bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De Hass-van Alphen and magnetoresistance reveal predominantly single-band transport behavior in PdTe2
Authors: Wang Yongjian , Zhang Jinglei , Zhu Wenka , Zou Youming , Xi Chuanying , Ma Long , Han Tao , Yang Jun , Wang Jingrong , Xu Junmin , Zhang Lei , Pi Li , Zhang Changjin , Zhang Yuheng
Published: August 2016

Research on two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) has grown rapidly over the past several years, from fundamental studies to the development of next generation technologies. Recently, it has been reported that the MX2-type PdTe2 exhibits superconductivity with topological surface state, making this compound a promising candidate for investigating possible topological superconductivity. However, due to the multi-band feature of most of TMDs, the investigating of magnetoresistance and quantum oscillations of these TMDs proves to be quite complicated. Here we report a combined de Hass-van Alphen effect and magnetoresistance studies on the PdTe2 single crystal. Our high-field de Hass-van Alphen data measured at different temperature and different tilting angle suggest that though these is a well-defined multi-band feature, a predominant oscillation frequency has the largest oscillation magnitude in the fast Fourier transformation spectra, which is at least one order of magnitude larger than other oscillation frequencies. Thus it is likely that the transport behavior in PdTe2 system can be simplified into a single-band model. Meanwhile, the magnetoresistance results of the PdTe2 sample can be well-fitted according to the single-band models. The present results could be important in further investigation of the transport behaviors of two-dimensional TMDs.
Biosorption of Pb (II) from aqueous solution by extracellular polymeric substances extracted from Klebsiella sp. J1: Adsorption behavior and mechanism assessment
Authors: Wei Wei , Wang Qilin , Li Ang , Yang Jixian , Ma Fang , Pi Shanshan , Wu Dan
Published: August 2016

The adsorption performance and mechanism of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) extracted from Klebsiella sp. J1 for soluble Pb (II) were investigated. The maximum biosorption capacity of EPS for Pb (II) was found to be 99.5 mg g−1 at pH 6.0 and EPS concentration of 0.2 g/L. The data for adsorption process satisfactorily fitted to both Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second order kinetic model. The mean free energy E and activation energy Ea were determined at 8.22– 8.98 kJ mol−1 and 42.46 kJ mol−1, respectively. The liquid-film diffusion step might be the rate-limiting step. The thermodynamic parameters (ΔGo, ΔHo and ΔSo) revealed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and exothermic under natural conditions. The interactions between EPS system and Pb (II) ions were investigated by qualitative analysis methods (i.e Zeta potential, FT-IR and EDAX). Based on the strong experimental evidence from the mass balance of the related elements participating in the sorption process, an ion exchange process was identified quantitatively as the major mechanism responsible for Pb (II) adsorption by EPS. Molar equivalents of both K+ and Mg2+ could be exchanged with Pb2+ molar equivalents in the process and the contribution rate of ion exchange to adsorption accounted for 85.72% (Δmequiv = −0.000541).
Globin mRNA reduction for whole-blood transcriptome sequencing
Authors: Krjutškov Kaarel , Koel Mariann , Roost Anne Mari , Katayama Shintaro , Einarsdottir Elisabet , Jouhilahti Eeva-Mari , Söderhäll Cilla , Jaakma Ülle , Plaas Mario , Vesterlund Liselotte , Lohi Hannes , Salumets Andres , Kere Juha
Published: August 2016

The transcriptome analysis of whole-blood RNA by sequencing holds promise for the identification and tracking of biomarkers; however, the high globin mRNA (gmRNA) content of erythrocytes hampers whole-blood and buffy coat analyses. We introduce a novel gmRNA locking assay (GlobinLock, GL) as a robust and simple gmRNA reduction tool to preserve RNA quality, save time and cost. GL consists of a pair of gmRNA-specific oligonucleotides in RNA initial denaturation buffer that is effective immediately after RNA denaturation and adds only ten minutes of incubation to the whole cDNA synthesis procedure when compared to non-blood RNA analysis. We show that GL is fully effective not only for human samples but also for mouse and rat and so far incompletely studied cow, dog and zebrafish.
Fe3O4@SiO2 core–shell nanoparticles for biomedical purposes: adverse effects on blood cells
Authors: Achilli C. , Grandi S. , Guidetti G. F. , Ciana A. , Tomasi C. , Capsoni D. , Minetti G.
Published: August 2016

Magnetite nanoparticles coated with silica, obtained by a sol–gel process in the reverse micelle microemulsion, were characterized and homogeneously suspended in water in order to assay their biocompatibility toward blood cells, in view of a potential medical use of this material.
Manipulating the architecture of Pd@Pt nanostructures through metal-selective capping agent interactions
Authors: Ataee-Esfahani Hamed , Skrabalak Sara E.
Published: August 2016

The use of two capping agents (F127 and NaBr) is highlighted for shape-controlled synthesis of Pd@Pt nanostructures by co-reduction.
para-Selective C–H bond functionalization of iodobenzenes
Authors: Zhao Ying , Yan Haiming , Lu Hanwei , Huang Zhiliang , Lei Aiwen
Published: August 2016

An oxidation-induced strategy forpara-C–H functionalization of iodobenzenes was demonstrated, which provides a general idea for the development of new, highly selectivepara-C–H functionalization reactions.
A computational study of the competing reaction mechanisms of the photo-catalytic reduction of CO2 on anatase(101)
Authors: Ip Chung Man , Troisi Alessandro
Published: August 2016

Three reaction pathways for the photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide to methane are investigated with density functional theory calculations.
The influence of mass-transport conditions on the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) mechanism of Pt/C electrocatalysts
Authors: Bach Delpeuch Antoine , Jacquot Marjorie , Chatenet Marian , Cremers Carsten
Published: August 2016

This study aims to provide further understanding of the influence of different parameters that control mass-transport (the revolution rate of the rotating disk electrode and the potential scan rate) on the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR).
Iron(iii) bis(pyrazol-1-yl)acetate based decanuclear metallacycles: synthesis, structure, magnetic properties and DFT calculations
Authors: Gajewska Małgorzata J. , Bieńko Alina , Herchel Radovan , Haukka Matti , Jerzykiewicz Maria , Ożarowski Andrzej , Drabent Krzysztof , Hung Chen-Hsiung
Published: August 2016

A new member of the decanuclear ferric wheel family with the formula [Fe10(bdtbpza)10(μ2-OCH3)20], featuring the N,N,O tridentate bis(3,5-di-tert-butylpyrazol-1-yl)acetate ligand, is reported.
Synthesis, structure, and spin crossover above room temperature of a mononuclear and related dinuclear double helicate iron(ii) complexes
Authors: Hagiwara Hiroaki , Tanaka Tomoko , Hora Shiori
Published: August 2016

Magneto-structural relationships of mononuclear and dinuclear double helicate spin crossover (SCO) Fe(ii) complexes are reported.
Conversion of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural into 5-ethoxymethylfurfural and ethyl levulinate catalyzed by MOF-based heteropolyacid materials
Authors: Wang Zhenhua , Chen Qianwang
Published: August 2016

MOF-based heteropolyacid materials [Cu–BTC][HPM] can act as a catalyst for the conversion of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural into 5-ethoxymethylfurfural and ethyl levulinate in ethanol.
Hierarchical hollow nanostructured core@shell recyclable catalysts γ-Fe2O3@LDH@Au25-x for highly efficient alcohol oxidation
Authors: Yin Shuangtao , Li Jin , Zhang Hui
Published: August 2016

Magnetically recyclable 3D hierarchical hollow nanostructured Au25 nanocluster catalysts, assembled by an Au25Capt18 precursor method, exhibit an extraordinary catalytic performance for the aerobic oxidation of alcohol by molecular oxygen upon strong Au25NCs–LDH–magnetic core synergy.
A polypeptide micelle template method to prepare polydopamine composite nanoparticles for synergistic photothermal–chemotherapy
Authors: Wu Xingjie , Zhou Linzhu , Su Yue , Dong Chang-Ming
Published: August 2016

A polypeptide micelle template method was, for the first time, developed to fabricate polydopamine nanocomposites for the synergistic photothermal–chemotherapy of cancer.
A g-C3N4/WO3 photoanode with exceptional ability for photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Li Haibo , Zhao Fengyi , Zhang Jincheng , Luo Lei , Xiao Xujing , Huang Yongchao , Ji Hongbing , Tong Yexiang
Published: August 2016

g-C3N4/WO3 heterojunctions with exceptional ability and stability for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting which achieved a high photocurrent density.
Exceptionally thermostable and soluble aromatic polyimides with special characteristics: intrinsic ultralow dielectric constant, static random access memory behaviors, transparency and fluorescence
Authors: Liu Yiwu , Zhou Zhuxin , Qu Lunjun , Zou Bing , Chen Zhiquan , Zhang Yi , Liu Siwei , Chi Zhenguo , Chen Xudong , Xu Jiarui
Published: August 2016

Exceptionally thermostable and soluble aromatic polyimides exhibited light color, transparency, fluorescence, intrinsic ultralow-k and electrical bistability properties.
Copper-catalyzed 8-amido chelation-induced regioselective C–H fluoroalkylation of quinolines
Authors: Jin Li-Kun , Lu Guo-Ping , Cai Chun
Published: August 2016

An effective and regioselective approach for C–H fluoroalkylation of 8-aminoquinoline amides with RfSO2Na is demonstrated herein.
Optimizing PVD conditions for electrochemical anodization growth of well-adherent Ta2O5nanotubes on Ti–6Al–4V alloy
Authors: Sarraf Masoud , Abdul Razak Bushroa , Dabbagh Ali , Nasiri-Tabrizi Bahman , Abu Kasim Noor Hayaty , Basirun Wan Jefrey
Published: August 2016

The proposed approach could be considered for the design of various nanostructured titanium implant surfaces.
Structural, compositional and functional properties of Sb-doped Mg2Si synthesized in Al2O3-crucibles
Authors: Sakamoto Tatsuya , Famengo Alessia , Barison Simona , Battiston Simone , Boldrini Stefano , Ferrario Alberto , Fiameni Stefania , Iida Tsutomu , Takanashi Yoshifumi , Fabrizio Monica
Published: August 2016

Dense Sb-doped Mg2Si materials were obtained with a cheap and fast process. An extensive characterization was carried out to study the effects of Sb doping and other secondary phases on the stability and functional properties of n-type Mg2Si1−xSbx.
Carbon nanotube-based stimuli-responsive nanocarriers for drug delivery
Authors: Bafkary R. , Khoee S.
Published: August 2016

In cancer therapy, smart nanocarriers are one of the most important nanoscale vectors of therapeutic agents.
Characterization of a designed synthetic autotrophic–heterotrophic consortia for fixing CO2 without light
Authors: Hu Jiajun , Xue Yiyun , Li Jixiang , Wang Lei , Zhang Shiping , Wang Ya-nan , Gao Min-tian
Published: August 2016

CO2 fixation efficiency of the devised synthetic microbial consortia with both autotrophic–autotrophic and autotrophic–heterotrophic microbial interactions were higher than the sum of theoretical CO2 fixation efficiency of the microbial components.
A facile method to effectively combine plasmon enhanced fluorescence (PEF) and fluoride-Lewis acid based reactions to detect low concentrations of fluoride in solution
Authors: Appiah-Ntiamoah Richard , Chinnappan Amutha , Kim Hern
Published: August 2016

Synergizing the Purcell-effect of silver nanoparticles and fluoride-Lewis acid based reactions to enhance the sensitivity and detection limit of a fluoride ion chemodosimeter.
Turn-off–on fluorescence probe based on 3-mercaptopropionic acid-capped CdS quantum dots for selective and sensitive lysozyme detection
Authors: Liu Xiaotong , Na Weidan , Qu Zhengyi , Su Xingguang
Published: August 2016

The fluorescence of CdS QDs was first quenched by hemoglobin and then restored with the increasing concentration of the lysozyme in a certain range. Therefore, a fluorescence assay for the determination of lysozyme was established.
A sulfonated Schiff base dimethyltin(iv) coordination polymer: synthesis, characterization and application as a catalyst for ultrasound- or microwave-assisted Baeyer–Villiger oxidation under solvent-free conditions
Authors: Martins Luísa M. D. R. S. , Hazra Susanta , Guedes da Silva M. Fátima C. , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: August 2016

The sulfonated Schiff base dimethyltin(iv) coordination polymer is an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the peroxidative Baeyer–Villiger oxidation of ketones, under ultrasound or microwave irradiation and solvent- and additive-free conditions.
Design of triphenylamine appended anthracene derivatives: electro-polymerization and their electro-chromic behaviour
Authors: Chandra Santra Dines , Mondal Sanoy , Malik Sudip
Published: August 2016

Three derivatives of anthracene as a core interior with terminal one or two triphenylamine sides have been designed and developed to achieve a smart metal free electrochromic materials.
Simultaneous Cu doping and growth of TiO2 nanocrystalline array film as a glucose biosensor
Authors: Cai Yunyu , Ye Yixing , Wu Shouliang , Liu Jun , Liang Changhao
Published: August 2016

Copper ion doping and growth of a TiO2 nanocrystalline material can be realized by using colloidal nanoparticles as a reactive precursor. Such an efficient doping design facilitates the use of TiO2 as a potential biosensor for glucose molecules.
MWCNTs as a catalyst in oxy-steam reforming of methanol
Authors: Mierczynski P. , Mierczynska A. , Maniukiewicz W. , Maniecki T. P. , Vasilev K.
Published: August 2016

The catalytic activity of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in oxy-steam reforming of methanol (ASRM) was investigated for the first time.
DNA mediated electrocatalytic enhancement of α-Fe2O3–PEDOT–C-MoS2hybrid nanostructures for riboflavin detection on screen printed electrode
Authors: Sumathi C. , Muthukumaran P. , Thivya P. , Wilson J. , Ravi G.
Published: August 2016

A facile synthesis of DNA wrapped iron oxide nanorods and PEDOT (poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)) nanospheres on carbon supported MoS2(C-MoS2) is reported for riboflavin (RF) sensing.
A floral variant of mesoporous carbon as an anode material for high performance sodium and lithium ion batteries
Authors: Liu Huan , Jia Mengqiu , Wang Meng , Chen Renjie , Sun Ning , Zhu Qizhen , Wu Feng , Xu Bin
Published: August 2016

Flower-like mesoporous carbon simply prepared by direct pyrolysis of zinc citrate exhibits excellent sodium and lithium storage performances.
Formation of lipid membrane-incorporated small π-molecules bearing hydrophilic groups
Authors: Ikeda Atsushi , Ashizawa Kengo , Tsuchiya Yuki , Ueda Masafumi , Sugikawa Kouta
Published: August 2016

Lipid membrane-incorporated π-conjugated guest molecules (LMIGs) have been classified into four categories, including stable LMIGs, the precipitation or dissolution of some of the guest molecules from the LMIGs and the formation of small aggregates.
Correction: Properties and applications of designable and photo/redox dual responsive surfactants with the new head group 2-arylazo-imidazolium
Authors: Lin Changxu , Yang Long , Xu Mengchun , An Qi , Xiang Zheng , Liu Xiangyang
Published: August 2016

Correction for ‘Properties and applications of designable and photo/redox dual responsive surfactants with the new head group 2-arylazo-imidazolium’ by Changxu Lin et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 51552–51561.
Antiangiogenic platinum through glycan targeting
Authors: Peterson Erica J. , Daniel A. Gerard , Katner Samantha J. , Bohlmann Lisa , Chang Chih-Wei , Bezos Anna , Parish Christopher R. , von Itzstein Mark , Berners-Price Susan J. , Farrell Nicholas P.
Published: August 2016

The high affinity of highly charged polynuclear platinum complexes for glycans such as heparan sulfate results in modulation of the biomolecule signaling functions leading to inhibition of angiogenesis.
Significantly enhanced recoverable energy storage density in potassium–sodium niobate-based lead free ceramics
Authors: Yang Zetian , Du Hongliang , Qu Shaobo , Hou Yudong , Ma Hua , Wang Jiafu , Wang Jun , Wei Xiaoyong , Xu Zhuo
Published: August 2016

The findings in this study could broaden the applications of KNN materials in a new field.
Multi-functional MOF-derived magnetic carbon sponge
Authors: Andrew Lin Kun-Yi , Chang Hsuan-Ang , Chen Bo-Jau
Published: August 2016

Multi-functional magnetic carbon sponge derived from one-step carbonization of self-assembly of metal organic framework and melamine sponge.
Spatial and temporal patterning of polymers in electric field responsive LC templates
Authors: van der Asdonk Pim , Hendrikse Hans C. , Sauli Atang C. , Kraaijkamp Stijn P. M. , Kouwer Paul H. J.
Published: August 2016

Patterning and reversibly switching dye-functionalized polymers by using liquid crystalline templates, photopatternable substrates and external electric fields.
On the top of ARB N/L type Ca channel blocker leads to less elevation of aldosterone
Authors: Konoshita Tadashi , Kaeriyama Saori , Urabe Machi , Nakaya Takahiro , Yamada Mika , Ichikawa Mai , Yamamoto Katsushi , Sato Satsuki , Imagawa Michiko , Fujii Miki , Makino Yasukazu , Zenimaru Yasuo , Wakahara Shigeyuki , Suzuki Jinya , Ishizuka Tamotsu , Nakamura Hiroyuki ,   for the Genomic Disease Outcome Consortium (G-DOC) Study Investigators
Published: August 2016

The activation of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) is one of the unfavourable characteristics of calcium channel blocker (CCB). N type calcium channel is thought to be involved in renin gene transcription and adrenal aldosterone release. Accordingly, N/L type CCB has a possibility of less elevation of plasma aldosterone concentrations (PAC) among CCBs. In a monotherapy study, we had already demonstrated that N/L type CCB leads to less activation of the RAS compared with L type CCB. The objective of this study is to substantiate the hypothesis that at the condition of additive administration on the top of an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), still N/L type CCB leads to less elevation of PAC compared with L type one. Subjects were 60 hypertensives administered with valsartan. As an open label study, amlodipine (L type) or cilnidipine (N/L type) were administered on the top of valsartan (ARB) in a cross-over manner. Results were as follows (valsartan+amlodipine compared with valsartan+cilnidipine): systolic blood pressure (SBP)/diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (mmHg): 132±10/76±10 compared with 131±10/77±9, P=0.95/0.48, plasma renin activity (PRA) (ng/ml·h): 2.41±2.67 compared with 2.00±1.50 P=0.20, PAC (pg/ml): 77.3±31.0 compared with 67.4±24.8, P<0.05, urinary albumin excretion (UAE) (mg/gCr): 105.9±216.1 compared with 73.9±122.2, P<0.05. Thus, PAC at cilnidipine was significantly lower than those at amlodipine in spite of the comparable BP reductions. Besides, UAE was significantly lower at cilnidipine. In conclusion, on the top of the ARB, it is suggested that cilnidipine administration might lead to less elevation of PAC and reduction in UAE compared with amlodipine.
Compact diplexer using microstrip half‐ and quarter‐wavelength resonators
Authors: Yan Jun‐Mei , Zhou Hai‐Ying , Cao Liang‐Zu
Published: August 2016

This Letter presents a compact microstrip diplexer. The high‐frequency signal path is constructed by two electrically‐coupling half‐wavelength resonators, its external coupling adopts the tapped line structure. The low‐frequency signal path is formed by two magnetically‐coupling quarter‐wavelength resonators, its external coupling is accomplished by microstrip coupling lines, which are formed from the tapped line structure and resonator of the high‐frequency signal paths. The novel combination of the two signal path removes the need of T‐junction in conventional diplexers. Meantime, the coupling strength of the two pass bands at the input port can be separately designed. A diplexer with Chebyshev frequency response at both signal paths with the central frequencies of 1.8/2.4 GHz is designed, fabricated and measured. The measured results give a good agreement with the simulated ones, which verifies the effectiveness of the diplexer.
Energy efficiency maximisation for WPCN with distributed massive MIMO system
Authors: Kim W. , Yoon W.
Published: August 2016

A joint time allocation and energy beamforming method for the maximisation of the system energy efficiency (EE) in multi‐user multi‐cell wireless powered communication network (WPCN) with distributed massive multi‐input multi‐output (DM‐MIMO) system is proposed. An iterative algorithm to solve the EE maximisation problem is proposed. The simulation results show that the proposed scheme can achieve a significant EE gain. Further, it reveals that the achievable sum capacity of the DM‐MIMO is considerably higher than that of a conventional centralised massive multi‐input multi‐output system.
Rendering wide impedance band of ESA made of SRRs
Authors: Chen Peiwei , Peng Liang , Wu Aiting , Wang Gaofeng
Published: August 2016

Possessing outstanding miniaturisation potentialities and ability to produce strong electromagnetic resonance, split‐ring resonators (SRRs) are used to design an electrically small antenna (ESA). Here, a triple‐band ESA is constructed by integrating three different sized in‐plane SRRs. The resonant frequencies of these SRRs are tuned to be nearly equal. Shifting these SRRs to be non‐concentric, as a way to decrease the mutual interaction between them, a broadband ESA can be achieved by simply adding up the three SRRs’ respective impedance bandwidth. Numerical and experimental results for the ESA of 0.129λ0 × 0.129λ0 are presented. The relative bandwidth of the ESA fabricated in experiment is 7.21%, a number approximately three times than that of the usual single SRR‐based ESA.
Thomson scattering at general fusion
Authors: Young W. C. , Parfeniuk D.
Published: August 2016

This paper provides an overview of the Thomson scattering diagnostic in use at General Fusion, including recent upgrades and upcoming plans. The plasma experiment under examination produces temperatures in the 50-500 eV range with density on the order of 1020 m−3. A four spatial point collection optics scheme has been implemented, with plans to expand to six spatial points. Recent changes to the optics of the laser beamline have reduced stray light. The system employs a frequency doubled Nd:YAG laser (532 nm), a grating spectrometer, and a photomultiplier array based detector.
Seed layer technique for high quality epitaxial manganite films
Authors: Graziosi P. , Gambardella A. , Calbucci M. , O’Shea K. , MacLaren D. A. , Riminucci A. , Bergenti I. , Fugattini S. , Prezioso M. , Homonnay N. , Schmidt G. , Pullini D. , Busquets-Mataix D. , Dediu V.
Published: August 2016

We introduce an innovative approach to the simultaneous control of growth mode and magnetotransport properties of manganite thin films, based on an easy-to-implement film/substrate interface engineering. The deposition of a manganite seed layer and the optimization of the substrate temperature allows a persistent bi-dimensional epitaxy and robust ferromagnetic properties at the same time. Structural measurements confirm that in such interface-engineered films, the optimal properties are related to improved epitaxy. A new growth scenario is envisaged, compatible with a shift from heteroepitaxy towards pseudo-homoepitaxy. Relevant growth parameters such as formation energy, roughening temperature, strain profile and chemical states are derived.
Distributed parameter model and experimental validation of a compressive-mode energy harvester under harmonic excitations
Authors: Li H.T. , Yang Z. , Zu J. , Qin W. Y.
Published: August 2016

This paper presents the modeling and parametric analysis of the recently proposed nonlinear compressive-mode energy harvester (HC-PEH) under harmonic excitation. Both theoretical and experimental investigations are performed in this study over a range of excitation frequencies. Specially, a distributed parameter electro-elastic model is analytically developed by means of the energy-based method and the extended Hamilton’s principle. An analytical formulation of bending and stretching forces are derived to gain insight on the source of nonlinearity. Furthermore, the analytical model is validated against with experimental data and a good agreement is achieved. Both numerical simulations and experiment illustrate that the harvester exhibits a hardening nonlinearity and hence a broad frequency bandwidth, multiple coexisting solutions and a large-amplitude voltage response. Using the derived model, a parametric study is carried out to examine the effect of various parameters on the harvester voltage response. It is also shown from parametric analysis that the harvester’s performance can be further improved by selecting the proper length of elastic beams, proof mass and reducing the mechanical damping.
Linguistic dimensions of second language accent and comprehensibility
Authors: Crowther Dustin , Trofimovich Pavel , Isaacs Talia
Published: August 2016

The current study investigated the effect of listener status (native, nonnative) and language background (French, Mandarin) on global ratings of second language speech. Twenty-six nonnative English listeners representing the two language backgrounds (n = 13 each) rated the comprehensibility and accentedness of 40 French speakers of English. These same speakers were previously rated by native listeners and coded for 19 linguistic measures of speech (e.g., segmental errors, word stress errors, grammar accuracy) in Trofimovich and Isaacs (2012). Analyses indicated no difference in global ratings between nonnative and native listeners, or between the two nonnative listener groups. Similarly, no major differences in the linguistic dimensions associated with each group’s ratings existed. However, analyses of verbal reports for a subset of nonnative listeners (n = 5 per group) demonstrated that each group attributed their ratings to somewhat different linguistic cues.
Perceptual phonetic training improves production in larger discourse contexts
Authors: Huensch Amanda
Published: August 2016

Perceptual training can lead to improvements in production which generalize to new words and talkers. This study investigated the effects of perceptual training on productions in larger discourse contexts of continuous speech, and additionally examined whether training generalized to a new syllable structure and across grammatical domains. Participants included Korean L2 learners of English in a pretest-training-posttest design. An experimental group completed perceptual training on singleton coda palatals, and a control group completed training on an unrelated target. Results indicated that perceptual training on singleton coda palatals was successful in significantly improving learners’ productions in continuous speech. Learners were able to generalize production improvements to a new syllable structure (simple vs. complex coda), but not across grammatical domains (-ed morphemes). These findings provide further support for the use of perceptual training in pronunciation classrooms, but demonstrate some limitations to its generalizability.
The perception of Mandarin lexical tones by native Japanese adult listeners with and without Mandarin learning experience
Authors: Tsukada Kimiko , Kondo Mariko , Sunaoka Kazuko
Published: August 2016

Processing lexical tones is known to be difficult for non-native speakers from various language backgrounds. Perceptual accuracy of six Mandarin tone contrasts (T1–T2, T1–T3, T1–T4, T2–T3, T2–T4, T3–T4) of two groups of Japanese listeners (learners and non-learners) and a control group of Mandarin listeners were compared in Mandarin learning experience, phonetic context, and speaker gender. Both Japanese groups perceived T2–T3 poorly, but the learner group was significantly better than the non-learner group for this and the T1–T2 contrasts. The learners’ advantage was observed across various phonetic contexts (initial consonants and tone bearing vowels), suggesting that their tone perception was more stable and resistant to speaker variation. In regard to speaker gender, both Japanese groups perceived the T2–T3 contrast more poorly, and T1–T2 and T1–T4 contrasts more successfully, when produced by female speakers.
Confirming or asserting?
Authors: Andorno Cecilia , Rosi Fabiana
Published: August 2016

Yesandnoallow an easy management of talk-in-interaction and, unlike other classes of discourse markers, occur from early stages of L2 acquisition onwards (Perdue 1993; Bernini 1996, 2000; Andorno 2008a for L2 Italian). However, problems in their use can arise in replies to negative utterances such as “Didn’t you hear the news?”, “You didn’t read the news, did you?”, as in this case speakers have to choose one of the two conflicting values possibly encoded by the particles — either asserting a positive/negative polarity for the proposition at issue or confirming/reversing the negative polarity conveyed by the previous speaker. Since Pope (1973), a distinction has been drawn between languages with polarity-oriented particles, such as Englishyes/no, and languages with agreement-oriented particles, such as Japanesehai/iie. The study compares the use of Italiansì/noand other routines such as echo-constructions in native speakers and L2 learners with either a polarity-oriented or an agreement-oriented L1. Results show that cross-linguistic influence can affect the use ofsì/noin L2, as pointed for other domains of pragmatic competence (Gass & Selinker 1992; Kasper 1992; Jarvis & Pavlenko 2008). Results further show that, even when learners lack pragmalinguistic competence in the use of particles, they treat replies of confirmation or rejection differently, thus revealing sociopragmatic sensitivity similar to that of native speakers in recognising the markedness of disagreement replies.
“Well, I think that my argument is…,” or modality in a learner corpus of English
Authors: Bartley Leanne , Hidalgo-Tenorio Encarnación
Published: August 2016

Linguistic modality is the expression of the speaker’s subjectivity including possibility, probability, necessity, obligation, permission, prohibition, and desire. This paper analyses a learner English corpus collected at two Spanish universities, paying special attention to which linguistic devices (e.g., modal verbs, adjectives, adverbs or nouns) English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students make use of when providing for and against arguments in their assignments. Applying a corpus-based methodology not only enabled comparisons to be made with other native and non-native data but also facilitated both quantitative and qualitative analyses. The findings show remarkable similarities and differences, and leave several issues at stake: the relationship between the degree of assertiveness of a text and (1) the student’s gender, (2) their command of the Foreign Language (FL), and (3) their familiarity with the genre they are expected to write in.
Propuesta de tipología textual para el campo médico
Authors: Faya Ornia Goretti
Published: August 2016

El establecimiento de tipologías textuales permite reconocer los tipos de texto dominantes en un determinado género textual. Su empleo resulta especialmente útil en los estudios contrastivos que trabajan con un mismo género en dos lenguas diferentes o con dos géneros textuales distintos en una misma lengua. A pesar de su utilidad, no existe consenso en el establecimiento de tipologías textuales. En este trabajo, comenzaremos realizando un recorrido por las principales tipologías de corte especializado, y nos centraremos principalmente en el campo médico. Comentaremos además cuáles han sido las principales contribuciones de dichas tipologías, así como los elementos que convendría mejorar y los vacíos que quedan por cubrir. Finalmente daremos a conocer nuestra propia propuesta de tipología textual para el campo médico con la que trataremos de crear un marco claro en donde clasificar los géneros médicos.
Interferencia léxica y aprendizaje virtual
Authors: Garrido íñigo Paloma , Braga Riera Jorge
Published: August 2016

La investigación sobre el lenguaje turístico está adquiriendo cada vez mayor relevancia en los contextos educativos españoles, sobre todo en el ámbito universitario. Paralelamente, el número de palabras inglesas en el discurso castellano del Turismo no ha dejado de crecer, provocando niveles elevados de interferencia léxica. El objetivo de este artículo es ver en qué medida esta presencia del inglés se puede aplicar a la enseñanza del español para fines turísticos. Para ello, se ha utilizado un corpus que contiene conversaciones prototípicas. Los datos muestran múltiples préstamos y calcos léxicos, la mayoría de los cuales ya forman parte de la lengua española en la industria. Por lo tanto, y por medio de un mundo virtual creado con Opensim, se han diseñado actividades destinadas a facilitar la adquisición de este léxico en particular. El fin último de este estudio es concienciar de la presencia del inglés a los estudiantes de español como lengua extranjera, así como dotarles de habilidades que redunden en una mejora de sus niveles de producción lingüística.
Caracterización prosódica del inicio, desarrollo y final de noticia
Authors: Mas Manchón Lluís
Published: August 2016

La locución informativa constituye un discurso estable, modélico y complejo, que ha dado lugar a numerosos estudios sobre la eficacia de su estructura prosódica. En este estudio, se identifican las fases discursivas de la noticia y se estudia su caracterización prosódica. De una muestra de 94 segmentos discursivos de inicio, desarrollo y final de noticia, pertenecientes a cinco noticias de tres locutores y ámbitos temáticos diferentes de tres canales televisivos en España, se miden los siguientes rasgos prosódicos: tesitura, ritmo, número de picos tonales, intensidad media y rango tonal. A continuación se realiza un análisis factorial ANOVA. Los resultados muestran una significativa caracterización prosódica de la fase de inicio, con más picos tonales y un rango tonal mayor que las fases de desarrollo y final. Asimismo, se ha comprobado una gradación de mayor a menor tesitura y ritmo en las tres fases. A nivel de locutor, el nivel de estructuración prosódica del discurso noticia no mejora de forma sensible, ni en la locución estándar ni en los estilos natural o sensacionalista. Se concluye que la locución televisiva en España sigue dominada por una tradición textual que provoca vicios locutivos como la cantinela no vinculados al tipo de texto y al contenido de la información, lo que podría afectar a la eficacia del discurso oral.
Lengua y contenido significativo para motivar al aprendiente de lengua extranjera
Authors: Oliva Parera Pablo M. , Núñez Delgado María Pilar
Published: August 2016

La presente investigación surge por una necesidad de índole curricular en una clase de español como lengua extranjera de una universidad estadounidense. Se propone conocer la relación entre la metodología de instrucción de lenguas basadas en contenidos o CBI “Content-Based Instruction” y las repercusiones de ésta en la motivación. El grupo objeto de estudio tomó una clase CBI cuyo diseño consistía en temas abordados por los estudiantes en sus carreras de maestría en política internacional, medio ambiente y negocios en una universidad en Estados Unidos. El grupo de control tomó una clase que siguió un formato tradicional de enseñanza con un libro de texto. El resultado de la experiencia por un lado, mostró mayor motivación en los aprendientes en el grupo experimental que en el grupo de control y por otro, evidenció la relación íntima existente entre la actitud positiva hacia el aprendizaje de la L2 con los contenidos afines al itinerario de carreras de maestría de los estudiantes. El aporte de la investigación trajo aparejado cambios a nivel curricular en las clases CBI en los niveles intermedio bajo y medio respectivamente (ACTFL, 2012)
Studies on the probing stimulants for the white-backed planthopper, Sogatella furcifera (Homoptera: Delphacidae) in rice plant (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Zhan Zhi-Hui , Matsuo Akane , Oku Yasushi , Tebayashi Shin-ichi , Kim Chul-Sa
Published: August 2016

To elucidate the probing stimulants in rice plants for the white-backed planthopper, Sogatella furcifera, bioassay-guided separations were conducted, which led to the isolation of four active compounds. Using NMR and LC-MS spectra, their structures were determined as isoorientin 2″-O-(6‴-(E)-feruloyl)glucoside, isoorientin 2″-O-(6‴-(E)-p-coumaroyl)glucoside, tricin 5-O-glucoside, and isoscoparin 2″-O-(6‴-(E)-feruloyl)glucoside.
Emergence of partial locking states from the ensemble of Winfree oscillators
Authors: Ha Seung-Yeal , Ko Dongnam , Park Jinyeong , Ryoo Sang Woo
Published: August 2016

We study the emergence of partial locking states for a subsystem whose dynamics is governed by the Winfree model. The Winfree model is the first mathematical model for synchronization. Thanks to the lack of conservation laws except for the number of oscillators, it exhibits diverse asymptotic nonlinear patterns such as partial and complete phase locking, partial and complete oscillator death, and incoherent states. In this paper, we present two sufficient frameworks for a majority sub-ensemble to evolve to the phase-locked state asymptotically. Our sufficient frameworks are characterized in terms of the mass ratio of the subsystem compared to the total system, ratio of the coupling strength to the natural frequencies, and the phase diameter of the subsystem. We also provide several numerical simulations and compare their results to the analytical results.
EnhancerAtlas: a resource for enhancer annotation and analysis in 105 human cell/tissue types
Authors: Gao Tianshun , He Bing , Liu Sheng , Zhu Heng , Tan Kai , Qian Jiang
Published: August 2016

Motivation: Multiple high-throughput approaches have recently been developed and allowed the discovery of enhancers on a genome scale in a single experiment. However, the datasets generated from these approaches are not fully utilized by the research community due to technical challenges such as lack of consensus enhancer annotation and integrative analytic tools.

Results: We developed an interactive database, EnhancerAtlas, which contains an atlas of 2,534,123 enhancers for 105 cell/tissue types. A consensus enhancer annotation was obtained for each cell by summation of independent experimental datasets with the relative weights derived from a cross-validation approach. Moreover, EnhancerAtlas provides a set of useful analytic tools that allow users to query and compare enhancers in a particular genomic region or associated with a gene of interest, and assign enhancers and their target genes from a custom dataset.

Availability and Implementation: The database with analytic tools is available at http://www.enhanceratlas.org/.

Contact:  jiang.qian@jhmi.edu or tank1@email.chop.edu

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
NVT: a fast and simple tool for the assessment of RNA-seq normalization strategies
Authors: Eder Thomas , Grebien Florian , Rattei Thomas
Published: August 2016

Motivation: Measuring differential gene expression is a common task in the analysis of RNA-Seq data. To identify differentially expressed genes between two samples, it is crucial to normalize the datasets. While multiple normalization methods are available, all of them are based on certain assumptions that may or may not be suitable for the type of data they are applied on. Researchers therefore need to select an adequate normalization strategy for each RNA-Seq experiment. This selection includes exploration of different normalization methods as well as their comparison. Methods that agree with each other most likely represent realistic assumptions under the particular experimental conditions.

Results: We developed the NVT package, which provides a fast and simple way to analyze and evaluate multiple normalization methods via visualization and representation of correlation values, based on a user-defined set of uniformly expressed genes.

Availability and Implementation: The R package is freely available under https://github.com/Edert/NVT

Contact:  thomas.rattei@univie.ac.at

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
A Discussion of the Certification Officer Reforms
Authors: Cavalier Stephen , Arthur Richard
Published: August 2016

The Trade Union Act 2016 contains further changes to the role of the Certification Officer (CO) following the changes introduced by the Transparency of Lobbying, Non-Party Campaigning and Trade Union Administration Act 2014 which gave supervisory, investigative and enforcement powers over new membership record requirements designed to assist with legal challenges to industrial action. The enhanced powers of investigation and the ability to exercise powers without receiving a complaint from a trade union member are now applied across much of the CO’s jurisdiction. To these are added additional enforcement powers and the power to impose financial penalties, with the Secretary of State having power to make provision for the CO to impose a levy on trade unions. The role of the CO, now described by the Government as that of a ‘regulator’, is politicised to an unprecedented degree and is transformed into that of instigator, investigator, prosecutor, adjudicator and sentencer. Unlike even the measures introduced by Conservative governments from 1980 to 1997, the provisions fail to take account of the protection of trade union autonomy in international law. Having already optimised the opportunities for legal challenges to industrial action, these measures are designed to heap unwarranted administrative burdens and expense on trade unions.
Biosynthesis and molecular engineering of templated natural products
Authors: Chen Ming , Liu Jingyu , Duan Panpan , Li Mulin , Liu Wen
Published: August 2016

Bioactive small molecules that are produced by living organisms, often referred to as natural products (NPs), historically play a critical role in the context of both medicinal chemistry and chemical biology. How nature creates these chemical entities with stunning structural complexity and diversity using a limited range of simple substrates has not been fully understood. Focusing on two types of NPs that share a highly evolvable ‘template’-biosynthetic logic, we here provide specific examples to highlight the conceptual and technological leaps in NP biosynthesis and witness the area of progress since the beginning of the twenty-first century. The biosynthesis of polyketides, non-ribosomal peptides and their hybrids that share an assembly-line enzymology of modular multifunctional proteins exemplifies an extended ‘central dogma’ that correlates the genotype of catalysts with the chemotype of products; in parallel, post-translational modifications of ribosomally synthesized peptides involve a number of unusual biochemical mechanisms for molecular maturation. Understanding the biosynthetic processes of these templated NPs would largely facilitate the design, development and utilization of compatible biosynthetic machineries to address the challenge that often arises from structural complexity to the accessibility and efficiency of current chemical synthesis.
A platform for constructing, evaluating, and screening bioconjugates on the yeast surface
Authors: Van Deventer James A. , Le Doris N. , Zhao Jessie , Kehoe Haixing P. , Kelly Ryan L.
Published: August 2016

The combination of protein display technologies and noncanonical amino acids (ncAAs) offers unprecedented opportunities for the high throughput discovery and characterization of molecules suitable for addressing fundamental and applied problems in biological systems. Here we demonstrate that ncAA-compatible yeast display facilitates evaluations of conjugation chemistry and stability that would be challenging or impossible to perform with existing mRNA, phage, or E. coli platforms. Our approach enables site-specific introduction of ncAAs into displayed proteins, robust modification at azide-containing residues, and quantitative evaluation of conjugates directly on the yeast surface. Moreover, screening allows for the selective enrichment of chemically modified constructs while maintaining a genotype–phenotype linkage with encoded azide functionalities. Thus, this platform is suitable for the high throughput characterization and screening of libraries of chemically modified polypeptides for therapeutic lead discovery and other biological applications.
Host genetics affect microbial ecosystems via host immunity
Authors: El Kafsi Hela , Gorochov Guy , Larsen Martin
Published: August 2016

Purpose of review

Genetic evolution of multicellular organisms has occurred in response to environmental challenges, including competition for nutrients, climate change, physical and chemical stressors, and pathogens. However, fitness of an organism is dependent not only on defense efficacy, but also on the ability to take advantage of symbiotic organisms. Indeed, microbes not only encompass pathogenicity, but also enable efficient nutrient uptake from diets nondegradable by the host itself. Moreover, microbes play important roles in the development of host immunity. Here we review associations between specific host genes and variance in microbiota composition and compare with interactions between microbes and host immunity.

Recent findings

Recent genome-wide association studies reveal that symbiosis between host and microbiota is the exquisite result of genetic coevolution. Moreover, a subset of microbes from human and mouse microbiota have been identified to interact with humoral and cellular immunity. Interestingly, microbes associated with both host genetics and host immunity are taxonomically related. Most involved are Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Akkermansia, which are dually associated with both host immunity and host genetics.

We conclude that future therapeutics targeting microbiota in the context of chronic inflammatory diseases need to consider both immune and genetic host features associated with microbiota homeostasis.
Allergic manifestations of contact lens wearing
Authors: Solomon Abraham
Published: August 2016

Purpose of review

Contact lens-induced papillary conjunctivitis (CLPC) is a common ocular allergic disease in contact lens wearers. In its more severe form, it can cause giant papillary conjunctivitis, resulting in contact lens intolerance and the need to discontinue the use of contact lenses. This review presents the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and management guidelines of this common disorder.

Recent findings

Different types of contact lenses are associated with differences in the severity of CLPC. Refitting patients with silicone hydrogel contact lenses or with daily disposable contact lenses may improve the signs and symptoms of CLPC. The recent introduction of the topical immunomodulatory agent tacrolimus in other severe allergic eye diseases may apply in suppressing the allergic inflammation in CLPC as well.

CLPC is a common ocular disorder in contact lens wearers, with a significant impact on the quality of vision. It should be promptly recognized by healthcare practitioners and managed by modifications of the types and wearing schedules of contact lenses, as well as novel treatment options with topical immunomodulators.