bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Team goal orientation composition, team efficacy, and team performance: The separate roles of team leader and members
Authors: Huang Chiung-Yi , Huang Jia-Chi , Chang Yuhsuan
Published: January 2017

This study aims to examine team goal orientation composition regarding the different roles of a leader’s and team members’ collective goal orientation, and the effects of these on team outcomes. Data included 268 respondents from 64 teams. Results showed team members’ learning goal orientation has positive effect on team performance, mediated by team efficacy. Further, for the role of team leader, the results also revealed the same pattern. Study also showed a leader’s performance goal orientation has negatively related on team performance, mediated by team efficacy. Finally, taking both roles simultaneously, study indicated the interaction between a leader’s and members’ performance goal orientation has negatively related to team efficacy, and the interaction between a leader’s and members’ learning goal orientation has negatively related to team performance. This research contributes to the existing goal orientation theory by taking the different roles of team leader and members into consideration.
Multiple fire-related cues stimulate germination inChaenorhinum rubrifolium(Plantaginaceae), a rare annual in the Mediterranean Basin
Authors: Tavşanoğlu Çağatay , Ergan Gökhan , Çatav Ş. Serter , Zare Golshan , Küçükakyüz Köksal , Özüdoğru Barış
Published: January 2017

In Mediterranean fire-prone ecosystems, annual species specific to post-fire habitats should have a soil seed bank and should be able to germinate after a fire. Therefore, various fire-related cues can be expected to stimulate germination in post-fire annuals. Germination patterns of the rare annualChaenorhinum rubrifolium(Plantaginaceae) were examined in response to mechanical scarification, heat shock, aqueous smoke, nitrogenous compounds, gibberellic acid, karrikinolide (KAR1), and mandelonitrile (a cyanohydrin analogue, MAN) under dark and photoperiod conditions in the laboratory. Combinations of these treatments were also included in the experiment. Strong physiological dormancy in the seeds ofC. rubrifoliumwas partially broken by several fire-related germination cues, including smoke and nitrate, under light conditions. KAR1and MAN also stimulated germination, and the highest improvement in germination was achieved in the KAR1treatment in the presence of light. Heat shock + smoke and KAR1+ MAN combinations had positive synergetic and additive effects on germination under light conditions, respectively. The light played a crucial role in the promotion of germination. The results suggest that multiple fire-related cues operate to stimulate germination inC. rubrifolium, an annual species from the Mediterranean Basin. However, the species may have a broader germination niche than a fire-restricted one.
Measures of the DSM–5 mixed-features specifier of major depressive disorder
Authors: Zimmerman Mark
Published: January 2017

During the past two decades, a number of studies have found that depressed patients frequently have manic symptoms intermixed with depressive symptoms. While the frequency of mixed syndromes are more common in bipolar than in unipolar depressives, mixed states are also common in patients with major depressive disorder. The admixture of symptoms may be evident when depressed patients present for treatment, or they may emerge during ongoing treatment. In some patients, treatment with antidepressant medication might precipitate the emergence of mixed states. It would therefore be useful to systematically inquire into the presence of manic/hypomanic symptoms in depressed patients. We can anticipate that increased attention will likely be given to mixed depression because of changes in the DSM–5. In the present article, I review instruments that have been utilized to assess the presence and severity of manic symptoms and therefore could be potentially used to identify the DSM–5 mixed-features specifier in depressed patients and to evaluate the course and outcome of treatment. In choosing which measure to use, clinicians and researchers should consider whether the measure assesses both depression and mania/hypomania, assesses all or only some of the DSM–5 criteria for the mixed-features specifier, or assesses manic/hypomanic symptoms that are not part of the DSM–5 definition. Feasibility, more so than reliability and validity, will likely determine whether these measures are incorporated into routine clinical practice.
A Theoretical Component of Political Inegalitarianism in Perso-Islamicate Thought
Authors: SHOMALI ALIREZA
Published: January 2017

The disparity of human intellects dictum imposes an a priori limit of thinking and imagining that partially precludes the emergence of democratic thought in the Iranian commonsense. This paper presents three exemplary accounts of the disparity dictum in Perso-Islamicate philosophical and mystical traditions – by Ghazzali, Sadra and Molavi. The goal is to see how, despite varying verbalism, these thinkers share the view that human beings are not ultimately unified – and, accordingly, that humans cannot have equal rights to political power.
Stability of the cancer target DDIAS is regulated by the CHIP/HSP70 pathway in lung cancer cells
Authors: Won Kyoung-Jae , Im Joo-Young , Kim Bo-Kyung , Ban Hyun Seung , Jung Young-Jin , Jung Kyeong Eun , Won Misun
Published: January 2017

DNA damage-induced apoptosis suppressor (DDIAS) rescues lung cancer cells from apoptosis in response to DNA damage. DDIAS is transcriptionally activated by NFATc1 and EGF-mediated ERK5/MEF2B, leading to cisplatin resistance and cell invasion. Therefore, DDIAS is suggested as a therapeutic target for lung cancer. Here, we report that DDIAS stability is regulated by E3 U-box ubiquitin ligase carboxyl terminus of HSP70-interacting protein (CHIP)-mediated proteasomal degradation. We first isolated CHIP as an interacting partner of DDIAS by yeast two-hybrid screening. CHIP physically associated with both the N- and C-terminal regions of DDIAS, targeting it for proteasomal degradation and reducing the DDIAS half-life. CHIP overexpression analyses indicated that the tetratrico peptide repeat (TPR) domain and the U-box are required for DDIAS ubiquitination. It is likely that HSP70-bound DDIAS is recruited to the CHIP E3 ligase via the TPR domain, suggesting DDIAS as a client protein of HSP70. In addition, CHIP overexpression in lung cancer cells expressing high DDIAS levels induced significant growth inhibition by enhancing DDIAS degradation. Furthermore, simultaneous CHIP overexpression and DNA damage agent treatment caused a substantial increase in the apoptosis of lung cancer cells. Taken together, these findings indicate that the stability of the DDIAS protein is regulated by CHIP/HSP70-mediated proteasomal degradation and that CHIP overexpression stimulates the apoptosis of lung cancer cells in response to DNA-damaging agents.
The modified patient enablement instrument: a Portuguese cross-cultural adaptation, validity and reliability study
Authors: Remelhe Mafalda , Teixeira Pedro M , Lopes Irene , Silva Luís , Correia de Sousa Jaime
Published: January 2017

Enabling patients with asthma to obtain the knowledge, confidence and skills they need in order to assume a major role in the management of their disease is cost effective. It should be an integral part of any plan for long-term control of asthma. The modified Patient Enablement Instrument (mPEI) is an easily administered questionnaire that was adapted in the United Kingdom to measure patient enablement in asthma, but its applicability in Portugal is not known. Validity and reliability of questionnaires should be tested before use in settings different from those of the original version. The purpose of this study was to test the applicability of the mPEI to Portuguese asthma patients after translation and cross-cultural adaptation, and to verify the structural validity, internal consistency and reproducibility of the instrument. The mPEI was translated to Portuguese and back translated to English. Its content validity was assessed by a debriefing interview with 10 asthma patients. The translated instrument was then administered to a random sample of 142 patients with persistent asthma. Structural validity and internal consistency were assessed. For reproducibility analysis, 86 patients completed the instrument again 7 days later. Item-scale correlations and exploratory factor analysis were used to assess structural validity. Cronbach’s alpha was used to test internal consistency, and the intra-class correlation coefficient was used for the analysis of reproducibility. All items of the Portuguese version of the mPEI were found to be equivalent to the original English version. There were strong item-scale correlations that confirmed construct validity, with a one component structure and good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha >0.8) as well as high test–retest reliability (ICC=0.85). The mPEI showed sound psychometric properties for the evaluation of enablement in patients with asthma making it a reliable instrument for use in research and clinical practice in Portugal. Further studies are needed to confirm its responsiveness.
Comparing GWAS Results of Complex Traits Using Full Genetic Model and Additive Models for Revealing Genetic Architecture
Authors: Monir Md. Mamun , Zhu Jun
Published: January 2017

Most of the genome-wide association studies (GWASs) for human complex diseases have ignored dominance, epistasis and ethnic interactions. We conducted comparative GWASs for total cholesterol using full model and additive models, which illustrate the impacts of the ignoring genetic variants on analysis results and demonstrate how genetic effects of multiple loci could differ across different ethnic groups. There were 15 quantitative trait loci with 13 individual loci and 3 pairs of epistasis loci identified by full model, whereas only 14 loci (9 common loci and 5 different loci) identified by multi-loci additive model. Again, 4 full model detected loci were not detected using multi-loci additive model. PLINK-analysis identified two loci and GCTA-analysis detected only one locus with genome-wide significance. Full model identified three previously reported genes as well as several new genes. Bioinformatics analysis showed some new genes are related with cholesterol related chemicals and/or diseases. Analyses of cholesterol data and simulation studies revealed that the full model performs were better than the additive-model performs in terms of detecting power and unbiased estimations of genetic variants of complex traits.
Endurance and Cycle-to-cycle Uniformity Improvement in Tri-Layered CeO2/Ti/CeO2 Resistive Switching Devices by Changing Top Electrode Material
Authors: Rana Anwar Manzoor , Akbar Tahira , Ismail Muhammad , Ahmad Ejaz , Hussain Fayyaz , Talib Ijaz , Imran Muhammad , Mehmood Khalid , Iqbal Khalid , Nadeem M. Younus
Published: January 2017

Resistance switching characteristics of CeO2/Ti/CeO2 tri-layered films sandwiched between Pt bottom electrode and two different top electrodes (Ti and TaN) with different work functions have been investigated. RRAM memory cells composed of TaN/CeO2/Ti/CeO2/Pt reveal better resistive switching performance instead of Ti/CeO2/Ti/CeO2/Pt memory stacks. As compared to the Ti/CeO2 interface, much better ability of TaN/CeO2 interface to store and exchange plays a key role in the RS performance improvement, including lower forming/SET voltages, large memory window (~102) and no significant data degradation during endurance test of >104 switching cycles. The formation of TaON thinner interfacial layer between TaN TE and CeO2 film is found to be accountable for improved resistance switching behavior. Partial charge density of states is analyzed using density functional theory. It is found that the conductive filaments formed in CeO2 based devices is assisted by interstitial Ti dopant. Better stability and reproducibility in cycle-to-cycle (C2C) resistance distribution and Vset/Vreset uniformity were achieved due to the modulation of current conduction mechanism from Ohmic in low field region to Schottky emission in high field region.
Molecular evidence for the involvement of a polygalacturonase-inhibiting protein, GhPGIP1, in enhanced resistance to Verticillium and Fusarium wilts in cotton
Authors: Liu Nana , Zhang Xueyan , Sun Yun , Wang Ping , Li Xiancai , Pei Yakun , Li Fuguang , Hou Yuxia
Published: January 2017

Polygalacturonase-inhibiting protein (PGIP), belonging to a group of plant defence proteins, specifically inhibits endopolygalacturonases secreted by pathogens. Herein, we showed that purified GhPGIP1 is a functional inhibitor of Verticillium dahliae and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum, the two fungal pathogens causing cotton wilt. Transcription of GhPGIP1 was increased in cotton upon infection, wounding, and treatment with defence hormone and H2O2. Resistance by GhPGIP1 was examined by its virus-induced gene silencing in cotton and overexpression in Arabidopsis. GhPGIP1-silenced cotton was highly susceptible to the infections. GhPGIP1 overexpression in transgenic Arabidopsis conferred resistance to the infection, accompanied by enhanced expression of pathogenesis-related proteins (PRs), isochorismate synthase 1 (ICS1), enhanced disease susceptibility 1 (EDS1), and phytoalexin-deficient 4 (PAD4) genes. Transmission electron microscopy revealed cell wall alteration and cell disintegration in plants inoculated with polygalacturonase (PGs), implying its role in damaging the cell wall. Docking studies showed that GhPGIP1 interacted strongly with C-terminal of V. dahliae PG1 (VdPG1) beyond the active site but weakly interacted with C-terminal of F. oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum (FovPG1). These findings will contribute towards the understanding of the roles of PGIPs and in screening potential combat proteins with novel recognition specificities against evolving pathogenic factors for countering pathogen invasion.
In situ imaging of microstructure formation in electronic interconnections
Authors: Salleh M. A. A. Mohd , Gourlay C. M. , Xian J. W. , Belyakov S. A. , Yasuda H. , McDonald S. D. , Nogita K.
Published: January 2017

The development of microstructure during melting, reactive wetting and solidification of solder pastes on Cu-plated printed circuit boards has been studied by synchrotron radiography. Using Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu/Cu and Sn-0.7Cu/Cu as examples, we show that the interfacial Cu6Sn5 layer is present within 0.05 s of wetting, and explore the kinetics of flux void formation at the interface between the liquid and the Cu6Sn5 layer. Quantification of the nucleation locations and anisotropic growth kinetics of primary Cu6Sn5 crystals reveals a competition between the nucleation of Cu6Sn5 in the liquid versus growth of Cu6Sn5 from the existing Cu6Sn5 layer. Direct imaging confirms that the β-Sn nucleates at/near the Cu6Sn5 layer in Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu/Cu joints.
Aligned copper nanorod arrays for highly efficient generation of intense ultra-broadband THz pulses
Authors: Mondal S. , Wei Q. , Ding W. J. , Hafez H. A. , Fareed M. A. , Laramée A. , Ropagnol X. , Zhang G. , Sun S. , Sheng Z. M. , Zhang J. , Ozaki T.
Published: January 2017

We demonstrate an intense broadband terahertz (THz) source based on the interaction of relativistic-intensity femtosecond lasers with aligned copper nanorod array targets. For copper nanorod targets with a length of 5 μm, a maximum 13.8 times enhancement in the THz pulse energy (in ≤20 THz spectral range) is measured as compared to that with a thick plane copper target under the same laser conditions. A further increase in the nanorod length leads to a decrease in the THz pulse energy at medium frequencies (≤20 THz) and increase of the electromagnetic pulse energy in the high-frequency range (from 20–200 THz). For the latter, we measure a maximum energy enhancement of 28 times for the nanorod targets with a length of 60 μm. Particle-in-cell simulations reveal that THz pulses are mostly generated by coherent transition radiation of laser produced hot electrons, which are efficiently enhanced with the use of nanorod targets. Good agreement is found between the simulation and experimental results.
Spatial mapping of metals in tissue-sections using combination of mass-spectrometry and histology through image registration
Authors: Anyz Jiri , Vyslouzilova Lenka , Vaculovic Tomas , Tvrdonova Michaela , Kanicky Viktor , Haase Hajo , Horak Vratislav , Stepankova Olga , Heger Zbynek , Adam Vojtech
Published: January 2017

We describe a new procedure for the parallel mapping of selected metals in histologically characterized tissue samples. Mapping is achieved via image registration of digital data obtained from two neighbouring cryosections by scanning the first as a histological sample and subjecting the second to laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. This computer supported procedure enables determination of the distribution and content of metals of interest directly in the chosen histological zones and represents a substantial improvement over the standard approach, which determines these values in tissue homogenates or whole tissue sections. The potential of the described procedure was demonstrated in a pilot study that analysed Zn and Cu levels in successive development stages of pig melanoma tissue using MeLiM (Melanoma-bearing-Libechov-Minipig) model. We anticipate that the procedure could be useful for a complex understanding of the role that the spatial distribution of metals plays within tissues affected by pathological states including cancer.
Topological features of vector vortex beams perturbed with uniformly polarized light
Authors: D’Errico Alessio , Maffei Maria , Piccirillo Bruno , de Lisio Corrado , Cardano Filippo , Marrucci Lorenzo
Published: January 2017

Optical singularities manifesting at the center of vector vortex beams are unstable, since their topological charge is higher than the lowest value permitted by Maxwell’s equations. Inspired by conceptually similar phenomena occurring in the polarization pattern characterizing the skylight, we show how perturbations that break the symmetry of radially symmetric vector beams lead to the formation of a pair of fundamental and stable singularities, i.e. points of circular polarization. We prepare a superposition of a radial (or azimuthal) vector beam and a uniformly linearly polarized Gaussian beam; by varying the amplitudes of the two fields, we control the formation of pairs of these singular points and their spatial separation. We complete this study by applying the same analysis to vector vortex beams with higher topological charges, and by investigating the features that arise when increasing the intensity of the Gaussian term. Our results can find application in the context of singularimetry, where weak fields are measured by considering them as perturbations of unstable optical beams.
Axisymmetric rotational stagnation point flow impinging radially a permeable stretching/shrinking surface in a nanofluid using Tiwari and Das model
Authors: Roşca Natalia C. , Pop Ioan
Published: January 2017

In this paper, the problem of normal impingement rotational stagnation-point flow on a radially permeable stretching sheet in a viscous fluid, recently studied in a very interesting paper, is extended to a water-based nanofluid. A similarity transformation is used to reduce the system of governing nonlinear partial differential equations to a system of ordinary differential equations, which is then solved numerically using the function bvp4c from Matlab. It is found that dual (upper and lower branch) solutions exist for some values of the governing parameters. From the stability analysis, it is found that the upper branch solution is stable, while the lower branch solution is unstable. Sample velocity and temperature profiles along both solution branches are graphically presented.
Alleviating liver failure conditions using an integrated hybrid cryogel based cellular bioreactor as a bioartificial liver support
Authors: Damania Apeksha , Hassan Mohsin , Shirakigawa Nana , Mizumoto Hiroshi , Kumar Anupam , Sarin Shiv K. , Ijima Hiroyuki , Kamihira Masamichi , Kumar Ashok
Published: January 2017

Conventionally, some bioartificial liver devices are used with separate plasmapheresis unit to separate out plasma from whole blood and adsorbent column to detoxify plasma before it passes through a hepatocytes-laden bioreactor. We aim to develop a hybrid bioreactor that integrates the separate modules in one compact design improving the efficacy of the cryogel based bioreactor as a bioartificial liver support. A plasma separation membrane and an activated carbon cloth are placed over a HepG2-loaded cryogel scaffold in a three-chambered bioreactor design. This bioreactor is consequently connected extracorporeally to a rat model of acute liver failure for 3 h and major biochemical parameters studied. Bilirubin and aspartate transaminase showed a percentage decrease of 20–60% in the integrated bioreactor as opposed to 5–15% in the conventional setup. Urea and ammonia levels which showed negligible change in the conventional setup increase (40%) and decrease (18%), respectively in the integrated system. Also, an overall increase of 5% in human albumin in rat plasma indicated bioreactor functionality in terms of synthetic functions. These results were corroborated by offline evaluation of patient plasma. Hence, integrating the plasmapheresis and adsorbent units with the bioreactor module in one compact design improves the efficacy of the bioartificial liver device.
Correction: Corrigendum: Integration and Typologies of Vulnerability to Climate Change: A Case Study from Australian Wheat Sheep Zones
Authors: Huai Jianjun
Published: January 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 33744; published online: 27 September 2016; updated: 12 January 2017 This Article contains typographical errors in Equation (1). should read:
Depth-selective photothermal IR spectroscopy of skin: potential application for non-invasive glucose measurement
Authors: Hertzberg Otto , Bauer Alexander , Küderle Arne , Pleitez Miguel A. , Mäntele Werner
Published: January 2017

Photothermal depth profiling is applied to total internal reflection enhanced photothermal deflection spectroscopy (TIR-PTDS) in order to study skin characteristicsin vivoand to improve the sensing technique for non-invasive glucose monitoring.
Ratiometric SERS imaging and selective biosensing of nitric oxide in live cells based on trisoctahedral gold nanostructures
Authors: Xu Qiao , Liu Wei , Li Li , Zhou Feng , Zhou Jian , Tian Yang
Published: January 2017

A ratiometric SERS nanoprobe was developed based on trisoctahedral gold nanostructures for imaging and biosensing of NO in live cells.
Conformational structures of jet-cooled acetaminophen–water clusters: a gas phase spectroscopic and computational study
Authors: Min Ahreum , Ahn Ahreum , Moon Cheol Joo , Lee Ji Hoon , Seong Yeon Guk , Kim Seong Keun , Choi Myong Yong
Published: January 2017

Jet-cooled acetaminophen (AAP)–water clusters, AAP–(H2O)1, have been investigated by a combination of theoretical calculations and R2PI, UV–UV HB, IR-dip, IR–UV HB techniques in the gas phase.
Trophic transfer of hexabromocyclododecane in the terrestrial and aquatic food webs from an e-waste dismantling region in East China
Authors: Zhu Chaofei , Wang Pu , Li Yingming , Chen Zhaojing , Li Honghua , Ssebugere Patrick , Zhang Qinghua , Jiang Guibin
Published: January 2017

Trophic transfer of HBCD isomers in both the terrestrial and aquatic food webs from the real environment.
Synthesis and evaluation of benzothiazole-triazole and benzothiadiazole-triazole scaffolds as potential molecular probes for amyloid-β aggregation
Authors: Dyrager Christine , Vieira Rafael Pinto , Nyström Sofie , Nilsson K. Peter R. , Storr Tim
Published: January 2017

Fluorescent scaffolds that can be easily modifiedviaclick chemistry were investigated as probes for Aβ-plaque deposits in mouse tissue.
Ag(i) bipyridyl coordination polymers containing functional anions
Authors: Dodds Christopher A. , Hobday Claire L. , Kennedy Alan R. , McKellar Scott C. , Smillie Katy , Walls Aiden
Published: January 2017

Traditional polymeric silver–bipyridyl complexes with the non-traditional twist of anions from functional organic molecules; diclofenac, salicylic acid and azo dyes.
Silver-catalyzed geminal aminofluorination of diazoketones with anilines and N-fluorobenzenesulphonimide
Authors: Huang Jun , Li Linyong , Chen Haoguo , Xiao Tiebo , He Yuwei , Zhou Lei
Published: January 2017

A silver-catalyzed three-component reaction of diazoketones, anilines and NFSI is developed. The reaction provides a new method for gem-aminofluorination of acceptor diazo compounds with aniline as the nitrogen source and NFSI as the fluorine source.
Amphipathic monolith-supported palladium catalysts for chemoselective hydrogenation and cross-coupling reactions
Authors: Monguchi Yasunari , Wakayama Fumika , Ueda Shun , Ito Ryo , Takada Hitoshi , Inoue Hiroshi , Nakamura Akira , Sawama Yoshinari , Sajiki Hironao
Published: January 2017

Monolithic polymer-supported, effective, and reusable palladium catalysts were developed for cross-coupling reactions and hydrogenation.
Thin skinned asymmetric polybenzimidazole membranes with readily tunable morphologies for high-performance vanadium flow batteries
Authors: Peng Sangshan , Yan Xiaoming , Wu Xuemei , Zhang Daishuang , Luo Yongliang , Su Lei , He Gaohong
Published: January 2017

A series of thin skinned asymmetric polybenzimidazole membranes with readily tunable morphologies are fabricated for high-performance vanadium flow batteries.
Theoretical investigation of interactions between palladium and fullerene in polymer
Authors: Goclon Jakub , Winkler Krzysztof , Margraf Johannes T.
Published: January 2017

Applying density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we predict the structural and electronic properties of different types of palladium–fullerene polymers.
Synthesis of well-dispersive 2.0 nm Pd–Pt bimetallic nanoclusters supported on β-cyclodextrin functionalized graphene with excellent electrocatalytic activity
Authors: Ran Xin , Yang Long , Qu Qing , Li Shunling , Chen Ying , Zuo Limei , Li Lei
Published: January 2017

Illustration for the preparation of the Pd–Pt@β-CD-RGO nanohybrid using an in situ reduction method.
Efficient construction of biologically important functionalized polycyclic spiro-fused carbocyclicoxindoles via an asymmetric organocatalytic quadruple-cascade reaction
Authors: Ren Wen , Wang Xiao-Yan , Li Jing-Jing , Tian Mao , Liu Jie , Ouyang Liang , Wang Jin-Hui
Published: January 2017

A cascade organocatalysis has been developed for the asymmetric synthesis of a highly functionalized polycyclic spiro-fused carbocyclicoxindoles containing five contiguous stereogenic centers with good diastereoselectivity and high enantioselectivity.
Single-molecule magnet behavior in a mononuclear dysprosium(iii) complex with 1-methylimidazole
Authors: Yao Binling , Gu Bin , Su Meihui , Li Guoliang , Ma Yue , Li Licun , Wang Qinglun , Cheng Peng , Zhang Xuan
Published: January 2017

Using 1-methylimidazole ligand and Dy(hfac)3·2H2O salt achieved a new single-molecule magnet of [Dy(hfac)3·(1-MeIm)2] with an energy barrier of 42.54 K.
Composite fibers prepared from multi-walled carbon nanotubes/cellulose dispersed/dissolved in ammonium/dimethyl sulfoxide mixed solvent
Authors: Jiang Zeming , Chen Danni , Yu Yongqi , Miao Jiaojiao , Liu Yang , Zhang Liping
Published: January 2017

A co-dispersion of cellulose and MWCNTs was prepared in a TBAA/DMSO solvent mixture and then used to prepare composite fibers.
Ultraviolet upconversion emission of Pb2+ ions sensitized by Yb3+-trimers in CaF2
Authors: Aidilibike Tuerxun , Guo Junjie , Wang Lili , Liu Xiaohui , Li Yangyang , Qin Weiping
Published: January 2017

Under 978 nm near infrared (NIR) excitation, ultraviolet (UV) upconversion (UC) emissions from Pb2+ ions in CaF2:Pb2+,Yb3+ were first observed at room temperature.
Surface passivation of carbon dots with ethylene glycol and their high-sensitivity to Fe3+
Authors: Wang Zhaogan , Long Peng , Feng Yiyu , Qin Chengqun , Feng Wei
Published: January 2017

Surface passivation of carbon dots with ethylene glycol and their application in the field of Fe3+ detection.
Linking particle size to improved electrochemical performance of SiO anodes for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Huang Tao , Yang Yaxiong , Pu Kaichao , Zhang Jiaxun , Gao Mingxia , Pan Hongge , Liu Yongfeng
Published: January 2017

A first attempt to understand the relationship between the particle size and the electrochemical properties of SiO was conducted.
In situ nano-sized ZrC/ZrSi composite powder fabricated by a one-pot electrochemical process in molten salts
Authors: Liu Hongxia , Cai Yanqing , Xu Qian , Liu Huijun , Song Qiushi , Qi Yang
Published: January 2017

Nano-sized ZrC/ZrSi composites are in situ synthesized from ZrSiO4 and carbon, through a one-pot electrochemical process at relatively lower temperature.
In situ Raman spectroscopy distinguishes between reversible and irreversible thiol modifications inl-cysteine
Authors: Bazylewski Paul , Divigalpitiya Ranjith , Fanchini Giovanni
Published: January 2017

Reversibility of disulphide formation and breakage onl-cysteine examined through vibrational modes usingin situRaman spectroscopy.
Hydrothermal synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles doped with trace amounts of strontium, and their application as working electrodes for dye sensitized solar cells: tunable electrical properties & enhanced photo-conversion performance
Authors: Mehnane Hadja Fatima , Wang Changlei , Kondamareddy Kiran Kumar , Yu Wenjing , Sun Weiwei , Liu Haimin , Bai Sihang , Liu Wei , Guo Shishang , Zhao Xing-Zhong
Published: January 2017

Strontium (Sr) doped TiO2 nanoparticles are investigated with a view to studying the performance parameters of dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs).
DBN-based ionic liquids with high capability for the dissolution of wool keratin
Authors: Liu Xue , Nie Yi , Meng Xianglei , Zhang Zhenlei , Zhang Xiangping , Zhang Suojiang
Published: January 2017

Effects of ILs structures on the dissolution capability were systematically studied, and the optimal IL [DBNE]DEP with high dissolution capability for goat wool was finally obtained.
Controlled release of vancomycin from 3D porous graphene-based composites for dual-purpose treatment of infected bone defects
Authors: Weng Weizong , Nie Wei , Zhou Qirong , Zhou Xiaojun , Cao Liehu , Ji Fang , Cui Jin , He Chuanglong , Su Jiacan
Published: January 2017

A vancomycin-loaded reduced graphene oxide/nano-hydroxyapatite (RGO–nHA) 3D porous composite for eradication of bone infection and facilitation of bone regeneration.
Facile hydrothermal synthesis of BaZrxTi1−xO3 nanoparticles and their application to a lead-free nanocomposite generator
Authors: Baek Changyeon , Wang Ji Eun , Ryu Soojy , Kim Joo-Hyung , Jeong Chang Kyu , Park Kwi-Il , Kim Do Kyung
Published: January 2017

Piezoelectric BaZrxTi1−xO3 nanoparticles synthesized via a facile hydrothermal reaction were embedded in a flexible lead-free nanocomposite generator.
Two pairs of enantiomeric α-pyrone dimers from the endophytic fungus Phoma sp. YN02-P-3
Authors: Sang Xia-Nan , Chen Shao-Fei , Chen Gang , An Xiao , Li Sheng-Ge , Lu Xiao-Jie , Zhao Dan , Bai Jiao , Wang Hai-Feng , Pei Yue-Hu
Published: January 2017

(±) Phomones A (1) and B (2), two pairs of novel enantiomeric α-pyrone dimers from the endophytic fungus Phoma sp. YN02-P-3 are reported.
Novel β-Ag2MoO4/g-C3N4 heterojunction catalysts with highly enhanced visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity
Authors: Zhang Junlei , Ma Zhen
Published: January 2017

The kernel of photocatalysis research is the development of catalysts with remarkable photocatalytic activity.
Sonochemical one pot synthesis of novel spiroacridines catalyzed by magnetically functionalized Fe3O4nanoparticles with chitosan as a reusable effective catalyst
Authors: Naeimi Hossein , Lahouti Sepideh
Published: January 2017

Fe3O4@CS–SO3H NPs low toxicity, easy preparation, recyclable catalyst for the synthesis of spiroacridine in aqueous ethanol is reported.
Experimental investigation on regime transition and characteristic velocity in a horizontal–vertical pulsed sieve-plate column
Authors: Akhgar Sahar , Safdari Jaber , Towfighi Jafar , Amani Pouria , Mallah Mohammad H.
Published: January 2017

In this study, we attempted to evaluate the flow regime transitions and characteristic velocities of phases in a novel type of extractor, called a horizontal–vertical pulsed sieve-plate column for three liquid–liquid systems with mass transfer d → c.
Fabrication of WO2.72/RGO nano-composites for enhanced photocatalysis
Authors: Ma Bo , Huang Erwei , Wu Guangjun , Dai Weili , Guan Naijia , Li Landong
Published: January 2017

WO2.72/RGO nano-composites exhibit remarkable photocatalytic activity in both oxygen evolution from water splitting and selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol due to the synergetic effects between WO2.72 and RGO.
A facile synthesis of Cu–Ni bimetallic nanoparticle supported organo functionalized graphene oxide as a catalyst for selective hydrogenation of p-nitrophenol and cinnamaldehyde
Authors: Rana Surjyakanta , Jonnalagadda Sreekantha B.
Published: January 2017

We report a facile and environmentally friendly protocol for the synthesis of novel mono-dispersed Cu and Ni bimetallic alloy particles supported on fibrous anime functionalized graphene oxide (GO).
Impact of mineral components in cow manure biochars on the adsorption and competitive adsorption of oxytetracycline and carbaryl
Authors: Li Mengwei , Zhao Zhendong , Wu Xiaodan , Zhou Wenjun , Zhu Lizhong
Published: January 2017

Knowledge about the impact of mineral component in biochar on the sorption of OTC and CBL is limited and need be systematically studied. The mineral component of cow manure biochar showed different effects on the sorption of OTC and CBL.
Synthesis and structure–activity relationship studies of teixobactin analogues
Authors: Wu Chunlei , Pan Zhengyin , Yao Guiyang , Wang Wei , Fang Lijing , Su Wu
Published: January 2017

A new series of teixobactin analogues were prepared using a convenient synthetic strategy and their antibacterial activities were evaluated.
Theoretical investigation on the balance between large band gap and strong SHG response in BMO4(M = P and As) crystals
Authors: Sun Yanzhou , Yang Zhihua , Hou Dianwei , Pan Shilie
Published: January 2017

A suitable balance between large band gap and strong SHG response is obtained due to the strong sp hybridization.
Nano gold decorated reduced graphene oxide wrapped polymethylmethacrylate for supercapacitor applications
Authors: Sahoo Gyanaranjan , Sarkar Niladri , Sahu Deepak , Swain Sarat K.
Published: January 2017

Herein, a simple one step synthetic protocol was adopted to fabricate nano gold decorated reduced graphene oxide (r-GO) wrapped polymethyl methacrylate nanohybrids (PMMA/r-GO/Au) for symmetric supercapacitor applications.
pH-Responsive nanodrug encapsulated by tannic acid complex for controlled drug delivery
Authors: Huang Huan , Li Ping , Liu Changliang , Ma Huailei , Huang He , Lin Yuchen , Wang Chen , Yang Yanlian
Published: January 2017

Metal ions/polyphenol complexes encapsulated paclitaxel nanodrug with high pH-sensitive drug release property and enhanced antitumor activity was obtained.
Urchin-like CoO–C micro/nano hierarchical structures as high performance anode materials for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Liu Lili , Mou Lihui , Yu Jia , Chen Shimou
Published: January 2017

Urchin-like microspheres consisting of radial carbon-coated cobalt monoxide nanowires are designed, to fabricate a micro/nano hierarchical structure for efficient Li-storage.
Switching of the π-electronic conjugations in the reduction of a dithienylethene-fused p-benzoquinone
Authors: Saito Eiji , Ako Takumi , Kobori Yasuhiro , Tsuda Akihiko
Published: January 2017

Visible light unlocks the π-electronic conjugation of a dithienylethene-fused p-benzoquinone derivative to cause a light-driven oxidation reaction.
A mini review of the synthesis of poly-1,2,3-triazole-based functional materials
Authors: Huo Jingpei , Hu Huawen , Zhang Min , Hu Xiaohong , Chen Min , Chen Dongchu , Liu Jinwen , Xiao Guifeng , Wang Yang , Wen Zhongliu
Published: January 2017

Most recent advances of the synthesis of poly-1,2,3-triazole-based functional materials.
Fine-tuning of multiple upconversion emissions by controlling the crystal phase and morphology between GdF3:Yb3+,Tm3+ and GdOF:Yb3+,Tm3+ nanocrystals
Authors: Zhu Yongsheng , Bi Dongqin , Wang Huiqiao , Wang Yinhua , Xu Xiumei , Lu Zhiwen , Xu Wen
Published: January 2017

Fine-tuning of multi-color emission characteristics of upconversion lanthanide-ion-doped nanocrystals is of high importance for 3-D color displays, multi-color bio-imaging, and multiplexed cellular labeling.
Efficient green electroluminescence based on an iridium(iii) complex with different device structures
Authors: Jing Yi-Ming , Zheng You-Xuan , Zuo Jing-Lin
Published: January 2017

Organic light-emitting diodes based on an iridium complex using different device structure show high performances with a maximum current efficiency of 86.5 cd A−1and a maximum power efficiency of 52.2 lm W−1, respectively.
Enhancement of the helical twisting power with increasing the terminal chain length of nonchiral bent-core molecules doped in a chiral nematic liquid crystal
Authors: Jo Seong-Yong , Kim Byeong-Cheon , Jeon Sung-Wook , Bae Jae-Hyun , Walker Martin , Wilson Mark , Choi Suk-Won , Takezoe Hideo
Published: January 2017

We measured the helical twisting power (HTP) of nonchiral bent-core molecules doped in a chiral nematic liquid crystal, and found that HTP increases with the terminal chain length.
A novel ratiometric fluorescent probe for selective detection of bisulfite in living cells
Authors: Chen Zhen , Chen Fengzao , Sun Yuanchao , Liu Heng , He Hanping , Zhang Xiuhua , Wang Shengfu
Published: January 2017

In this work, a new type of ratiometric fluorescent probe APCT for bisulfite anion based on Michael-type addition reaction was designed.
A novel random terpolymer for high-efficiency bulk-heterojunction polymer solar cells
Authors: Bang Su-Mi , Kang Sungkyoung , Lee You-Sun , Lim Bogyu , Heo Hyojung , Lee Jaechol , Lee Youngu , Na Seok-In
Published: January 2017

A new random terpolymer, coded LGC-D013, based on TPD as the acceptor and BDT and terthiophene as the donor units, has been synthesized and characterized for donor material in bulk-heterojunction (BHJ) organic photovoltaic (OPV) application.
Dynamics of premixed methane/air mixtures in a heated microchannel with different wall temperature gradients
Authors: Kishore V. Ratna , Minaev S. , Akram M. , Kumar Sudarshan
Published: January 2017

The unsteady flame propagation mode (FREI) is affected by the wall temperature gradient. As the temperature gradient approaches zero, the mixture ignites at its auto-ignition temperature, frequency decreases and this leads to extinction of FREI mode.
Thermoplastic microfluidic devices for targeted chemical and biological applications
Authors: Voicu Dan , Lestari Gabriella , Wang Yihe , DeBono Michael , Seo Minseok , Cho Sangho , Kumacheva Eugenia
Published: January 2017

Photolithography and hot embossing offers the capability of cost-efficient and high-fidelity fabrication of polymer microfluidic devices.
Large electrostrain with good temperature stability in sodium niobate based ceramics
Authors: Liu Wenfeng , Zhao Daqi , Li Shengtao
Published: January 2017

A large electrostrain of 0.24% with a converse piezoelectric constant of 790 pm V−1 was obtained from the LiSbO3 and (Bi0.5Na0.5)(Zr0.9Sn0.1)O3 modified KNbO3 ceramics.
Sonochemically-fabricated Ga@C-dots@Ga nanoparticle-aided neural growth
Authors: Nissan Ifat , Kumar Vijay Bhooshan , Porat Ze'ev , Makovec Darko , Shefi Orit , Gedanken Aharon
Published: January 2017

In this paper, we report the fabrication of an antibacterial material, Ga-doped C-dots on Ga nanoparticles (Ga@C-dots@Ga NPs), which is deposited on a glass substrate for neural growth.
RALA complexed α-TCP nanoparticle delivery to mesenchymal stem cells induces bone formation in tissue engineered constructs in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Sathy Binulal N. , Olvera Dinorath , Gonzalez-Fernandez Tomas , Cunniffe Gráinne M. , Pentlavalli Sreekanth , Chambers Philip , Jeon Oju , Alsberg Eben , McCarthy Helen O. , Dunne Nicholas , Haut Donahue Tammy L. , Kelly Daniel J.
Published: January 2017

In vivo bone forming potential of RALA complexed α-TCP nanoparticle delivery to MSCs is comparable to growth factor delivery.
Reconfigurable phase inverter with switchable frequency
Authors: Liao Zhen Heng , Zhang XuChun
Published: January 2017

A novel reconfigurable phase inverter architecture allowing frequency‐switchable is proposed. Interdigital striplines, metallic via holes, and the defected ground structure are used to obtain 180° phase inverter. The switchable frequency is controlled by the length of the slot‐line on the defected ground which can be changed by PIN‐diodes and a single control voltage. For verification, the simulated and measured results of switchable frequency at 900 MHz and 1.6 GHz phase inverter implemented on microstrip are shown.
Double‐ended technique for distinguishing series faults from shunt faults on transmission lines using the sequential components of impedance
Authors: Mahamedi Behnam , Zhu Jian Guo
Published: January 2017

This study describes a new double‐ended technique for distinguishing series faults from shunt faults. The proposed method is based on the sequential components of impedance. Using the local and remote positive‐sequence voltage and the local positive‐sequence current, a new value is introduced and utilised to distinguish series faults, mostly known as broken conductors, from shunt faults. As the proposed method utilises a double‐ended technique, it will act when the necessary information of the remote end of the line is received. By detecting the broken conductor condition within a few power cycles, this method can trip the circuit breakers at both line ends before any conductor contacts the earth, and thus can avoid safety problems and damages to the electrical equipment. Moreover, it can also classify which type of broken conductor (one‐phase or two‐phase) condition has occurred. The excellent performance of the proposed method is demonstrated by extensive simulation studies with MATLAB/Simulink.
Interleaved zero‐voltage switching three‐level converter with less output inductor counts
Authors: Lin Bor‐Ren
Published: January 2017

An interleaved three‐level converter with the new current doubler rectifier is proposed. The main advantages of the proposed converter are zero‐voltage switching (ZVS) turn‐on for all switches, low output ripple current and less voltage stress of the output diodes. Two three‐level converters connected in parallel are used to decrease the input current ripple, as well as to reduce the current rating of power switches. At the secondary side, two current doubler rectifiers sharing the same output filter inductors to reduce the output current ripple. Compared with the conventional centre‐tapped rectifier and current doubler rectifier, the adopted current doubler rectifier has less output current ripple. The output capacitance of the power switch and the leakage inductance (or external inductance) are resonant at the transition interval so that the power switches can be turned on under ZVS. The adopted converter can be employed in high voltage input and high current output applications. Experiments with a prototype with 750–800 V input and 48 V/30 A output are provided to verify the theory analysis.
Method for partial discharge localisation in air‐insulated substations
Authors: Li Pengfei , Zhou Wenjun , Yang Shuai , Liu Yushun , Tian Yan , Wang Yong
Published: January 2017

Partial discharge (PD) localisation in air‐insulated substations (AIS) can be used to assess insulation condition efficiently. The localisation results of previously published methods were in the form of coordinates or bearings, and showed large errors on coordinates. Further research is required if the fault is to be pinpointed. In this study, a novel localisation method based on directional antenna and multi‐point measurement is proposed to improve the accuracy of localisation result and inform the possible error distribution, which reflect the fact that where the PD ultrahigh frequency signal radiates from is not a point but the non‐metallic area of the source equipment. Through the single point measurement, the bearing of the PD source is obtained. With the multi‐point measurement, an accurate result and its error distribution are made available. An onsite test in a 220 kV testing AIS was performed, and compared with an existing method. The results show that the proposed method is more accurate than the existing method, and it is efficient to locate the faulty equipment with additional information of the error distribution.
Microwave radio emissions as a proxy for coronal mass ejection speed in arrival predictions of interplanetary coronal mass ejections at 1 AU
Authors: Matamoros Carolina Salas , Klein Karl Ludwig , Trottet Gerard
Published: January 2017

The propagation of a coronal mass ejection (CME) to the Earth takes between about 15 h and several days. We explore whether observations of non-thermal microwave bursts, produced by near-relativistic electons via the gyrosynchrotron process, can be used to predict travel times of interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICMEs) from the Sun to the Earth. In a first step, a relationship is established between the CME speed measured by the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory/Large Angle and Spectrometric Coronagraph (SoHO/LASCO) near the solar limb and the fluence of the microwave burst. This relationship is then employed to estimate speeds in the corona of earthward-propagating CMEs. These speeds are fed into a simple empirical interplanetary acceleration model to predict the speed and arrival time of the ICMEs at Earth. The predictions are compared with observed arrival times and with the predictions based on other proxies, including soft X-rays (SXR) and coronographic measurements. We found that CME speeds estimated from microwaves and SXR predict the ICME arrival at the Earth with absolute errors of 11 ± 7 and 9 ± 7 h, respectively. A trend to underestimate the interplanetary travel times of ICMEs was noted for both techniques. This is consistent with the fact that in most cases of our test sample, ICMEs are detected on their flanks. Although this preliminary validation was carried out on a rather small sample of events (11), we conclude that microwave proxies can provide early estimates of ICME arrivals and ICME speeds in the interplanetary space. This method is limited by the fact that not all CMEs are accompanied by non-thermal microwave bursts. But its usefulness is enhanced by the relatively simple observational setup and the observation from ground, which makes the instrumentation less vulnerable to space weather hazards.