bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing viability of extracorporeal preserved muscle transplants using external field stimulation: a novel tool to improve methods prolonging bridge-to-transplantation time
Authors: Taeger Christian D. , Friedrich Oliver , Dragu Adrian , Weigand Annika , Hobe Frieder , Drechsler Caroline , Geppert Carol I. , Arkudas Andreas , Münch Frank , Buchholz Rainer , Pollmann Charlotte , Schramm Axel , Birkholz Torsten , Horch Raymund E. , Präbst Konstantin
Published: July 2015

Preventing ischemia-related cell damage is a priority when preserving tissue for transplantation. Perfusion protocols have been established for a variety of applications and proven to be superior to procedures used in clinical routine. Extracorporeal perfusion of muscle tissue though cumbersome is highly desirable since it is highly susceptible to ischemia-related damage. To show the efficacy of different perfusion protocols external field stimulation can be used to immediately visualize improvement or deterioration of the tissue during active and running perfusion protocols. This method has been used to show the superiority of extracorporeal perfusion using porcine rectus abdominis muscles perfused with heparinized saline solution. Perfused muscles showed statistically significant higher ability to exert force compared to nonperfused ones. These findings can be confirmed using Annexin V as marker for cell damage, perfusion of muscle tissue limits damage significantly compared to nonperfused tissue. The combination of extracorporeal perfusion and external field stimulation may improve organ conservation research.
Iso-Oriented Anatase TiO2 Mesocages as a High Performance Anode Material for Sodium-Ion Storage
Authors: Hong Zhensheng , Zhou Kaiqiang , Huang Zhigao , Wei Mingdeng
Published: July 2015

A major obstacle in realizing Na-ion batteries (NIBs) is the absence of suitable anode materials. Herein, we firstly report the anatase TiO2 mesocages constructed by crystallographically oriented nanoparticle subunits as a high performance anode for NIBs. The mesocages with tunable microstructures, high surface area (204 m2 g−1) and uniform mesoporous structure were firstly prepared by a general synthesis method under the assist of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). It’s notable that the TiO2 mesocages exhibit a large reversible capacity and good rate capability. A stable capacity of 93 mAhg−1 can be retained after 500 cycles at 10 C in the range of 0.01–2.5 V, indicating high rate performance and good cycling stability. This could be due to the uniform architecture of iso-oriented mesocage structure with few grain boundaries and nanoporous nature, allowing fast electron and ion transport and providing more active sites as well as freedom for volume change during Na-ion insertion. CV measurements demonstrate that the sodium-ion storage process of anatase mesocages is mainly controlled by pseudocapacitive behavior, which is different from the lithium-ion storage and further facilitates the high rate capability.
Two-photon directed evolution of green fluorescent proteins
Authors: Stoltzfus Caleb R. , Barnett Lauren M. , Drobizhev Mikhail , Wicks Geoffrey , Mikhaylov Alexander , Hughes Thomas E. , Rebane Aleksander
Published: July 2015

Directed evolution has been used extensively to improve the properties of a variety of fluorescent proteins (FPs). Evolutionary strategies, however, have not yet been used to improve the two-photon absorption (2PA) properties of a fluorescent protein, properties that are important for two-photon imaging in living tissues, including the brain. Here we demonstrate a technique for quantitatively screening the two-photon excited fluorescence (2PEF) efficiency and 2PA cross section of tens of thousands of mutant FPs expressed in E. coli colonies. We use this procedure to move EGFP through three rounds of two-photon directed evolution leading to new variants showing up to a 50% enhancement in peak 2PA cross section and brightness within the near-IR tissue transparency wavelength range.
Dual-signal amplified electrochemiluminescence immunoassay for salbutamol based on quantum dots and gold nanoparticle-labeled horseradish peroxidase
Authors: Cai Fudong , Wang Nan , Dong Tiantian , Deng Anping , Li Jianguo
Published: July 2015

Dual-signal amplification was achieved by the employment of HRP and AuNPs, and led to a higher sensitivity and wider detection range.
A novel substitution -sensing for hydroquinone and catechol based on a poly(3-aminophenylboronic acid)/MWCNTs modified electrode
Authors: Zhong Min , Dai Yunlong , Fan Limei , Lu Xiaojing , Kan Xianwen
Published: July 2015

A novel electrochemical sensor prepared by electropolymerized aminophenylboronic acid presented a dual-signal for sensitive and selective catechol detection.
Variable selection based on information tree for spectroscopy quantitative analysis
Authors: Cao Hui , Yan Xingyu , Ge Shuzhi Sam , Ren Hongliang
Published: July 2015

Variables selection based on information tree for spectroscopy quantitative analysis.
Manganese speciation of laboratory-generated welding fumes
Authors: Andrews Ronnee N. , Keane Michael , Hanley Kevin W. , Feng H. Amy , Ashley Kevin
Published: July 2015

Mn speciation of laboratory-generated welding fumes was determined using a sequential extraction procedure and ICP-AES analysis.
Simultaneous determination of urinary quinolinate, gentisate, 4-hydroxybenzoate, and α-ketoglutarate by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Chen Sisi , Burton Casey , Kaczmarek Anthony , Shi Honglan , Ma Yinfa
Published: July 2015

A novel high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry technique was developed to simultaneously quantify quinolinate, gentisate, 4-hydroxybenzoate, and α-ketoglutarate in urine specimens.
Engineering two-dimensional hybrid NaCl–organic coordinated nanoarchitectures on metal surfaces
Authors: Hieulle Jérémy , Peyrot David , Jiang Zhen , Silly Fabien
Published: July 2015

We selectively engineer three two-dimensional self-assembled hybrid PTCDI–NaCl nanoarchitectures,i.e.a flower-structure, a mesh-structure and a chain-structure on Au(111).
Dissociative adsorption of guanine on Ge(100)
Authors: Youn Young-Sang , Kim Do Hwan , Lee Hye Jin , Kim Sehun
Published: July 2015

N(1)–H dissociation through an O dative bonded structure.
Sealed rotors for in situ high temperature high pressure MAS NMR
Authors: Hu Jian Zhi , Hu Mary Y. , Zhao Zhenchao , Xu Suochang , Vjunov Aleksei , Shi Hui , Camaioni Donald M. , Peden Charles H. F. , Lercher Johannes A.
Published: July 2015

Perfectly sealed rotors were designed for the widespread application of in situ MAS NMR in catalysis, material synthesis, metabolomics, and more.
Ruthenium- and palladium-catalyzed consecutive coupling and cyclization of aromatic sulfoximines with phenylboronic acids: an efficient route to dibenzothiazines
Authors: Chinnagolla Ravi Kiran , Vijeta Arjun , Jeganmohan Masilamani
Published: July 2015

A ruthenium-catalyzed ortho arylation of aromatic sulfoximines with aromatic boronic acids followed by intramolecular cyclization in the presence of a palladium catalyst providing dibenzothiazines is described.
Hybrid materials of Ni NP@MOF prepared by a simple synthetic method
Authors: Mukoyoshi Megumi , Kobayashi Hirokazu , Kusada Kohei , Hayashi Mikihiro , Yamada Teppei , Maesato Mitsuhiko , Taylor Jared M. , Kubota Yoshiki , Kato Kenichi , Takata Masaki , Yamamoto Tomokazu , Matsumura Syo , Kitagawa Hiroshi
Published: July 2015

We demonstrate a novel, facile synthetic method for metal (Ni) NPs in a MOF using the partial thermal decomposition of nickel(ii) 2,5-dihydroxyterephthalate (Ni-MOF-74).
Investigating DNA hydrogels as a new biomaterial for enzyme immobilization in biobatteries
Authors: Van Nguyen Khiem , Minteer Shelley D.
Published: July 2015

DNA hydrogels as a method for enzyme entrapment in an enzymatic biobattery.
Diastereoselective Johnson–Corey–Chaykovsky trifluoroethylidenation
Authors: Duan Yaya , Zhou Bin , Lin Jin-Hong , Xiao Ji-Chang
Published: July 2015

Johnson–Corey–Chaykovsky trifluoroethylidenation with (2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)diphenylsulfonium triflate proceeded smoothly to afford trifluoromethyl-epoxides, -cyclopropanes and -aziridines with excellent diastereoselectivity.
Copper-catalyzed oxidative C–H/C–H cross-coupling of benzamides and thiophenes
Authors: Zhao Sheng , Yuan Jun , Li Yi-Chen , Shi Bing-Feng
Published: July 2015

A copper-catalyzed oxidative C–H/C–H cross-coupling of benzamides and thiophenes is described.
Topochemical transformation of low-energy crystal facets to high-energy facets: a case from Bi2O2CO3 {001} facets to β-Bi2O3 {001} facets with improved photocatalytic oxidation of NO
Authors: Wang Fang , Zhao Ziyan , Zhang Kunhao , Dong Fan , Zhou Ying
Published: July 2015

Photocatalytically active β-Bi2O3 nanosheets exposed with active {001} facets were facilely prepared through annealing Bi2O2CO3 with thermal stable {001} facets.
New insights into the structure of a CeO2–ZrO2–Al2O3 composite and its influence on the performance of the supported Pd-only three-way catalyst
Authors: Lan Li , Chen Shanhu , Cao Yi , Gong Maochu , Chen Yaoqiang
Published: July 2015

CZA900 displays the most homogeneous structure, and consequently superior redox and catalytic performances are obtained for Pd/CZA900.
Kinetic and in situ FTIR study of CO methanation on a Rh/Al2O3 catalyst
Authors: Escobar Mauricio , Gracia Francisco , Karelovic Alejandro , Jiménez Romel
Published: July 2015

Carbon monoxide hydrogenation was studied over a γ-alumina-supported 1 wt% Rh catalyst by means of kinetic and in situ infrared measurements.
Ring-tension adjusted ethylene polymerization by aryliminocycloheptapyridyl nickel complexes
Authors: Huang Fang , Sun Zelin , Du Shizhen , Yue Erlin , Ba Junjun , Hu Xinquan , Liang Tongling , Galland Griselda B. , Sun Wen-Hua
Published: July 2015

The 9-aryliminocycloheptapyridyl nickel chlorides, activated by Et3Al2Cl3 or MAO, exhibited high activities toward ethylene polymerization and produced highly branched PE in narrow polydispersity.
Trapping lithium polysulfides of a Li–S battery by forming lithium bonds in a polymer matrix
Authors: Park Kyusung , Cho Joon Hee , Jang Ji-Hoon , Yu Byeong-Chul , De La Hoz Andreah T. , Miller Kevin M. , Ellison Christopher J. , Goodenough John B.
Published: July 2015

Trapping lithium polysulfides of a Li–S battery has been successfully demonstrated by forming lithium bonds in a polymer matrix.
Exposure to mercury and Aroclor 1268 congeners in least terns (Sternula antillarum) in coastal Georgia, USA
Authors: Robinson Gabrielle L. , Mills Gary L. , Lindell Angela H. , Schweitzer Sara H. , Hernandez Sonia M.
Published: July 2015

We demonstrate the previously undocumented transport of a rare PCB mixture (Aroclor 1268) from a Superfund site in Georgia, and compare mercury loads among sample types, using least tern samples.
Targeted plasma metabolome response to variations in dietary glycemic load in a randomized, controlled, crossover feeding trial in healthy adults
Authors: Barton Sally , Navarro Sandi L. , Buas Matthew F. , Schwarz Yvonne , Gu Haiwei , Djukovic Danijel , Raftery Daniel , Kratz Mario , Neuhouser Marian L. , Lampe Johanna W.
Published: July 2015

Low versus high glycemic load (GL) diet patterns are inversely associated with obesity and chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Designing excipient emulsions to increase nutraceutical bioavailability: emulsifier type influences curcumin stability and bioaccessibility by altering gastrointestinal fate
Authors: Zou Liqiang , Liu Wei , Liu Chengmei , Xiao Hang , McClements David Julian
Published: July 2015

Excipient emulsions can be specifically designed to increase the bioavailability of powdered curcumin. The bioavailability depends on the nature of the emulsifier used to coat the droplets in the excipient emulsion.
Efficient visible light photocatalytic activity and enhanced stability of BiOBr/Cd(OH)2 heterostructures
Authors: Pirzada Bilal Masood , Mehraj Owais , Mir Niyaz A. , Khan Mohammad Zain , Sabir Suhail
Published: July 2015

The BiOBr/Cd(OH)2 heterojunction formation decreased the charge recombination phenomenally and imparted significant visible light response.
Differentiating sepsis from non-infectious systemic inflammation based on microvesicle-bacteria aggregation
Authors: Herrmann I. K. , Bertazzo S. , O'Callaghan D. J. P. , Schlegel A. A. , Kallepitis C. , Antcliffe D. B. , Gordon A. C. , Stevens M. M.
Published: July 2015

Sepsis is a leading cause of hospital mortality. Prompt diagnosis has a major impact on patient outcome. Here, we present an assay to rapidly differentiate sepsis from noninfectious inflammation.
An efficient one pot regioselective synthesis of a 3,3′-spiro-phosphonylpyrazole-oxindole framework via base mediated [1,3]-dipolar cycloaddition reaction of the Bestmann–Ohira reagent with methyleneindolinones
Authors: Shelke Anil M. , Suryavanshi Gurunath
Published: July 2015

A one pot, highly regioselective synthesis of 3,3′-spiro-phosphonylpyrazole-oxindole by 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of the Bestmann–Ohira reagent (BOR) & methyleneindolinones has been developed.
Unified mild reaction conditions for C2-selective Pd-catalysed tryptophan arylation, including tryptophan-containing peptides
Authors: Reay Alan J. , Williams Thomas J. , Fairlamb Ian J. S.
Published: July 2015

Mild Pd-mediated C–H functionalisation protocols, facilitating tryptophanC2-arylation, have been developed. Tryptophan-containing peptides, susceptible to oxidation, have been arylated.
An atom-economic approach to carboxylic acids via Pd-catalyzed direct addition of formic acid to olefins with acetic anhydride as a co-catalyst
Authors: Wang Yang , Ren Wenlong , Shi Yian
Published: July 2015

An effective Pd-catalyzed hydrocarboxylation of olefins using formic acid with acetic anhydride as a co-catalyst is described.
De novo synthesis of phenolic dihydroxanthene near-infrared emitting fluorophores
Authors: Richard Jean-Alexandre
Published: July 2015

We report a flexiblede novosynthesis of phenolic dihydroxanthenes in 60–70% yield thanks to a one-pot cascade sequence.
Enhancing the visible-light-induced photocatalytic activity of AgNbO3by loading Ag@AgCl nanoparticles
Authors: Yang Leifei , Liu Junbo , Chang Haibo , Tang Shanshan
Published: July 2015

A new visible-light-driven plasmonic photocatalyst Ag@AgCl/AgNbO3is preparedvialoading with Ag@AgCl nanoparticles by an impregnating precipitation photoreduction method.
Effect of growth temperature on the optical properties of ZnO nanostructures grown by simple hydrothermal method
Authors: Das Rajasree , Kumar Amit , Kumar Yogendra , Sen Somaditya , Shirage Parasharam M.
Published: July 2015

Here we report an easy and rapid synthesis technique of wurtzite ZnO nanostructures in the form of flowers, nano-rods and nano-tubes that are achieved by a facile hydrothermal method.
Enhanced photocatalytic activity of S-doped BiVO4photocatalysts
Authors: Guo Minna , Wang Yang , He Qianglong , Wang Wenjie , Wang Weimin , Fu Zhengyi , Wang Hao
Published: July 2015

We synthesized S-doped BiVO4photocatalysts, and they exhibit an enhanced degradation efficiency of MB at 100% after 25 min under visible-light irradiation.
Fischer–Tropsch synthesis of liquid hydrocarbons over mesoporous SBA-15 supported cobalt catalysts
Authors: Lu Yongwu , Zhou Peng , Han Jun , Yu Fei
Published: July 2015

The reducibility of Co/SBA-15 increased with increasing either Co loading or pore size of SBA-15 support. CO conversion increased with the increase of SBA-15 pore size. The Co/SBA-15 with larger Co crystallite size showed higher C5+ selectivity.
A simple highly sensitive and selective TURN-ON fluorescent chemosensor for the detection of cadmium ions in physiological conditions
Authors: Ellairaja Sundaram , Manikandan Ramar , Vijayan Muthunan Thevar , Rajagopal Seenivasan , Vasantha Vairathevar Sivasamy
Published: July 2015

A very simple fluorophore was synthesized and applied as a chemosensor for Cd2+ion detection.
Effect of water and methanol on the dissolution and gelatinization of corn starch in [MMIM][(MeO)HPO2]
Authors: Shen Jianan , Wang Leli , Men Yongjun , Wu Ying , Peng Qiaohong , Wang Xiaoling , Yang Rui , Mahmood Khalid , Liu Zhengping
Published: July 2015

A small proportion of water or methanol in the complex solvents of IL ([MMIM][(MeO)HPO2])/water and IL ([MMIM][(MeO)HPO2])/water/methanol, respectively, could significantly accelerate the gelatinization/dissolution of corn starch.
Identification, classification, and signal amplification capabilities of high-turnover gas binding hosts in ultra-sensitive NMR
Authors: Kunth Martin , Witte Christopher , Hennig Andreas , Schröder Leif
Published: July 2015

Labile complexation of cucurbit[6]uril with xenon becomes detectable through saturation transfer with highly efficient gas turnover for ultra-sensitive NMR applications.
Dynamic behaviour of monohaptoallylpalladium species: internal coordination as a driving force in allylic alkylation chemistry
Authors: Xie Lan-Gui , Bagutski Viktor , Audisio Davide , Wolf Larry M. , Schmidts Volker , Hofmann Kathrin , Wirtz Cornelia , Thiel Walter , Thiele Christina M. , Maulide Nuno
Published: July 2015

Structural and reactivity studies of internally coordinated monohaptoallylpalladium(ii) complexes.
Unravelling the effect of temperature on viscosity-sensitive fluorescent molecular rotors
Authors: Vyšniauskas Aurimas , Qurashi Maryam , Gallop Nathaniel , Balaz Milan , Anderson Harry L. , Kuimova Marina K.
Published: July 2015

We examine the effect of temperature on three viscosity-sensitive fluorophores termed ‘molecular rotors’. In the case of the conjugated porphyrin dimer, it can be used for measuring both viscosity and temperature concurrently.
Self-healing hydrogels containing reversible oxime crosslinks
Authors: Mukherjee Soma , Hill Megan R. , Sumerlin Brent S.
Published: July 2015

Self-healing oxime-functional hydrogels have been developed that undergo a reversible gel-to-sol transition via oxime exchange under acidic conditions.
Enhancing thermal stability and mechanical properties of lyotropic liquid crystals through incorporation of a polymerizable surfactant
Authors: Peng Shuhua , Hartley Patrick G. , Hughes Timothy C. , Guo Qipeng
Published: July 2015

This work demonstrates a simple method to prepare thermally stable and mechanically robust crosslinkedlyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs) through incorporation of a polymerizableamphiphile.
Range comfort zone of electric vehicle users – concept and assessment
Authors: Franke Thomas , Günther Madlen , Trantow Maria , Rauh Nadine , Krems Josef F.
Published: July 2015

Enhancing usable range and the range‐related user experience in battery electric vehicle (BEV) use is an essential task in advancing electric mobility systems. The authors suggest the concept of comfortable range (i.e. the users’ range comfort zone or range safety buffer) as a benchmark variable for evaluating range‐optimisation strategies. A methodology for assessing comfortable range was developed over the course of three BEV field trials. Here the final methodology is described and evaluated which consists of the comfortable range scenario task (CRST) which indirectly assesses comfortable range as well as several single‐item indicators that directly ask respondents for comfortable trip distances or range safety buffers. Results show that the developed comfortable range indicators have good psychometric characteristics (internal consistency, factorial structure and test–retest reliability), are able to depict the known effect of behavioural adaptation to limited range, and correlate with actual range utilisation behaviour. The CRST performs more robust than the single‐item indicators within this evaluation.
Temperature effects on the friction characteristics of graphene
Authors: Zhang Yan , Dong Mei , Gueye Birahima , Ni Zhonghua , Wang Yujuan , Chen Yunfei
Published: July 2015

An atomic force microscope is used to study the nanoscale frictional characteristics of graphene exfoliated onto weakly adherent silica substrates. Different from the decrease in the friction force with temperature for Si tips sliding on silica substrates, the friction forces for the same tip sliding on a graphene surface have an increasing trend with temperature. Through exploring the morphologies of graphene in both suspended and supported states and at different temperatures, it is found that surface fluctuations are the main reason behind the suppression of the thermal lubrication, which leads to an increase in the friction force with temperature.
Magnetic properties and spin polarization of Ru doped half metallic CrO2
Authors: West Kevin G. , Osofsky Michael , Mazin I. I. , Dao Nam N. H. , Wolf Stuart A. , Lu Jiwei
Published: July 2015

Chromium dioxide (CrO2) is a half metal that is of interest for spintronic devices. It has not been synthesized through traditional physical vapor deposition (PVD) techniques because of its thermodynamic instability in low oxygen pressures. Epitaxial thin films of Ru doped tetragonal rutile CrO2 were synthesized by a PVD technique. The as-deposited RuxCr1−xO2 was ferrimagnetic with the saturation magnetization moment showing a strong dependence on the Ru concentration. Curie temperature as high as 241 K has been obtained for ∼23 at. % Ru. The Ru substitution increased the electrical conductivity by increasing the minority spin concentration. The spin polarization was found to be as high as 70% for 9 at. % Ru and decreased to ∼60% with Ru concentrations up to ∼44 at. %, which is determined by the Fermi velocities of the majority and minority spins. First principle calculations were performed to understand the effect of Ru content on the properties of CrO2. The PVD processes of Ru doped CrO2 could lead to the practical applications of the high spin polarization of CrO2 in spintronic devices.
A three-dimensional microelectrode array composed of vertically aligned ultra-dense carbon nanotube networks
Authors: Nick C. , Yadav S. , Joshi R. , Schneider J. J. , Thielemann C.
Published: July 2015

Electrodes based on carbon nanotubes are a promising approach to manufacture highly sensitive sensors with a low limit of signal detection and a high signal-to-noise ratio. This is achieved by dramatically increasing the electrochemical active surface area without increasing the overall geometrical dimensions. Typically, carbon nanotube electrodes are nearly planar and composed of randomly distributed carbon nanotube networks having a limited surface gain for a specific geometrical surface area. To overcome this limitation, we have introduced vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT) networks as electrodes, which are arranged in a microelectrode pattern of 60 single electrodes. Each microelectrode features a very high aspect ratio of more than 300 and thus a dramatically increased surface area. These microelectrodes composed of VACNT networks display dramatically decreased impedance over the entire frequency range compared to planar microelectrodes caused by the enormous capacity increase. This is experimentally verified by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry.
Ab initio modeling of oxygen-vacancy formation in doped-HfOx RRAM: Effects of oxide phases, stoichiometry, and dopant concentrations
Authors: Zhao Liang , Clima Sergiu , Magyari-Köpe Blanka , Jurczak Malgorzata , Nishi Yoshio
Published: July 2015

Doping techniques have been widely investigated to improve the performance and reliability of resistive random-access memory. In this paper, oxide phases, non-stoichiometry, and dopant concentrations are identified as three critical factors that affect the characteristics of doped HfOx. Using ab initio calculations, their effects on Al, Ti, and Si dopants are thoroughly investigated and compared with experimental studies. In particular, the inconsistent observations regarding the effects of Al dopants on forming voltages are explained by the variation of oxygen stoichiometry. Only non-stoichiometric oxide will activate the dopant effects to significantly reduce the forming voltages.
Experimental demonstration of epsilon-near-zero water waves focusing
Authors: Bobinski T. , Eddi A. , Petitjeans P. , Maurel A. , Pagneux V.
Published: July 2015

We explore an ϵ-near-zero analogue for water waves using deep water and shallow water domains to obtain different phase velocities. Being inherently non linear, water waves permit to inspect focusing of harmonically generated waves. Experimental measurements show cascade of focal spots up to the fourth harmonic, allowing sub wavelength focusing with respect to the first harmonic wavelength.
Role of the wetting layer in the enhanced responsivity of InAs/GaAsSb quantum dot infrared photodetectors
Authors: Guzmán Álvaro , Yamamoto Kenji , Ulloa J. M. , Llorens J. M. , Hierro Adrian
Published: July 2015

InAs/GaAs1−xSbx Quantum Dot (QD) infrared photodetectors are analyzed by photocurrent spectroscopy. We observe that the integrated responsivity of the devices is improved with the increasing Sb mole fraction in the capping layer, up to 4.2 times for x = 17%. Since the QD layers are not vertically aligned, the vertical transport of the carriers photogenerated within the QDs takes place mainly through the bulk material and the wetting layer of the additional QD regions. The lower thickness of the wetting layer for high Sb contents results in a reduced capture probability of the photocarriers, thus increasing the photoconductive gain and hence, the responsivity of the device. The growth of not vertically aligned consecutive QD layers with a thinner wetting layer opens a possibility to improve the performance of quantum dot infrared photodetectors.
Copper thiocyanate: An attractive hole transport/extraction layer for use in organic photovoltaic cells
Authors: Treat Neil D. , Yaacobi-Gross Nir , Faber Hendrik , Perumal Ajay K. , Bradley Donal D. C. , Stingelin Natalie , Anthopoulos Thomas D.
Published: July 2015

We report the advantageous properties of the inorganic molecular semiconductor copper(I) thiocyanate (CuSCN) for use as a hole collection/transport layer (HTL) in organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells. CuSCN possesses desirable HTL energy levels [i.e., valence band at −5.35 eV, 0.35 eV deeper than poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrenesulfonate (PEDOT:PSS)], which produces a 17% increase in power conversion efficiency (PCE) relative to PEDOT:PSS-based devices. In addition, a two-fold increase in shunt resistance for the solar cells measured in dark conditions is achieved. Ultimately, CuSCN enables polymer:fullerene based OPV cells to achieve PCE > 8%. CuSCN continues to offer promise as a chemically stable and straightforward replacement for the commonly used PEDOT:PSS.
Human impacts on connectivity in marine and freshwater ecosystems assessed using graph theory: a review
Authors: Saunders Megan I. , Brown Christopher J. , Foley Melissa M. , Febria Catherine M. , Albright Rebecca , Mehling Molly G. , Kavanaugh Maria T. , Burfeind Dana D.
Published: July 2015

Human activities are altering the processes that connect organisms within and among habitats and populations in marine and freshwater (aquatic) ecosystems. Connectivity can be quantified using graph theory, where habitats or populations are represented by ‘nodes’ and dispersal is represented by ‘links’. This approach spans discipline and systemic divides, facilitating identification of generalities in human impacts. We conducted a review of studies that have used graph theory to quantify spatial functional connectivity in aquatic ecosystems. The search identified 42 studies published in 2000–14. We assessed whether each study quantified the impacts of (1) habitat alteration (loss, alteration to links, and gain), (2) human movements causing species introductions, (3) overharvesting and (4) climate change (warming temperatures, altered circulation or hydrology, sea-level rise) and ocean acidification. In freshwater systems habitat alteration was the most commonly studied stressor, whereas in marine systems overharvesting, in terms of larval dispersal among protected areas, was most commonly addressed. Few studies have directly assessed effects of climate change, suggesting an important area of future research. Graph representations of connectivity revealed similarities across different impacts and systems, suggesting common strategies for conservation management. We suggest future research directions for studies of aquatic connectivity to inform conservation management of aquatic ecosystems.
Multimorbidity among people with HIV in regional New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Edmiston Natalie , Passmore Erin , Smith David J. , Petoumenos Kathy
Published: July 2015

Background Multimorbidity is the co-occurrence of more than one chronic health condition in addition to HIV. Higher multimorbidity increases mortality, complexity of care and healthcare costs while decreasing quality of life. The prevalence of and factors associated with multimorbidity among HIV positive patients attending a regional sexual health service are described. Methods: A record review of all HIV positive patients attending the service between 1 July 2011 and 30 June 2012 was conducted. Two medical officers reviewed records for chronic health conditions and to rate multimorbidity using the Cumulative Illness Rating Scale (CIRS). Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to determine factors associated with a higher CIRS score. Results: One hundred and eighty-nine individuals were included in the study; the mean age was 51.8 years and 92.6% were men. One-quarter (25.4%) had ever been diagnosed with AIDS. Multimorbidity was extremely common, with 54.5% of individuals having two or more chronic health conditions in addition to HIV; the most common being a mental health diagnosis, followed by vascular disease. In multivariate analysis, older age, having ever been diagnosed with AIDS and being on an antiretroviral regimen other than two nucleosides and a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor or protease inhibitor were associated with a higher CIRS score. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study looking at associations with multimorbidity in the Australian setting. Care models for HIV positive patients should include assessing and managing multimorbidity, particularly in older people and those that have ever been diagnosed with AIDS.
Interphase centrosome organization by the PLP-Cnn scaffold is required for centrosome function
Authors: Lerit Dorothy A. , Jordan Holly A. , Poulton John S. , Fagerstrom Carey J. , Galletta Brian J. , Peifer Mark , Rusan Nasser M.
Published: July 2015

Pericentriolar material (PCM) mediates the microtubule (MT) nucleation and anchoring activity of centrosomes. A scaffold organized by Centrosomin (Cnn) serves to ensure proper PCM architecture and functional changes in centrosome activity with each cell cycle. Here, we investigate the mechanisms that spatially restrict and temporally coordinate centrosome scaffold formation. Focusing on the mitotic-to-interphase transition in Drosophila melanogaster embryos, we show that the elaboration of the interphase Cnn scaffold defines a major structural rearrangement of the centrosome. We identify an unprecedented role for Pericentrin-like protein (PLP), which localizes to the tips of extended Cnn flares, to maintain robust interphase centrosome activity and promote the formation of interphase MT asters required for normal nuclear spacing, centrosome segregation, and compartmentalization of the syncytial embryo. Our data reveal that Cnn and PLP directly interact at two defined sites to coordinate the cell cycle–dependent rearrangement and scaffolding activity of the centrosome to permit normal centrosome organization, cell division, and embryonic viability.
The relation between the production efficiency of nitrogen atoms and the electrical characteristics of a dielectric barrier discharge
Authors: Peeters F J J , Yang R , van de Sanden M C M
Published: July 2015

In a nitrogen plasma jet, atomic nitrogen is the longest lived radical species and, through recombination, gives rise to highly reactive excited nitrogen species. In this paper, the atomic nitrogen concentration in the effluent of a nitrogen-fed dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) is determined by using direct 2D imaging of the visible FPS emission. The relationship between radical production and the electrical characteristics of the discharge is assessed by making use of an electrical model which assumes only a part of the electrode area is discharged every half-cycle. For the pure nitrogen jet used here, the specific energy input per nitrogen atom is found to be 320  ±  20 eV atom−1, comparable to the specific energy for other atomic nitrogen sources in the literature. It is shown that the production efficiency of atomic nitrogen does not depend on the amplitude of the applied voltage of the DBD and any increase in radical production is due to an increase of the electrode area covered by the discharge, i.e. an increase in the number of microdischarges.
Foundation species' overlap enhances biodiversity and multifunctionality from the patch to landscape scale in southeastern United States salt marshes
Authors: Angelini Christine , van der Heide Tjisse , Griffin John N. , Morton Joseph P. , Derksen-Hooijberg Marlous , Lamers Leon P. M. , Smolders Alfons J. P. , Silliman Brian R.
Published: July 2015

Although there is mounting evidence that biodiversity is an important and widespread driver of ecosystem multifunctionality, much of this research has focused on small-scale biodiversity manipulations. Hence, which mechanisms maintain patches of enhanced biodiversity in natural systems and if these patches elevate ecosystem multifunctionality at both local and landscape scales remain outstanding questions. In a 17 month experiment conducted within southeastern United States salt marshes, we found that patches of enhanced biodiversity and multifunctionality arise only where habitat-forming foundation species overlap—i.e. where aggregations of ribbed mussels (
Geukensia demissa
) form around cordgrass (
Spartina alterniflora
) stems. By empirically scaling up our experimental results to the marsh platform at 12 sites, we further show that mussels—despite covering only approximately 1% of the marsh surface—strongly enhance five distinct ecosystem functions, including decomposition, primary production and water infiltration rate, at the landscape scale. Thus, mussels create conditions that support the co-occurrence of high densities of functionally distinct organisms within cordgrass and, in doing so, elevate salt marsh multifunctionality from the patch to landscape scale. Collectively, these findings suggest that patterns in foundation species' overlap drive variation in biodiversity and ecosystem functioning within and across natural ecosystems. We therefore argue that foundation species should be integrated in our conceptual understanding of forces that moderate biodiversity–ecosystem functioning relationships, approaches for conserving species diversity and strategies to improve the multifunctionality of degraded ecosystems.
Non-breeding season habitat quality mediates the strength of density-dependence for a migratory bird
Authors: Marra Peter P. , Studds Colin E. , Wilson Scott , Sillett T. Scott , Sherry Thomas W. , Holmes Richard T.
Published: July 2015

Our understanding of when natural populations are regulated during their annual cycle is limited, particularly for migratory species. This information is needed for parametrizing models that can inform management and conservation. Here, we use 14 years of data on colour-marked birds to investigate how conspecific density and habitat quality during the tropical non-breeding period interact to affect body condition and apparent annual survival of a long-distance migratory songbird, the American redstart (
Setophaga ruticilla
). Body condition and survival of birds in high-quality mangrove habitat declined as density increased. By contrast, body condition improved and survival did not vary as density increased in adjacent, lower quality scrub habitat, although mean condition and survival were almost always lower than in mangrove. High rainfall enhanced body condition in scrub but not in mangrove, suggesting factors such as food availability outweighed consequences of crowding in lower quality habitat. Thus, survival of overwintering redstarts in mangrove habitat, disproportionately males, appears to be regulated by a crowding mechanism based on density-dependent resource competition. Survival of individuals in scrub, mostly females, appears to be limited by density-independent environmental factors but not regulated by crowding. The contrasting effects of density and food limitation on individuals overwintering in adjacent habitats illustrate the complexity of processes operating during the non-breeding period for migratory animals, and emphasize the need for long-term studies of animals in multiple habitats and throughout their annual cycles.
Polymorphism and division of labour in a socially complex ant: neuromodulation of aggression in the Australian weaver ant,Oecophylla smaragdina
Authors: Kamhi J. Frances , Nunn Kelley , Robson Simon K. A. , Traniello James F. A.
Published: July 2015

Complex social structure in eusocial insects can involve worker morphological and behavioural differentiation. Neuroanatomical variation may underscore worker division of labour, but the regulatory mechanisms of size-based task specialization in polymorphic species are unknown. The Australian weaver ant,Oecophylla smaragdina, exhibits worker polyphenism: larger major workers aggressively defend arboreal territories, whereas smaller minors nurse brood. Here, we demonstrate that octopamine (OA) modulates worker size-related aggression inO. smaragdina. We found that the brains of majors had significantly higher titres of OA than those of minors and that OA was positively and specifically correlated with the frequency of aggressive responses to non-nestmates, a key component of territorial defence. Pharmacological manipulations that effectively switched OA action in major and minor worker brains reversed levels of aggression characteristic of each worker size class. Results suggest that altering OA action is sufficient to produce differences in aggression characteristic of size-related social roles. Neuromodulators therefore may generate variation in responsiveness to task-related stimuli associated with worker size differentiation and collateral behavioural specializations, a significant component of division of labour in complex social systems.
Reproductive sharing in relation to group and colony-level attributes in a cooperative breeding fish
Authors: Hellmann Jennifer K. , Ligocki Isaac Y. , O'Connor Constance M. , Reddon Adam R. , Garvy Kelly A. , Marsh-Rollo Susan E. , Gibbs H. Lisle , Balshine Sigal , Hamilton Ian M.
Published: July 2015

The degree to which group members share reproduction is dictated by both within-group (e.g. group size and composition) and between-group (e.g. density and position of neighbours) characteristics. While many studies have investigated reproductive patterns within social groups, few have simultaneously explored how within-group and between-group social structure influence these patterns. Here, we investigated how group size and composition, along with territory density and location within the colony, influenced parentage in 36 wild groups of a colonial, cooperatively breeding fish
Neolamprologus pulcher
. Dominant males sired 76% of offspring in their group, whereas dominant females mothered 82% of offspring in their group. Subordinate reproduction was frequent, occurring in 47% of sampled groups. Subordinate males gained more paternity in groups located in high-density areas and in groups with many subordinate males. Dominant males and females in large groups and in groups with many reproductively mature subordinates had higher rates of parentage loss, but only at the colony edge. Our study provides, to our knowledge, the first comprehensive quantification of reproductive sharing among groups of wild
N. pulcher
, a model species for the study of cooperation and social behaviour. Further, we demonstrate that the frequency of extra-pair parentage differs across small social and spatial scales.
Detrimental effects of an autosomal selfish genetic element on sperm competitiveness in house mice
Authors: Sutter Andreas , Lindholm Anna K.
Published: July 2015

Female multiple mating (polyandry) is widespread across many animal taxa and indirect genetic benefits are a major evolutionary force favouring polyandry. An incentive for polyandry arises when multiple mating leads to sperm competition that disadvantages sperm from genetically inferior mates. A reduction in genetic quality is associated with costly selfish genetic elements (SGEs), and studies in invertebrates have shown that males bearing sex ratio distorting SGEs are worse sperm competitors than wild-type males. We used a vertebrate model species to test whether females can avoid an autosomal SGE, thethaplotype, through polyandry. Thethaplotype in house mice exhibits strong drive intheterozygous males by affecting spermatogenesis and is associated with homozygousin uterolethality. We used controlled matings to test the effect of thethaplotype on sperm competitiveness. Regardless of mating order,theterozygous males sired only 11% of zygotes when competing against wild-type males, suggesting a very strong effect of thethaplotype on sperm quality. We provide, to our knowledge, the first substantial evidence that polyandry ameliorates the harmful effects of an autosomal SGE arising through genetic incompatibility. We discuss potential mechanisms in our study species and the broader implications for the benefits of polyandry.
Response of seaward-migrating European eel (Anguilla anguilla) to manipulated flow fields
Authors: Piper Adam T. , Manes Costantino , Siniscalchi Fabio , Marion Andrea , Wright Rosalind M. , Kemp Paul S.
Published: July 2015

Anthropogenic structures (e.g. weirs and dams) fragment river networks and restrict the movement of migratory fish. Poor understanding of behavioural response to hydrodynamic cues at structures currently limits the development of effective barrier mitigation measures. This study aimed to assess the effect of flow constriction and associated flow patterns on eel behaviour during downstream migration. In a field experiment, we tracked the movements of 40 tagged adult European eels (Anguilla anguilla) through the forebay of a redundant hydropower intake under two manipulated hydrodynamic treatments. Interrogation of fish trajectories in relation to measured and modelled water velocities provided new insights into behaviour, fundamental for developing passage technologies for this endangered species. Eels rarely followed direct routes through the site. Initially, fish aligned with streamlines near the channel banks and approached the intake semi-passively. A switch to more energetically costly avoidance behaviours occurred on encountering constricted flow, prior to physical contact with structures. Under high water velocity gradients, fish then tended to escape rapidly back upstream, whereas exploratory ‘search’ behaviour was common when acceleration was low. This study highlights the importance of hydrodynamics in informing eel behaviour. This offers potential to develop behavioural guidance, improve fish passage solutions and enhance traditional physical screening.
On the identifiability of transmission dynamic models for infectious diseases
Authors: Lintusaari Jarno , Gutmann Michael U. , Kaski Samuel , Corander Jukka
Published: July 2015

Understanding the transmission dynamics of infectious diseases is important for both biological research and public health applications. It has been widely demonstrated that statistical modeling provides a firm basis for inferring relevant epidemiological quantities from incidence and molecular data. However, the complexity of transmission dynamic models causes two challenges: Firstly, the likelihood function of the models is generally not computable and computationally intensive simulation-based inference methods need to be employed. Secondly, the model may not be fully identifiable from the available data. While the first difficulty can be tackled by computational and algorithmic advances, the second obstacle is more fundamental. Identifiability issues may lead to inferences which are more driven by the prior assumptions than the data themselves. We here consider a popular and relatively simple, yet analytically intractable model for the spread of tuberculosis based on classical IS6110 fingerprinting data. We report on the identifiability of the model, presenting also some methodological advances regarding the inference. Using likelihood approximations, it is shown that the reproductive value cannot be identified from the data available and that the posterior distributions obtained in previous work have likely been substantially dominated by the assumed prior distribution. Further, we show that the inferences are influenced by the assumed infectious population size which has generally been kept fixed in previous work. We demonstrate that the infectious population size can be inferred if the remaining epidemiological parameters are already known with sufficient precision.
Structure and spectroscopic properties of the dimeric copper(I) N-heterocyclic carbene complex [Cu2(CNCt-Bu)2](PF6)2
Authors: Riener Korbinian , Pöthig Alexander , Cokoja Mirza , Herrmann Wolfgang A. , Kühn Fritz E.
Published: July 2015

In recent years, the use of copper N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) complexes has expanded to fields besides catalysis, namely medicinal chemistry and luminescence applications. In the latter case, multinuclear copper NHC compounds have attracted interest, however, the number of these complexes in the literature is still quite limited. Bis[μ-1,3-bis(3-tert-butylimidazolin-2-yliden-1-yl)pyridine]-1κ4C2,N:N,C2′;2κ4C2,N:N,C2′-dicopper(I) bis(hexafluoridophosphate), [Cu2(C19H25N5)2](PF6)2, is a dimeric copper(I) complex bridged by two CNC,i.e.bis(N-heterocyclic carbene)pyridine, ligands. Each CuIatom is almost linearly coordinated by two NHC ligands and interactions are observed between the pyridine N atoms and the metal centres, while no cuprophilic interactions were observed. Very strong absorption bands are evident in the UV–Vis spectrum at 236 and 274 nm, and an emission band is observed at 450 nm. The reported complex is a new example of a multinuclear copper NHC complex and a member of a compound class which has only rarely been reported.
Analysing Japanese contractor activity on the basis of panel data
Authors: Konno Yukiko
Published: July 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors influencing defaults and exits from public works by prime contractors of small and medium-sized enterprises in the Japanese construction industry. By analysing the data for several years as panel data, this study determines the extent of influence of changes in company characteristics on the defaults and exits.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using construction company evaluation (Keiei Jikou Sinsa or Keisin) data and by employing the panel binary logit random effect model, this study empirically analyses the construction industry.

Findings

– This study shows that defaulting and exiting companies have different characteristics. The result shows financial performance indicators, non-financial performance indicators and Keisin scores to significantly affect defaults and exits. In particular, this study finds non-financial performance indicators, such as whether a firm draws insurance, to significantly affect its likelihood to default or exit and the influence varies on the basis of insurance type.

Originality/value

– The feature of this study is that its analysis focuses not only on defaulting companies but also on exiting companies, defined as those that stop operating as prime contractors for public works but otherwise stay in business. In contrast to existing research, this study distinguishes between defaults and exits and analyses the factors that influence a firm following one of these two outcomes. Moreover, although Keisin data are usually used to determine whether companies qualify to enter bids for public works, they can be applied for an attribution analysis of corporate defaults and exits.