bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
Authors: Kubalkova Petra G.
Published: December 2015

The Chinese-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) faces monumental challenges derived from institutional and financial accountability, as well as the ability to deliver on its promises of increased economic integration in the Asia-Pacific region. Nevertheless, China is resolute in cementing its economic position in the global market and expanding its regional influence. The main justification for instituting AIIB is to provide secured loans to underdeveloped Asia-Pacific countries ineligible to obtain funds through other global financial institutions. However, by lessening loan barriers, AIIB’s approach threatens to give rise to regional economic volatility — a vice adamantly despised under the Bretton Woods system. The pivotal element that defines AIIB’s outcome is a well-diversified cofounding member cohort insistent on implementing sound regulatory measures. AIIB needs a divergent membership that considers the socio-economic determinants of individual requestors, allowing for well-diversified and well-balanced opinions on operating principles. Without this element China might be subjugating its clients, the Asia-Pacific countries, to yet another form of manipulation that was shunned under the Bretton Woods system. Would this be another subtle attempt of Chinese influence for a stake in regional hegemony under a guise of alleviating the impoverished regions of Asia-Pacific? Transparency, emphasis on operating principles enacted with democratic accord and accountability should serve as guiding blocks of the well-diversified cofounding cohort. These measures would hold China to its vows of increased prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region, which it is attempting to deliver through AIIB. This paper examines the advantages of the AIIB as well as drawbacks that could place the Asia-Pacific countries into another “golden straitjacket” if these propositions are not taken into consideration.
A Novel Titanium/Manganese Redox Flow Battery
Authors: Dong Yong-Rong , Kaku Hirokazu , Hanafusa Kei , Moriuchi Kiyoaki , Shigematsu Toshio
Published: December 2015

In this paper we report a novel redox flow battery using a titanium and manganese mixed solution as both positive and negative electrolytes. Ti(IV) ions existing in positive electrolyte suppress the Mn(III) disproportionation reaction, as well as particle growth of Mn dioxides. The energy density of 23.5 kWh m-3 was obtained in a single cell test, which is comparable to that of all-vanadium RF battery. Mn dioxide nanoparticles contribute to excellent flowablity and electro-active performance. In the cycling stability test, the performance is stable over more than 40 cycles. It is considered that the same electrolyte in both half-cells prevent mixing of electro-active species.
Low-Voltage FIB/SEM Tomography for 3D Microstructure Evolution of LiFePO4/C Electrode
Authors: Scipioni Roberto , Jørgensen Peter Stanley , Ngo Duc-The , Simonsen Søren Bredmose , Hjelm Johan , Norby Poul , Jensen Søren Højgaard
Published: December 2015

This work presents an investigation of the degradation mechanisms that occur in LiFePO4/C battery electrodes during charge/discharge cycling. Impedance spectra were measured on a fresh electrode and an electrode aged by cycling. The spectra were modeled with an equivalent circuit which indicates that both the ionic and electronic pathways in the electrode were negatively affected by the cycling. Focused Ion Beam/Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB/SEM) tomography of both electrodes shows that cycling causes agglomerations of Carbon black (CB). In addition to this, Low-voltage FIB/SEM revealed non-conductive CB in the aged electrode.
Long Term Aging of Automotive Type Lithium-Ion Cells
Authors: Friesen Alex , Schultz Carola , Brunklaus Gunther , Rodehorst Uta , Wilken Andrea , Haetge Jan , Winter Martin , Schappacher Falko
Published: December 2015

Long-term cycle aging experiments were performed on commercially available automotive type lithium-ion pouch cells under realistic conditions as found in electrical vehicles. The main mechanisms responsible for cell aging were identified based on a combined approach of electrochemical and post mortem analysis methods, and were attributed to the loss of lithium through lithium metal deposition on the graphite anode and electrolyte decomposition as a side reaction. Furthermore, the aging occurred spatially localized at different rates. Anode material located close to the tabs exhibited most progressed aging, as determined from the rather pronounced local heat generation over a long time period.
Reaction Mechanism Analysis of a Li-O2 Battery: Structure of Electrode/Electrolyte Interface Probed Via Soft-x-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy, Hard x-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, and in-Situ Hard x-Ray Diffraction
Authors: Yogi Chihiro , Kamiguchi Kazuhiro , Takao Naoki , Watanabe Takeshi , Kubobuchi Kei , Matsumoto Masashi , Ohwaki Tsukuru , Imai Hideto
Published: December 2015

We investigated the electrode/electrolyte interphase structure using synchrotron radiation based techniques, namely in-situ and time resolvedhard X-ray diffraction (XRD), hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES) and soft X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (SXAFS). The formation and dissolution of Li2O2 upon the discharge/charge cycle were monitored by in-situ XRD, and the structure and chemical compositions at the electrode/electrolyte interphase were analyzed by HAXPES and SXAFS. In the XRD measurements, we found the Li2O2 formation during discharge and the rapid Li2O2 dissolution in the charge reaction. The combination of HAXPES and SXAFS analyses revealed that a large number of side products such as carbonates, C-F compounds, LiF, sulfones, and Li2O were generated after the discharge reaction. Furthermore, these side products were partially decomposed and/or oxidized in the charge stage. We systematically summarized the results in relation with the charge/discharge operation.
Dynamic Modeling of the Reaction Mechanism in a Li/O2 Cell: Influence of a Redox Mediator
Authors: Grübl Daniel , Bergner Benjamin J. , Janek Jürgen , Bessler Wolfgang G.
Published: December 2015

Lithium-oxygen cells with organic electrolyte suffer high overpotentials during charge, indicating asymmetric charge/discharge reaction mechanisms. We present a multi-physics dynamic modeling and simulation study of the Li/O2 cell cycling behavior. We present three different multi-step mechanisms of the 2 Li + O2 ⇄ Li2O2 cell reaction, (A) a reversible 5-step mechanism, (B) a partially irreversible 6-step mechanism, and (C) a partially irreversible 8-step mechanism that includes reactions of a redox mediator. Model predictions are compared to experimental galvanostatic cycling data of Swagelok cells without and with 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinyloxyl (TEMPO) as redox mediator. All mechanisms are able to predict the discharge behavior in good agreement to the experimental results. The experimentally observed high charge overpotentials as well as their reduction by using a redox mediator can be qualitatively reproduced with the irreversible reaction mechanisms. However, the particular shape of the experimental charge curve with continuously increasing charge overpotential cannot be reproduced with the present mechanisms.
Charge-Discharge Performance of Rechargeable Organic-Magnesium Batteries Using Glyme-Based Electrolytes
Authors: Senoh Hiroshi , Sakaebe Hikari , Tokiwa Haruki , Uchida Makoto , Sano Hikaru , Yao Masaru , Kiyobayashi Tetsu
Published: December 2015

Rechargeable batteries composed of metallic Mg negative electrode, glyme-based electrolytes and organic positive electrode (2,5-dimethoxy-1,4-benzoquinone (DMBQ)) were proposed. The charge-discharge performance of the batteries was investigated using a coin-type cell at 30˚C. The discharge capacity reaches ca. 200 mAh g(DMBQ)-1 in Mg(TFSA)2/monoglyme and diglyme electrolytes. This capacity suggests that a multi-electron redox reaction takes place in these electrolytes. The hysteresis between charge-discharge voltage plateaus are quite large in Mg(TFSA)2/diglyme, triglyme and tetraglyme electrolytes, while the discharge voltage increases drastically after a few cycles in Mg(TFSA)2/monoglyme electrolyte. One of the reasons is that the overpotential of the Mg negative electrode for the Mg-dissolution is quite small. Although the capacity substantially decreases upon cycling, the cell using Mg(TFSA)2/monoglyme retains the high voltage at the discharge even after 20 cycles.
Quantifying the Impact of Overdischarge on Large Format Lithium-Ion Cells
Authors: Fuentevilla Daphne , Hendricks Christopher , Mansour Azzam
Published: December 2015

Lithium-ion batteries can help enable the Navy and Marine Corps to meet their energy storage needs; however, safety is of paramount concern. Overdischarge, followed by recharge, is a failure mechanism in lithium-ion batteries that can be associated with long-term storage, poor battery module design, and internal cell defects. Overdischarge is known to cause copper dissolution, SEI layer degradation, and gas generation. By itself, overdischarge does not result in catastrophic thermal runaway; however, if a battery is recharged and used following an overdischarge event, the chances of thermal runaway increase. This paper describes an on-going investigation into the link between depth and duration of overdischarge, quantitative changes to the cell as a result of overdischarge, and performance and safety characteristics in lithium-ion batteries. Through the use of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), we measure copper dissolution in both an overdischarged cell and a healthy cell.
Lithium Iron Phosphate Nanosheet Nests Cathode Material for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Wainright Robert John , Ramasamy Ramaraja P.
Published: December 2015

In this work, we report a new method for the synthesis and development of stacked nanomaterials for use as active materials in lithium ion batteries. The method has been demonstrated using LiFePO4 as active material and graphene as conductive additive. The synthesis of stacked materials is achieved by a wet chemical procedure that for birdnest shaped LiFePO4 particles followed by a sonication procedure to form stacked nanosheets. Atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images show very thin layers of material ranging from 10 to 50 nm in thickness. The work presents a viable method for scalable synthesis of composite 2-dimensional nanostructures that could be extended to other class of intercalation materials for Li-ion battery applications.
Activated Carbon Fiber Treated at Different Temperatures as Supercapacitor Electrodes: Electrochemical Characterization
Authors: Almeida Dalva Alves Lima , Couto Andrea Boldarini , Baldan Mauricio Ribeiro , Ferreira Neidenei Gomes
Published: December 2015

Carbon fiber (CF) produced at different heat treatment temperatures (HTT) of 1000, 1500, and 2000 ºC was activated by electrochemical and chemical oxidation pre-treatments. These treated CF samples were morphologically and electrochemically characterized by scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, charge/discharge response at different current densities, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Both activation pre-treatments improved the specific capacitance values for all samples in the three HTT studied showing their viability as electrodes for supercapacitor. Nonetheless, chemically pre-treated CF-1000 showed the best result mainly considering the charge/discharge response.
Carbon Dioxide Activated SiC-CDC: Attractive Material for Supercapacitor Electrodes
Authors: Jänes Alar , Tee Ester , Tallo Indrek , Thomberg Thomas , Lust Enn
Published: December 2015

Carbide-derived carbons (CDCs) were synthesized from SiC powders (SiC-CDC) via gas phase chlorination within the temperature range from 1000 ºC to 1100 ºC. Thereafter the CDCs were additionally activated by CO2 treatment method, resulting in nearly two-fold increase in specific surface area. The low-temperature nitrogen sorption experiments were performed and the specific surface areas from 1100 m2 g-1 up to 2270 m2 g-1 were obtained, depending on the extent of CO2 activation. The energy and power density characteristics of the supercapacitors based on 1 M (C2H5)3CH3NBF4 solution in acetonitrile and SiC-CDC as an electrode material were investigated using the cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, galvanostatic charge/discharge and constant power discharge methods. The electrochemical data indicated two-times increase in specific capacitance. The activation of SiC-CDC with CO2 significantly increases (more than 40%) the performance of the supercapacitors, especially at higher potential scan rates and at higher power loads.
Effects of Cations on Electrochemical Behavior of Ni(II)/Ni in a Hydrophobic Ionic Liquid
Authors: Zhu Yan-Li , Katayama Yasushi , Miura Takashi
Published: December 2015

The effects of cations, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium (EMI+), 1-methyl-propylpiperidinium (PP13
+), and 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium (BMP+), on electrodeposition of nickel were investigated in a hydrophobic room-temperature ionic liquid with the anion of bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amide (TFSA-) containing Ni(TFSA)2. The UV-vis spectra showed that the changes in the cations have little effect on the coordination environment of Ni(II) species. The largest cathodic peak current in EMITFSA was obtained from the cyclic voltammetric results. The reductive overpotentials of Ni(II)/Ni have the similar data probably due to the same solvation structure of Ni(II) species in these three electrolytes. The effects of cations on the morphology of the Ni deposits were also characterized by SEM.
Formation of Si Nanowires by Electro-reduction of Porous Ni/SiO2 Blocks in Molten CaCl2
Authors: Fang Sheng , Wang Han , Yang Juanyu , Yu Bing , Lu Shigang
Published: December 2015

Electro-reduction of porous Ni/SiO2 blocks has been investigated in molten CaCl2 at 1173K aiming to control the morphology of the produced silicon nanowires. It was confirmed that silicon nanowires with straight morphology were successfully prepared, and nano-sized nickel-silicon droplets formed at the head of silicon nanowires. The prepared silicon nanowires had a wide diameter distribution ranging from 80 to 350nm, and a length as long as several micrometers. Cyclic voltammograms indicated that nickel additives did not change the mechanism of electrochemical reduction of SiO2.
Fabrication of Bumping Mask for Flip-Chip Process on Stainless Steel Using through Mask Electrochemical Micro Machining(TMEMM)
Authors: Ahn Jae-Bin , Ryu Heon-Yul , Park Jin-Goo
Published: December 2015

In order to fabricate bumping mask which is used for making bump during flip-chip package, the TMEMM process was used. The TMEMM process uses electrochemical reaction between electrode surface and electrolyte. In this study, we optimized the TMEMM process to fabricate bumping mask by controlling the process parameters such as electrolyte temperature, cathode size, exposed cathode area and agitation speed. By controlling process parameters, the effect of current density distribution and mass transport could be investigated. After the TMEMM process, Optical Microscope and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope were used to analyze the result. As a result, the bumping mask which has 250.6 µm of average hole diameter with 2.8% of CV value and smooth surface was fabricated.
Characterizing the Mechanical and Electrochemical Behavior of Preloaded Electrodes in Lithium Ion Pouch Cells
Authors: Shi Lei , Kunz Ulrich
Published: December 2015

The influence of externally imposed mechanical loading on lithium ion pouch cells is investigated by monitoring the capacity retention and the out-of-plane displacement on the external surface of the cells. Mechanical loading was applied by bending the electrodes prior to electrochemical treatment of the cells. Only the samples loaded with the suitable bending show improved capacity retention. While a large bending diameter leads only to little protection, too small bending diameter results in degradation. The improvements can be attributed to the positive effect of pre-bending on suppression on repeatable volume expansion and thus improve the adhesion of electrode material layers on the current collector. Additionally, an appropriate bending stress may have a protective effect against the formation of deposits on the electrode. The improvement is only effective in an optimal range of the bending diameter (3-10mm). The conclusion can be further proven by electrochemical impedance spectroscopic and the observation on the internal surface area of the electrode.
Reaction Dependent Transport of Carbonate and Bicarbonate through Anion Exchange Membranes in Electrolysis and Fuel Cell Operations
Authors: Rigdon William A. , Omasta Travis J , Lewis Connor A , Mustain William E
Published: December 2015

Developments in polymer alkaline anion exchange membranes have led to their recent successful implementation in new and exciting electrochemical applications. Historically, the use of carbon dioxide in alkaline cells plagued performance through carbonate precipitation from the electrolyte on the electrodes. However, anion exchange membranes have allowed for the transport of carbonate and bicarbonate species without carbonate precipitation. This results in a mixed anionic conductivity, presenting new applications for their use in low temperature electrochemical reactions. For example, carbon dioxide can be separated and compressed from a gas stream in electrolysis (pumping) mode. Fuel cells that tolerate reduction of atmospheric air at the cathode and other oxidative conversions at the anode could also be feasible. Therefore, exploring the transport properties of bi/carbonate cells under differing half-reactions can elucidate limitations and possibilities for future use.
Gas Sensing Properties of Hierarchically Structured Zinc Oxide Films by Electrophoretic Deposition
Authors: Chung Yoonsung , Park Hyejin , Lee Eunji , Lee Seokhee , Kim Dong-Joo
Published: December 2015

This work presents a simple route to synthesize and fabricate hierarchically structured zinc oxide films. ZnO hollow microspheres were prepared by using a precipitation method. The preformed particles transformed to pure ZnO phase after calcination at 500 °C. ZnO hollow microspheres were deposited onto films by electrophoretic deposition. ZnO hollow microspheres were found to exhibit n-type gas sensing properties against ethanol and acetone gases, leading to higher responses than other morphologies due to its large surface-to-volume ratio.
Rapid Detection of Pathogens by a 3D Biomolecular Filter and Automated Biosensor Measurement System
Authors: Du Songtao , Horikawa Shin , Liu Yuzhe , Crumpler Michael , Chai Yating , Hu Jiajia , Wang Fengen , Chin Bryan A
Published: December 2015

A new method of rapid detection of pathogens by 3D biomolecular filtering and automated indexing plate measurement has been demonstrated. In this process, a liquid containing pathogens is passed through a 3D biomolecular filter composed of planar arrays of ME biosensors held by a magnetic field. This filter captures specific target pathogens (in our demonstration case, Salmonella) in the liquid as it passes over the filter. Capture of the pathogens is by specific biomolecular recognition, not size exclusion as with traditional filters. After the entire liquid has passed over the filter, the magnetic field is shut off and the individual biosensors collected and dried. The biosensors are then placed on an indexing plate consisting of an array of rectangular cavities approximately 10% larger in size than the ME biosensors. A vibrating table is used to vibrate the ME biosensors into motion until each cavity of the plate is occupied by a single ME biosensor. The biosensors are then measured by sequentially positioning the sensors under a surface scanning detection coil for measurement of the final resonance frequency of the biosensors using an automated translation system. In this manner, a single sensor can be measured in less than 2 seconds with 1000 sensors being measured in less than 30 minutes.
Direct Detection of Salmonella on Fresh Produce
Authors: Horikawa Shin , Chai Yating , Wikle Howard Clyde , Suh Sang-Jin , Barbaree James M , Chin Bryan A
Published: December 2015

This paper presents a method of bacterial detection that directly detects and quantifies the presence of specific bacteria on the surfaces of fresh produce without sample preparation (water rinse, soak, stomaching, etc.) and/or enrichment. The method combines wireless magnetoelastic (ME) biosensors and a surface-scanning detector for the swift screening of foods. Tests were conducted on tomatoes spiked with difference concentrations of Salmonella Typhimurium as a model pathogen. The speed of detection was from 2 to 10 minutes with a limit of detection (LOD) in a range of 102 to 104 cfu/mm2. The current LOD can be improved by using smaller, more sensitive ME biosensors (sub-millimeters in length) with an appropriate quantity. The presented method can be used on site for food inspection and outbreak investigation.
Rapid and Sensitive Detection of Salmonella Typhimurium on Plastic Food Processing Plates by Using Wireless Biosensors
Authors: Liu Yuzhe , Horikawa Shin , Du Songtao , Chai Yating , Hu Jiajia , Wang Fengen , Chin Bryan A
Published: December 2015

Food products can be contaminated with bacteria, spores, and other pathogens at any point in the farm-to-table continuum. This paper presents an investigation into rapid, sensitive detection of Salmonella Typhimurium on plastic food processing plates by using wireless magnetoelastic (ME) biosensors. In this research, a planar spiral coil was microfabricated and employed as a surface-scanning detector for real-time, in-situ measurement of the biosensors without sample preparation and/or enrichment in the testing process. The ME biosensor consists of an ME resonator, made from metallic glass (Metglas alloy 2826MB), as the signal transducer and E2 phage as the bio-molecular recognition element that is engineered to selectively bind with Salmonella Typhimurium. Both measurement sensors (multiple E2 phage-coated biosensors) and control sensors (multiple biosensors without phage) were prepared and distributed on a food grade plastic plate contaminated with Salmonella Typhimurium with known volumes and concentrations. The resonant frequency changes of the measurement sensors due to specific binding of Salmonella Typhimurium were found to be statistically different from those of the control sensors.
VOC Gas Sensors Fabricated with Graphene Oxide Composites for Food Safety and Quality
Authors: Park Hyejin , Lee Eunji , Chung Yoonsung , Lee Seokhee , Ahn Hosang , Kim Dong-Joo
Published: December 2015

In this study, an array sensor is investigated to employ graphene oxide (GO) and nanostructured SnO2, and their composite films for agriculture applications. A series of electrodes was fabricated to create a high density of sensing array in a small size chip. Individual films under various mixing ratios of GO and SnO2 were deposited via electrophoretic deposition (EPD). Formaldehyde gas was employed to explore sensing behavior and the concentration was kept to 100 ppm. The composition gradients in sensing layers can provide unique response pattern according to oxide mixture ratio.
Preparation of Ordered Intermetallic PtBi co-Catalyst Nanoparticles/WO3 and its Photocatalytic Activity towards the Decomposition of Acetic Acid
Authors: Gunji Takao , Hashimoto Masanari , Tanabe Toyokazu , Kaneko Shingo , Matsumoto Futoshi
Published: December 2015

The ordered intermetallic PtBi, which has a NiAs type structure (NiAs-type structure; P63/mmc, a = b = 0.431 nm; c = 0.549 nm), was prepared on the surface of tungsten oxide (WO3) using the photodeposition method and polyol method. The prepared ordered intermetallic PtBi nanoparticles (NPs) used as co-catalyst showed much higher photocatalytic activity towards the decomposition of acetic acid (AcOH) under visible light irradiation (λ > 420 nm) than that observed with photodeposited Pt NPs/WO3.
Development of Moving Micro-Machines That Use Hydrogen Peroxide and Glucose as Fuels
Authors: Kuzuoka Takuya , Kouno Tomohiro , Koyama Tomohiro , Morita Yuji , Yamazaki Keitaro , Gunji Takao , Tanabe Toyokazu , Kaneko Shingo , Nanzai Ben , Matsumoto Futoshi
Published: December 2015

We developed micro-machines constructed using metal or polymer materials that move by converting the chemical energy of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and glucose to the mechanical energy of dioxygen (O2) bubble impulses. The conversion process is based on electrochemical and enzymatic reactions. The micro-machines with enzymatic reactions exhibited a higher moving speed than the conventional micro-machines with electrochemical reactions. Our originally designed Au/Pt/cationic polymer/glucose oxidase (GOx)/catalase type micro-machines could move using glucose as fuel. However, the speed of movement achieved using glucose is much smaller compared with other micro-machines that move using H2O2 as fuel.
Synthesis and Characterization of Na3V2(PO4)2F3 Based Cathode Material for Sodium Ion Batteries
Authors: Väli Ronald , Möller Priit , Jänes Alar
Published: December 2015

Na3V2(PO4)2F3 was synthesized via two-step carbothermal reduction from NaF and VPO4 intermediate precursor and tested as cathode material for aqueous and non-aqueous Na-ion batteries. The synthesized material was characterized using XRD, SEM-EDX, TOF-SIMS. The cyclic voltammetry and charge/discharge measurements for non-aqueous system indicated that the intercalation / deintercalation of Na+ ions is being carried out in two steps: the first one at 3.5/3.7 V and the second one at 4.1/4.3 V, indicative for a structural transformation of the cathode material. Discharge capacity of 55 mA g-1 was measured for the first cycle. However, the capacity decreased nearly 50 %, to 22 − 25 mA g-1 after the second galvanostatic cycle within 3.0 – 4.5 V. Discharge capacity decreases during the first 10 cycles but stabilizes after 50 cycles, maintaining ~ 20 mA g-1 after 3000 cycles. Cycling in aqueous media showed even faster capacity fade.
Chaotic Oscillations in H2O2 - H2SO4 - Pt Electrochemical System
Authors: Mukouyama Yoshiharu , Hara Daisuke , Kawasaki Hirokazu , Kikuchi Mitsunobu , Yamada Yuri , Nakanishi Shuji
Published: December 2015

The current due to the H2O2 reduction at Pt electrodes in H2SO4 solutions shows a period-1 oscillation, named oscillation A. This work reports that the oscillation changes into complex oscillations such as a mixed-mode, chaotic, and period-n oscillations when Na2SO4 or K2SO4 is added to the solutions. The alkali metal ions originated from the salts, namely, Na+ and K+ ions, increase the local pH at the electrode surface during the H2O2 reduction, as has been reported before (ECS Transactions 64 (2015) 49). However, the complex oscillations are found not to be caused by the increase in the local pH. It is possibly that a non-covalent interaction between adsorbed OH, that is the reaction intermediate of the H2O2 reduction, and the alkali metal ions plays a crucial role for the appearance of the complex oscillations. The clarification of the origin of the complex oscillations needs further study.
Molecularly Tethered Cholesterol Oxidase on Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes for Indirect Detection of Cholesterol
Authors: Ashby Jarryd Noah , Ramasamy Ramaraja P.
Published: December 2015

A biosensor for indirect detection of cholesterol has been developed using cholesterol oxidase enzyme as the bio-recognition element and multi walled carbon nanotubes as the support. The enzyme consumes cholesterol and oxygen, thereby reducing the oxygen availability for the electrochemical reaction. The amperometric signal for cholesterol detection is generated from the reduction of residual oxygen at the electrode surface. The sensor exhibited a linear detection range from 0.5 to 8 μM and a sensitivity of 0.6061 μA/μM in the linear region. Further, the sensor exhibited an acceptable levels of interference from physiological excess of common interfering compounds, to wit, glucose, acetaminophen, sodium lactate, and uric acid.
Cooperative Cloud Service Aware Mobile Internet Coverage Connectivity Guarantee Protocol Based on Sensor Opportunistic Coverage Mechanism
Authors: Qin Qin , He Yong-qiang , Nie Li-ming
Published: December 2015

In order to improve the Internet coverage ratio and provide connectivity guarantee, based on sensor opportunistic coverage mechanism and cooperative cloud service, we proposed the coverage connectivity guarantee protocol for mobile Internet. In this scheme, based on the opportunistic covering rules, the network coverage algorithm of high reliability and real-time security was achieved by using the opportunity of sensor nodes and the Internet mobile node. Then, the cloud service business support platform is created based on the Internet application service management capabilities and wireless sensor network communication service capabilities, which is the architecture of the cloud support layer. The cooperative cloud service aware model was proposed. Finally, we proposed the mobile Internet coverage connectivity guarantee protocol. The results of experiments demonstrate that the proposed algorithm has excellent performance, in terms of the security of the Internet and the stability, as well as coverage connectivity ability.
Microstructure and Mechanical Property of Hot-Pressed Al2O3-Ni-P Composites Using Ni-P-Coated Al2O3Powders
Authors: Kim Hyeong-Chul , Han Jae-Kil
Published: December 2015

Al2O3-Ni-P composite powders with Ni-P contents of 10.9, 14.4, and 20.4 wt.% were synthesized via the Ni-P electroless deposition process. The as-received Al2O3-Ni-P composite powders were composed of Ni-P particles and Ni-P coating layer. Some Ni-P particles randomly adhered to the Al2O3powders, and their particle diameter ranged from 5 nm to 20 nm. The thin Ni-P layer had about 5 nm thick amorphous structure and directly bonded with Al2O3powders. Using the Ni-P-coated Al2O3powders, a dense Al2O3-Ni-P composite can be successfully obtained using the hot press process at 1,350°C for 1 hour in an Ar atmosphere under an applied pressure of 30 MPa. The hot-pressed Al2O3-15 wt.% Ni-P composite showed excellent material properties. Its relative density, Vickers hardness, and fracture toughness were comparatively high: about 99.1%, 2,360 Hv, and 6 MPa·m1/2, respectively. The fracture surface of the hot-pressed Al2O3-Ni-P composite showed a semiductile mode due to the mixed intergranular and transgranular fracture mode. In particular, the fracture toughness of the hot-pressed Al2O3-15 wt.% Ni-P composite was strongly enhanced by the combined action of the crack branching and the crack deflection.
Amphiphiles Self-Assembly: Basic Concepts and Future Perspectives of Supramolecular Approaches
Authors: Lombardo Domenico , Kiselev Mikhail A. , Magazù Salvatore , Calandra Pietro
Published: December 2015

Amphiphiles are synthetic or natural molecules with the ability to self-assemble into a wide variety of structures including micelles, vesicles, nanotubes, nanofibers, and lamellae. Self-assembly processes of amphiphiles have been widely used to mimic biological systems, such as assembly of lipids and proteins, while their integrated actions allow the performance of highly specific cellular functions which has paved a way for bottom-up bionanotechnology. While amphiphiles self-assembly has attracted considerable attention for decades due to their extensive applications in material science, drug and gene delivery, recent developments in nanoscience stimulated the combination of the simple approaches of amphiphile assembly with the advanced concept of supramolecular self-assembly for the development of more complex, hierarchical nanostructures. Introduction of stimulus responsive supramolecular amphiphile assembly-disassembly processes provides particularly novel approaches for impacting bionanotechnology applications. Leading examples of these novel self-assembly processes can be found, in fact, in biosystems where assemblies of different amphiphilic macrocomponents and their integrated actions allow the performance of highly specific biological functions. In this perspective, we summarize in this tutorial review the basic concept and recent research on self-assembly of traditional amphiphilic molecules (such as surfactants, amphiphile-like polymers, or lipids) and more recent concepts of supramolecular amphiphiles assembly which have become increasingly important in emerging nanotechnology.
Electrical Injury-Induced Complete Atrioventricular Block: Is Permanent Pacemaker Required?
Authors: Beton Osman , Efe Tolga Han , Kaya Hakki , Bilgin Murat , Dinc Asarcikli Lale , Yilmaz Mehmet Birhan
Published: December 2015

A considerable percentage of electrical injuries occur as a result of work activities. Electrical injury can lead to various cardiovascular disorders: acute myocardial necrosis, myocardial ischemia, heart failure, arrhythmias, hemorrhagic pericarditis, acute hypertension with peripheral vasospasm, and anomalous, nonspecific ECG alterations. Ventricular fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia resulting from electrical injury and is the leading cause of death in electrical (especially low voltage alternating current) injury cases. Asystole, premature ventricular contractions, ventricular tachycardia, conduction disorders (various degrees of heart blocks, bundle-brunch blocks), supraventricular tachycardia, and atrial fibrillation are the other arrhythmic complications of electrical injury. Complete atrioventricular block has rarely been reported and permanent pacemaker was required for the treatment in some of these cases. Herein, we present a case of reversible complete atrioventricular block due to low voltage electrical injury in a young electrical technician.
Cryoglobulinaemia in Egyptian Patients with Extrahepatic Cutaneous Manifestations of Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Hegab Doaa Salah , Sweilam Mohammed Abd El Rahman
Published: December 2015

Background. Hepatitis C is a global major health problem with extremely variable extrahepatic manifestations. Mixed cryoglobulinaemia (MC) shows a striking association with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, and it is sometimes asymptomatic. The skin is a frequently involved target organ in MC.Objective. To investigate the prevalence of cryoglobulinaemia in a sample of Egyptian patients with cutaneous manifestations of chronic HCV infection and to correlate its presence with clinical criteria and liver function tests.Methods. One hundred and eighteen patients with skin manifestations of chronic compensated hepatitis C were included. Venous blood was tested for liver function tests and serum cryoglobulins.Results. Twelve patients (10.169%) were positive for serum cryoglobulins (2 with pruritus, 4 with vasculitic lesions, 3 with livedo reticularis, one with oral lichen, one with chronic urticaria, and another with Schamberg’s disease). Vasculitic lesions and livedo reticularis of the legs showed higher prevalence in cryoglobulin-positive than in cryoglobulin-negative patients. Presence of serum cryoglobulins did not relate to patients’ demographic or laboratory findings.Conclusions. Fortunately, MC is not markedly prevalent among Egyptians with cutaneous lesions of chronic hepatitis C, and cryopositivity was commonly, but not exclusively, detected with cutaneous vasculitis and livedo reticularis. Laboratory testing for cryoglobulins in every HCV patient is advisable for earlier MC detection and management.
Knowledge of Future Dental Practitioners towards Oral Cancer: Exploratory Findings from a Public University in Malaysia
Authors: Bhagavathula Akshaya Srikanth , Bin Zakaria Nazrin , Jamshed Shazia Qasim
Published: December 2015

Objective. To assess knowledge and awareness of oral cancer in the early identification of risk factors among undergraduate dental students.Methods. A total of 162 undergraduate (third, fourth, and fifth year) dental students at International Islamic University, Malaysia, were approached to participate in the study, and those who agreed were administered. A 9-item pretested questionnaire contains questions on oral examination, oral cancer risk factors, and requests for further information. Descriptive statistics were conducted using chi-square testing.Results.The response rate of the study was 70.3% (114/162), with 26 (22.8%) males and 88 (77.2%) females. All undergraduate dental students were familiar with examining the oral mucosa of their patients and most were likely to advise patients about the risk factors for developing oral cancer (98.2%). Nearly one-third (32.4%) of students reported examining patients with oral lesions as early signs for oral cancer (P<0.001) and nearly 70% agreed that they did not have sufficient knowledge regarding the prevention and detection of oral cancer (P<0.001). In addition, more than 95.6% agreed that there is a need for additional information/teaching regarding oral cancer. Further, 61.3% and 14.1% identified tobacco smoking and drinking alcohol as major risk factors for developing oral cancer.Conclusion.This study demonstrated lack of awareness about risk factors among undergraduate dental students regarding oral cancer. Reinforcing awareness and enhancing the benefits of early detection on prevention of oral cancer should be done through training and/or educational intervention.
An Efficient SDN Load Balancing Scheme Based on Variance Analysis for Massive Mobile Users
Authors: Zhong Hong , Lin Qunfeng , Cui Jie , Shi Runhua , Liu Lu
Published: December 2015

In a traditional network, server load balancing is used to satisfy the demand for high data volumes. The technique requires large capital investment while offering poor scalability and flexibility, which difficultly supports highly dynamic workload demands from massive mobile users. To solve these problems, this paper analyses the principle of software-defined networking (SDN) and presents a new probabilistic method of load balancing based on variance analysis. The method can be used to dynamically manage traffic flows for supporting massive mobile users in SDN networks. The paper proposes a solution using the OpenFlow virtual switching technology instead of the traditional hardware switching technology. A SDN controller monitors data traffic of each port by means of variance analysis and provides a probability-based selection algorithm to redirect traffic dynamically with the OpenFlow technology. Compared with the existing load balancing methods which were designed to support traditional networks, this solution has lower cost, higher reliability, and greater scalability which satisfy the needs of mobile users.
Reduced Histone H3 Acetylation in CD4+T Lymphocytes: Potential Mechanism of Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults
Authors: Liu Xi-yu , Xu Jiang-feng
Published: December 2015

Aims. Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) is the result of gene-environment interactions. Histone acetylation regulates gene expression and maybe interpret how environmental factors modify LADA. Hence, we studied the histone acetylation patterns in CD4+T lymphocytes from LADA patients.Methods. Blood CD4+T lymphocytes from 28 patients with LADA and 28 healthy controls were obtained to detect histone H3 acetylation and H4 acetylation. The gene expression of histone acetyltransferases (P300 and CREBBP) and histone deacetylases (HDAC1, HDAC2, and HDAC7) was measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).Results. Compared to healthy controls, reduced global H3 acetylation was observed in LADA patients’ CD4+T lymphocytes (P<0.05). Global level of H4 acetylation was not statistically different. Among LADA, CD4+T lymphocytes H3 acetylation was associated with glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and GADA titer. Compared to healthy controls, the expression of histone acetyltransferases CREBBP in LADA patients was downregulated, and the expression of histone deacetylases HDAC1 and HDAC7 was upregulated.Conclusion. A concerted downregulation of histone H3 acetylation was found in CD4+T lymphocytes of LADA patients, and this might provide evidence of a novel epigenetic explanation for the pathogenesis of LADA and its complications.
Magnetron Sputtering a New Fabrication Method of Iron Based Biodegradable Implant Materials
Authors: Jurgeleit Till , Quandt Eckhard , Zamponi Christiane
Published: December 2015

It was shown in the previous decade that pure-iron has a large potential as a biodegradable medical implant material. It is necessary to tailor the material properties according to the intended use of the device. It is of great interest to investigate not only the influence of processing on the material properties but also alternative fabrication methods. In this work for the first time magnetron sputtering in combination with UV lithography was used to fabricate free standing, patterned pure-iron thick films. For the intended use as biodegradable implant material free standing thick films were characterized in terms of microstructure, degradation performance, and mechanical properties before and after various heat treatments. The influence of microstructural changes on the degradation behavior was determined by linear polarization measurements. The mechanical properties were characterized by tensile tests. Microstructure, surface, and composition were investigated by scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. The foils exhibited a preferential orientation in110direction and a fine grained structure. Furthermore they showed a higher strength compared to cast iron and corrosion rates in the range of 0.1 mm/year. Their mechanical properties were tuned by grain coarsening resulting in a slight increase of the degradation rate.
Postoperative CA19-9 Change Is a Useful Predictor of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Survival following Liver Resection
Authors: Yoo Tae , Park Sang-Jae , Han Sung-Sik , Kim Seong Hoon , Lee Seung Duk , Kim Young-Kyu , Kim Tae Hyun , Woo Sang Myung , Lee Woo Jin , Hong Eun Kyung
Published: December 2015

Background. To investigate the clinical significance of the perioperative CA19-9 change for predicting survival in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) patients treated with surgical resection.Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the data from 74 ICC patients treated with surgical resection between April 2001 and July 2010. Perioperative CA19-9 (preoperative level, postoperative lowest level, and level at recurrence) levels were analyzed for patient distribution and survival.Results. Before surgery, there were 45 patients who had high preoperative CA19-9 levels (>37 U/mL) and 29 who had normal levels (≤37 U/mL). Of 45 patients with high CA19-9 levels, 34 had normalized CA19-9 levels after resection and 11 had persistently high levels. Of 34 patients with normalized CA19-9 levels, 18 showed recurrence. Of 29 patients with normal preoperative levels, 15 showed recurrence. Multivariate analysis presented that old age (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.881,p<0.01), persistently high postoperative CA19-9 level (HR = 4.41,p<0.001), perineural invasion (HR = 3.073,p=0.01), narrow resection margin (HR = 3.152,p=0.05), and lymph node metastasis (HR = 3.427,p=0.02) were significant independent risk factors for survival.Conclusions. Patients who have normalized CA19-9 levels postoperatively have longer survival outcomes. Therefore, normalized postoperative CA19-9 may be a useful clinical marker for ICC survival.
Near-Infrared Spectroscopy as an Analytical Process Technology for the On-Line Quantification of Water Precipitation Processes during Danhong Injection
Authors: Liu Xuesong , Wu Chunyan , Geng Shu , Jin Ye , Luan Lianjun , Chen Yong , Wu Yongjiang
Published: December 2015

This paper used near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for the on-line quantitative monitoring of water precipitation during Danhong injection. For these NIR measurements, two fiber optic probes designed to transmit NIR radiation through a 2 mm flow cell were used to collect spectra in real-time. Partial least squares regression (PLSR) was developed as the preferred chemometrics quantitative analysis of the critical intermediate qualities: the danshensu (DSS, (R)-3, 4-dihydroxyphenyllactic acid), protocatechuic aldehyde (PA), rosmarinic acid (RA), and salvianolic acid B (SAB) concentrations. Optimized PLSR models were successfully built and used for on-line detecting of the concentrations of DSS, PA, RA, and SAB of water precipitation during Danhong injection. Besides, the information of DSS, PA, RA, and SAB concentrations would be instantly fed back to site technical personnel for control and adjustment timely. The verification experiments determined that the predicted values agreed with the actual homologic value.
Outcome following Resection of Biliary Cystadenoma: A Single Centre Experience and Literature Review
Authors: Pitchaimuthu M. , Aidoo-Micah G. , Coldham C. , Sutcliffe R. , Roberts J. K. , Muiesan P. , Isaac J. , Mirza D. , Marudanayagam R.
Published: December 2015

Background. Biliary cystadenomas (BCAs) are rare, benign, potentially malignant cystic lesions of the liver, accounting for less than 5% of cystic liver tumours. We report the outcome following resection of biliary cystadenoma from a single tertiary centre.Methods. Data of patients who had resection of BCA between January 1993 and July 2014 were obtained from liver surgical database. Patient demographics, clinicopathological characteristics, operative data, and postoperative outcome were analysed.Results. 29 patients had surgery for BCA. Male : female ratio was 1 : 28. Clinical presentation was abdominal pain (74%), jaundice (20%), abdominal mass (14%), and deranged liver function tests (3%). Cyst characteristics included septations (48%), wall thickening (31%), wall irregularity (38%), papillary projections (10%), and mural nodule (3%). Surgical procedures included atypical liver resection (52%), left hemihepatectomy (34%), right hemihepatectomy (10%), and left lateral segmentectomy (3%). Median length of stay was 7 (IQ 6.5–8.5) days. Two patients developed postoperative bile leak. No patients had malignancy on final histology. Median follow-up was 13 (IQ 6.5–15.7) years. One patient developed delayed biliary stricture and one died of cholangiocarcinoma 11 years later.Conclusion.Biliary cystadenomas can be resected safely with significantly low morbidity. Malignant transformation and recurrence are rare. Complete surgical resection provides a cure.
Diuretic Properties and Chemical Constituent Studies onStauntonia brachyanthera
Authors: Liu Xuan Li , Wang Dan Dan , Wang Zi Hao , Meng Da Li
Published: December 2015

The pharmacological evaluation demonstrated that the extracts from the stem ofS. brachyantheracould significantly increase the outputs of urine of rats compared to those of furosemide treated group, and the effect could last for a longer period of time. The best effect appeared in the first two hours, which scientifically confirmed the diuretic effect of the plant. The comparative pharmacognosy study showed that the characters of the crude drugs of the stem ofS. brachyantherawere similar to those ofAkebia caulis. Further systemic work on its chemical constituents by chromatographic methods and NMR elucidations led to the isolation of 10 triterpenoids, 6 flavonoids, 4 lignanoids, and 3 phenylethanoid glycosides, whose structural types were much similar to those ofA. quinata. Among them, 7 compounds were firstly reported in the genus ofStauntoniaand calceolarioside B was the common characteristic constituent in both plants. From the similar pharmacognosy characters, pharmacological effects, and chemical constituents, it could be concluded thatS. brachyantherahave a great possibility to be a succedaneum ofAkebia caulis, whose supply is extremely short in recent years.