey Timothy J. , Battles John J. , Blum Joel D.
Published: December 2015

Environmental context
Calcium silicate was added to a forest watershed in New Hampshire, USA, to accelerate its recovery from acid rain. The acid–base status of soil and stream quality improved over the 12-year study, with the most pronounced response in the upper elevation and the upper soil of the watershed. A total of 95% of the added calcium and 87% of the added silica were retained in the watershed over the study period.

Abstract
In October 1999, 3450kgha–1 of wollastonite (CaSiO3) was applied to Watershed 1 at the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest in New Hampshire, USA, with the objective of restoring calcium that had been depleted from soil-exchange sites by chronic inputs of acid deposition. After the treatment, the concentrations and fluxes of calcium and dissolved silica significantly increased in both soil solution and stream water throughout Watershed 1, as did the acid-neutralising capacity. The concentrations and fluxes of inorganic monomeric aluminium significantly decreased. The treatment improved the acid–base status and decreased the potential for aluminium toxicity in stream water, especially in the lower reaches of the watershed. Approximately 4.7% of the added calcium and 17% of the added silica from the wollastonite treatment was exported from Watershed 1 in stream water by the end of 2010. Meanwhile, ~1825mmolm–2 of the added calcium and 2125mmolm–2 of the added silica were either transported to lower mineral soil horizons – as particulate wollastonite, or as dissolved solutes (calcium 77.6mmolm–2; silica 592.2mmolm–2), thus contributing to increases in soil pools – or were taken up by vegetation and incorporated into internal calcium and silica cycles of the watershed ecosystem. This experimental wollastonite addition was an effective tool for mitigating the acidification of the ecosystem and restoring the calcium status and forest health of this base-poor watershed.
Population Dynamics of an Estuarine Forage Fish: Disaggregating Forces Driving Long‐Term Decline of Longfin Smelt in California's San Francisco Estuary
Authors: Nobriga Matthew L. , Rosenfield Jonathan A.
Published: December 2015

Forage fish production has become a central concern of fisheries and ecosystem managers because populations of small fish are a critical energetic pathway between primary producers and predator populations. Management of forage fish often focuses on controlling exploitation rates, but it is also possible to manage productivity of these species in coastal ecosystems, particularly estuaries. Like several forage fish species that are native to the San Francisco Estuary (SFE) in California, the Longfin Smelt Spirinchus thaleichthys has experienced dramatic population declines over the past few decades. This population is not fished commercially or recreationally; trends in its relative abundance have been described statistically, but the mechanisms that drive population dynamics are still poorly understood. Our objective was to evaluate alternative conceptual models of Longfin Smelt population dynamics to better understand the forces that may constrain the species' productivity during different phases of its life cycle. We created contrasting variants of a generalizable population model (the Ricker model) and parameterized those variants using empirical data from a long‐term sampling program in the SFE. Predictions from alternative models were compared with empirical results from a second (independent) data series of relative abundance to identify the model variants that best captured the empirical trend. The results indicated that (1) freshwater flow had a positive association with recruits per spawner and (2) both recruits per spawner and spawners per recruit appeared to be density‐dependent life stage transitions. Juvenile survival may have declined to some extent, but we could not conclusively demonstrate this. By constraining the possible timing and location of mechanisms that modulate productivity at different life stages, the present results improve our understanding of production for a key native forage fish in the SFE.
Linear-quadratic optimal control problems for mean-field stochastic differential equations — time-consistent solutions
Authors: Yong Jiongmin
Published: December 2015

Linear-quadratic optimal control problems are considered for mean-field stochastic differential equations with deterministic coefficients. Time-inconsistency feature of the problems is carefully investigated. Both open-loop and closed-loop equilibrium solutions are presented for such kinds of problems. Open-loop solutions are presented by means of the variational method with decoupling of forward-backward stochastic differential equations, which leads to a Riccati equation system lack of symmetry. Closed-loop solutions are presented by means of multi-person differential games, the limit of which leads to a Riccati equation system with a symmetric structure.
An ensemble of specifically targeted proteins stabilizes cortical microtubules in the human parasiteToxoplasma gondii
Authors: Liu Jun , He Yudou , Benmerzouga Imaan , Sullivan William J. , Morrissette Naomi S. , Murray John M. , Hu Ke
Published: December 2015

Although all microtubules within a single cell are polymerized from virtually identical subunits, different microtubule populations carry out specialized and diverse functions, including directional transport, force generation, and cellular morphogenesis. Functional differentiation requires specific targeting of associated proteins to subsets or even subregions of these polymers. The cytoskeleton of Toxoplasma gondii, an important human parasite, contains at least five distinct tubulin-based structures. In this work, we define the differential localization of proteins along the cortical microtubules of T. gondii, established during daughter biogenesis and regulated by protein expression and exchange. These proteins distinguish cortical from mitotic spindle microtubules, even though the assembly of these subsets is contemporaneous during cell division. Finally, proteins associated with cortical microtubules collectively protect the stability of the polymers with a remarkable degree of functional redundancy.
On the temporal orientation of intensional subjunctives in Spanish
Authors: Laca Brenda
Published: December 2015

This chapter examines the different constraints on temporal orientation affecting subjunctive clauses. After establishing that a future or non-anterior temporal orientation characterizes intensional subjunctives, i.e. subjunctives selected by directives, implicatives, and volitionals, the chapter shows that the behavior of volitionals differs from that of directives and implicatives with regard to the possibility of embedding perfect morphology with a past temporal orientation. The chapter also shows that the behavior of volitionals themselves is not uniform. The chapter suggests that differences in temporal orientation are connected to the different types of semantic objects denoted by selected subjunctive argument clauses. An obligatory future or non-anterior orientation signals that the relevant object is not a proposition (a set of possible worlds), but an outcome (a situation or eventuality that ensues from a cause or is targeted by a disposition to bring it about).
Russian aspect in finite and non-finite modes: from syntax to information structure
Authors: Corre Eric
Published: December 2015

This chapter applies the distinction between Situation Aspect (SA) and Viewpoint Aspect (VA) to Perfective (PERF) and Imperfective (IMPERF) finite sentences in Russian. It claims that only SA is grammaticized in Russian, via a syntactic Telic Phrase. It also examines aspectual oppositions in infinitival sentences. Telicity is defined as terminativity. Any event is telic if it is non-divisive or non-homogeneous. A corpus study of infinitives in discourse shows that while IMPERF verbs tend to occur in non-telic, generalizing, or durative, contexts and PERF verbs in telic/terminative contexts, in some cases, aspectual opposition obeys discourse-interactional parameters: the PERF V/vP functions as Focus and the IMPERF V/vP as Topic in the sense of Rizzi and Lambrecht. Raising of the TelicP to the COMP domain creates the link between syntax and discourse.
Practical Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Manousakis Efstratios
Published: December 2015

The book contains lectures notes for a graduate two-semester course in quantum mechanics. It differs from other quantum mechanics textbooks as various parts of the book are inspired by rather recent advances in various areas of physics. For example, the book begins by putting the Schrödinger equation on a spatial discrete lattice, inspired by Hamiltonian lattice gauge theories (HLGT). The book also discusses the path integral formulation of quantum mechanics and emphasize the adiabatic time evolution in the case of a time-dependent Hamiltonian. As an example of how to use symmetry in quantum mechanics, the book treats one-dimensional periodic potentials. The book also discusses atoms and molecules using mean-field-like treatment, such as the Hartree–Fock approximation, including a discussion on how to go beyond it. Electron–electron correlations in the hydrogen molecule are taken into account with a first quantized formulation of the two-site Hubbard model, which is solved analytically. The book also uses the canonical Hamiltonian quantization of quantum electrodynamics after finding the normal modes, in an analogy with the treatment of the normal modes of an array of atoms, the photons emerge as the quanta of such normal modes, in the same way as the phonons emerge in the treatment of the normal modes of the coupled array of atoms. This Hamiltonian quantization of the electromagnetic field is used later to treat its interaction with atomic matter, without having to follow the usual semiclassical treatment.
Angular momentum
Authors: Manousakis Efstratios
Published: December 2015

This chapter discusses the algebra, the eigenvalues, and eigenstates of angular momentum operators.
Scattering in three dimensions
Authors: Manousakis Efstratios
Published: December 2015

This chapter discusses scattering in three spatial dimensions. It introduces the concepts of the scattering amplitude and cross-section. The chapter discusses the Born approximation and how to systematically go beyond this approximation. It also discusses the concepts of phase shifts and partial wave expansion.
Applications of perturbation theory
Authors: Manousakis Efstratios
Published: December 2015

This chapter applies the technique of perturbation expansion to well-known physical examples. Such applications are: the Stark effect, the origin of the van der Waals interaction, and the case of electrons in a weak periodic potential.
The Oxford Latin Syntax
Authors: Pinkster Harm
Published: December 2015

Since Raphael Kühner and Carl Segmann’s (German) two volume Latin Syntax of 1912, new data have become available, texts outside the classical canon have received more attention, numerous monographs and articles have been published, new text editions and commentaries have become available, and new insights have been developed in various linguistic theories. Moreover, the position of Latin and the specialists in the field have changed considerably. This book takes these changes into account and offers an up-to-date tool. The data used are texts from the period 250 bc – ad 450. The approach is mainly descriptive, with diachronic changes signalled whenever necessary. Due attention is paid to differences between types of text. The discussion of grammatical phenomena is based as far as possible on examples from Plautus and Cicero; these examples are provided with an English translation. In addition supplementary examples are given from a wider array of texts, without translation. References are inserted to other sources of examples, notably the Oxford Latin Dictionary and the Thesaurus Linguae Latinae, and textual problems are signalled when relevant. The Syntax uses contemporary insights in linguistics, without being technical, and combines recent terminology with traditional terminology.
Newar BuddhistHomaRitual Traditions
Authors: Lewis Todd , Bajracharya Naresh
Published: December 2015

Introducing the Newar Mahāyāna–Vajrayāna tradition, still a vibrant part of the religious milieu of the Kathmandu valley, the chapter discusses the extensive textual record to be found there, and the history of the tradition. Vajrayāna ritual is the core of Newar Buddhism, and the homa an important part thereof. The chapter discusses the various kinds of homa found in the tradition, and it provides a closely detailed study of a standard ritual found in the tradition. These details include implements and offerings, and it then goes on to identify the ritual units that comprise a standard homa. Lastly, it describes the use of homa in construction and consecration rites.
Fire on the Mountain
Authors: Payne Richard K.
Published: December 2015

The Shugendō tradition of practicing austerities in the mountains of Japan has long included a homa (Jpn. goma, 護 摩). While most East Asian homa are performed inside temples, the Shugendō Saitō goma described in this chapter is performed out of doors. During the Tokugawa era, the Shugendō tradition had been mandated to affiliate with the esoteric Buddhist tradition, and as a consequence the homa and many other aspects of esoteric Buddhism, such as structuring mountain retreats according to the system of ten worlds, became part of the tradition. The chapter explores adapting Erik Zürcher’s fourfold typology of borrowing, developed for his studies of Daoism, to the study of ritual borrowing in Japan.
Cultural Defense
Authors: Orgad Liav
Published: December 2015

This chapter addresses the legal response to global immigration—proactive immigration and naturalization policies designed to defend the culture of majority groups. Immigration policies have increasingly taken a restrictive course, primarily in Europe. This includes a process that the author labels “cultural convergence,” under which liberal democracies define the essence of their citizenship, as well as the rules for joining the community, in cultural terms. Cultural defense takes place by using five legal mechanisms: (a) citizenship tests; (b) language requirements; (c) loyalty oaths; (d) attachment requirements; and (e) integration contracts. The chapter analyzes three cases—Europe, America, and Israel—and explores their distinctive form of “defense.” Analyzing different forms of cultural defense in the liberal state provides a unique platform to reflect on three issues: defining the “we,” setting criteria for identifying the desired “they,” and finding the core to which “they” should subscribe to become part of “us.”
A Case Series of Acquired Drug Resistance-Associated Mutations in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Children: An Emerging Public Health Concern in Rural Africa
Authors: Gamell Anna , Muri Lukas , Ntamatungiro Alex , Nyogea Daniel , Luwanda Lameck B. , Hatz Christoph , Battegay Manuel , Felger Ingrid , Tanner Marcel , Klimkait Thomas , Letang Emilio
Published: December 2015

The acquisition of drug-resistance mutations among African children living with in human immunodeficiency virus on antiretroviral treatment has been scarcely reported. This threatens the overall success of antiretroviral programs and the clinical outcomes of children in care. We present a well characterized series of children from rural Tanzania with acquired drug-resistance mutations to contribute to the better understanding of this emerging public health concern.
Listeria monocytogenes Endovascular Graft Infection
Authors: Heysell Scott K. , Hughes Molly A.
Published: December 2015

Although best managed by surgical resection, we present a case of Listeria monocytogenes endovascular graft infection alternatively treated with graft retention and antibiotic induction followed by a lifelong suppressive course. The epidemiological, pathological, and clinical features of this unique entity are reviewed.