bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trajectory tracking of a mini four-rotor helicopter in dynamic environments - a linear algebra approach
Authors: Rosales Claudio , Gandolfo Daniel , Scaglia Gustavo , Jordan Mario , Carelli Ricardo
Published: April 2014

This paper presents the design of a controller that allows a four-rotor helicopter to track a desired trajectory in 3D space. To this aim, a dynamic model obtained from Euler-Lagrange equations describes the robot. This model is represented by numerical methods, with which the control actions for the operation of the system are obtained. The proposed controller is simple and presents good performance in face of uncertainties in the model of the system to be controlled. Zero-convergence proof is included, and simulation results show a good performance of the control system.
UNIFORM CONVERGENCE FOR NONPARAMETRIC ESTIMATORS WITH NONSTATIONARY DATA
Authors: Chan Nigel , Wang Qiying
Published: April 2014

Sharp upper and lower uniform bounds are established for a general class of functionals of integrated and fractionally integrated time series. The main result is used to develop optimal uniform convergence for the Nadaraya-Watson estimator and the local linear nonparametric estimator in a nonlinear cointegrating regression model. Unlike the point-wise situation, it is shown that the performance of the local linear nonparametric estimator is superior to that of the Nadaraya-Watson estimator in uniform asymptotics.
Validation de stimuli prosodiques émotionnels chez les Franco-québécois de 50 à 80 ans
Authors: Morneau-Sévigny Flore , Pouliot Joannie , Presseau Sophie , Ratté Marie-Hélène , Tremblay Marie-Pier , Macoir Joël , Hudon Carol
Published: April 2014

Few batteries of prosodic stimuli testing have been validated for Quebec-French people. Such validation is necessary to develop auditory-verbal tasks in this population. The objective of this study was to validate a battery of emotional prosodic stimuli for French-Québec aging subjects. The battery of 195 stimuli, which was elaborated by Maurage et al. (2007), is composed of 195 prosodic stimuli and was administrated to 50 healthy Quebecers aged 50-to-80 years. The percentages of good responses were calculated for each stimulus. For each emotion, Cronbach’s alphas were calculated to evaluate the internal consistency of the stimuli. Results showed that among the 195 stimuli, 40 were correctly recognized by at least 80 per cent of the subjects. Anger was the emotion that was most correctly identified by the participants, while recognition of disgust was the least recognised. Overall, this study provides data that will guide the selection of prosodic stimuli in evaluating French-Québécois.
Victims, bullies, and their defenders: A longitudinal study of the coevolution of positive and negative networks
Authors: Huitsing Gijs , Snijders Tom A. B. , Van Duijn Marijtje A. J. , Veenstra René
Published: April 2014

The complex interplay between bullying/victimization and defending was examined using a longitudinal social network approach (stochastic actor-based models). The (co)evolution of these relations within three elementary schools (Grades 2–5 at Time 1, ages 8–11,N= 354 children) was investigated across three time points within a year. Most bullies and defenders were in the same grade as the victims, although a substantial number of bullies and defenders were in other grades (most often one grade higher). Defenders were usually of the same gender as the victims, whereas most bullies were boys, with boys bullying both boys and girls. In line with goal-framing theory, multiplex network analyses provided evidence for the social support hypothesis (victims with the same bullies defended each other over time) as well as the retaliation hypothesis (defenders run the risk of becoming victimized by the bullies of the victims they defend). In addition, the analysis revealed that bullies with the same victims defended each other over time and that defenders of bullies initiated harassment of those bullies' victims. This study can be seen as a starting point in unraveling the relationship dynamics among bullying, victimization, and defending networks in schools.
Training Medical Students in Bag-Valve-Mask Technique as an Alternative to Mechanical Ventilation in a Disaster Surge Setting
Authors: Lin Janet Y. , Bhalla Naina , King Reneé A.
Published: April 2014

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the rapid training of medical students and their ability to provide effective manual ventilation using the bag-valve-mask technique.

Methods:

A rapid training session highlighting essential aspects of the correct bag-valve-mask technique was given to 31 medical students.This was followed by a simulated experience with a certified respiratory therapist, monitored according to a checklist of essential bag-valve-mask (BVM) competency requirements. Pretest and post-test surveys assessed the medical students' knowledge and ability to provide adequate BVM technique.

Results:

Thirty-one students participated. Presurvey results demonstrated a clear identification of the potential risk for a disaster (pandemic, natural, bioterrorist) with 55% of students responding that a definite risk did exist. Their usefulness in such an event also was ascertained with 55% of students replying they would assist with basic medical tasks, assist doctors, or assist with cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Post-survey results administered after a 30-minute didactic session on the basic features of resuscitation equipment and the essential components of BVM technique demonstrated that a majority of students knew the proper head positioning maneuvers in cases not involving trauma (93%) and in cases involving trauma (72%). All students completed and passed the competency checklist.

Conclusions:

Medical students can be rapidly trained and be utilized as a potential resource to carry out the potentially lifesaving task of manual ventilation using the BVM technique in a disaster situation in which the availability of mechanical ventilators and respiratory therapists may be limited.
Climate change, agriculture and economic effects on different regions of Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Filho Joaquim Bento de Souza , Moraes Gustavo Inácio de
Published: April 2014

In this paper we assess the potential economic effects of climate change on Brazilian agriculture scenarios in different regions in a general equilibrium framework, using a detailed regional economic database for the year 2005. Two different climate change impact scenarios are simulated. This paper extends the Brazilian literature in three different ways: by considering detailed shocks by product and region; by highlighting the connections between the potential impacts of climate change on agriculture and the labor market, with an inter-regional focus; and by specifying the links between climate change forecasts for agriculture and household expenditures. Results show that climate change impacts on Brazilian agriculture would have a relatively small economic effect on the Brazilian economy in aggregate terms, but with severe consequences at the regional level, making a strong case for losses that would be concentrated in the poorest regions and for the poorest workers and households in those regions.
Brazilian community health agents and qualitative primary healthcare information
Authors: Zanchetta Margareth S. , Meireles Pinto Rogério , Galhego-Garcia Wilson , da Cunha Zeilma , Cordeiro Hésio A. , Fagundes-Filho Francisco E. , Pinho Mônica A.L. , Voet Susan M.V. , Talbot Yves , Caldas Rodrigo S. , de Souza Thiago J. , Costa Edwaldo
Published: April 2014

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore female community health agents’ views about the value of recording qualitative information on contextual health issues they observe during home visits, data that are not officially required to be documented for the Brazilian System of Primary Healthcare Information.

Background

The study was conducted in community primary healthcare centres located in the cities of Araçatuba and Coroados (state of São Paulo) and Rio de Janeiro (state of Rio de Janeiro), Brazil.

Methods

The design was a qualitative, exploratory study. The purposeful sampling criteria were being female, with a minimum of three years of continuous service in the same location. Data collection with 62 participants was conducted via 11 focus groups (in 2007 and 2008). Audio files were transcribed and submitted to the method of thematic analysis. Four themes guided the analysis: working with qualitative information and undocumented observation; reflecting on qualitative information; integrating/analysing quantitative and qualitative information; and information-sharing with agents and family health teams. In 2010, 25 community health agents verified the final interpretation of the findings.

Findings

Participants valued the recording of qualitative, contextual information to expand understanding of primary healthcare issues and as an indicator of clients’ improved health behaviour and health literacy. While participants initiated the recording of additional health information, they generally did not inform the family health team about these findings. They perceived that team members devalued this type of information by considering it a reflection of the clientele’s social conditions or problems beyond the scope of medical concerns. Documentation of qualitative evidence can account for the effectiveness of health education in two ways: by improving preventative care, and by amplifying the voices of underprivileged clients who live in poverty to ensure the most appropriate and best quality primary healthcare for them.
An evaluation of conventional and subirrigated planters for urban agriculture: Supporting evidence
Authors: Sullivan Clare , Hallaran Thomas , Sogorka Gregory , Weinkle Kallie
Published: April 2014

Although interest in integrating agriculture into the urban landscape in the USA is increasing rapidly, there is a shortage of guidance for agricultural production in this context as well as a unique set of significant biophysical constraints. A common constraint is not being able to grow directly in the soil, making raised-bed gardening a necessity. Subirrigated planters (SIPs) are a style of raised bed with a subsoil reservoir that provides aeration and allows growers to irrigate below the soil where water is pulled up via capillary action. This bed design has vocal advocates; anecdotally, growers find them to be high yielding, water efficient and easier to maintain than standard raised beds. Given their apparent promise, there is interest in promoting SIPs and in utilizing them in larger-scale urban gardening operations but no rigorous tests compare these beds relative to standard raised beds. At one location and for one season, we compared yields for three crops: cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum), sungold cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) and lacinato kale (Brassica oleracea), crop quality and labor input for two styles of SIPs, as well as a sack garden, a variation of a SIP that does not require lightweight soil, with two conventional raised beds (one with a compost and topsoil mix and one with the soilless growing medium ideal for container gardening). Results from our first year of data indicate that both the SIP beds and the conventional beds with the soilless growing medium were more productive overall than conventional raised beds with topsoil and compost (P<0.01). Tomato production in the SIP without the root barrier was greater than both the conventional bed with the compost and topsoil mix (P<0.01) and the conventional bed with the soilless growing medium (P<0.05). The majority of the higher-cost beds had a positive revenue stream in the first summer season; given these results, investing in SIPs or in soil appropriate for raised beds appears to be worth the higher initial cost.
Farming in and on urban buildings: Present practice and specific novelties of Zero-Acreage Farming (ZFarming)
Authors: Thomaier Susanne , Specht Kathrin , Henckel Dietrich , Dierich Axel , Siebert Rosemarie , Freisinger Ulf B. , Sawicka Magdalena
Published: April 2014

Considering global trends such as climate change and resource scarcity, a major challenge of future cities will be to reduce urban footprints. Moreover, cities have to become or remain livable for their inhabitants and offer social and economic opportunities. Thus, reconnecting food production and cities offers promising potential. The diffusion of urban farming reflects a rising awareness of how food and farming can shape our cities. A growing number of urban farming projects exist in and on urban buildings, including open rooftop farms, rooftop greenhouses and indoor farming. These projects are characterized by the non-use of land or acreage for farming activities. We use the term ‘Zero-Acreage Farming’ (ZFarming) to represent these farms. The objective of this paper is to: (1) illustrate and systemize present practices of ZFarming and (2) discuss specific novelties of ZFarming in the wider context of urban agriculture. We analyzed 73 ZFarms in cities of North America, Asia, Australia and Europe using a set of criteria, and developed a typology of ZFarming, complemented by in-depth interviews with pioneers in rooftop farming in New York. The results illustrate that ZFarming generates innovative practices that may contribute to a sustainable urban agriculture. Besides growing food, it produces a range of non-food and non-market goods. It involves new opportunities for resource efficiency, new farming technologies, specific implementation processes and networks, new patterns of food supply and new urban spaces.
Measurement Invariance of the Experiences in Close Relationships Questionnaire across Different Populations
Authors: Alessandri Guido , Fagnani Corrado , Di Gennaro Giancarlo , Meldolesi Giulio Nicolò , Pasquini Paolo , Caroppo Emanuele , Martinotti Giovanni , Toni Alessandro , Fabi Elisa , Picardi Angelo
Published: April 2014

The measurement invariance of the Experiences in Close Relationships (ECR) questionnaire was investigated across four samples of non-clinical subjects (N = 222), dermatological patients (N = 458), psychiatric inpatients (N = 156), and patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (N = 101). The results provided evidence of configural, metric, and scalar invariance across groups. Overall, our findings provide further support to the reliability and validity of the ECR.
Lexical Effects in Word Naming in Spanish Children
Authors: Avdyli Rrezarta , Castejón Luis , Cuetos Fernando
Published: April 2014

Reading strategies depend on the consistency of the orthographic system. Recently
the use of lexical strategies at early stages of reading acquisition has been
shown even in transparent orthographies. The aim of this study was to know how
different lexical and sublexical variables affect the reaction times (RTs) and
articulation times (ATs) in word reading in Spanish children. A group of 46
children of typical reading level in the second and fourth grades of primary
school were asked to read aloud 100 words presented on a computer screen. The
stimuli were morphologically simple nouns with different ranges of length,
frequency, imageability, orthographic neighbors and age of acquisition (AoA).
Reading and articulation time were measured. Differences between means of the
second and the fourth grade were seen in RTs (p <
.001; Cohens´ d = 1.41) and ATs
(p < 001;Cohen´s d
= 1.41) in a t-test. Analyses of mixed-effects revealed that
word length, a sublexical variable, and frequency and AoA, lexical variables,
affected both grades, mainly on the RTs. The presence of lexical variables
reducing RTs and ATs in second grade suggests that lexical reading is present
from very early stages in Spanish children.
Efficacy of Disseminating Educational Materials in General Practices
Authors: Ulbricht Sabina , Gross Beatrice , Kunstmann Wilfried , John Ulrich , Meyer Christian
Published: April 2014

Aims: This study investigated the effects of providing an educational manual (EM), advising general practitioners (GPs) on how to manage patients who may have problems with psychotropic prescription drug use on three process of care measures: assessment, referral and treatment. The length of time spent evaluating the EM was investigated as a moderator. Methods: A nationwide representative random sample of 1822 German GPs was assigned to an intervention (IG) or a control group (CG). The GPs in the CG were assessed after they were invited to participate, the GPs in the IG were assessed three months after the EMs were disseminated (participation rate 59.3 %). The associations between the process of care measures and the study groups were investigated using negative binomial regression analysis for 852 GPs. Results: No differences between the study groups were found. GPs who read through the EM for more than 30 minutes increased the expected number of referrals and treatment for patients with prescription drug dependence by 69.8 % and 47.6 % compared to the CG. Conclusion: Simple dissemination of EMs alone has been shown to be ineffective regarding process of care measures. It is likely that additional strategies are needed to influence the clinical practice of GPs.
Reduzierung alkoholbedingter Mortalität durch Behandlung der Alkoholabhängigkeit
Authors: Rehm Jürgen , Rehm Maximilien , Shield Kevin D. , Gmel Gerrit , Frick Ulrich , Mann Karl
Published: April 2014

Fragestellung: Ziel dieser Studie ist es, die von riskantem Trinken und von Alkoholabhängigkeit in Deutschland verursachte Krankheitslast zu quantifizieren. Weiterhin sollen die erwartbaren Auswirkungen eines verbesserten Zugangs von Alkoholabhängigen zu effektiven Therapien auf die alkoholbedingte Sterblichkeit abgeschätzt werden. Methodik: Die Krankheitslast wurde anhand von „Attributable Fractions“ berechnet, die den durch die jeweilige Exposition bedingten Anteil an den Todesfällen einer umfassenden Liste von durch Alkohol verursachten Krankheiten beziffern. Mögliche Auswirkungen eines verbesserten Zugangs zu Behandlungen wurden berechnet durch modellgemäße Veränderungen in der Zusammensetzung der trinkenden Bevölkerung. Alle Modelle legten das Jahr 2004 und die Bevölkerung zwischen 15 und 64 Jahren zugrunde, d. h. ausschließlich vorzeitige Todesfälle wurden berücksichtigt. Ergebnisse: Riskantes Trinken ist bei Frauen für rund 58 % und bei Männern für rund 71 % aller vorzeitigen alkoholbedingten Todesfälle ursächlich. Die entsprechenden Anteile der mit riskantem Trinken stark überlappenden Kategorie der Alkoholabhängigkeit liegen bei 40 % (Frauen) und 68 % (Männer). Eine Erhöhung der gegenwärtigen Behandlungsquote auf 40 % aller Alkoholabhängigen zeitigte eine Verringerung um bis zu 13,1 % bei den männlichen und 10,7 % bei den weiblichen alkoholbedingten Todesfällen innerhalb eines Jahres, eine Erhöhung auf 20 % war mit einer Verringerung um bis zu 6.5 % bei den männlichen und 5.3 % bei den weiblichen alkoholbedingten Todesfällen verbunden. Schlussfolgerungen: Durch einen verbesserten Zugang besonders der abhängig Erkrankten zu effektiven therapeutischen Interventionen könnte ein bedeutsamer Teil der alkoholbedingten Krankheitslast vermindert werden.
Hilfen zu problematischem Alkoholkonsum – Noch kommen wir zu spät
Authors: John Ulrich , Meyer Christian , Bischof Gallus , Freyer-Adam Jennis , Grothues Janina , Rumpf Hans-Jürgen
Published: April 2014

Ziel: Ziel dieses Positionspapieres ist, Konsequenzen aus Befunden zu alkoholbezogener Mortalität für Prävention und Versorgung in Deutschland zu erörtern. Ergebnis: Evidenz offenbart u. a., dass Teilnahme an Entwöhnungsbehandlung nicht mit längerem Überleben verknüpft war als Nichtteilnahme und dass bei Todesursachen auch Tabakkonsum zu berücksichtigen ist. Schlussfolgerungen: Es wird das Fazit gezogen, dass ein System zu Hilfen realisiert werden sollte, das sieben Anforderungen erfüllt. Dazu zählen Hilfen der Prävention und integrierten Versorgung mit proaktiver Kontaktierung der Bevölkerung und stärkerer Berücksichtigung von Tabakrauchen als bisher. So sollen mehr Lebensjahre der Betroffenen erhalten werden als bei dem bestehenden Fokus auf Behandlung von Alkoholproblemen.
Metallic nanostructures for light trapping in energy-harvesting devices
Authors: Fei Guo Chuan , Sun Tianyi , Cao Feng , Liu Qian , Ren Zhifeng
Published: April 2014

Solar energy is abundant and environmentally friendly. Light trapping in solar-energy-harvesting devices or structures is of critical importance. This article reviews light trapping with metallic nanostructures for thin film solar cells and selective solar absorbers. The metallic nanostructures can either be used in reducing material thickness and device cost or in improving light absorbance and thereby improving conversion efficiency. The metallic nanostructures can contribute to light trapping by scattering and increasing the path length of light, by generating strong electromagnetic field in the active layer, or by multiple reflections/absorptions. We have also discussed the adverse effect of metallic nanostructures and how to solve these problems and take full advantage of the light-trapping effect.
Adaptive optical microscopy: the ongoing quest for a perfect image
Authors: Booth Martin J
Published: April 2014

Adaptive optics is becoming a valuable tool for high resolution microscopy, providing correction for aberrations introduced by the refractive index structure of specimens. This is proving particularly promising for applications that require images from deep within biological tissue specimens. We review recent developments in adaptive microscopy, including methods and applications. A range of advances in different microscope modalities is covered and prospects for the future are discussed.
Ultrasmooth, extremely deformable and shape recoverable Ag nanowire embedded transparent electrode
Authors: Nam Sanggil , Song Myungkwan , Kim Dong-Ho , Cho Byungjin , Lee Hye Moon , Kwon Jung-Dae , Park Sung-Gyu , Nam Kee-Seok , Jeong Yongsoo , Kwon Se-Hun , Park Yun Chang , Jin Sung-Ho , Kang Jae-Wook , Jo Sungjin , Kim Chang Su
Published: April 2014

Transparent electrodes have been widely used in electronic devices such as solar cells, displays and touch screens. Highly flexible transparent electrodes are especially desired for the development of next generation flexible electronic devices. Although indium tin oxide (ITO) is the most commonly used material for the fabrication of transparent electrodes, its brittleness and growing cost limit its utility for flexible electronic devices. Therefore, the need for new transparent conductive materials with superior mechanical properties is clear and urgent. Ag nanowire (AgNW) has been attracting increasing attention because of its effective combination of electrical and optical properties. However, it still suffers from several drawbacks, including large surface roughness, instability against oxidation and moisture and poor adhesion to substrates. These issues need to be addressed before wide spread use of metallic NW as transparent electrodes can be realized. In this study, we demonstrated the fabrication of a flexible transparent electrode with superior mechanical, electrical and optical properties by embedding a AgNW film into a transparent polymer matrix. This technique can produce electrodes with an ultrasmooth and extremely deformable transparent electrode that have sheet resistance and transmittance comparable to those of an ITO electrode.
Intermediate-band dynamics of quantum dots solar cell in concentrator photovoltaic modules
Authors: Sogabe Tomah , Shoji Yasushi , Ohba Mitsuyoshi , Yoshida Katsuhisa , Tamaki Ryo , Hong Hwen-Fen , Wu Chih-Hung , Kuo Cherng-Tsong , Tomić Stanko , Okada Yoshitaka
Published: April 2014

We report for the first time a successful fabrication and operation of an InAs/GaAs quantum dot based intermediate band solar cell concentrator photovoltaic (QD-IBSC-CPV) module to the IEC62108 standard with recorded power conversion efficiency of 15.3%. Combining the measured experimental results at Underwriters Laboratory (UL®) licensed testing laboratory with theoretical simulations, we confirmed that the operational characteristics of the QD-IBSC-CPV module are a consequence of the carrier dynamics via the intermediate-band at room temperature.
What are the preferred horizontal displacements of aromatic–aromatic interactions in proteins? Comparison with the calculated benzene–benzene potential energy surface
Authors: Ninković Dragan B. , Andrić Jelena M. , Malkov Saša N. , Zarić Snežana D.
Published: April 2014

Stacking interactions of phenylalanine residues show preference for large offsets (3.5–5.0 Å), while the calculations show substantially strong interactions, of about −2.0 kcal mol−1.
Dynamic and thermodynamic characteristics associated with the glass transition of amorphous trehalose–water mixtures
Authors: Weng Lindong , Elliott Gloria D.
Published: April 2014

Tg behavior of trehalose–water mixtures is reproduced by molecular modeling with insights into the dynamic/thermodynamic characteristics associated with vitrification.
Strain engineering the properties of graphene and other two-dimensional crystals
Authors: Bissett Mark A. , Tsuji Masaharu , Ago Hiroki
Published: April 2014

This perspective discusses recent advances in using strain to engineer the properties of thin-layer materials such as graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs).
Fabrication of sub-20 nm nano-gap structures through the elastomeric nano-stamp assisted secondary sputtering phenomenon
Authors: Jeon Hwan-Jin , Lee Eun Hyung , Yoo Hae-Wook , Kim Kyoung Hwan , Jung Hee-Tae
Published: April 2014

We describe a highly efficient method for fabricating controllable and reliable sub-20 nm scale nano-gap structures through an elastomeric nano-stamp with an embedded ultra-thin pattern.
Qualitative SERS analysis of G-quadruplex DNAs using selective stabilising ligands
Authors: Gracie K. , Dhamodharan V. , Pradeepkumar P. I. , Faulds K. , Graham D.
Published: April 2014

A SERS-based method has been developed for the analysis of G-quadruplex DNAs using three novel stabilising ligands.
Long-term stability for cobalt-based dye-sensitized solar cells obtained by electrolyte optimization
Authors: Gao Jiajia , Bhagavathi Achari Muthuraaman , Kloo Lars
Published: April 2014

A significant improvement in the long-term stability for cobalt-based dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) under light-soaking conditions has been achieved by optimization of the composition of tris(2,2′-bipyridine) Co(ii)/Co(iii) electrolytes.
A synthetic model for the oxygen-evolving complex in Sr2+-containing photosystem II
Authors: Chen Changhui , Zhang Chunxi , Dong Hongxing , Zhao Jingquan
Published: April 2014

An artificial complex containing Mn3SrO4 and three types of μ-O2− moieties has been synthesized to mimic the OEC in PSII.
The weak, fluctuating, dipole moment of membrane-bound hydrogenase from Aquifex aeolicus accounts for its adaptability to charged electrodes
Authors: Oteri Francesco , Ciaccafava Alexandre , Poulpiquet Anne de , Baaden Marc , Lojou Elisabeth , Sacquin-Mora Sophie
Published: April 2014

The hydrogenase fromA. aeolicus(on the right) presents a dipole moment with fluctuating orientations, which enables this enzyme to efficiently adsorb on both negatively and positively charged electrodes.
Effective coarse-grained solid–fluid potentials and their application to model adsorption of fluids on heterogeneous surfaces
Authors: Forte Esther , Haslam Andrew J. , Jackson George , Müller Erich A.
Published: April 2014

In the present contribution we emphasise the necessity of using an adequate averaging procedure to obtain effective fluid–surface potentials. A procedure to develop free-energy-averaged fluid–surface potentials retaining the important temperature dependence of the coarse-grained particle-surface interaction is described.
Generation of guanine–amino acid cross-links by a free radical combination mechanism
Authors: Uvaydov Yuriy , Geacintov Nicholas E. , Shafirovich Vladimir
Published: April 2014

The key step of DNA–protein cross-linking in vitro is the combination of guanine neutral radicals with side-chain C-centered amino acid radicals produced by a two-photon ionization method.
Effect of pH on the chemical modification of quercetin and structurally related flavonoids characterized by optical (UV-visible and Raman) spectroscopy
Authors: Jurasekova Z. , Domingo C. , Garcia-Ramos J. V. , Sanchez-Cortes S.
Published: April 2014

The chemical modifications undergone by flavonoids under alkaline conditions in aqueous solution and on Ag nanoparticles studied by optical spectroscopy are presented and discussed.
Extension of the diffusion controlled electron transfer theory for intermittent fluorescence of quantum dots: inclusion of biexcitons and the difference of “on” and “off” time distributions
Authors: Zhu Zhaoyan , Marcus R. A.
Published: April 2014

The power law quantum dot blinking, dependence of the exponential tail and the power on light intensity is explained.
Crystal plane-dependent gas-sensing properties of zinc oxide nanostructures: experimental and theoretical studies
Authors: Kaneti Yusuf V. , Zhang Zhengjie , Yue Jeffrey , Zakaria Quadir M. D. , Chen Chuyang , Jiang Xuchuan , Yu Aibing
Published: April 2014

Crystal plane-dependent gas-sensing performance of ZnO nanostructures toward ethanol has been investigated experimentally and theoretically through DFT simulation.
Partitioning of prototropic species of an anticancer drug ellipticine in bile salt aggregates of different head groups and hydrophobic skeletons: a photophysical study to probe bile salts as multisite drug carriers
Authors: Thakur Raina , Das Anupam , Adhikari Chandan , Chakraborty Anjan
Published: April 2014

The entrapment and photodynamics of an anticancer drug ellipticine in different bile salt aggregates have been investigated using fluorescence spectroscopy.
Recovery of dye-sensitized solar cell's performance by heat treatment
Authors: Berginc Marko , Topič Marko , Opara Krašovec Urša
Published: April 2014

The efficiency recovery of dye-sensitized solar cells and crystal growth in cells stored in the dark, treated with a forward bias current and exposed to heat treatment.
Formation of C–C bonds for the production of bio-alkanes under mild conditions
Authors: Xin Jiayu , Zhang Suojiang , Yan Dongxia , Ayodele Olubunmi , Lu Xingmei , Wang Jianji
Published: April 2014

C–C bonds can be formed between biomass-derived angelica lactones through free radical reactions under mild conditions without using a solvent.
Transition-metal-free synthesis of vinyl sulfones via tandem cross-decarboxylative/coupling reactions of sodium sulfinates and cinnamic acids
Authors: Xu Yanli , Tang Xiaodong , Hu Weigao , Wu Wanqing , Jiang Huanfeng
Published: April 2014

A transition-metal-free synthesis of vinyl sulfones, utilizing sodium sulfinates and cinnamic acids through tandem cross-decarboxylative/coupling reactions, has been developed.
Diode laser thermal vaporization ICP MS with a simple tubular cell for determination of lead and cadmium in whole blood
Authors: Foltynová Pavla , Bednařík Antonín , Kanický Viktor , Preisler Jan
Published: April 2014

A low-cost diode laser thermal vaporization sample introduction system to ICP MS for determination of lead and cadmium in whole blood.
Multiphase optofluidics on an electro-microfluidic platform powered by electrowetting and dielectrophoresis
Authors: Fan Shih-Kang , Wang Fu-Min
Published: April 2014

Optofluidics on an electro-microfluidic platform by exploiting materials in the four fundamental phases – solid, liquid, gas, and plasma-phases – is reviewed.
Selective inhibition of bacterial topoisomerase I by alkynyl-bisbenzimidazoles
Authors: Ranjan Nihar , Fulcrand Geraldine , King Ada , Brown Joseph , Jiang Xiuping , Leng Fenfei , Arya Dev P.
Published: April 2014

Highly selective inhibition ofE. colitopoisomerase I by alkynyl bisbenzimidazoles.
Zinc ions modulate protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B activity
Authors: Bellomo Elisa , Massarotti Alberto , Hogstrand Christer , Maret Wolfgang
Published: April 2014

A novel mechanism by which Zn2+modulates PTP1B activity encompasses the binding to the closed and phospho-intermediate forms only.
Efficient method for the screening and identification of anti-diabetic components in the leaves of Olea europaea L.
Authors: Zhang Jia , Huang Xinyi , Sun Xiaoming , Pei Dong , Di Duolong
Published: April 2014

This paper proposes a novel strategy for screening anti-diabetic compounds, using HSCCC coupled with post-column on-line α-amylase evaluation.
Oxidative transformation of alcohols and organic halides in aqueous solution
Authors: Gupta Neeraj , Thakur Apoorva , Bhardwaj Pushpa
Published: April 2014

Using water as the only solvent for the oxidation of alcohols and organic halides, a complete solventless process for the preparation of water immiscible aldehydes has been developed.
High-performance humidity sensors from Ni(SO4)0.3(OH)1.4 nanobelts
Authors: Zhuo Ming , Chen Yuejiao , Fu Tao , Zhang Haonan , Xu Zhi , Li Qiuhong , Wang Taihong
Published: April 2014

Ni(SO4)0.3(OH)1.4 nanobelts are utilized in a humidity sensor by a facile method. The nanobelt based sensor shows a high sensitivity, fast response and long-term stability in the sensing process.
Exchange-biased hybrid ferromagnetic–multiferroic core–shell nanostructures
Authors: Shi Da-Wei , Javed Khalid , Ali Syed Shahbaz , Chen Jun-Yang , Li Pei-Sen , Zhao Yong-Gang , Han Xiu-Feng
Published: April 2014

Artificial exchange-biased ferromagnetic–multiferroic core–shell nanostructures.
Chamber-confined silicon–carbon nanofiber composites for prolonged cycling life of Li-ion batteries
Authors: Fu Kun , Lu Yao , Dirican Mahmut , Chen Chen , Yanilmaz Meltem , Shi Quan , Bradford Philip D. , Zhang Xiangwu
Published: April 2014

Silicon is confined within the empty chambers of carbon nanofibers, in which the volume expansion of Si can be buffered and SEI formation is controlled. This self-supported composite is a promising electrode candidate for use in flexible batteries.
The selective formation of graphene ranging from two-dimensional sheets to three-dimensional mesoporous nanospheres
Authors: Wang Jian , Jin Huile , He Yuhua , Lin Dajie , Liu Aili , Wang Shun , Wang Jichang
Published: April 2014

This research presents a template-free solvothermal method which offers selective preparation of graphene ranging from two-dimensional sheets to 3-dimensional nanospheres.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of hybrids from farnesylthiosalicylic acid and hydroxylcinnamic acid with dual inhibitory activities of Ras-related signaling and phosphorylated NF-κB
Authors: Ling Yong , Wang Zhiqiang , Wang Xuemin , Zhao Ying , Zhang Wei , Wang Xinyang , Chen Li , Huang Zhangjian , Zhang Yihua
Published: April 2014

Hybrid 5f significantly inhibited both Ras-related signaling and phosphorylated NF-κB, which may synergistically contribute to its apoptosis induction and tumor growth inhibition in vitro and in vivo.
Polymeric foams with functional nanocomposite cells
Authors: Calcagnile P. , Fragouli D. , Mele E. , Ruffilli R. , Athanassiou A.
Published: April 2014

Elastomeric foams with controlled cell size and composition are formed by using calcium alginate hydrogel beads as templates.
The molecular dynamics of different relaxation modes in asymmetric chlorinated butyl rubber/petroleum resin blends
Authors: Zhang Fengshun , He Guansong , Xu Kangming , Wu Hong , Guo Shaoyun
Published: April 2014

The PR plays a role like an anti-plasticizer in decreasing the free volume fraction of the CIIR/PR blend. The mobility of Rouse modes is confined significantly more than that of local segmental motion.
Cs2CO3 promoted direct C–H bond sulfenylation of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines and related heteroarenes in ionic liquid
Authors: Gao Zhaochang , Zhu Xun , Zhang Ronghua
Published: April 2014

Cs2CO3-promoted sulfenylation of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines in ionic liquid.
Tensile mechanical properties of Ni3Al nanowires at intermediate temperature
Authors: Yu Jingui , Zhang Qiaoxin , Yue Zhufeng
Published: April 2014

Molecular dynamics (MD) methods are employed to study the mechanical properties of Ni3Al nanowires (NWs) along the [001], [110] and [111] crystal orientations under tensile loading at intermediate temperatures.
Physical, structural, and dehydrogenation properties of ammonia borane in ionic liquids
Authors: Nakagawa Tessui , Burrell Anthony K. , Del Sesto Rico E. , Janicke Michael T. , Nekimken Adam L. , Purdy Geraldine M. , Paik Biswajit , Zhong Rui-Qin , Semelsberger Troy A. , Davis Benjamin L.
Published: April 2014

Hydrogen desorption profiles of AB–ILs with H2 yield.
Novel stereocontrolled amidoglycosylation of alcohols with acetylated glycals and sulfamate ester
Authors: Murakami Teiichi , Sato Yukari , Yoshioka Kyoko , Tanaka Mutsuo
Published: April 2014

A regio- and stereo-controlled, one-pot amidoglycosylation of alcohols has been achieved using O-acetylated glycals, trichloroethoxysulfonamide, and iodosobenzene in the presence of a rhodium(ii) catalyst.
Sporormiellin A, the first tetrahydrofuran-fused furochromone with an unprecedented tetracyclic skeleton from Sporormiella minima
Authors: Xiong Hui , Xiao Gao-Keng , Chen Guo-Dong , Chen He-Ru , Hu Dan , Li Xiao-Xia , Zhong Shi-Wei , Guo Liang-Dong , Yao Xin-Sheng , Gao Hao
Published: April 2014

Sporormiellin A (1), the first tetrahydrofuran-fused furochromone with an unprecedented tetracyclic skeleton, has been obtained from the fungal strain Sporormiella minima.
A precision structural model for fullerenols
Authors: Wang Zhenzhen , Chang Xueling , Lu Zhanghui , Gu Min , Zhao Yuliang , Gao Xingfa
Published: April 2014

An explicit structural model was developed and verified for fullerenols.
Mapping amyloid-β(16-22) nucleation pathways using fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy
Authors: Anthony Neil R. , Mehta Anil K. , Lynn David G. , Berland Keith M.
Published: April 2014

Mapping amyloid assembly pathways from monomer to mature nanotubes.
Effects of surface-modified silica nanoparticles attached graphene oxide using isocyanate-terminated flexible polymer chains on the mechanical properties of epoxy composites
Authors: Jiang Tongwu , Kuila Tapas , Kim Nam Hoon , Lee Joong Hee
Published: April 2014

Surface modified silica nanoparticles attached to graphene oxide using isocyanate terminated flexible chains were used for toughening epoxy.
Synthesis of BiVO4 nanoflake array films for photoelectrochemical water oxidation
Authors: He Huichao , Berglund Sean P. , Rettie Alexander J. E. , Chemelewski William D. , Xiao Peng , Zhang Yunhuai , Mullins C. Buddie
Published: April 2014

Synthesis of BiVO4 nanoflake array films for photoelectrochemical water oxidation.
Use of a new crosslinking method to obtain semi-IPN membranes with phosphonic acid groups for a PEMFC application
Authors: Labalme Etienne , David Ghislain , Souquet Julien , Buvat Pierrick , Bigarre Janick
Published: April 2014

The synthesis of a new semi-IPN membrane was performed from a commercial fluorinated copolymer and a fluorophosphonated copolymer with pendant phosphonic acid groups and cross-linkable groups.
A water soluble initiator prepared through host–guest chemical interaction for microfabrication of 3D hydrogels via two-photon polymerization
Authors: Xing Jinfeng , Liu Jinhao , Zhang Tingbin , Zhang Ling , Zheng Meiling , Duan Xuanming
Published: April 2014

A highly efficient water soluble initiator was prepared through host–guest chemical interaction combining a hydrophobic TPP initiator and hydrophilic cyclodextrins. 3D hydrogels without the residue of organic solvents were successfully achieved via TPP using low laser power.
Magnetically transportable core–shell emulsion droplets with an antioxidative all-organic paramagnetic liquid shell
Authors: Uchida Y. , Iwai Y. , Akita T. , Mitome T. , Suzuki K. , Tamura R. , Nishiyama N.
Published: April 2014

Nitroxide radical liquid microcapsules as an all-organic flexible antioxidative magnetic carrier for nanoliter cargoes have been successfully fabricated.
Aggregation-induced emission, mechanochromism and blue electroluminescence of carbazole and triphenylamine-substituted ethenes
Authors: Chan Carrie Y. K. , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Zhao Zujin , Chen Shuming , Lu Ping , Sung Herman H. Y. , Kwok Hoi Sing , Ma Yuguang , Williams Ian D. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: April 2014

Carbazole and triphenylamine-substituted ethenes with AIE characteristics, mechanochromic fluorescence properties and strong blue EL are synthesized.
Thermally stable luminescence and structure evolution of (K, Rb)BaPO4:Eu2+ solid-solution phosphors
Authors: Zhao Chenglong , Xia Zhiguo , Yu Shixin
Published: April 2014

Thermally stable luminescence and structure evolution of the orthophosphate phosphors ABaPO4:Eu2+ (A = K, Rb) are discussed.
Symbiosomes: temporary moonlighting organelles
Authors: Emerich David W. , Krishnan Hari B.
Published: April 2014

Symbiosomes are a unique structural entity that performs the role of biological nitrogen fixation, an energy-demanding process that is the primary entryway of fixed nitrogen into the biosphere. Symbiosomes result from the infection of specific rhizobial strains into the roots of an appropriate leguminous host plant forming an organ referred to as a nodule. Within the infected plant cells of the nodule, the rhizobia are encased within membrane-bounded structures that develop into symbiosomes. Mature symbiosomes create an environment that allows the rhizobia to differentiate into a nitrogen-fixing form called bacteroids. The bacteroids are surrounded by the symbiosome space, which is populated by proteins from both eukaryotic and prokaryotic symbionts, suggesting this space is the quintessential component of symbiosis: an inter-kingdom environment with the single purpose of symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Proteins associated with the symbiosome membrane are largely plant-derived proteins and are non-metabolic in nature. The proteins of the symbiosome space are mostly derived from the bacteroid with annotated functions of carbon metabolism, whereas relatively few are involved in nitrogen metabolism. An appreciable portion of both the eukaryotic and prokaryotic proteins in the symbiosome are also ‘moonlighting’ proteins, which are defined as proteins that perform roles unrelated to their annotated activities when found in an unexpected physiological environment. The essential functions of symbiotic nitrogen fixation of the symbiosome are performed by co-operative interactions of proteins from both symbionts some of which may be performing unexpected roles.
Simple antenna structure enabling the simultaneous excitation of two different polarisation and radiation modes
Authors: Lizzi Leonardo , Ferrero Fabien , Ribero Jean‐Marc , Staraj Robert
Published: April 2014

A simple antenna structure able to simultaneously generate two different polarisation and radiation modes is proposed. In addition to a good impedance matching all over multiple bands, antennas based on the proposed geometry can exhibit a linearly polarised omnidirectional radiation pattern at lower frequencies, allowing the communication in any azimuthal direction, and a circularly polarised directive diagram at higher frequencies that enables links for satellite‐based applications. These characteristics together with a low‐profile, a light weight and a robust and easy‐to‐realise structure make the antenna an effective candidate for integration into vehicles. The antenna multimode radiation mechanism is explained in detail. In order to demonstrate its effectiveness, the proposed structure is applied to the design of two different antennas for practical applications. The performances of these antennas are assessed by means of numerical simulations and validated through experimental measurements.
Investigation of voltage‐mode controller for cascade boost converter
Authors: Chan Chok You
Published: April 2014

The regulation of a 2‐stage cascade boost converter using a voltage‐mode controller is investigated. The approximate stability analysis of the voltage‐controlled cascade boost converter is performed by using the state‐space average model of the converter and some stability results are obtained. A comparative study of the conventional proportional and integral controller and the proposed voltage‐mode controller shows that the latter is suitable for the regulation of the cascade converter. Experimental results showing the features of the controller in the presence of the load and the reference voltage changes are also provided.
Analysis and discussion of false triggering of Vce desaturation protection circuit in a T‐type neutral point clamped inverter and its solutions
Authors: Wu Yu , Sun Yaojie , Lin Yandan
Published: April 2014

IGBT in a T‐type inverter delivers unusual performance when accommodated with the conventional collector–emitter voltage (Vce) desaturation protection circuit. By analysing the switching behaviours in the corresponding control sequence, this study presents a false triggering failure phenomenon on the protection circuit. The phenomenon is theoretically analysed. It is aggravated at a larger load current and influenced by the capacitive effects in the antiparallel diode. Analysis done by the authors is validated in a three‐phase 15 kW T‐type inverter prototype. A false triggering of the protection circuit occurs when the current commutes among the insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) as a result of the IGBT characteristics being influenced. This study also puts forward a logic algorithm to provide guidance on hardware drive circuit or digital signal processor design depending on the analysis.
Die Komponentenseparation zum Verschluss komplexer Bauchwandhernien: Entwicklung einer
Technik von 1990 bis heute
Authors: Köhler G. , Luketina R. , Koch O. , Emmanuel K.
Published: April 2014

Hintergrund: Die Separation von autologen, funktionell aktiven Komponenten der lateralen
Bauchwand zum Verschluss großer Mittelliniendefekte wurde 1990 vorgestellt. Die Originaltechnik
der Komponentenseparation (CS) hat seither zahlreiche Veränderungen erfahren. Ziel dieser Arbeit
ist es, die wesentlichen Schritte der Weiterentwicklungen zusammenfassend darzustellen.
Methode: Gestützt auf eine Literaturanalyse werden die Originaltechnik und ihre
Modifikationen hinsichtlich Indikationen, Techniken und Ergebnissen dargestellt und bewertet.
Resultate: Die Originaltechnik hat noch einen hohen Stellenwert, weil sie ein hohes
Ausmaß zur Medialisierung des Rektusmuskelkomplexes erzielt. Zahlreiche Modifikationen der
konventionellen Komponentenseparation mit unterschiedlichen Ergebnissen wurden beschrieben. Ein
wesentlicher Entwicklungsschritt war die minimalinvasive anteriore Komponentenseparation mit
Ballondilatationstrokaren, wodurch die generell hohe Wundmorbidität gesenkt werden konnte. In
letzter Zeit hat sich die modifiziert posteriore Komponentenseparation durch Ablösung des
M. transversus abdominis als Weiterentwicklung der Sublay-Technik als vielversprechende
Alternative herauskristallisiert. Die einzelnen Techniken werden mit Implantation von
synthetischen oder biologischen Netzen in intraperitonealer Onlay-Technik (IPOM), Sublay- oder
Onlay-Technik kombiniert, wodurch sich generell die Rezidivraten senken ließen.
Schlussfolgerung: Aus heutiger Sicht kann keine allgemeingültige Empfehlung zu einer
der zahlreichen Methoden der Komponentenseparation ausgesprochen werden. Die neuen Ansätze der
minimalinvasiven Zugänge und der posterioren Separation zielen auf eine Reduzierung der
Komplikationen und Rezidivraten ab. Die operative Strategie hängt nach wie vor von der
Komplexität des Bauchwanddefekts ab und wird individuell und gegebenenfalls interdisziplinär
festgelegt.