bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterising the local void with the X-ray cluster survey REFLEX II
Authors: Collins Chris A. , Böhringer Hans , Bristow Martyn , Chon Gayoung
Published: October 2016

Claims of a significant underdensity or void in the density distribution on scales out to ≃ 300 Mpc have recently been made using samples of galaxies. We present the results of an alternative test of the matter distribution on these scales using clusters of galaxies, which provide an independent and powerful probe of large-scale structure. We study the density distribution of X-ray clusters from the ROSAT-based REFLEX II catalogue, which covers a contiguous area of 4.24 steradians in the southern hempsphere (34% of the entire sky). Using the normalised comoving number density of clusters we find evidence for an underdensity (30-40%), out to z∼ 0.04, equivalent to ≃170 Mpc and with a significance of 3.4σ. On scales between 300 Mpc and 1 Gpc the distribution of REFLEX II clusters is consistent with being uniform. We also confirm recent results that the underdensity has a large contribution from the direction of the South Galactic Cap region, but is not significant in the direction of the Northern Galactic Cap as viewed from the southern sky. Both the limited size of the detected underdensity and its lack of isotropy, argue against the idea that the Type Ia supernovae data can be explained without the need for dark energy.
Distinguishing f(R) gravity with cosmic voids
Authors: Zivick P. , Sutter P. M.
Published: October 2016

We use properties of void populations identified in N-body simulations to forecast the ability of upcoming galaxy surveys to differentiate models of f(R) gravity from \lcdm cosmology. We analyze simulations designed to mimic the densities, volumes, and clustering statistics of upcoming surveys, using the public {\tt VIDE} toolkit. We examine void abundances as a basic probe at redshifts 1.0 and 0.4. We find that stronger f(R) coupling strengths produce voids up to ∼20% larger in radius, leading to a significant shift in the void number function. As an initial estimate of the constraining power of voids, we use this change in the number function to forecast a constraint on the coupling strength of Δ fR0 = 10-5.
Observations of dwarfs in nearby voids: implications for galaxy formation and evolution
Authors: Pustilnik Simon A.
Published: October 2016

The intermediate results of the ongoing study of deep samples of ∼200 galaxies residing in nearby voids, are presented. Their properties are probed via optical spectroscopy, ugri surface photometry, and HI 21-cm line measurements, with emphasis on their evolutionary status. We derive directly the hydrogen mass M(HI), the ratio M(HI)/LB and the evolutionary parameter gas-phase O/H. Their luminosities and integrated colours are used to derive stellar mass M* and the second evolutionary parameter – gas mass-fraction fg). The colours of the outer parts, typically representative of the galaxy oldest stellar population, are used to estimate the upper limits on time since the beginning of the main SF episode. We compare properties of void galaxies with those of the similar late-type galaxies in denser environments. Most of void galaxies show smaller O/H for their luminosity, in average by ∼30\%, indicating slower evolution. Besides, the fraction of ∼10\% of the whole void sample or ∼30\% of the least luminous void LSB dwarfs show the oxygen deficiency by a factor of 2–5. The majority of this group appear very gas-rich, with fg ∼(95–99)%, while their outer parts appear rather blue, indicating the time of onset of the main star-formation episode of less than 1–4 Gyr. Such unevolved LSBD galaxies appear not rare among the smallest void objects, but turned out practically missed to date due to the strong observational selection effects. Our results evidense for unusual evolutionary properties of the sizable fraction of void galaxies, and thus, pose the task of better modelling of dwarf galaxy formation and evolution in voids.
Surveying for Dwarf Galaxies Within Voids FN2 and FN8
Authors: McNeil Stephen , Draper Chris , Moody J. Ward
Published: October 2016

The presence or absence of dwarf galaxies with Mr' > -14 in low-density volumes correlates with dark matter halos and how they affect galaxy formation. We are conducting a redshifted Hα imaging survey for dwarf galaxies with Mr' > -13 in the heart of the well-defined voids FN2 and FN8 using the KPNO 4m Mayall telescope and Mosaic Imager. These data have furnished over 600 strong candidates in a four square degree area. Follow-up spectra finding none of these candidates to be within the void volumes will constrain the dwarf population there to be 2 to 8% of the cosmic mean. Conversely, finding even one Hα dwarf in the void heart will challenge several otherwise successful theories of large-scale structure formation.
Probing the accelerating Universe with redshift-space distortions in VIPERS
Authors: de la Torre Sylvain
Published: October 2016

We present the first measurement of the growth rate of structure at z=0.8. It has been obtained from the redshift-space distortions observed in the galaxy clustering pattern in the VIMOS Public Redshift survey (VIPERS) first data release. VIPERS is a large galaxy redshift survey probing the large-scale structure at 0.5 < z < 1.2 with an unprecedented accuracy. This measurement represents a new reference in the distant Universe, which has been poorly explored until now. We obtain σ8 = 0.47 ± 0.08 at z = 0.8 that is consistent with the predictions of standard cosmological models based on Einstein gravity. This measurement alone is however not accurate enough to allow the detection of possible deviations from standard gravity.
The impact of superstructures in the Cosmic Microwave Background
Authors: Ilić Stéphane , Langer Mathieu , Douspis Marian
Published: October 2016

In 2008, Granett et al. claimed a direct detection of the integrated Sachs-Wolfe (iSW) effect, through the stacking of CMB patches at the positions of identified superstructures. Additionally, the high amplitude of their measured signal was reported to be at odds with predictions from the standard model of cosmology. However, a closer inspection of these results prompts multiple questions, more specifically about the amplitude and significance of the expected signal. We propose here an original theoretical prediction of the iSW effect produced by such superstructures. We use simulations based on GR and the LTB metric to reproduce cosmic structures and predict their exact theoretical iSW effect on the CMB. The amplitudes predicted with this method are consistent with the signal measured when properly accounting the contribution of the non-negligible (and fortuitous) primordial CMB fluctuations to the total signal. It also highlights the tricky nature of stacking measurements and their interpretation.
Faraday rotation in CMB maps
Authors: Ruiz-Granados Beatriz , Battaner Eduardo , Florido Estrella
Published: October 2016

WMAP CMB polarization maps have been used to detect a low signal of Faraday Rotation (FR). If this detection is not interpreted as simple noise, it could be produced:

at the last scattering surface (LSS) (z=1100), being primordial,

at Reionization (z=10),

in the Milky Way.

The second interpretation is favoured here. In this case magnetic fields at Reionization with peak values of the order of 10-8 G should produce this observational FR.
Evolution of low-frequency contribution in emission of steep-spectrum radio sources
Authors: Miroshnichenko Alla P.
Published: October 2016

We consider evolution properties of galaxies and quasars with steep radio spectrum at the decametre band from the UTR-2 catalogue. The ratios of source's monochromatic luminosities at the decametre and high-frequency bands display the dependence on the redshift, linear size, characteristic age of examined objects. At that, the mean values of corresponding ratios for considered galaxies and quasars have enough close quantities,testifying on the unified model of sources. We analyse obtained relations for two types of steep-spectrum sources (with linear steep spectrum (S) and low-frequency steepness after a break (C+)) from the UTR-2 catalogue.
Are You Thinking the Same Way?
Authors: Baethge Anja , Rigotti Thomas
Published: October 2016

Abstract. This paper examines the impact of relationship parameters (communication quality and perceived similarity) between doctoral candidates and their supervisors on psychological contract breach, with reference to the theory of Morrison and Robinson (1997) and the schema theory of Rousseau (2001) . A two-wave longitudinal study involving 101 doctoral candidates was conducted, with time points separated by 4 months. Hypotheses were tested using cross-lagged panel analyses. Perceived similarity and communication quality at T1 had no significant main effect on contract breach at T2 (controlled for contract breach at T1). However, the interaction of both variables was found to be significant. If similarity was high, there was a significant negative relationship between communication quality and psychological contract breach. We may conclude that shared mental models are important for the unfolding of the positive effects of communication quality within a doctoral candidate–supervisor relationship.
Mapping Geoelectric Hazards Across the United States
Authors: Crane Leah
Published: October 2016

Variations in Earth’s magnetic field can induce electric fields in the ground, driving damaging currents through our power grids.
Fielding Receives 2016 Ivan I. Mueller Award for Distinguished Service and Leadership
Authors:   AGU
Published: October 2016

Eric Jameson Fielding will receive the 2016 Ivan I. Mueller Award for Distinguished Service and Leadership at the 2016 American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting, to be held 12–16 December in San Francisco, Calif. The award recognizes "major achievements in service and/or leadership to the geodesy community."
A High Throughput Phenotypic Screening reveals compounds that counteract premature osteogenic differentiation of HGPS iPS-derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Lo Cicero Alessandra , Jaskowiak Anne-Laure , Egesipe Anne-Laure , Tournois Johana , Brinon Benjamin , Pitrez Patricia R. , Ferreira Lino , de Sandre-Giovannoli Annachiara , Levy Nicolas , Nissan Xavier
Published: October 2016

Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a rare fatal genetic disorder that causes systemic accelerated aging in children. Thanks to the pluripotency and self-renewal properties of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), HGPS iPSC-based modeling opens up the possibility of access to different relevant cell types for pharmacological approaches. In this study, 2800 small molecules were explored using high-throughput screening, looking for compounds that could potentially reduce the alkaline phosphatase activity of HGPS mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) committed into osteogenic differentiation. Results revealed seven compounds that normalized the osteogenic differentiation process and, among these, all-trans retinoic acid and 13-cis-retinoic acid, that also decreased progerin expression. This study highlights the potential of high-throughput drug screening using HGPS iPS-derived cells, in order to find therapeutic compounds for HGPS and, potentially, for other aging-related disorders.
Comprehensive transcriptional and functional analyses of melatonin synthesis genes in cassava reveal their novel role in hypersensitive-like cell death
Authors: Wei Yunxie , Hu Wei , Wang Qiannan , Liu Wei , Wu Chunjie , Zeng Hongqiu , Yan Yu , Li Xiaolin , He Chaozu , Shi Haitao
Published: October 2016

Melatonin is a widely known hormone in animals. Since melatonin was discovered in plants, more and more studies highlight its involvement in a wide range of physiological processes including plant development and stress responses. Many advances have been made in the terms of melatonin-mediated abiotic stress resistance and innate immunity in plants, focusing on model plants such as rice and Arabidopsis. In this study, 7 melatonin synthesis genes were systematically analyzed in cassava. Quantitative real-time PCR showed that all these genes were commonly regulated by melatonin, flg22, Xanthomonas axonopodis pv manihotis (Xam) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana revealed the subcellular locations and possible roles of these melatonin synthesis genes. Notably, we highlight novel roles of these genes in hypersensitive-like cell death, as confirmed by the results of several physiological parameters. Moreover, transient expression of these genes had significant effects on the transcripts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and defense-related genes, and triggered the burst of callose depositions and papillae-associated plant defense, indicating the possible role of them in plant innate immunity. Taken together, this study reveals the comprehensive transcripts and putative roles of melatonin synthesis genes as well as melatonin in immune responses in cassava.
Flutter Phenomenon in Flow Driven Energy Harvester–A Unified Theoretical Model for “Stiff” and “Flexible” Materials
Authors: Chen Yu , Mu Xiaojing , Wang Tao , Ren Weiwei , Yang Ya , Wang Zhong Lin , Sun Chengliang , Gu Alex Yuandong
Published: October 2016

Here, we report a stable and predictable aero-elastic motion in the flow-driven energy harvester, which is different from flapping and vortex-induced-vibration (VIV). A unified theoretical frame work that describes the flutter phenomenon observed in both “stiff” and “flexible” materials for flow driven energy harvester was presented in this work. We prove flutter in both types of materials is the results of the coupled effects of torsional and bending modes. Compared to “stiff” materials, which has a flow velocity-independent flutter frequency, flexible material presents a flutter frequency that almost linearly scales with the flow velocity. Specific to “flexible” materials, pre-stress modulates the frequency range in which flutter occurs. It is experimentally observed that a double-clamped “flexible” piezoelectric P(VDF-TrFE) thin belt, when driven into the flutter state, yields a 1,000 times increase in the output voltage compared to that of the non-fluttered state. At a fixed flow velocity, increase in pre-stress level of the P(VDF-TrFE) thin belt up-shifts the flutter frequency. In addition, this work allows the rational design of flexible piezoelectric devices, including flow-driven energy harvester, triboelectric energy harvester, and self-powered wireless flow speed sensor.
Spatiotemporal properties of microsaccades: Model predictions and experimental tests
Authors: Zhou Jian-Fang , Yuan Wu-Jie , Zhou Zhao
Published: October 2016

Microsaccades are involuntary and very small eye movements during fixation. Recently, the microsaccade-related neural dynamics have been extensively investigated both in experiments and by constructing neural network models. Experimentally, microsaccades also exhibit many behavioral properties. It’s well known that the behavior properties imply the underlying neural dynamical mechanisms, and so are determined by neural dynamics. The behavioral properties resulted from neural responses to microsaccades, however, are not yet understood and are rarely studied theoretically. Linking neural dynamics to behavior is one of the central goals of neuroscience. In this paper, we provide behavior predictions on spatiotemporal properties of microsaccades according to microsaccade-induced neural dynamics in a cascading network model, which includes both retinal adaptation and short-term depression (STD) at thalamocortical synapses. We also successfully give experimental tests in the statistical sense. Our results provide the first behavior description of microsaccades based on neural dynamics induced by behaving activity, and so firstly link neural dynamics to behavior of microsaccades. These results indicate strongly that the cascading adaptations play an important role in the study of microsaccades. Our work may be useful for further investigations of the microsaccadic behavioral properties and of the underlying neural dynamical mechanisms responsible for the behavioral properties.
Heat and Mass Transfer of the Droplet Vacuum Freezing Process Based on the Diffusion-controlled Evaporation and Phase Transition Mechanism
Authors: Zhang Zhijun , Gao Jingxin , Zhang Shiwei
Published: October 2016

A frozen phase transition model is developed to investigate the heat and mass transfer of a single water droplet during the vacuum freezing process. The model is based on the diffusion-controlled evaporation mechanism and phase transition characteristics. The droplet vacuum freezing process can be divided into three stages according to the droplet states and the time order. It includes the evaporation freezing stage, the isothermal freezing stage and the sublimation freezing stage. A numerical calculation is performed, and the result is analysed. The effects of the vacuum chamber pressure, initial droplet diameter and initial droplet temperature on the heat and mass transfer characteristics at each stage are studied. The droplet experiences supercooling breakdown at the end of the evaporation freezing stage before the isothermal freezing stage begins. The temperature is transiently raised as a result of the supercooling breakdown phenomenon, whose effects on the freezing process and freezing parameters are considered.
Correction: Corrigendum: The characterization of an intestine-like genomic signature maintained during Barrett’s-associated adenocarcinogenesis reveals an NR5A2-mediated promotion of cancer cell survival
Authors: Duggan Shane P. , Behan Fiona M. , Kirca Murat , Zaheer Abdul , McGarrigle Sarah A. , Reynolds John V. , Vaz Gisela M. F. , Senge Mathias O. , Kelleher Dermot
Published: October 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 32638; published online: 02 September 2016; updated: 14 October 2016
Dislocation Strengthening without Ductility Trade-off in Metastable Austenitic Steels
Authors: Liu Jiabin , Jin Yongbin , Fang Xiaoyang , Chen Chenxu , Feng Qiong , Liu Xiaowei , Chen Yuzeng , Suo Tao , Zhao Feng , Huang Tianlin , Wang Hongtao , Wang Xi , Fang Youtong , Wei Yujie , Meng Liang , Lu Jian , Yang Wei
Published: October 2016

Strength and ductility are mutually exclusive if they are manifested as consequence of the coupling between strengthening and toughening mechanisms. One notable example is dislocation strengthening in metals, which invariably leads to reduced ductility. However, this trend is averted in metastable austenitic steels. A one-step thermal mechanical treatment (TMT), i.e. hot rolling, can effectively enhance the yielding strength of the metastable austenitic steel from 322 ± 18 MPa to 675 ± 15 MPa, while retaining both the formability and hardenability. It is noted that no boundaries are introduced in the optimized TMT process and all strengthening effect originates from dislocations with inherited thermal stability. The success of this method relies on the decoupled strengthening and toughening mechanisms in metastable austenitic steels, in which yield strength is controlled by initial dislocation density while ductility is retained by the capability to nucleate new dislocations to carry plastic deformation. Especially, the simplicity in processing enables scaling and industrial applications to meet the challenging requirements of emissions reduction. On the other hand, the complexity in the underlying mechanism of dislocation strengthening in this case may shed light on a different route of material strengthening by stimulating dislocation activities, rather than impeding motion of dislocations.
Non-equilibrium plasma prevention of Schistosoma japonicum transmission
Authors: Wang Xing-Quan , Wang Feng-Peng , Chen Wei , Huang Jun , Bazaka Kateryna , Ostrikov Kostya
Published: October 2016

Schistosoma japonicum is a widespread human and animal parasite that causes intestinal and hepatosplenic schistosomiasis linked to colon, liver and bladder cancers, and anemia. Estimated 230 million people are currently infected with Schistosoma spp, with 779 million people at risk of contracting the parasite. Infection occurs when a host comes into contact with cercariae, a planktonic larval stage of the parasite, and can be prevented by inactivating the larvae, commonly by chemical treatment. We investigated the use of physical non-equilibrium plasma generated at atmospheric pressure using custom-made dielectric barrier discharge reactor to kill S. japonicum cercariae. Survival rate decreased with treatment time and applied power. Plasmas generated in O2 and air gas discharges were more effective in killing S. japonicum cercariae than that generated in He, which is directly related to the mechanism by which cercariae are inactivated. Reactive oxygen species, such as O atoms, abundant in O2 plasma and NO in air plasma play a major role in killing of S. japonicum cercariae via oxidation mechanisms. Similar level of efficacy is also shown for a gliding arc discharge plasma jet generated in ambient air, a system that may be more appropriate for scale-up and integration into existing water treatment processes.
Skin-bacteria communication: Involvement of the neurohormone Calcitonin Gene Related Peptide (CGRP) in the regulation of Staphylococcus epidermidis virulence
Authors: N’Diaye Awa R. , Leclerc Camille , Kentache Takfarinas , Hardouin Julie , Poc Cecile Duclairoir , Konto-Ghiorghi Yoan , Chevalier Sylvie , Lesouhaitier Olivier , Feuilloley Marc G. J.
Published: October 2016

Staphylococci can sense Substance P (SP) in skin, but this molecule is generally released by nerve terminals along with another neuropeptide, Calcitonin Gene Related Peptide (CGRP). In this study, we investigated the effects of αCGRP on Staphylococci. CGRP induced a strong stimulation of Staphylococcus epidermidis virulence with a low threshold (<10−12 M) whereas Staphylococcus aureus was insensitive to CGRP. We observed that CGRP-treated S. epidermidis induced interleukin 8 release by keratinocytes. This effect was associated with an increase in cathelicidin LL37 secretion. S. epidermidis displayed no change in virulence factors secretion but showed marked differences in surface properties. After exposure to CGRP, the adherence of S. epidermidis to keratinocytes increased, whereas its internalization and biofilm formation activity were reduced. These effects were correlated with an increase in surface hydrophobicity. The DnaK chaperone was identified as the S. epidermidis CGRP-binding protein. We further showed that the effects of CGRP were blocked by gadolinium chloride (GdCl3), an inhibitor of MscL mechanosensitive channels. In addition, GdCl3 inhibited the membrane translocation of EfTu, the Substance P sensor. This work reveals that through interaction with specific sensors S. epidermidis integrates different skin signals and consequently adapts its virulence.
Inclination not force is sensed by plants during shoot gravitropism
Authors: Chauvet Hugo , Pouliquen Olivier , Forterre Yoël , Legué Valérie , Moulia Bruno
Published: October 2016

Gravity perception plays a key role in how plants develop and adapt to environmental changes. However, more than a century after the pioneering work of Darwin, little is known on the sensing mechanism. Using a centrifugal device combined with growth kinematics imaging, we show that shoot gravitropic responses to steady levels of gravity in four representative angiosperm species is independent of gravity intensity. All gravitropic responses tested are dependent only on the angle of inclination from the direction of gravity. We thus demonstrate that shoot gravitropism is stimulated by sensing inclination not gravitational force or acceleration as previously believed. This contrasts with the otolith system in the internal ear of vertebrates and explains the robustness of the control of growth direction by plants despite perturbations like wind shaking. Our results will help retarget the search for the molecular mechanism linking shifting statoliths to signal transduction.
Family of graphene-assisted resonant surface optical excitations for terahertz devices
Authors: Lin I-Tan , Liu Jia-Ming , Tsai Hsin-Cheng , Wu Kaung-Hsiung , Syu Jheng-Yuan , Su Ching-Yuan
Published: October 2016

The majority of the proposed graphene-based THz devices consist of a metamaterial that can optically interact with graphene. This coupled graphene-metamaterial system gives rise to a family of resonant modes such as the surface plasmon polariton (SPP) modes of graphene, the geometrically induced SPPs, also known as the spoof SPP modes, and the Fabry-Perot (FP) modes. In the literature, these modes are usually considered separately as if each could only exist in one structure. By contrast, in this paper, we show that even in a simple metamaterial structure such as a one-dimensional (1D) metallic slit grating, these modes all exist and can potentially interact with each other. A graphene SPP-based THz device is also fabricated and measured. Despite the high scattering rate, the effective SPP resonances can still be observed and show a consistent trend between the effective frequency and the grating period, as predicted by the theory. We also find that the excitation of the graphene SPP mode is most efficient in the terahertz spectral region due to the Drude conductivity of graphene in this spectral region.
The bornavirus-derived human protein EBLN1 promotes efficient cell cycle transit, microtubule organisation and genome stability
Authors: Myers Katie N. , Barone Giancarlo , Ganesh Anil , Staples Christopher J. , Howard Anna E. , Beveridge Ryan D. , Maslen Sarah , Skehel J. Mark , Collis Spencer J.
Published: October 2016

It was recently discovered that vertebrate genomes contain multiple endogenised nucleotide sequences derived from the non-retroviral RNA bornavirus. Strikingly, some of these elements have been evolutionary maintained as open reading frames in host genomes for over 40 million years, suggesting that some endogenised bornavirus-derived elements (EBL) might encode functional proteins. EBLN1 is one such element established through endogenisation of the bornavirus N gene (BDV N). Here, we functionally characterise human EBLN1 as a novel regulator of genome stability. Cells depleted of human EBLN1 accumulate DNA damage both under non-stressed conditions and following exogenously induced DNA damage. EBLN1-depleted cells also exhibit cell cycle abnormalities and defects in microtubule organisation as well as premature centrosome splitting, which we attribute in part, to improper localisation of the nuclear envelope protein TPR. Our data therefore reveal that human EBLN1 possesses important cellular functions within human cells, and suggest that other EBLs present within vertebrate genomes may also possess important cellular functions.
Enhancement of anodic current attributed to oxygen evolution on α-Fe2O3 electrode by microwave oscillating electric field
Authors: Kishimoto Fuminao , Matsuhisa Masayuki , Kawamura Shinichiro , Fujii Satoshi , Tsubaki Shuntaro , Maitani Masato M. , Suzuki Eiichi , Wada Yuji
Published: October 2016

Various microwave effects on chemical reactions have been observed, reported and compared to those carried out under conventional heating. These effects are classified into thermal effects, which arise from the temperature rise caused by microwaves, and non-thermal effects, which are attributed to interactions between substances and the oscillating electromagnetic fields of microwaves. However, there have been no direct or intrinsic demonstrations of the non-thermal effects based on physical insights. Here we demonstrate the microwave enhancement of oxidation current of water to generate dioxygen with using an α-Fe2O3 electrode induced by pulsed microwave irradiation under constantly applied potential. The rectangular waves of current density under pulsed microwave irradiation were observed, in other words the oxidation current of water was increased instantaneously at the moment of the introduction of microwaves, and stayed stably at the plateau under continuous microwave irradiation. The microwave enhancement was observed only for the α-Fe2O3 electrode with the specific surface electronic structure evaluated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. This discovery provides a firm evidence of the microwave special non-thermal effect on the electron transfer reactions caused by interaction of oscillating microwaves and irradiated samples.
A decacobalt(ii) cluster with triple-sandwich structure obtained by partial reductive hydrolysis of a pentacobalt(ii/iii) Weakley-type polyoxometalate
Authors: Duan Yan , Clemente-Juan Juan M. , Fierro José L. G. , Giménez-Saiz Carlos , Coronado Eugenio
Published: October 2016

A new triple-layered decacobalt sandwich polyoxometalate has been obtained by partial reductive hydrolysis of an asymmetric pentacobalt polyoxometalate with hydrazine.
Identification of the silver state in the framework of Ag-containing zeolite by XRD, FTIR, photoluminescence,109Ag NMR, EPR, DR UV-vis, TEM and XPS investigations
Authors: Popovych Nataliia , Kyriienko Pavlo , Soloviev Sergiy , Baran Rafal , Millot Yannick , Dzwigaj Stanislaw
Published: October 2016

109Ag NMR allowed identifying changes in the silver state as a function of Ag content and thermal and hydrogen treatment.
Sustainable one-pot integration of ZnO nanoparticles into carbon spheres: manipulation of the morphological, optical and electrochemical properties
Authors: Patrinoiu Greta , Calderon-Moreno Jose M. , Birjega Ruxandra , Culita Daniela C. , Somacescu Simona , Musuc Adina M. , Spataru Tanta , Carp Oana
Published: October 2016

Tailored ZnO–C composite spheres were developed using a sustainable and scalable hydrothermal procedure with the appropriate subsequent thermal processing.
Convective heat transfer in a measurement cell for scanning electrochemical microscopy
Authors: Novev Javor K. , Compton Richard G.
Published: October 2016

Imperfect thermostating in SECM or other electrochemical experiments can cause significant convective flows through the solution, potentially compromising data interpretation.
A series of robust metal–porphyrinic frameworks based on rare earth clusters and their application in N–H carbene insertion
Authors: Xu Lei , Zhai Meng-Ke , Wang Fei , Sun Lin , Du Hong-Bin
Published: October 2016

The unprecedented highly porous and stable rare earth cluster based metal–porphyrinic frameworks can be used as efficient catalysts for N–H carbene insertion.
A simple check valve for microfluidic point of care diagnostics
Authors: Ball C. S. , Renzi R. F. , Priye A. , Meagher R. J.
Published: October 2016

Laser cut microfluidic check valves enable staged reagent delivery, pumping, and point of care nucleic acid amplification testing.
Elegant cooperativity of noncovalent interactions in effective removal of Cu–EDTA from water via stepwise addition of polymer and surfactant
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Gao Xuedong , Yan Yun , Wang Jide , Huang Jianbin
Published: October 2016

The elegant cooperativity of electrostatic interaction, coordinating interaction, and hydrophobic effects allows facile flocculation of Cu–EDTA through the stepwise addition of polyethyleneimine (PEI) and sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS).
Organic–inorganic hybrid polyoxometalate and its graphene oxide–Fe3O4nanocomposite, synthesis, characterization and their applications as nanocatalysts for the Knoevenagel condensation and the synthesis of 2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-ones
Authors: Khoshnavazi Roushan , Bahrami Leila , Havasi Forugh
Published: October 2016

Organic–inorganic hybrid of H6Cu2[PDA]6[SiW9Cu3O37]·12H2O (HybPOM), was synthesized and grafted on graphene oxide decorated with Fe3O4. The structures of HybPOM and GO@Fe3O4@HybPOM nanocomposites were characterized and their catalytic activities investigated.
Measurement of 1H NMR relaxation times in complex organic chemical systems: application of PSYCHE
Authors: Rao Kakita Veera Mohana , Shukla Vaibhav Kumar , Bopardikar Mandar , Bhattacharya Tannistha , Hosur Ramakrishna V.
Published: October 2016

In complex organic molecules, relaxation times measured from the PSYCHE homonuclear broadband decoupling methods provide a wealth of information on intramolecular dynamics and intermolecular interactions.
Structure dependent toxicity of lignin phenolics and PEG detoxification in VHG ethanol fermentation
Authors: Liu Xiumei , Yan Peifang , Xu Wenjuan , Zhang Z. Conrad
Published: October 2016

The inhibitory effects of phenolic compounds on ethanol fermentation were alleviated by intermolecular hydrogen bond of phenolic compounds with PEGs.
Highly stable electrical manipulation of reflective colors in colloidal crystals of sulfate iron oxide particles in organic media
Authors: Lee Hye-Young , Kim Seung-Hyun , Lee Hae-Nyung , Park Keum Hwan , Kim Young-Seok , Yi Gi-Ra
Published: October 2016

We report the method for decorating charged functional groups on the Fe3O4@C nanoparticle and demonstrate reversible structural transition of suspension under external electric field with long term cyclic stability.
Development of biocompatible hydroxyapatite–poly(ethylene glycol) core–shell nanoparticles as an improved drug carrier: structural and electrical characterizations
Authors: Manna Ayan , Pramanik Sumit , Tripathy Ashis , Moradi Ali , Radzi Zamri , Pingguan-Murphy Belinda , Hasnan Nazirah , Abu Osman Noor Azuan
Published: October 2016

A model of a controlled drug release mechanism of a dielectric core–shell composite carrier.
Characterization of Cd36_03230p, a putative vanillin dehydrogenase from Candida dubliniensis
Authors: Datta Suprama , Annapure Uday S. , Timson David J.
Published: October 2016

Despite its annotation as such, Cd36_03230p is not a vanillin dehydrogenase.
Sulfur-assisted synthesis of indium nitride nanoplates from indium oxide
Authors: Wang Liangbiao , Pan Yanxia , Shen Qianli , Zhang Junhao , Bao Keyan , Lou Zhengsong , Zhao Dejian , Zhou Quanfa
Published: October 2016

Indium nitride (InN) is much more difficult to prepare than other group III nitrides for its low thermal stability.
Hematoporphyrin and doxorubicin co-loaded nanomicelles for the reversal of drug resistance in human breast cancer cells by combining sonodynamic therapy and chemotherapy
Authors: Wan Guoyun , Liu Yang , Shi Shurui , Chen Bowei , Wang Yue , Wang Hemei , Zhang Lianyun , Zhang Ning , Wang Yinsong
Published: October 2016

HPDF nanomicells reversed drug resistance of MCF-7/ADR cells by combining sonodynamic therapy and chemotherapy.
Preparation and biological performance of poly(vinyl alcohol)/hydroxyapatite porous composites used for cartilage repair
Authors: Qiu Wenting , Wang Jia , Li Li
Published: October 2016

PVA/HA porous materials with proper cell structure and biological properties which were suitable for cartilage repair were prepared via thermoplastic foaming technique by using water/ethanol as co-blowing agent.
Understanding and controlling the chemical evolution and polysulfide-blocking ability of lithium–sulfur battery membranes cast from polymers of intrinsic microporosity
Authors: Doris Sean E. , Ward Ashleigh L. , Frischmann Peter D. , Li Longjun , Helms Brett A.
Published: October 2016

By understanding how PIM-1 membrane reactivity affects its ion-transport selectivity, it’s possible to intervene to stabilize it in a Li–S battery.
Room-temperature water-vapor annealing for high-performance planar perovskite solar cells
Authors: Wang Binbin , Zhang Zhi-Guo , Ye Senyun , Rao Haixia , Bian Zuqiang , Huang Chunhui , Li Yongfang
Published: October 2016

A room-temperature water-vapor annealing method was developed to fabricate high crystallinity and void-free perovskite films, improving their photovoltaic device performance.
Peptide functionalized targeting liposomes: for nanoscale drug delivery towards angiogenesis
Authors: Han Qiuju , Jia Xiangqian , Qian Yixia , Wang Zihua , Yang Shu , Jia Yunhong , Wang Weizhi , Hu Zhiyuan
Published: October 2016

VEGFR2-targeted peptide S1 functionalized liposomes show high drug delivery towards targeted tumors.
The impact of molecular weight, air exposure and molecular doping on the charge transport properties and electronic defects in dithienyl-diketopyrrolopyrrole-thieno[3,2-b]thiophene copolymers
Authors: Di Pietro Riccardo , Erdmann Tim , Wang Naixiang , Liu Xuhai , Gräfe David , Lenz Johannes , Brandt Josef , Kasemann Daniel , Leo Karl , Al-Hussein Mahmoud , Gerasimov Kirill L. , Doblas David , Ivanov Dimitri A. , Voit Brigitte , Neher Dieter , Kiriy Anton
Published: October 2016

Optimization of hole transport via passivation of trap states.
Phosphate availability regulates ethylene biosynthesis gene expression and protein accumulation in white clover (Trifolium repens L.) roots
Authors: Roldan Marissa , Islam Afsana , Dinh Phuong T.Y. , Leung Susanna , McManus Michael T.
Published: October 2016

The expression and accumulation of members of the 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) synthase (ACS) and ACC oxidase (ACO) gene families was examined in white clover roots grown in either Pi (phosphate) sufficient or Pi-deprived defined media. The accumulation of one ACO isoform, TR-ACO1, was positively influenced after only 1 h of exposure to low Pi, and this was maintained over a 7-day time-course. Up-regulation of TR-ACS1, TR-ACS2 and TR-ACS3 transcript abundance was also observed within 1 h of exposure to low Pi in different tissue regions of the roots, followed by a second increase in abundance of TR-ACS2 after 5–7 days of exposure. An increase in transcript abundance of TR-ACO1 and TR-ACO3, but not TR-ACO2, was observed after 1 h of exposure to low Pi, with a second increase in TR-ACO1 transcripts occurring after 2–5 days. These initial increases of the TR-ACS and TR-ACO transcript abundance occurred before the induction of Trifolium repens PHOSPHATE TRANSPORTER 1 (TR-PT1), and the addition of sodium phosphite did not up-regulate TR-ACS1 expression over 24 h. In situ hybridization revealed some overlap of TR-ACO mRNA accumulation, with TR-ACO1 and TR-ACO2 in the root tip regions, and TR-ACO1 and TR-ACO3 mRNA predominantly in the lateral root primordia. TR-ACO1p-driven GFP expression showed that activation of the TR-ACO1 promoter was initiated within 24 h of exposure to low Pi (as determined by GFP protein accumulation). These results suggest that the regulation of ethylene biosynthesis in white clover roots is biphasic in response to low Pi supply.
A new symmetrical quasi-classical model for electronically non-adiabatic processes: Application to the case of weak non-adiabatic coupling
Authors: Cotton Stephen J. , Miller William H.
Published: October 2016

Previous work has shown how a symmetrical quasi-classical (SQC) windowing procedure can be used to quantize the initial and final electronic degrees of freedom in the Meyer-Miller (MM) classical vibronic (i.e, nuclear + electronic) Hamiltonian, and that the approach provides a very good description of electronically non-adiabatic processes within a standard classical molecular dynamics framework for a number of benchmark problems. This paper explores application of the SQC/MM approach to the case of very weak non-adiabatic coupling between the electronic states, showing (as anticipated) how the standard SQC/MM approach used to date fails in this limit, and then devises a new SQC windowing scheme to deal with it. Application of this new SQC model to a variety of realistic benchmark systems shows that the new model not only treats the weak coupling case extremely well, but it is also seen to describe the “normal” regime (of electronic transition probabilities ≳ 0.1) even more accurately than the previous “standard” model.
Normally-off p-GaN/AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors using hydrogen plasma treatment
Authors: Hao Ronghui , Fu Kai , Yu Guohao , Li Weiyi , Yuan Jie , Song Liang , Zhang Zhili , Sun Shichuang , Li Xiajun , Cai Yong , Zhang Xinping , Zhang Baoshun
Published: October 2016

In this letter, we report a method by introducing hydrogen plasma treatment to realize normally-off p-GaN/AlGaN/GaN HEMT devices. Instead of using etching technology, hydrogen plasma was adopted to compensate holes in the p-GaN above the two dimensional electron gas (2DEG) channel to release electrons in the 2DEG channel and form high-resistivity area to reduce leakage current and increase gate control capability. The fabricated p-GaN/AlGaN/GaN HEMT exhibits normally-off operation with a threshold voltage of 1.75 V, a subthreshold swing of 90 mV/dec, a maximum transconductance of 73.1 mS/mm, an ON/OFF ratio of 1 × 107, a breakdown voltage of 393 V, and a maximum drain current density of 188 mA/mm at a gate bias of 6 V. The comparison of the two processes of hydrogen plasma treatment and p-GaN etching has also been made in this work.
Dependence of grain size and defect density on the magnetic properties of mechanically alloyed Fe90W10 powder
Authors: Yamoah N. K. , Koten M. A. , Thompson D. , Nannuri C. , Narayan J. , Shield J. E. , Kumar D.
Published: October 2016

Mechanical alloying was used to synthesize nanocrystalline Fe90W10 powders from high purity Fe and W powders. X-ray diffraction measurements showed that the formation of BCC Fe-W solid solution occurred after 32 h of milling. The Scherrer-Debye and Williamson–Hall equations revealed that grain size reduction and defect creation were achieved during the milling process. There is a decrease of grain size from about 53 nm to about 6 nm after 80 h of milling. Williamson and Smallman's equation was also used to calculate the dislocation density. The result shows an increase in the dislocation density with increasing milling time. The grain size and defect characteristics were correlated with magnetic measurements. Magnetization versus magnetic field curves recorded using a vibrating sample magnetometer were utilized to obtain coercivity and saturation magnetization at different temperatures. As W is continually dissolved in the Fe lattice, the change in coercivity seems to be minimal until the completion of solid solution when there is a sudden increase in coercivity. The increase in coercivity is explained by an increase in anisotropy due to an additional source of anisotropy arising from strain during the milling process. There was also a decrease in saturation magnetization as a result of the grain size reduction.
Nonlinear excitation of long-wavelength modes in Hall plasmas
Authors: Lakhin V. P. , Ilgisonis V. I. , Smolyakov A. I. , Sorokina E. A.
Published: October 2016

Hall plasmas with magnetized electrons and unmagnetized ions exhibit a wide range of small scale fluctuations in the lower-hybrid frequency range as well as low-frequency large scale modes. Modulational instability of lower-hybrid frequency modes is investigated in this work for typical conditions in Hall plasma devices such as magnetrons and Hall thrusters. In these conditions, the dispersion of the waves in the lower-hybrid frequency range propagating perpendicular to the external magnetic field is due to the gradients of the magnetic field and the plasma density. It is shown that such lower-hybrid modes are unstable with respect to the secondary instability of the large scale quasimode perturbations. It is suggested that the large scale slow coherent modes observed in a number of Hall plasma devices may be explained as a result of such secondary instabilities.
Communication: Kirkwood-Buff integrals in the thermodynamic limit from small-sized molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Cortes-Huerto R. , Kremer K. , Potestio R.
Published: October 2016

We present an accurate and efficient method to obtain Kirkwood-Buff (KB) integrals in the thermodynamic limit from small-sized molecular dynamics simulations. By introducing finite size effects into integral equations of statistical mechanics, we derive an analytical expression connecting the KB integrals of the bulk system with the fluctuations of the number of molecules in the corresponding closed system. We validate the method by calculating the activity coefficients of aqueous urea mixtures and the KB integrals of Lennard-Jones fluids. Moreover, our results demonstrate how to identify simulation conditions under which computer simulations reach the thermodynamic limit.
Measurement of InAsBi mole fraction and InBi lattice constant using Rutherford backscattering spectrometry and X-ray diffraction
Authors: Shalindar A. J. , Webster P. T. , Wilkens B. J. , Alford T. L. , Johnson S. R.
Published: October 2016

Several 1 μm thick, nearly lattice-matched InAsBi layers grown on GaSb are examined using Rutherford backscattering spectrometry and X-ray diffraction. Random Rutherford backscattering measurements indicate that the average Bi mole fraction ranges from 0.0503 to 0.0645 for the sample set, and ion-channeling measurements indicate that the Bi atoms are substitutional. The X-ray diffraction measurements show a diffraction sideband near the main (004) diffraction peak, indicating that the Bi mole fraction is not laterally uniform in the layer. The average out-of-plane tetragonal distortion is determined by modeling the main and sideband diffraction peaks, from which the average unstrained lattice constant of each sample is determined. By comparing the Bi mole fraction measured by random Rutherford backscattering with the InAsBi lattice constant for the sample set, the lattice constant of zinc blende InBi is determined to be 6.6107 Å.
Strain-mediated multiferroic control of spontaneous exchange bias in Ni-NiO heterostructures
Authors: Domann John P. , Sun Wei-Yang , Schelhas Laura T. , Carman Greg P.
Published: October 2016

This paper presents the measurement of strain-mediated multiferroic control of spontaneous exchange bias (SEB) in magnetostrictive nickel/nickel oxide (Ni/NiO) bilayers on ferroelectric lead magnesium niobate-lead titanate (PMN-PT). Electric field control of a positive to negative exchange bias shift was measured, with an overall shift of 40.5 Oe, corresponding to a 325% change. Observed changes in coercivity are also reported and provide insight into the role of competing anisotropies in these structures. The findings in this paper provide evidence that magnetoelastic anisotropy can be utilized to control spontaneous exchange bias (SEB). This control of SEB is accomplished by modifying a bulk anisotropy (magnetoelasticity) that adjusts the mobility of interfacial anti-ferromagnetic spins and, therefore, the magnitude of the exchange bias. The demonstrated magnetoelastic control of exchange bias provides a useful tool in the creation of future magnetoelectric devices.
Ovariectomy increases the phenotypic plasticity of the female prostate epithelium in the Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus)
Authors: Zanatelli Marianna , Custodio Ana M. G. , Biancardi Manoel F. , Santos Fernanda C. A. , Góes Rejane M. , Falleiros-Jr Luiz R. , Vilamaior Patricia S. L. , Taboga Sebastião R.
Published: October 2016

The female prostate is a reproductive gland that typically presents a morphology similar to that of the male gland and is highly developed in female Mongolian gerbils. Two main cell populations compose the epithelium gland: basal and secretory luminal cells. However, during postnatal development, diverse secretory cell phenotypes are distributed among the typical ones. Prostate homeostasis is under the control of sexual hormones, such as oestrogen and progesterone. After hormonal deprivation the female gland undergoes several morphophysiological changes. The objective of this study was to identify and characterise, structurally and ultrastructurally, the cellular heterogeneity of the female prostate epithelium in normal conditions and after ovariectomy. Histological routine stains, such as haematoxylin–eosin, periodic acid–Schiff and silver impregnation, as well as immunocytochemical techniques were used to enable identification of the different cell types. Some secretory cells types were identified and characterised as mucinous, basophil, clear, ciliated, droplet, spumous and neuroendocrine cells. Population tally data showed that the hormonal suppression caused by ovariectomy resulted in a decrease in the proportions of basophil and clear cells and an increase in spumous cells. Thus, the secretory epithelial cells of the female gerbil prostate are not morphologically and functionally uniform, presenting a phenotypical plasticity according to the hormonal environment in which they operate.