bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Structural Characterization and Photoluminescence of Six-Coordinated Zn(II) Complex Material
Authors: Wang Li Hua
Published: August 2011

Six-coordinated Zn (II) complex material {bis[5-methyl-2-pyrazinecarboxylic acid] Zinc(II)} was synthesized and determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, The results of crystal structure show that Zn (II) complex material crystallizes in a triclinic system, the Zn2+ ion is in a distorted octahedral coordination environment. In the crystal packing, the molecules form a one-dimensional chain structure by O-H•••O hydrogen bonds and π-π interaction of pyrazine rings. The photoluminescence of the Zn(II) complex material was tested, the result shows that the complex displays a fluorescence emission maximum at 525 nm.
The Combined Fuzzy and PO MPPT Method for PV Materials under Partially Shaded Conditions
Authors: Liu Li Qun , Wang Zhi Xin
Published: August 2011

An efficient Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) control method is important to increase the output efficiency of a photovoltaic (PV) material. The output power of PV power system depends on local irradiance conditions. The output characteristics of large-scale PV materials under partial shading conditions have multiple maximum power points, which make the tracking of the actual maximum power point (MPP) a difficult task. A novel combined fuzzy and perturb and observe (PO) control method is suggested to extract maximum power from the PV materials under these conditions. The ability of the proposed method and its increased performance as compare with the traditional fuzzy control method is evaluated by means of experimental tests performed on a real PV power system and based on the MSP430x44x microcontroller.
Synthesis of Biodiesel from by-Product of Plant Oil by the Catalysis of Solid Acid in Fixed Bed
Authors: Xi Li Min , Cao Shu Yong
Published: August 2011

Fatty acid methyl ester biodiesel was successfully synthesized by the esterification of the palm oil deodorizer distillate (PODD) with methanol, catalyzed by the strongly acidic cation-exchange resin as solid acid in a self-made fixed bed reactor. The reaction condition was optimized, and the product could basically reach both national standard and Germany standard.
Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of the Essential Oil of a Wild Kiwi
Authors: Lu Yin , Chen Hong
Published: August 2011

A medicinal wild kiwi in China, Actinidia valvata Dunn, has been well known for its activities against leprosy and cancers. The compositions and the antimicrobial activity of its leaf oil were reported for the first time. The oil obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC and GC-MS, was characterized by the high content of monoterpenes. Linalool (48.14%) is the major component identified, followed by 1,2-dimethyl-lindoline (7.94%), linolenic acid methylester (6.57%) and (E)-phytol (5.29%). The antimicrobial activity of the oil was evaluated against four bacterial and three fungal species. The results showed that it exhibited a mild antibacterial activity against two Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis), a significant activity against Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli), and no activity on Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The test fungi were more sensitive to the oil, with a MIC range of 0.78~1.56 μL/mL than bacteria in the range which were significantly higher from 0.78 to 25.50 μL/mL.
Repair of Rabbit Facial Nerve with Amniotic Extracellular Matrix Based on Biological Material
Authors: Gao Zhen , Luo Xiao Ting , Li Nian Sheng , Deng Wei , Li Shu Mei
Published: August 2011

Objective: To evaluate the effects of amniotic extracellular matrix (AECM) on the repairation of facial nerve in rabbits. Methods: The transected nerve ends of the facial nerves of rabbits were then repaired with the AECM nerve conduit or an autologous nerve graft. After 3 months, the animals’ neural conductive velocity were determined. The myelinated fibers across the specimen were counted with histological examination. Results: The total count of medullated nerve fibers varied significantly, but the nerve conduction velocity had no significance between the AECM grafts and the autologous nerve grafts. Conclusion: AECM could become the biocompatible material for repairing the peripheral nerves.
Dynamic Model of Catalytic Denitrification of Nitrate over Pd-Cu Catalysts from Groundwater
Authors: Liu Hong Yuan , Zhang Yan
Published: August 2011

Groundwater polluted by nitrate contaminant is becoming a critical issue in China and worldwide. Catalytic denetrification of nitrate over Pd-Cu bimetallic catalyst shows a potential technique for the removal of nitrate from groundwater. In this study, a series of reduction experiments using γ-Al2O3 supported Pd-Cu particle catalysts in a batch slurry reactor were carried out. A tentative reaction mechanism and the dynamic model for catalytic nitrate reduction were discussed. It was found that nitrate consumption is based on the conventional Langmuir-Hinshelwood kinetic approach, assuming an irreversible bimolecular surface reaction between adsorbed reactant species to be the rate-controlling step. The equilibrium hydrogen adsorption constant Kads and the apparent surface reaction rate constant kapp were equal to 5.11×10-2 l/mg and 48.31mg/(l.gcat.min) at 293K temperature, respectively. The apparent activation energy for catalytic nitrate reduction, in the temperature range 280-298K, was found to be 36.8kJ/mol. The low value of activation energy obtained in this work confirms the very high effective and suitability of Pd-Cu catalysts for nitrate reduction.
Preparation and Structural Characterization of Chain Ni (II) Coordination Polymer Material
Authors: Ji Zhi Xiang
Published: August 2011

A chain Ni (II) coordination polymer material was prepared and characterized by elemental analysis and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. It crystallizes in monoclinic, space group C2/c with a = 1.24348(13) nm, b = 1.29477(12) nm, c = 1.51480(17) nm and Dc = 1.401 g•cm-3. The results of structural analysis indicated that each Ni (II) ion forms six-coordinated with nitrogen atoms of pyridine and thiocyanate, and the Ni (II) coordination polymer material formed one dimensional chain structure by the interaction of pyridine rings.
Friction Material Optimization Design for the Traveling Wave Ultrasonic Motor with Stator Contact Layer
Authors: Sun Feng Yan , Qu Jian Jun
Published: August 2011

Traveling wave ultrasonic motor (TWUSM) is driven by friction force between stator and rotor. Then friction material properties are very important on the output characteristics of TWUSM. Under the guidance of an optimization design principle of friction material, a kind of Ekonol composite friction material (EK2) was developed by modification study, orthogonal experimental design and regression analysis. Through the comparison between EK2 and other common friction materials, it was proved that the TWUSM with EK2 can get better running stability, higher output torque and longer lifetime. Therefore, EK2 is a good friction material which can satisfy the practical running needs of TWUSM.
The Research on Infrared and Luminescent Spectra of a New Mg (II) Luminescent Materials
Authors: Wang Li Hua
Published: August 2011

In order to prepare the highlight luminescent material, we synthesized a highlight blue luminescent material, salicylaldehyde-4, 4’-diaminodiphenylsulfone Mg (II), by the reaction of Magnesium chloride hexahydrate with salicylaldehyde-4, 4’-diaminodiphenylsulfone. The results indicate that the maximum fluorescence emissions of Mg (II) complex material are at 459 nm (in solid), 466 nm (in DMSO), 476 nm (in CH3OH) and 464 nm (in CH3CH2OH), respectively. The Mg (II) material exhibits the strongest fluorescence in solid than that in DMSO, CH3OH and CH3CH2OH solution.
A Study on the Ammonia Removal Mechanisms for the A/O Biological Nitrogen Removal Process with the Enhancement of the Zeolite
Authors: Cheng Guan Wen , Wei Wen Yuan , Lu Guo Dan , Wu Zhi Chao , Huang Xiang Feng , Zhang Fei Juan
Published: August 2011

This paper mainly studied on using activated sludge process with zeolite to upgrade the traditional secondary treatment plants. In this process, zeolite acted as ammonian sorbent and microbial carrier firstly, and then composed zeolite and biological complex to improve denitrification of anaerobic zone and nitrification of oxic zone. In the anaerobic zone, the influent contained a lot higher ammonian concentration. The zeolite adsorbed ammonian, it increased carbon nitrogen ratio and facilitated denitrification. While in the oxic zone, adsorbate concentration of mixed liquid decreased owing to biodegra dation by the action of salinity and microorganism. Thus, it striked a balance between adsorption and desorption of zeolite with ammonium, and zeolite with ammonium released constantly ammonian to renew.
Removal of Methyl Orange from Aqueous Solution onto Expanded Graphite by Adsorption Process
Authors: Zhu Min Cong , Yang Tong , Huang Jin Bo , Zhang Ying Chen , Li Deng Xin , Zhang Qian Qian , Xiao Jun , Song Jie , Bao Jin Yue , Li Pei
Published: August 2011

The expanded graphite (EG) was prepared after microwave irradiation treatment of the expandable graphite in a domestic microwave oven at 1000 W for 60 s. The adsorption of methyl orange (MO) from aqueous solution onto EG was investigated at initial concentrations and contact time, different pH values, adsorbent dosage, temperatures for the removal of dye. The results confirmed that the adsorption isotherm data fitted to Langmuir isotherm with monolayer adsorption capacity of 13.37 mg/g. The results suggested that the EG would be an excellent adsorbent for the removal of MO by adsorption process.
Modified Mechanical Model of Normal Penetration of Rigid Projectiles into an Aluminum Target
Authors: Huang Guang Yan , Wu Guang , Feng Shun Shan
Published: August 2011

Three-stage model of normal penetration of rigid projectile into aluminum plate is developed base on cavity expansion theory (plate thickness is smaller than projectile nose length). Correction method of the models is proposed and predicted results have good agreement with experimental data. The influence of target’s yield stress, target material parameter, sliding friction coefficient and projectile nose shape to penetration process is analyzed through numerical solution. It provides an effective mechanical analysis model for research of projectile impact resistance method to aluminum protective structure.
Research on Management Information System of the Logistics Supply Chain of Liaoning Agricultural and Mechanical Products
Authors: Wang Qing Jun , Wu Zhi Hong
Published: August 2011

In allusion to the characteristics of Liaoning agricultural products logistics, this paper comes up with the management model of the logistics supply chain of Liaoning agricultural products from the aspect of information technology and the establishment of management information system of logistics supply chain of Liaoning agricultural products to achieve the transformation of agricultural products logistics from traditional function-based basic logistics to integrated logistics model, transform the agricultural production and operation mode, adjust the structure of agricultural production, establish the management model of the supply chain of agricultural products logistics based on information network which is fit for Liaoning, apply the theory of supply chain management to the producing, processing and circulation segments of agricultural products, and actively promote the development of agricultural economy and the process of agriculture industrialization in Liaoning.
Research on the Application of Storage Theory in Green Landscaping Manufacturing Engineering Procurement Decision-Making
Authors: Li Bo , Liu Hua
Published: August 2011

Currently, storage theory has been widely adopted but rarely used in procurement decision-making of construction, especially in green landscaping engineering. Seedlings storage is different from other general products for their survival rates will exert direct impact on the project quality and progress. Therefore, it is very important for those green landscaping manufacturing engineering companies to adopt scientific methods to store seedlings. This article establishes mathematical model of seedlings storage through in-depth analysis of practical manufacturing engineering problems and applies mathematical model to providing analysis and solutions to the problem using the storage model theory against the background of limited storage capacity. Finally, the optimal seedlings procurement strategy has been set up to save costs for enterprises to the maximum extent under the context of limited storage capacity. This conveys some application value for green landscaping engineering companies when make scientific procurement decision.
Soft-Sensor for Estimation of Lead Slices Thickness in Continuous Casting Process
Authors: Zuo Shi Lun , Wang Jia Xu , Li Tai Fu
Published: August 2011

Continuous casting process is a traditional and widely-used technique in producing the cathode of electric lead. In this paer, soft-sensors based on a support vector regression （SVR, in short）model and an artificial neural networks （ANNs, in short）model respectively, were presented for the estimation of the lead slices thickness in the process.Experiments had been performed on the continuous casting machine to obtain the data used for training and testing of the soft-sensors. For the continuous casting process, the soft-sensors proposed here represents a viable and inexpensive on-line sensors.The study results indicate that a good prediction accuracy of the slice thickess can be provided by the soft-sensors, and even a better performance can be achieved by using pre-processing procedures to the input data, it also shows that the SVR model is an attractive alternative to ANNs model for the soft-sensors, when the number of samples is relatively small.
Hydrodynamic Mathematical Modeling of the Yangshan Deep-Water Harbor Waters, China
Authors: Zuo Shu Hua
Published: August 2011

Taking Yangshan sea-area of the Qiqu archipelago as an example, a 2D numerical model of tidal currents is established to study the change of the current field and the influence of branch blocking in different stages of northern port construction, including tide process, velocity and tidal prism, in the main channel waters and the branches. Verifications with the observed data indicate that the simulated results can reflect the current fields in the region. Based on the numerical model it is rechecked and researched the influence of branch blocking in different stages of northern port construction on the changing processes of hydrodynamic, including tide process, velocity and tidal prism, in the main channel waters and the branches. The paper is to provide the scientific basis for the construction of Yangshan Port’s subsequent engineering.
Research on the Seed-Fertilizer Box for a Ridge-Till and No-Till Seeder
Authors: Luo Hong Qi
Published: August 2011

Appropriate no-till seeders are necessary to extend the advanced tillage of integrating ridge-till and no-till. A new type of seed-fertilizer box for a no-till and ridge-till seeder was designed in terms of the agricultural conditions. It was made up of side plate, bottom plate, middle plate, front and back plates mainly. Capacity of the seed-fertilizer box was calculated and proofread. Finally, the virtual model of the box was constructed with Autodesk Inventor.
Research on the Investment Decision-Making on the Application of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies in Enterprises
Authors: Li Gang
Published: August 2011

Adopting advanced manufacturing technologies (AMTs) is believed to be the key to survival for many companies in the current highly volatile business environment. For adoption of AMT involves a very high level of investment, it is very important to make scientific decision to select AMT. Firstly, the literature of decision-making methods of selecting AMT is reviewed. Secondly, the analysis framework of investment decision-making on AMT is proposed, which includes strategic benefits analysis, economic benefits analysis and risk analysis. Finally, a methodology of evaluating and selecting AMT is put forward by using the concepts of fuzzy theory and hierarchical analysis.
A Dynamic Clustering Querying Algorithm Based on Grid in Manufacturing System
Authors: Zeng Jun
Published: August 2011

This article presents a querying algorithm of dynamic clustering based on grid in manufacturing system. The algorithm divides grids based on the location of nodes, and computes clustering center of grids, then queries based on clustering in the station, processing speed of this method are independent of size of data set, processing speed is quick, it can handle massive and multi-density data sets and performance is better in terms of accuracy and efficiency of querying.
Fast Light-Induced Solid Phase Crystallization of Nanometer Thick Silicon Layers on Quartz
Authors: Mchedlidze Teimuraz , Arguirov Tzanimir , Kittler Martin
Published: August 2011

Multi-quantum wells (MQW) with nanometer thick crystalline Si layers are considered among the promising light absorbers for application in the next generation of photovoltaic cells. Proper crystallization of the initially amorphous Si (a-Si) layers in such MQW presents a challenge. Recently it was shown that light-induced solid-phase crystallization (LISPC) leads to almost complete crystallization of Si layers in the MQW. In this report we present and discuss recent results, problems and prospects related to the large-scale LISPC process of MQW structures on glass.
Towards the Tailoring of P Diffusion Gettering to As-Grown Silicon Material Properties
Authors: Hofstetter Jasmin , Lelièvre Jean François , Fenning David P. , Bertoni Mariana I. , Buonassisi Tonio , del Cañizo Carlos
Published: August 2011

The evolution of Fe-related defects is simulated for di erent P di usion gettering (PDG) processes which are applied during silicon solar cell processing. It is shown that the introduction of an extended PDG is bene cial for some as-grown Si materials but not essential for all of them. For mc-Si wafers with an as-grown Fe concentration 14 cm3, a good reduction of the Fei concentration and increase of the electron lifetime is achieved during standard PDG. For mc-Si wafers with a higher as-grown Fe concentration the introduction of defect engineering tools into the solar cell process seems to be advantageous. From comparison of standard PDG with extended PDG it is concluded that the latter leads to a stronger reduction of highly recombination active Fei atoms due to an enhanced segregation gettering e ect. For an as-grown Fe concentration between 1014 cm3 and 1015 cm3, this enhanced Fei reduction results in an appreciable increase in the electron lifetime. However, for an as-grown Fe concentration >1015 cm3, the PDG process needs to be optimized in order to reduce the total Fe concentration within the wafer as the electron lifetime after extended PDG keeps being limited by recombination at precipitated Fe.
Formation of Voids in SiO2/Si Substrate by Zn Implantation and Thermal Annealing
Authors: Privezentsev V. Vladimir , Chernykh Pavel N. , Petrov Dmitrii V.
Published: August 2011

There are investigated the structural properties of 64Zn+ ion-beam induced nano-size voids in as implanted and subsequent furnace annealing SiOSuperscript text2/Si(100) substrates. Then 64Zn+ ions with energy of E=100keV were implanted into SiO2 layer to a fluence of D=2×1014cm-2. After this furnace thermal annealing at temperature 400°C during 1h in neutral (nitrogen) atmosthere was made. It is revealed, that in as-implanted sample the surface is non-uniform and there is some structurization of a SiO2 layer. In this state, metal Zn NPs an order of ten nm in diameter are formed in the depth region around the projected range. There is thus a net flux of Zn out of the nanoparticles (NPs) into an oxide layer closer to the surface. As Zn has a big diffusion constant and a high vaper pressure there are occured out-diffusion of Zn from a SiO2 surface layer. The volume occupied by the Zn NPs becomes a void. It results to formation of cavities, which combining among themselves, form voids.
Accurate Extraction of MOSFET Unstressed Interface State Spatial Distribution from Charge Pumping Measurements
Authors: Starkov Ivan , Tyaginov Stanislav , Enichlmair Hubert , Park Jong Mun , Ceric Hajdin , Grasser Tibor
Published: August 2011

The interface state density profile for an unstressed transistor has been carefully extracted. The experimental evidence of profile non-uniformity is presented. A scheme to separate the bulk oxide trap contribution from the total charge pumping current is suggested as an improvement to the conventional extraction procedure. The obtained information is of high importance in the context of hot-carrier degradation modeling in order to allow for a more detailed verification of the model.
Luminescent and Structural Properties of Self-Implanted Silicon Layers in Relation to their Fabrication Conditions
Authors: Sobolev N.A. , Kalyadin Anton E. , Shek Elena I. , Vdovin V.I. , Tetel`baum David I. , Khirunenko Lyudmila I.
Published: August 2011

Luminescent and structural properties of silicon layers with dislocation-related luminescence have been studied. Silicon ions (100 keV) were implanted into n-FZ-Si wafers at a dose exceeding the amorphization threshold by two orders of magnitude. The implantation was not followed by amorphization of the implanted layers. A post-implantation annealing resulted in the formation of luminescence centers and extended structural defects. Some fundamental aspects and specific features in the properties of dislocation-related luminescence lines and extended structural defects were revealed in relation to the annealing conditions.
Deep Level Defects in 4H-SiC Schottky Diodes Examined by DLTS
Authors: Gelczuk Łukasz , Dabrowska-Szata Maria , Sochacki Mariusz , Szmidt Jan
Published: August 2011

Deep-level defects in 4H-SiC Schottky diodes were studied using deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS). The epitaxial layers, doped with N and grown on standard n+4H-SiC substrates were exposed to aluminium ion implantation process under the Schottky contact and of junction termination extension (JTE). The studies performed within 80-400 K temperature range revealed five deep electron traps, with a dominant double peak at around room temperature related to the Z1/Z2 defect. The thorough analysis of the DLTS-line shape and DLTS-line behaviour on DLTS measurement conditions made possible to distinguish and identify all the observed deep levels.
Electrical Study of Self-Assembled Ge Quantum Dots Embedded in P-Type Silicon. Temperature Dependent Capacitance Voltage and DLTS Study
Authors: Rangel-Kuoppa Victor Tapio , Chen Gang , Jantsch Wolfgang
Published: August 2011

The electrical properties of dome-shaped and pyramid-shaped Ge Quantum Dots (QDs) embedded in p-type Silicon are reported. Capacitance-Voltage (T-CV) characteristics are reported for the temperature range of 35 K to 296 K. The T-CV results showed the desired charge carrier density of the Silicon, on the order of 1016 cm-3, at room temperature. Two shoulders are observed in the CV curves between 270 K and 175 K. They are explained as charge stored in the dome- and pyramid-shaped QDs. Below 175 K, only one shoulder is observed in the CV measurements, attributed to charge trapped in dome-shaped QDs. The DLTS study confirms these results. Using a reverse bias between -0.1 V and -1 V two peaks are seen at 50 and 70 K. They are explained in terms of the boron state (the one at 50 K) and charged stored on pyramid-shaped Ge QDs (the one at 70 K). Increasing the reverse bias from -1 V to -1.4 V shows the appearance of a peak around 60 K, attributed to dome-shaped Ge QDs. At the same time, a shoulder appears around 100 K for -1 V, which extends to larger temperatures as the reverse bias magnitude is increased. The activation energies found are around 50 meV (due to Boron), 150 to 250 meV (due to pyramid-shaped Ge QDs), 300 to 350 meV (due to dome-shaped Ge QDs) and 425 meV (due to both dome- and pyramid-shaped Ge QDs).
NKT Cells Are Required for Complete Freund’s Adjuvant-Mediated Protection from Autoimmune Diabetes
Authors: Lee I-Fang , van den Elzen Peter , Tan Rusung , Priatel John J.
Published: August 2011

Autoimmune diabetes in NOD mice can be prevented by application of Ags derived from Mycobacterium tuberculosis in the form of bacillus Calmette-Guérin or CFA. Disease protection by CFA is associated with a reduction in the numbers of pathogenic β-cell specific, self-reactive CTLs, a phenomenon dependent on the presence and function of NK cells. However, the mechanisms by which NK cells are activated and recruited by heat-killed M. tuberculosis within CFA are unclear. In this study, we report that CFA-mediated NK cell activation and mobilization is dependent on CD1d expression. The administration of M. tuberculosis from CFA results in rapid NKT cell activation and IFN-γ secretion both in vitro and in vivo. CFA-induced NKT cell activation is intact in MyD88−/− mice suggesting that the mechanism is independent of TLR signaling. Furthermore, CD1d expression was found to be essential for both M. tuberculosis-triggered NKT cell activation and CFA-mediated protection of NOD mice from diabetes. Collectively, these findings reveal hitherto previously unidentified roles for NKT cells in the adjuvant-promoting effects of CFA on innate and adaptive immunity.
NLRP3/Caspase-1–Independent IL-1β Production Mediates Diesel Exhaust Particle-Induced Pulmonary Inflammation
Authors: Provoost Sharen , Maes Tania , Pauwels Nele S. , Vanden Berghe Tom , Vandenabeele Peter , Lambrecht Bart N. , Joos Guy F. , Tournoy Kurt G.
Published: August 2011

Inhalation of diesel exhaust particles (DEP) induces an inflammatory reaction in the lung; however, the mechanisms are largely unclear. IL-1β/IL-1RI signaling is crucial in several lung inflammatory responses. Typically, caspase-1 is activated within the NLRP3 inflammasome that recognizes several damage-associated molecular patterns, which results in cleavage of pro–IL-1β into mature IL-1β. In this study, we hypothesized that the NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β pathway is critical in DEP-induced lung inflammation. Upon DEP exposure, IL-1RI knockout mice had reduced pulmonary inflammation compared with wild-type mice. Similarly, treatment with rIL-1R antagonist (anakinra) and IL-1β neutralization impaired the DEP-induced lung inflammatory response. Upon DEP exposure, NLRP3 and caspase-1 knockout mice, however, showed similar IL-1β levels and comparable pulmonary inflammation compared with wild-type mice. In conclusion, these data show that the DEP-induced pulmonary inflammation acts through the IL-1β/IL-1RI axis. In addition, DEP initiates inflammation independent of the classical NLRP3/caspase-1 pathway, suggesting that other proteases might be involved.
Multiple CD4+ T Cell Subsets Produce Immunomodulatory IL-10 During Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
Authors: Weiss Kayla A. , Christiaansen Allison F. , Fulton Ross B. , Meyerholz David K. , Varga Steven M.
Published: August 2011

The host immune response is believed to contribute to the severity of pulmonary disease induced by acute respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. Because RSV-induced pulmonary disease is associated with immunopathology, we evaluated the role of IL-10 in modulating the RSV-specific immune response. We found that IL-10 protein levels in the lung were increased following acute RSV infection, with maximum production corresponding to the peak of the virus-specific T cell response. The majority of IL-10–producing cells in the lung during acute RSV infection were CD4+ T cells. The IL-10–producing CD4+ T cells included Foxp3+ regulatory T cells, Foxp3− CD4+ T cells that coproduce IFN-γ, and Foxp3− CD4+ T cells that do not coproduce IFN-γ. RSV infection of IL-10–deficient mice resulted in more severe disease, as measured by increased weight loss and airway resistance, as compared with control mice. We also observed an increase in the magnitude of the RSV-induced CD8+ and CD4+ T cell response that correlated with increased disease severity in the absence of IL-10 or following IL-10R blockade. Interestingly, IL-10R blockade during acute RSV infection altered CD4+ T cell subset distribution, resulting in a significant increase in IL-17A–producing CD4+ T cells and a concomitant decrease in Foxp3+ regulatory T cells. These results demonstrate that IL-10 plays a critical role in modulating the adaptive immune response to RSV by limiting T-cell–mediated pulmonary inflammation and injury.
Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Is Critical for Homeostasis of Invariant γδ T Cells in the Murine Epidermis
Authors: Kadow Stephanie , Jux Bettina , Zahner Sonja P. , Wingerath Britta , Chmill Stefanie , Clausen Björn E. , Hengstler Jan , Esser Charlotte
Published: August 2011

An immunoregulatory role of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) has been shown in conventional αβ and γδ T cells, but its function in skin γδ T cells (dendritic epidermal T cells [DETC]) is unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that DETC express AhR in wild-type mice, and are specifically absent in the epidermis of AhR-deficient mice (AhR-KO). We show that DETC precursors are generated in the thymus and home to the skin. Proliferation of DETC in the skin was impaired in AhR-KO mice, resulting in a >90% loss compared with wild type. Surprisingly, DETC were not replaced by αβ T cells or conventional γδ T cells, suggesting a limited time frame for seeding this niche. We found that DETC from AhR-KO mice failed to express the receptor tyrosine kinase c-Kit, a known growth factor for γδ T cells in the gut. Moreover, we found that c-kit is a direct target of AhR, and propose that AhR-dependent c-Kit expression is potentially involved in DETC homeostasis. DETC are a major source of GM-CSF in the skin. Recently, we had shown that impaired Langerhans cell maturation in AhR-KO is related to low GM-CSF levels. Our findings suggest that the DETCs are necessary for LC maturation, and provide insights into a novel role for AhR in the maintenance of skin-specific γδ T cells, and its consequences for the skin immune network.
HIV-DNA Priming Alters T Cell Responses to HIV-Adenovirus Vaccine Even When Responses to DNA Are Undetectable
Authors: De Rosa Stephen C. , Thomas Evan P. , Bui John , Huang Yunda , deCamp Allan , Morgan Cecilia , Kalams Spyros A. , Tomaras Georgia D. , Akondy Rama , Ahmed Rafi , Lau Chuen-Yen , Graham Barney S. , Nabel Gary J. , McElrath M. Juliana ,   the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases HIV Vaccine Trials Network
Published: August 2011

Many candidate HIV vaccines are designed to primarily elicit T cell responses. Although repeated immunization with the same vaccine boosts Ab responses, the benefit for T cell responses is ill defined. We compared two immunization regimens that include the same recombinant adenoviral serotype 5 (rAd5) boost. Repeated homologous rAd5 immunization fails to increase T cell responses, but increases gp140 Ab responses 10-fold. DNA prime, as compared with rAd5 prime, directs long-term memory CD8+ T cells toward a terminally differentiated effector memory phenotype with cytotoxic potential. Based on the kinetics of activated cells measured directly ex vivo, the DNA vaccination primes for both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, despite the lack of detection of the latter until after the boost. These results suggest that heterologous prime-boost combinations have distinct immunological advantages over homologous prime-boosts and suggest that the effect of DNA on subsequent boosting may not be easily detectable directly after the DNA vaccination.
Supplementation of β-mannanase to starter and grower diets for broilers
Authors: Kong C. , Lee J. H. , Adeola O.
Published: August 2011

Kong, C., Lee, J. H. and Adeola, O. 2011. Supplementation of β-mannanase to starter and grower diets for broilers. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 91: 389–397. Two experiments were conducted to investigate the efficacy of β-mannanase on ileal nutrient digestibility, total tract utilization of dry matter (DM), N, energy, and apparent metabolizable energy (AME, exp. 1), and growth performance (exp. 2) of birds fed practical corn-soybean meal (SBM)-based diets. In each experiment, 192 male broilers were assigned to four diets arranged in a 2×2 factorial of energy level [corn-SBM-based diet that met or exceeded NRC nutrient requirements (AE) or low energy (LE) diet containing 100 kcal of ME kg−1 less than the AE diet] and enzyme supplementation (with or without β-mannanase) for 21 d. Supplementing the diet with β-mannanase increased the birds’ apparent ileal DM digestibility of the experimental diets (P<0.05), whereas there was no effect of energy level. Neither β-mannanase supplementation nor energy level had any effect on apparent ileal digestibility of any of the amino acids. The interaction between enzyme and energy levels was not significant for any criteria measured in the excreta except for DM (P=0.05). Addition of β-mannanase improved (P<0.01) the apparent total tract utilization of DM and energy in the broilers, and there was the same trend (P=0.06) for N utilization. Supplementing the diet with β-mannanase also improved the AME and AMEn of diets by 4.6 and 5.0%, respectively. For all growth performance responses in exp. 2, the interaction between enzyme and energy levels was not significant. During the starter period (day 2 to 22 post-hatch), β-mannanase supplementation significantly (P<0.05) increased the body weight (BW) gain of birds. During the grower period (day 22 to 44 post-hatch) and for the overall period there was no significant difference in BW gain or feed intake of birds regardless of energy level and β-mannanase supplementation. There were no dietary effects on feed efficiency of birds during the starter and the grower periods, whereas the birds fed AE diets had higher feed efficiency (P<0.01) than the birds fed LE diets. The results indicate that supplementing with β-mannanase may improve gain and energy utilization of broilers, whereas it may not affect ileal amino acid digestibility.
A Semi‐Supervised Transformer Survival Prediction Model for Lung Cancer
Authors: Teng Jing , Yang Lan , Wang Shan , Yu Jing
Published: February 2025

Analyzing survival rates for lung cancer presently grapples with two significant hurdles. Insufficient available data is the first one, which is exacerbated by a large amount of censored information, thereby obstructing the effective employment of this data for accurate predictions. Second, lung cancer patient survival data often exhibit complex temporal feature associations, suggesting patient‐specific traits on survival outcomes. To address these issues, the dataset are augmented by integrating semi‐supervised learning, which allows for more effective use of the event data and mitigates overfitting issues. Subsequently, a Transformer‐based predictive model is developed, trained by assorted survival time groups, intending to expand the comprehension of data feature associations. The accuracy of the proposed model is meticulously assessed using a variety of validation metrics, including the Time‐dependent C‐statistic, Integrated Brier Score (IBS), the Time‐dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and survival curves. These rigorous evaluations offer an intricate insight into the model's performance across different time intervals and event occurrences, thus obtaining a holistic comprehension of the model's precision. The experimental findings convincingly demonstrate the superiority of the proposed framework compared to state‐of‐the‐art methods.
Conjugated Polymer Singlet Fission Material with High Triplet Energy and Long Multiexciton Lifetime via Donor‐π‐Acceptor Strategy
Authors: Shi Xiaomei , Geng Yanfang , Wang Zhongqiang , Zhou Erjun , Fu Hongbing , Wang Long
Published: February 2025

The progress in singlet fission (SF)‐based devices remains basically stagnant due to the limited scope of practical SF materials. Donor–acceptor conjugated polymers hold particular appeal for SF and photovoltaic applications, yet such type SF materials remain largely unexplored, and the previously reported systems are usually beset by low triplet energy and short multiexciton (ME) lifetime impeding their practical applications. In this work, a donor‐π‐acceptor design strategy is presented and successfully develop a new practical polymer SF system. The comprehensive spectroscopic analyses clearly validate that such a molecular design enables the polymer system to hold suitable triplet energy of 1.0–1.1 eV and long ME lifetime of ≈600 ps and implement ultrafast and quantitative ME generation in both dilute solution and solid aggregates. These merits, along with the good processability and excellent stability, make such polymer systems particularly well‐suited for SF‐based light harvesting applications. These results highlight the practical polymer SF system and feasible design guidelines, which can not only pave the way to the discovery of rare polymer SF materials but also lay the foundation for the further implementation of highly efficient SF‐based photovoltaic devices.
Non‐collagenous Protein‐inspired Hydrogels with Repeated Dicarboxylic Structure and High Matrix Strength for Amorphous Calcium Phosphate Stabilization to Promote Bone Defect Regeneration
Authors: Zhang Yuchen , Liu Zheng , Zhang Wenqing , Zhao Xiaodan , Ma Shaoyang , Li Meng , Mei Li , Li Ang , Cheng Yilong , Pei Dandan
Published: February 2025

Amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) as a bone mineral precursor shows vast potential in the treatment of bone defects; however, its strong propensity to crystallize presents a major challenge during therapeutic applications. To mimic the in vivo stabilization of ACP by non‐collagenous proteins, an advanced polymer hydrogel (PAASP hydrogel) with unique repeated dicarboxylic units and high mechanical matrix strength is developed to stabilize ACP for cranial defect treatment. The synergy of high calcium ions chelation strength and hydrogen bonds toughened network in PAASP hydrogel can significantly delay the crystallization process of calcium phosphate and retard hydroxyapatite (HAP) formation, which leads to fast ions release to induce osteogenic differentiation, angiogenesis, collagen mineralization, and fast mineral apposition. In vivo, early osteogenic evaluation reveals that the PAASP hydrogel with stabilized ACP mediates the fastest mineral apposition rate and the largest diameter of collagen fibrils in the bone defect zone. Compared to the widely‐used HAP‐loaded hydrogel (new bone coverage ratio of 53%), the ACP‐loaded PAASP hydrogel can obviously promote new bone formation with a new bone coverage ratio of 88% in a rat cranial defect model. This work advances the current understanding of ACP stabilization and offers valuable insights for designing ACP‐based bone regeneration materials.
Hot Carrier Trapping in Light‐Soaked Mixed Phase CsPbI3 Perovskite Nanocrystals
Authors: Panda Mrinal Kanti , Acharjee Debopam , Mahato Asit Baran , Ghosh Subhadip
Published: February 2025

Red‐emitting CsPbI3 perovskite nanocrystals (r‐PNCs) are considered promising for device applications due to their low bandgap. However, their practical use is hindered by significant photoluminescence (PL) intermittency and light‐induced phase transitions. Specifically, the stable and bright α‐phase of r‐PNCs quickly converts into weakly emissive mixed‐phase (δ and γ) within hours under UV irradiation. In the absence of light, r‐PNCs synthesized using an advanced method have been shown to maintain their α‐phase and brightness for over 20 days. This study explores the PL intermittency of r‐PNCs to better understand the carrier dynamics and the nature of trap states in both the α‐phase and mixed phases. These results indicate that r‐PNCs, despite their apparent phase stability, undergo rapid phase deformation during a blinking experiment, as evidenced by the decrease in the average ON state intensity of their PL trajectories and the change in XRD patterns. Fluorescence‐lifetime‐intensity‐distribution (FLID) mapping from blinking studies, combined with fluorescence lifetime correlation spectroscopy (FLCS), reveals that freshly prepared α‐phase r‐PNCs exhibit blinking behavior primarily governed by short‐lived trap states near the band edge. These dynamic trap states function as multiple non‐radiative recombination centers (MRCs). In contrast, light‐soaked mixed‐phase r‐PNCs develop long‐lived deep trap states, leading to dispersive blinking predominantly caused by hot carrier (HC) recombination.
Improved Laser Performance of Carbon‐Bridged Oligo(p‐phenylenevinylene)s Through σ‐π Conjugation with Silyl Groups
Authors: Farrando‐Pérez Álex , Hattori Yuiko , Martínez Angela , Sasaki Kaito , Nunobiki Shuto , Villalvilla José M. , Boj Pedro G. , Quintana José A. , Tsuji Hayato , Díaz‐García María A.
Published: February 2025

All‐solution processed organic distributed feedback (DFB) lasers are attractive devices for a variety of applications. Among many classes of active laser materials, carbon‐bridged oligo(p‐phenylenevinylene)s (COPVm), particularly those with repeating unit of m ≥ 3, have demonstrated well‐balanced and excellent performance for that purpose. However, the blue‐emitting shorter COPVm (with m = 1,2) face significant challenges in terms of photostability and excitation energy for lasing (threshold). Here, the effectiveness of σ‐π conjugation to improve these properties of COPV2 is demonstrated by functionalizing its terminal positions with silyl groups. This study includes the synthesis and optical characterization of two COPV2 derivates, COPV2–Sin (n = 1 and 2) dispersed in polystyrene films. Both compounds show amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) at ≈480 nm over a wide range of concentrations (1–30 wt.%), with COPV2–Si2 exhibiting a lower ASE threshold and longer operational durability than parent COPV2. The potential of these materials has been further demonstrated through the construction of DFB lasers with top‐layer polymeric resonators.
All‐Dielectric Near‐Infrared Metasurface with Field Enhancement and High Q‐Factor Based on Anapole Precise Manipulation
Authors: Chen Cong , Gao Peng , Dai Yaowei , Cui Hongzhong , Wang Xinyan , Huang Tao , Zhu Xiaojun , Liu Hai
Published: February 2025

Anapole resonances with high‐quality factor (Q‐factor) can provide strong local electromagnetic fields for dielectric metasurfaces, combined with unique non‐radiation which can play an important role in sensing, nonlinear optics, and other fields. Perfect anapole mode excitation is still a challenge in the near‐infrared band. In this work, a method is proposed to realize the precise control of electric dipole (ED) and toroidal dipole (TD) by introducing elliptical air holes (EAH) and semi‐elliptical slit (SES), so as to excite the perfect anapole mode. The proposed patterned‐matesurface (Pa‐Meta) is prepared by electron beam lithography (EBL) technology, and combined with the built spectral detection system, it is verified that the method can increase the Q‐factor by 7.84 times (58 to 455). In addition, through the simulation calculation, the electric field enhancement factor |E/E0| can be increased by 5.87 times (9.2 to 54). Based on the anapole characteristic of patterned metasurfaces, An analysis of their sensing properties is conducted, revealing a sensitivity of 399.4 nm RIU−1. This study offers a novel perspective for accurately controlling anapole modes in all‐dielectric metasurfaces, as well as their potential applications in optical sensing and spectroscopy.
Toward Sustainable Urban Development: Identifying Principal SDG Indicators for Chinese Cities
Authors: Chen Lu , Shuai Chenyang , Chen Xi , Sun Jingran , Zhao Bu
Published: February 2025

Urban transformation plays a decisive role in China's achievement of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. However, a comprehensive and authoritative sustainable development goal (SDG) indicator framework is currently lacking at the city level. To address this gap, we first developed an integrated framework comprising 357 indicators for 297 Chinese cities through a literature review. Nevertheless, the sheer number of reviewed indicators presents significant challenges in data collection. The study then used principal component analysis and multiple regression to identify a small set of SDG indicators (principal indicators) with the consideration of data collection difficulty. Finally, we tested their effectiveness up to 2030. The key findings of our study are as follows: 1) 187 principal indicators are identified to explain the 90% variance of all the 357 indicators with lowest data collection difficulty, providing comprehensive coverage of the SDGs and achieving efficient information aggregation; 2) these principal indicators demonstrated good variance effectiveness and data availability in the vast majority of cities (284 out of 297), highlighting priority areas for future data infrastructure development; 3) the continued applicability of these principal indicators up to 2030 is validated. This study offers insights to guide investments in data infrastructure supporting China's sustainable urban development.
The Efficacy of Pediatric‐Inspired Regimens vs. Hyper‐CVAD in the Treatment of Adolescents and Young Adults With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Su Wenqing , Stricherz Melisa , Martin Alison , Belsey Jonathan , Kemadjou Eric , DeAngelo Daniel J.
Published: February 2025

Adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoblastic lymphoma (ALL/LBL) have poorer outcomes than pediatric patients. The aim of this systematic literature review and meta‐analysis was to compare asparaginase (ASP)‐containing pediatric‐inspired regimens (PIRs) with hyper‐fractionated cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, and dexamethasone (hyper‐CVAD) in adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with ALL/LBL. Searches included relevant publications up to April 21, 2022. A meta‐analysis was conducted in four studies with comparable demographics, to estimate the effects of intervention on rates of response and survival. Patients receiving PIRs were approximately twice as likely to achieve complete response and 1.8 times more likely to survive than patients receiving hyper‐CVAD. These results suggest ASP‐containing PIRs are associated with improved outcomes in AYAs compared with hyper‐CVAD.
Hydrogen Sulfide Induced Unique Twisted‐Rod Assemblies from Norbornene‐based Polymer in Aqueous Environment as Gasotransmitter Regulators
Authors: Gupta Moumita , Das Narayan , Mohanti Srujana , Mohanty Srujana , Shunmugam Raja
Published: February 2025

Hydrogen sulfide, being a poisonous pollutant, (H2S) is known for its pungent smell. Although it is having significant role in the biological and physiological processes as a potential biomarker in the present day. The over‐expression of H2S leads to several biological disorders and diseases, therefore, monitoring the level of H2S in the biological pH is important. Optical sensors to detect hydrogen sulfide have gained popularity due to their cost‐effectiveness, portability, fast response, etc. Here, we are designing a norbornene‐based polymeric bio‐sensor for detecting hydrogen sulfide in physiological pH. Hydrophilic and hydrophobic monomers are strategically crafted to permeate polymeric sensors with water solubility and the ability to detect hydrogen sulfide. These monomers are polymerized by ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP). The polymeric sensor can selectively detect hydrogen sulfide with high sensitivity by turn‐on fluorescence responses. Moreover, this probe efficiently conducts the morphological changes associated with sensing phenomena. The collapsed vesicles are nicely converted into twisted rods. One dimentional structures (such as twisted rods, etc.) are becoming very interesting as they have fascinating structural and functional properties. Having application in biomedical fields such as targeted drug delivery, imaging, and scaffolds for tissue engineering, This probe is biocompatible and has the scopes for bio‐imaging.