bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Binocular Goggle Augmented Imaging and Navigation System provides real-time fluorescence image guidance for tumor resection and sentinel lymph node mapping
Authors: B. Mondal Suman , Gao Shengkui , Zhu Nan , Sudlow Gail P. , Liang Kexian , Som Avik , Akers Walter J. , Fields Ryan C. , Margenthaler Julie , Liang Rongguang , Gruev Viktor , Achilefu Samuel
Published: July 2015

The inability to identify microscopic tumors and assess surgical margins in real-time during oncologic surgery leads to incomplete tumor removal, increases the chances of tumor recurrence and necessitates costly repeat surgery. To overcome these challenges, we have developed a wearable goggle augmented imaging and navigation system (GAINS) that can provide accurate intraoperative visualization of tumors and sentinel lymph nodes in real-time without disrupting normal surgical workflow. GAINS projects both near-infrared fluorescence from tumors and the natural color images of tissue onto a head-mounted display without latency. Aided by tumor-targeted contrast agents, the system detected tumors in subcutaneous and metastatic mouse models with high accuracy (sensitivity = 100%, specificity = 98% ± 5% standard deviation). Human pilot studies in breast cancer and melanoma patients using a near-infrared dye show that the GAINS detected sentinel lymph nodes with 100% sensitivity. Clinical use of the GAINS to guide tumor resection and sentinel lymph node mapping promises to improve surgical outcomes, reduce rates of repeat surgery and improve the accuracy of cancer staging.
The virus-induced protein APOBEC3G inhibits anoikis by activation of Akt kinase in pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Wu Jia , Pan Tian-Hui , Xu Song , Jia Li-Tao , Zhu Lin-Lin , Mao Jian-Shan , Zhu Yong-Liang , Cai Jian-Ting
Published: July 2015

Pancreatic cancer is one of the more common cancers with a poor prognosis. Some varieties of cancer are related to virus infection. As a virus-induced protein, APOBEC3G (A3G) presents extensive anti-virus ability, but the role of A3G in pancreatic cancer was previously unknown. The expression of A3G in pancreatic cancer was examined using TaqMan real-time qPCR, immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent staining. Subsequently, the role of A3G in pancreatic cancer was evaluated in vivo using the tumor xenograft model. Anoikis was detected by colony formation assay and flow cytometry in vitro. The Akt kinase activity and target protein PTEN were examined by co-immunoprecipitation and immunoblot. The virus-induced protein A3G was significantly up-regulated in pancreatic cancer and the up-regulation of A3G promoted xenograft tumor formation. A3G inactivated PTEN by binding to the C2 tensin-type and PDZ domains, thereby inducing anoikis resistance through Akt activation. Our results demonstrate that the up-regulation of A3G in pancreatic cancer cells induces anoikis resistance and they provide novel insight into the mechanism by which A3G affects the malignant behavior of pancreatic cancer cells.
‘Spotted Nanoflowers’: Gold-seeded Zinc Oxide Nanohybrid for Selective Bio-capture
Authors: Perumal Veeradasan , Hashim U. , Gopinath Subash C.B. , Haarindraprasad R. , Foo K.L. , Balakrishnan S.R. , Poopalan P.
Published: July 2015

Hybrid gold nanostructures seeded into nanotextured zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoflowers (NFs) were created for novel biosensing applications. The selected ‘spotted NFs’ had a 30-nm-thick gold nanoparticle (AuNP) layer, chosen from a range of AuNP thicknesses, sputtered onto the surface. The generated nanohybrids, characterized by morphological, physical and structural analyses, were uniformly AuNP-seeded onto the ZnO NFs with an average length of 2–3 μm. Selective capture of molecular probes onto the seeded AuNPs was evidence for the specific interaction with DNA from pathogenic Leptospirosis-causing strains via hybridization and mis-match analyses. The attained detection limit was 100 fM as determined via impedance spectroscopy. High levels of stability, reproducibility and regeneration of the sensor were obtained. Selective DNA immobilization and hybridization were confirmed by nitrogen and phosphorus peaks in an X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. The created nanostructure hybrids illuminate the mechanism of generating multiple-target, high-performance detection on a single NF platform, which opens a new avenue for array-based medical diagnostics.
Age-related changes in platelet function are more profound in women than in men
Authors: Cowman Jonathan , Dunne Eimear , Oglesby Irene , Byrne Barry , Ralph Adam , Voisin Bruno , Müllers Sieglinde , Ricco Antonio J. , Kenny Dermot
Published: July 2015

Age is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), however the effect of age on platelet function remains unclear. Ideally, platelet function should be assayed under flow and shear conditions that occur in vivo. Our study aimed to characterise the effect of age on platelet translocation behaviour using a novel flow-based assay that measures platelet function in less than 200 μl of blood under conditions of arterial shear. Blood from males (n = 53) and females (n = 56), ranging in age from 19–82 and 21–70 respectively were perfused through custom-made parallel plate flow chambers coated with immobilised human von Willebrand Factor (VWF) under arterial shear (1,500s−1). Platelet translocation behaviour on VWF was recorded by digital-image microscopy and analysed. The study showed that aging resulted in a significant decrease in the number of platelet tracks, translocating platelets and unstable platelet interactions with VWF. These age related changes in platelet function were more profound in women than in men indicating that age and gender significantly impacts on platelet interactions with VWF.
Poplar PdMYB221 is involved in the direct and indirect regulation of secondary wall biosynthesis during wood formation
Authors: Tang Xianfeng , Zhuang Yamei , Qi Guang , Wang Dian , Liu Huanhuan , Wang Kairong , Chai Guohua , Zhou Gongke
Published: July 2015

Wood is formed by the successive addition of secondary xylem, which consists of cells with a conspicuously thickened secondary wall composed mainly of cellulose, xylan and lignin. Currently, few transcription factors involved in the direct regulation of secondary wall biosynthesis have been characterized in tree species. Here, we show that PdMYB221, a poplar ortholog of the Arabidopsis R2R3-MYB transcription factor AtMYB4, directly regulates secondary wall biosynthesis during wood formation. PdMYB221 is predominantly expressed in cells of developing wood and the protein it encodes localizes to the nucleus and acts as a transcriptional repressor. Ectopic expression of PdMYB221 resulted in reduced cell wall thicknesses of fibers and vessels in Arabidopsis inflorescence stems. The amounts of cellulose, xylose and lignin were decreased and the expression of key genes synthesizing the three components was suppressed in PdMYB221 overexpression plants. Transcriptional activation assays showed that PdMYB221 repressed the promoters of poplar PdCESA7/8, PdGT47C, PdCOMT2 and PdCCR1. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays revealed that PdMYB221 bound directly to the PdCESA8, PdGT47C and PdCOMT2 promoters. Together, our results suggest that PdMYB221 may be involved in the negative regulation of secondary wall formation through the direct and indirect suppression of the gene expression of secondary wall biosynthesis.
Dopamine modulates hemocyte phagocytosis via a D1-like receptor in the rice stem borer, Chilo suppressalis
Authors: Wu Shun-Fan , Xu Gang , Stanley David , Huang Jia , Ye Gong-Yin
Published: July 2015

Dopamine (DA) is a signal moiety bridging the nervous and immune systems. DA dysregulation is linked to serious human diseases, including addiction, schizophrenia and Parkinson’s disease. However, DA actions in the immune system remain incompletely understood. In this study, we found that DA modulates insect hemocyte phagocytosis using hemocytes prepared from the rice stem borer (RSB), Chilo suppressalis. We investigated whether insect hemocytes are capable of de novo DA production. Here we show that exposing hemocytes to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) led to induction of DA-generating enzymes. Exogenous DA induced rapid phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in naïve hemocytes. Activation of ERK was inhibited by preincubating with a DOP1 receptor antagonist. Thus, DA signaling via the DOP1 receptor may contribute to early hemocyte activation. DA synthesized and released from hemocytes may act in an autocrine mechanism to stimulate or maintain phagocytic activity. Consistent with this hypothesis, we found that inhibition of DA synthesis with α-methyl-DL-tyrosine methyl ester hydrochloride or blockage of DOP1 receptor with antagonist SCH23390 impaired hemocyte phagocytosis. Topical DA application also significantly decreased RSB mortality following challenge with the insect pathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana. We infer that a DA-dependent signaling system operates in hemocytes to mediate phagocytotic functions.
Intrachain antiferromagnetic exchange in a 1D branched-chain built of two different copper(ii) centres interlinked by end-on azido and phenoxo bridges: electron density map, electrochemical and magnetic properties
Authors: Fadaee Farzaneh , Amirnasr Mehdi , Prša Krunoslav , Pattison Philip , Shaik Noore Elahi , Rønnow Henrik M. , Esrafili Mehdi D. , Omrani Arash A. , Amiri Ahmad , Schenk-Joß Kurt
Published: July 2015

A 1D, end-on azido- and phenoxo-bridged, coordination polymer, [Cu2(μ-NAPPR)(μ1,1-N3)2]n (1), (NAPPR2− = 1,3-bis(naphthylideneimino)propane dianion), was synthesized and characterized.
Fluorescence sensing of ADP over ATP and PPi in 100% aqueous solution
Authors: Huang Feihu , Hao Gefei , Wu Fengxu , Feng Guoqiang
Published: July 2015

A dinuclear Zn(ii)–DPA complex shows significant fluorescence enhancement for ADP over ATP, PPi, AMP and Pi in water.
A tetracycline-selective fluorescent biosensor using anthranilic acid immobilized on a glutaraldehyde-coated eggshell membrane
Authors: Wang Anyi , Bai Yunfei , Gao Hongye , Wang Shiping
Published: July 2015

Immobilizing anthranilic acid as a fluorescent probe on an eggshell membrane to achieve detection of tetracyclineviathe fluorescence inner filter effect.
Protein-engineered scaffolds for in vitro 3D culture of primary adult intestinal organoids
Authors: DiMarco Rebecca L. , Dewi Ruby E. , Bernal Gabriela , Kuo Calvin , Heilshorn Sarah C.
Published: July 2015

A family of recombinant, protein-engineered mimics of the extracellular matrix were used to identify the microenvironmental factors that impact the 3D culture efficiency of primary adult intestinal organoids.
[N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone][C1–C4 carboxylic acid]: a novel solvent system with exceptional lignin solubility
Authors: Mu Liwen , Shi Yijun , Chen Long , Ji Tuo , Yuan Ruixia , Wang Huaiyuan , Zhu Jiahua
Published: July 2015

Novel solvent systems composed ofN-methyl-2-pyrrolidone and carboxylic acid outperform the conventional solvents and ionic liquids in lignin dissolution capability.
Intrinsic magnetic properties of bimetallic nanoparticles elaborated by cluster beam deposition
Authors: Dupuis V. , Khadra G. , Hillion A. , Tamion A. , Tuaillon-Combes J. , Bardotti L. , Tournus F.
Published: July 2015

Chemical order effects and intrinsic magnetic properties of well-defined bimetallic L10 CoPt-type, B2 FeRh-type and core/shell CoAu-type nanoalloys.
Incorporation of Zn2+ ions into BaTiO3:Er3+/Yb3+ nanophosphor: an effective way to enhance upconversion, defect luminescence and temperature sensing
Authors: Mahata Manoj Kumar , Koppe Tristan , Mondal Tanusree , Brüsewitz Christoph , Kumar Kaushal , Kumar Rai Vineet , Hofsäss Hans , Vetter Ulrich
Published: July 2015

A route to enhance optical functionality in ferroelectric barium titanate is reported herein.
Molecular weight growth in Titan's atmosphere: branching pathways for the reaction of 1-propynyl radical (H3CCC˙) with small alkenes and alkynes
Authors: Kirk Benjamin B. , Savee John D. , Trevitt Adam J. , Osborn David L. , Wilson Kevin R.
Published: July 2015

Reaction of 1-propynyl radical with propyne and propene yields primarily methyl loss over hydrogen elimination. The implications of this result on molecular weight growth in Titan's atmosphere are discussed.
Stability, equilibrium morphology and hydration of ZrC(111) and (110) surfaces with H2O: a combined periodic DFT and atomistic thermodynamic study
Authors: Osei-Agyemang Eric , Paul Jean-Francois , Lucas Romain , Foucaud Sylvie , Cristol Sylvain
Published: July 2015

ZrC is a non-oxide ultra-high temperature ceramic (UHTC) material with excellent physical and mechanical properties used in nuclear plants and jet propulsion engines.
Determination of the optical gap bowing parameter for ternary Ni1−xZnxO cubic rocksalt solid solutions
Authors: Singh S. D. , Nandanwar V. , Srivastava Himanshu , Yadav A. K. , Bhakar Ashok , Sagdeo P. R. , Sinha A. K. , Ganguli Tapas
Published: July 2015

The optical gap bowing parameter of ternary Ni1−xZnxO solid solutions is determined to be b = −0.93 ± 0.05 eV, where the negative value of the bowing indicates a repulsive interaction between the ligand O-2p and metal Ni-3d orbitals.
Annual air pollution caused by the Hungry Ghost Festival
Authors: Khezri B. , Chan Y. Y. , Tiong L. Y. D. , Webster R. D.
Published: July 2015

The burning of joss paper, incense and papier-mâché objects as offerings during the annual Hungry Ghost Festival months (August and September) results in increases in many elements and ions detected in atmospheric particulate matter (< 2.5 micron) and rain water.
Prebiotic effect of Agave fourcroydes fructans: an animal model
Authors: García-Curbelo Yanelys , Bocourt Ramón , Savón Lourdes L. , García-Vieyra Maria Isabel , López Mercedes G.
Published: July 2015

The use of prebiotics such as fructans has increased in human and animal nutrition because of their productive performance and health benefits.
Probing gas-phase interactions of peptides with “naked” metal ions
Authors: Yin Zhibin , Liu Rong , Sun Binwen , Hang Wei
Published: July 2015

An alternative method for probing gas-phase interactions of “naked” metal ions with peptides by using the atmospheric pressure LI–ESI technique has been proposed.
An enolato-bridged dinuclear Cu(ii) complex with a coumarin-assisted precursor: a spectral, magnetic and biological study
Authors: Das Kuheli , Panda Uttam , Datta Amitabha , Roy Suman , Mondal Sudipa , Massera Chiara , Askun Tulin , Celikboyun Pinar , Garribba Eugenio , Sinha Chittaranjan , Anand Kushi , Akitsu Takashiro , Kobayashi Kana
Published: July 2015

Coumarin assisted dinuclear [Cu2(L)2(DMF)2] (1) shows weak ferromagnetic interaction and a geometric distortion occurs while lowering the temperature in EPR.
Faceted metal and metal oxide nanoparticles: design, fabrication and catalysis
Authors: Pal Jaya , Pal Tarasankar
Published: July 2015

The review focuses on the recent advances in the synthesis and catalytic applications of different low- and high-index-faceted nanomaterials.
Domino reactions of diazodicarbonyl compounds with α,β-unsaturated δ-amino esters: a convenient way towards 2-oxopiperidines, dihydropyridinones and isoquinolinediones
Authors: Medvedev J. J. , Meleshina M. V. , Panikorovskii T. L. , Schneider C. , Nikolaev V. A.
Published: July 2015

Thermal decomposition of a series of diazodicarbonyl compounds in the presence of α,β-unsaturated δ-amino esters and sodium hydride gives rise to a variety of nitrogenous heterocycles.
High-performance polymer field-effect transistors fabricated with low-bandgap DPP-based semiconducting materials
Authors: Mao Zupan , Zhang Weifeng , Huang Jianyao , Shi Keli , Gao Dong , Chen Zhihui , Yu Gui
Published: July 2015

New π-conjugated D–A copolymers PDMOTT-n combining a diketopyrrolopyrrole unit and a 3,6-dimethoxythieno[3,2-b]thiophene moiety were synthesized, and their field-effect performances were successfully characterized.
Unexpected fluorescence from polymers containing dithio/amino-succinimides
Authors: Yan Junjie , Zheng Bin , Pan Donghui , Yang Runlin , Xu Yuping , Wang Lizhen , Yang Min
Published: July 2015

Nonfluorescent succinimides become fluorescent only by thiol and amine group substitutions, without employing any fluorescent units.
Investigation of demulsification efficiency in water-in-crude oil emulsions using dissipative particle dynamics
Authors: Song Xianyu , Shi Peng , Duan Ming , Fang Shenwen , Ma Yongzhang
Published: July 2015

Demulsification efficiency with alternating hydrophobic blocks of the polyether is investigated by dissipative particle dynamics.
Isatin N2-diphenylhydrazones: new easily synthesized Vis-Vis molecular photoswitches
Authors: Cigáň M. , Gáplovský M. , Jakusová K. , Donovalová J. , Horváth M. , Filo J. , Gáplovský A.
Published: July 2015

An easily synthesized new type of Vis-Vis molecular switches based on hydrazone CN bond photoisomerization and isatin NH group deprotonation.
Removal of dyes and heavy metal ions from water by magnetic hydrogel beads based on poly(vinyl alcohol)/carboxymethyl starch-g-poly(vinyl imidazole)
Authors: Sekhavat Pour Zahra , Ghaemy Mousa
Published: July 2015

Highly porous magnetic nanocomposite hydrogel (m-CVP) beads were prepared and used for the removal of dyes and heavy metal ions.
Study on the high hydrophobicity and its possible mechanism of textile fabric with structural colors of three-dimensional poly(styrene-methacrylic acid) photonic crystals
Authors: Liu Guojin , Zhou Lan , Wang Cuicui , Wu Yujiang , Li Yichen , Fan Qinguo , Shao Jianzhong
Published: July 2015

The fabrics with P(St-MAA) photonic crystals possess high hydrophobicity and vivid structural colors. The possible mechanism of hydrophobicity and model of water droplets on the resultant fabric are investigated.
Ferroelectric domain structure evolution in Ba(Zr0.1Ti0.9)O3/(Ba0.75Ca0.25)TiO3heterostructures
Authors: Zhu Xiao Na , Xu Xing , Harrell Zach , Guo Ruyan , Bhalla Amar S. , Zhang Minghui , Jiang Jiechao , Chen Chonglin , Chen Xiang Ming
Published: July 2015

The piezo response is greatly strengthened by the interface effect and twining structures in Ba(Zr,Ti)O3/(Ba,Ca)TiO3multilayered heterostructures.
Synthesis of 5-substituted-3H-[1,3,4]-oxadiazol-2-one derivatives: a carbon dioxide route (CDR)
Authors: Brahmayya M. , Dai Shenghong A. , Suen S.-Y.
Published: July 2015

Access to a series of 5-substituted-3(H)-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-one derivatives is described directly using the greenhouse gas CO2.
Study on the enzyme's 1,3-positional specificity during lipozyme TL-mediated biodiesel production
Authors: Li Renwang , Du Wei , Lu Dianlan , Dai Lingmei , Liu Dehua
Published: July 2015

Effect of organic solvent on lipase's 1,3-positional specificity from a kinetics study. Effect of water activity on lipase's 1,3-positional specificity from a kinetics study. Molecular dynamics simulation to reveal the mechanism.
Selectivity-column temperature relationship as a new strategy in predicting separation of structural analogues in HPLC by using different stationary phases
Authors: Han Shu-ying , Yu Hui-min , Pei Yu-qiong , Chi Yu-mei
Published: July 2015

The effect of changes in column temperature on van't Hoff equation, as well as relationship of separation and column temperature in high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) by using different stationary phases, have been discussed and compared.
Luminescence properties and crystal structure of α′-Sr2Si3x/4O2Nx:Eu2+ phosphors with different concentrations of N3− ions
Authors: Li Xiaojun , Hua Youjie , Ma Hongping , Deng Degang , Jia Guohua , Xu Shiqing
Published: July 2015

This picture is used for graphical abstract because it highlight the change of PL intensity in disorder α′-SSON:Eu2+.
Solid phase synthesis of functionalized indazoles using triazenes – scope and limitations
Authors: Garcia Ana Maria , Jung Nicole , Gil Carmen , Nieger Martin , Bräse Stefan
Published: July 2015

In this study, we present a modular synthesis of highly substituted indazoles via a strategy on solid supports.
An optimized mild reduction route towards excellent cobalt–graphene catalysts for water oxidation
Authors: Phihusut Doungkamon , Ocon Joey D. , Lee Jae Kwang , Lee Jaeyoung
Published: July 2015

A highly active and stable cobalt–graphene electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is produced by optimizing the reduction condition of graphene oxide in terms of temperature and time.
A photoswitchable organocatalyst based on a catalyst-imprinted polymer containing azobenzene
Authors: Liu Hua-dong , Zheng An-xun , Gong Cheng-bin , Ma Xue-bing , Hon-Wah Lam Michael , Chow Cheuk-fai , Tang Qian
Published: July 2015

Photoinduced trans → cis isomerization of azobenzene releases the catalyst and switches the reaction from the “OFF state” to “ON state”.
Doxycycline conjugated with polyvinylpyrrolidone-encapsulated silver nanoparticles: a polymer's malevolent touch against Escherichia coli
Authors: Silva Heloiza F. O. , Lima Kássio M. G. , Cardoso Mateus B. , Oliveira Jessica F. A. , Melo Maria C. N. , Sant'Anna Celso , Eugênio Mateus , Gasparotto Luiz H. S.
Published: July 2015

The interaction of PVP-capped silver nanoparticles with doxycycline enhances bactericidal properties.
Wear rate of a TiAl matrix composite containing 10 wt% Ag predicted using the Newton interpolation method
Authors: Yang Kang , Shi Xiaoliang , Zhai Wenzheng , Mahmoud Ibrahim Ahmed Mohamed
Published: July 2015

Small wear debris was formed with an increase in sliding time t, resulting in the formation of anti-friction films, lowering of the wear rate of TiAl-10 wt% Ag and stabilization of the prediction accuracy of the prediction formula W4(t).
Nanotopological-tailored calcium phosphate cements for the odontogenic stimulation of human dental pulp stem cells through integrin signaling
Authors: Lee So-Youn , Yun Hyung-Mun , Perez Roman A. , Gallinetti Sara , Ginebra Maria-Pau , Choi Seong-Jun , Kim Eun-Cheol , Kim Hae-Won
Published: July 2015

Nanotopological-tailored calcium phosphate cements stimulate odontogenesis of human dental pulp cells through integrin-mediated signaling pathways.
Teaching assistants' perceptions of a training to support an inquiry-based general chemistry laboratory course
Authors: Wheeler Lindsay B. , Maeng Jennifer L. , Whitworth Brooke A.
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this qualitative investigation was to better understand teaching assistants' (TAs') perceptions of training in a guided inquiry undergraduate general chemistry laboratory context. The training was developed using existing TA training literature and informed by situated learning theory. TAs engaged in training prior to teaching (∼25 hours) and attended weekly meetings throughout the year (∼60 hours). Assessment of training utilized a constructivist framework to understand TAs' perceptions of training in supporting their implementation of guided inquiry in the laboratory. Participants included 20 graduate TAs and 8 undergraduate TAs of varying teaching experience. Data collection included three open-ended surveys across the academic year and two semi-structured interviews with a purposefully sampled subset of TAs. Data were analyzed using systematic data analysis (Miles and Huberman, 1994). Results indicated different aspects of the training were helpful for different subgroups of participants. For example, going over logistics and completing the experiments were most helpful for TAs with no previous teaching experience while discussing learning theory was least helpful for TAs whose future career goals were research-focused. Analyzing participants' experiences and perceptions through a situated learning theory lens suggested TAs with little prior teaching experience appreciated the authentic experiences (e.g., experiments and grading) provided by the training. The results of the study suggest TA training should address prior experiences, particularly language and teaching, as well as the larger context of research and future careers. Future research will focus on examining how TAs learn within a situated training and how that impacts TA beliefs, practices, and student learning.
Heat treatment of ZnO nanoparticles: new methods to achieve high-purity nanoparticles for high-voltage applications
Authors: Pourrahimi A. M. , Liu D. , Ström V. , Hedenqvist M. S. , Olsson R. T. , Gedde U. W.
Published: July 2015

New methods based on orientation and coating of ZnO nanoparticles were attempted in order to remove crystal defects and pores without undesirable grain/particle sintering during heat treatment.
Transition metal nanoparticles dispersed in an alumina matrix as active and stable catalysts for COx-free hydrogen production from ammonia
Authors: Gu Ying-Qiu , Jin Zhao , Zhang Hu , Xu Rong-Jie , Zheng Ming-Jiang , Guo Yu-Mei , Song Qi-Sheng , Jia Chun-Jiang
Published: July 2015

Transition metal (Fe, Co, and Ni) nanoparticles dispersed in an alumina matrix were synthesized by a facile co-precipitation method and showed excellent catalytic performance for NH3 decomposition.
Perovskites for photovoltaics: a combined review of organic–inorganic halide perovskites and ferroelectric oxide perovskites
Authors: Fan Zhen , Sun Kuan , Wang John
Published: July 2015

This review compares organic–inorganic halide perovskites and ferroelectric oxide perovskites, both of which are emerging as new promising photovoltaic materials.
Direct evidence of the efficient hole collection process of the CoOx cocatalyst for photocatalytic reactions: a surface photovoltage study
Authors: Li Shuo , Hou LiBo , Zhang Lijing , Chen Liping , Lin Yanhong , wang Dejun , Xie Tengfeng
Published: July 2015

The true effect of a cocatalyst on photocatalytic reactions is one of the major issues in photocatalysis research.
Novel Co-akermanite (Ca2CoSi2O7) bioceramics with the activity to stimulate osteogenesis and angiogenesis
Authors: Tian Tian , Han Yan , Ma Bing , Wu Chengtie , Chang Jiang
Published: July 2015

Both osteogenesis and angiogenesis of bioactive materials play the vital role in the regeneration of large skeletal defects.
Carrier dilution in TiSe2 based intergrowth compounds for enhanced thermoelectric performance
Authors: Bauers S. R. , Merrill D. R. , Moore D. B. , Johnson D. C.
Published: July 2015

Synthesis and electrical properties of kinetically stabilized (PbSe)1+δ(TiSe2)n thin-film intergrowths are reported for 1 ≤ n ≤ 18. The carriers donated to the TiSe2 from PbSe are diluted with increasing n, leading to a systematic increase in the Seebeck coefficient and thermoelectric power factor.
Toward high thermoelectric performance p-type FeSb2.2Te0.8via in situ formation of InSb nanoinclusions
Authors: Tan Gangjian , Chi Hang , Liu Wei , Zheng Yun , Tang Xinfeng , He Jian , Uher Ctirad
Published: July 2015

The InSb nanoinclusions formed in situ at the grain boundaries of FeSb2.2Te0.8 mitigates the mobility degradation while the added grain boundaries effectively scatter heat-carrying phonons. This novel “electron-channel phonon-barrier” nanocompositing approach opens a new route to design high performance thermoelectric materials.
Acoustic Characteristics of Stop Consonants in Children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Authors: Bolinger Christopher , Dembowski James
Published: July 2015

Speech of children with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) has been little studied compared to language. Becker, Warr-Leeper, and Leeper (1990), found a relationship between prenatal alcohol exposure, oral motor control, and speech articulation. Behavioral tests suggest deficits in focal oral motor control specific to children with FAS (Bolinger & Dembowski, 2010). The current project extends that investigation through acoustic measures. Peak and mean frequencies of stop consonant releases were used to infer control of place of articulation. Voice onset time (VOT) was used to infer articulatory-laryngeal coordination. Preliminary measures on 3 experimental speakers and 2 matched neurotypical controls suggest higher stop consonant frequencies in the experimental group, with a poorer distinction between alveolar and velar stops than in the control group. Voiced VOT values were significantly longer for FAS children than for controls. Mean voiceless VOTs were similar across groups, but substantially more variable for the FAS children. Values may be interpreted as acoustic evidence for specific speech motor control deficits in FAS children relative to matched neurotypical children.
The Impact of Dizziness on the Quality of Life of 235 Individuals who Completed Vestibular Testing in Brazil
Authors: Burle Najlla , Abreu Ana , Santos Juliana , Mancini Patricia
Published: July 2015

Introduction In Vestibular Testing (VT), caloric tests allow evaluation of unilateral weakness (UW) and directional preponderance (DP), where different criteria of normality are adopted in Brazil and worldwide. The Brazilian version of the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (Brazilian DHI) evaluates the impact of dizziness on the quality of life of an individual.

Objectives The objective of this research is to evaluate the impact of dizziness on the quality of life of patients undergoing VT, and to relate these findings to the results obtained according to national and international criteria.

Methods Cross-sectional analytic study of 235 patients referred for VT in two hospitals. The authors performed the Brazilian DHI, history, static, and dynamic balance tests, positional nystagmus, and the Dix-Hallpike maneuver, as well as vectoelectronystagmography. Subjects were divided into three groups according to UW and DP values. Descriptive statistics and comparisons between groups were performed, considering a significance level of 5% in all analyses.

Results Patients groups had 20.9% men, and 79.1% women. There was no significant difference between groups for the scores obtained in the Brazilian DHI. There was, however, a statistically significant difference in the redistribution of individuals according to the UW and DP values.

Conclusion There was no relationship between VT results and the impact of dizziness in the quality of life. A review of normal values for UW and DP adopted in Brazil is suggested, as well as the application of the Brazilian DHI as an additional tool to evaluate the impact of dizziness on quality of life in all patients undergoing VT.
Approach-Related Complications of Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion: Results of a Combined Spine and Vascular Surgical Team
Authors: Mobbs Ralph J. , Phan Kevin , Daly Daniel , Rao Prashanth J. , Lennox Andrew
Published: July 2015

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected cohort data.

Objective

Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) is a commonly performed procedure for the treatment of degenerative diseases of the lumbar spine. Detailed and comprehensive descriptions of intra- and postoperative complications of ALIF are surprisingly limited in the literature. In this report, we describe our experience with a team model for ALIF and report all complications occurring in our patient series.

Methods

Patients were prospectively enrolled between January 2009 and January 2013 by a combined spine surgeon and vascular surgeon team. All patients underwent an open ALIF using an anterior approach to the lumbosacral spine.

Results

From the 227 ALIF cases, mean operative blood loss was 103 mL, ranging from 30 to 900 mL. Mean operative time was 78 minutes. The average length of stay was 5.2 days. Intraoperative vascular injury requiring primary repair with suturing occurred in 15 patients (6.6%). There were 2 cases of postoperative retroperitoneal hematoma. Three patients (1.3%) had incisional hernia requiring revision surgery; 7 (3.1%) patients had prolonged ileus (>7 days) managed conservatively. Four patients described retrograde ejaculation. Sympathetic dysfunction occurred in 15 (6.6%) patients. There were 5 (2.2%) cases of superficial wound infection treated with oral antibiotics, with no deep wound infections requiring reoperation or intravenous therapy. There were no mortalities in this series.

Conclusions

ALIF is a safe procedure when performed by a combined vascular surgeon and spine surgeon team with acceptably low complication rates. Our series confirms that the team approach results in short operative times and length of stay, with rapid control of intraoperative vessel injury and low overall blood loss.
Intrinsic space charge layers and field enhancement in ferroelectric nanojunctions
Authors: Cao Ye , Ievlev Anton V. , Morozovska Anna N. , Chen Long-Qing , Kalinin Sergei V. , Maksymovych Petro
Published: July 2015

Conducting characteristics of topological defects in ferroelectric materials, such as charged domain walls, engendered a broad interest on their scientific merit and the possibility of novel applications utilizing domain engineering. At the same time, the problem of electron transport in ferroelectrics still remains full of unanswered questions and becomes yet more relevant over the growing interest in ferroelectric semiconductors and new improper ferroelectric materials. We have employed self-consistent phase-field modeling to investigate the physical properties of a local metal-ferroelectric (Pb(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O3) junction in applied electric field. We revealed an up to 10-fold local enhancement of electric field realized by large polarization gradient and over-polarization effects due to inherent non-linear dielectric properties of Pb(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O3. The effect is independent of bias polarity and maintains its strength prior, during and after ferroelectric switching. The observed field enhancement can be considered on similar grounds as increased doping level, giving rise to reduced switching bias and threshold voltages for charge injection, electrochemical and photoelectrochemical processes.
Analytical theory of the space-charge region of lateral p-n junctions in nanofilms
Authors: Gurugubelli Vijaya Kumar , Karmalkar Shreepad
Published: July 2015

There is growing interest in fabricating conventional semiconductor devices in a nanofilm which could be a 3D material with one reduced dimension (e.g., silicon-on-insulator (SOI) film), or single/multiple layers of a 2D material (e.g., MoS2), or a two dimensional electron gas/two dimensional hole gas (2DEG/2DHG) layer. Lateral p-n junctions are essential parts of these devices. The space-charge region electrostatics in these nanofilm junctions is strongly affected by the surrounding field, unlike in bulk junctions. Current device physics of nanofilms lacks a simple analytical theory of this 2D electrostatics of lateral p-n junctions. We present such a theory taking into account the film's thickness, permittivity, doping, interface charge, and possibly different ambient permittivities on film's either side. In analogy to the textbook theory of the 1D electrostatics of bulk p-n junctions, our theory yields simple formulas for the depletion width, the extent of space-charge tails beyond this width, and the screening length associated with the space-charge layer in nanofilm junctions; these formulas agree with numerical simulations and measurements. Our theory introduces an electrostatic thickness index to classify nanofilms into sheets, bulk and intermediate sized.
Gyrokinetic studies of trapped electron mode turbulence in the Helically Symmetric eXperiment stellarator
Authors: Faber B. J. , Pueschel M. J. , Proll J. H. E. , Xanthopoulos P. , Terry P. W. , Hegna C. C. , Weir G. M. , Likin K. M. , Talmadge J. N.
Published: July 2015

Gyrokinetic simulations of plasma microturbulence in the Helically Symmetric eXperiment are presented. Using plasma profiles relevant to experimental operation, four dominant drift wave regimes are observed in the ion wavenumber range, which are identified as different flavors of density-gradient-driven trapped electron modes. For the most part, the heat transport exhibits properties associated with turbulence driven by these types of modes. Additionally, long-wavelength, radially localized, nonlinearly excited coherent structures near the resonant central flux surface, not predicted by linear simulations, can further enhance flux levels. Integrated heat fluxes are compatible with experimental observations in the corresponding density gradient range. Despite low shearing rates, zonal flows are observed to regulate turbulence but can be overwhelmed at higher density gradients by the long-wavelength coherent structures.
The efficiency of Raman amplification in the wavebreaking regime
Authors: Edwards Matthew R. , Toroker Zeev , Mikhailova Julia M. , Fisch Nathaniel J.
Published: July 2015

We compare previous analytic predictions, Vlasov-Maxwell simulations, and particle-in-cell results with a new set of comprehensive one and two dimensional particle-in-cell simulations in an effort to clarify apparent discrepancies between the predictions of different models for the efficiency of Raman amplification in the wavebreaking regime. We find reasonable agreement between our particle-in-cell simulations and previous results from Vlasov-Maxwell simulations and analytic work, suggesting a monotonic decrease in conversion efficiency for increased pump intensities past the wavebreaking threshold.
Kinetic description of linear wave propagation in inhomogeneous, nonstationary, anisotropic, weakly magnetized, and collisional plasma
Authors: Bénisti Didier
Published: July 2015

This paper addresses the linear propagation of an electron wave in a plasma whose distribution function, at zero order in the wave amplitude, may be chosen arbitrarily, provided that it is not strongly peaked at the wave phase velocity, and that it varies very little over one wave period and one wavelength. Then, from first principles is derived an equation for the wave action density that allows for Landau damping, whose rate is calculated at first order in the variations of the wave number and frequency. Moreover, the effect of collisions is accounted for in a way that adapts to any choice for the collision operator in Boltzmann equation. The wave may also be externally driven, so that the results presented here apply to stimulated Raman scattering.
High-resolution vacuum-ultraviolet photoabsorption spectra of 1-butyne and 2-butyne
Authors: Jacovella U. , Holland D. M. P. , Boyé-Péronne S. , Gans B. , de Oliveira N. , Joyeux D. , Archer L. E. , Lucchese R. R. , Xu H. , Pratt S. T.
Published: July 2015

The absolute photoabsorption cross sections of 1- and 2-butyne have been recorded at high resolution by using the vacuum-ultraviolet Fourier-Transform spectrometer at the SOLEIL Synchrotron. Both spectra show more resolved structure than previously observed, especially in the case of 2-butyne. In this work, we assess the potential importance of Rydberg states with higher values of orbital angular momentum, l, than are typically observed in photoabsorption experiments from ground state molecules. We show how the character of the highest occupied molecular orbitals in 1- and 2-butyne suggests the potential importance of transitions to such high-l (l = 3 and 4) Rydberg states. Furthermore, we use theoretical calculations of the partial wave composition of the absorption cross section just above the ionization threshold and the principle of continuity of oscillator strength through an ionization threshold to support this conclusion. The new absolute photoabsorption cross sections are discussed in light of these arguments, and the results are consistent with the expectations. This type of argument should be valuable for assessing the potential importance of different Rydberg series when sufficiently accurate direct quantum chemical calculations are difficult, for example, in the n ≥ 5 manifolds of excited states of larger molecules.
Battery-powered pulsed high density inductively coupled plasma source for pre-ionization in laboratory astrophysics experiments
Authors: Chaplin Vernon H. , Bellan Paul M.
Published: July 2015

An electrically floating radiofrequency (RF) pre-ionization plasma source has been developed to enable neutral gas breakdown at lower pressures and to access new experimental regimes in the Caltech laboratory astrophysics experiments. The source uses a customized 13.56 MHz class D RF power amplifier that is powered by AA batteries, allowing it to safely float at 3–6 kV with the electrodes of the high voltage pulsed power experiments. The amplifier, which is capable of 3 kW output power in pulsed (<1 ms) operation, couples electrical energy to the plasma through an antenna external to the 1.1 cm radius discharge tube. By comparing the predictions of a global equilibrium discharge model with the measured scalings of plasma density with RF power input and axial magnetic field strength, we demonstrate that inductive coupling (rather than capacitive coupling or wave damping) is the dominant energy transfer mechanism. Peak ion densities exceeding 5 × 1019 m−3 in argon gas at 30 mTorr have been achieved with and without a background field. Installation of the pre-ionization source on a magnetohydrodynamically driven jet experiment reduced the breakdown time and jitter and allowed for the creation of hotter, faster argon plasma jets than was previously possible.
Generation and diagnostics of pulsed intense ion beams with an energy density of 10 J/cm2
Authors: Isakova Yu. , Pushkarev A. , Khailov I. , Zhong H.
Published: July 2015

The paper presents the results of a study on transportation and focusing of a pulsed ion beam at gigawatt power level, generated by a diode with explosive-emission cathode. The experiments were carried out with the TEMP-4M accelerator operating in double-pulse mode: the first pulse is of negative polarity (500 ns, 100-150 kV), and this is followed by a second pulse of positive polarity (120 ns, 200-250 kV). To reduce the beam divergence, we modified the construction of the diode. The width of the anode was increased compared to that of the cathode. We studied different configurations of planar and focusing strip diodes. It was found that the divergence of the ion beam formed by a planar strip diode, after construction modification, does not exceed 3° (half-angle). Modification to the construction of a focusing diode made it possible to reduce the beam divergence from 8° to 4°-5°, as well as to increase the energy density at the focus up to 10-12 J/cm2, and decrease the shot to shot variation in the energy density from 10%-15% to 5%-6%. When measuring the ion beam energy density above the ablation threshold of the target material (3.5-4 J/cm2), we used a metal mesh with 50% transparency to lower the energy density. The influence of the metal mesh on beam transport has been studied.
A systematic study of segregation for ZnxBi1−x liquid binary alloys
Authors: Kasem Md. Riad , Bhuiyan G. M. , Maruf Md. Helal Uddin
Published: July 2015

We have investigated the segregating properties of ZnxBi1−x liquid binary alloys through the thermodynamic route that involves both energy of mixing and entropy of mixing. The perturbation approach is used for effective numerical calculations. Results of our calculations agree well with corresponding experimental data for energy and entropy of mixing in the mixed state. The final prediction of segregating properties such as critical concentration and critical temperature also matches reasonably well with experimental data. Most importantly, both energy of mixing and entropy of mixing have produced almost same values for critical concentration and critical temperature of segregation and thus confirm the reliability of the present approach.
Maximum power point computation using current–voltage data from open and short circuit regions of photovoltaic module: A teaching learning based optimization approach
Authors: Patel Sanjaykumar J. , Kumar Gaurav , Panchal Ashish K. , Kheraj Vipul
Published: July 2015

Solar photovoltaic module operating with constant solar irradiance needs entire power (P)-voltage (V) curve tracing to find the maximum power point (MPP), if perturb and observe or incremental conductance algorithms are used. Therefore, there is a need of an algorithm which tracks the MPP without tracing entire P-V curve. This paper focuses on an MPP prediction method which is only based on a few data collected in the open-circuit and short-circuit regions of current (I)–voltage (V) curves of a cell or a module. The work presented here assumes I-V curve of a module to follow I-V power relation, I = aVb + c. The power model coefficients a, b, and c are determined by teaching-learning based optimization. The voltage at the MPP (Vmp) is computed by correlating the incremental conductance algorithm with the I-V power model and thereafter power at the MPP (Pmax) is obtained. The effectiveness of the algorithm is confirmed by applying it to the reported I-V curve of different types of solar cells. The obtained values of Vmp and Pmax are found to be in excellent agreement with their reported values. The algorithm is successfully applied to experimentally measured I-V curves of a silicon cell and a module.
Role of the dopant aluminum for the growth of sputtered ZnO:Al investigated by means of a seed layer concept
Authors: Sommer Nicolas , Stanley Mishael , Köhler Florian , Mock Jan , Hüpkes Jürgen
Published: July 2015

This work elucidates the effect of the dopant aluminum on the growth of magnetron-sputtered aluminum-doped zinc oxide (ZnO:Al) films by means of a seed layer concept. Thin (<100 nm), highly doped seed layers and subsequently grown thick (∼800 nm), lowly doped bulk films were deposited using a ZnO:Al2O3 target with 2 wt. % and 1 wt. % Al2O3, respectively. We investigated the effect of bulk and seed layer deposition temperature as well as seed layer thickness on electrical, optical, and structural properties of ZnO:Al films. A reduction of deposition temperature by 100 °C was achieved without deteriorating conductivity, transparency, and etching morphology which renders these low-temperature films applicable as light-scattering front contact for thin-film silicon solar cells. Lowly doped bulk layers on highly doped seed layers showed smaller grains and lower surface roughness than their counterpart without seed layer. We attributed this observation to the beneficial role of the dopant aluminum that induces an enhanced surface diffusion length via a surfactant effect. The enhanced surface diffusion length promotes 2D-growth of the highly doped seed layer, which is then adopted by the subsequently grown and lowly doped bulk layer. Furthermore, we explained the seed layer induced increase of tensile stress on the basis of the grain boundary relaxation model. The model relates the grain size reduction to the tensile stress increase within the ZnO:Al films. Finally, temperature-dependent conductivity measurements, optical fits, and etching characteristics revealed that seed layers reduced grain boundary scattering. Thus, seed layers induced optimized grain boundary morphology with the result of a higher charge carrier mobility and more suitable etching characteristics. It is particularly compelling that we observed smaller grains to correlate with an enhanced charge carrier mobility. A seed layer thickness of 5 nm was sufficient to induce the beneficial effects.
Shock-induced melting of honeycomb-shaped Cu nanofoams: Effects of porosity
Authors: Zhao F. P. , Li B. , Jian W. R. , Wang L. , Luo S. N.
Published: July 2015

We investigate shock-induced melting in honeycomb-shaped Cu nanofoams with extensive molecular dynamics simulations. A total of ten porosities (ϕ) are explored, ranging from 0 to 0.9 at an increment of 0.1. Upon shock compression, void collapse leads to local melting followed by supercooling at low shock strengths. Superheating occurs at ϕ≤0.1. Both supercooling of melts and superheating of solid remnants are transient, and the equilibrated shock states eventually fall on the equilibrium melting curve for partial melting. However, phase equilibrium has not been achieved on the time scale of simulations in supercooled Cu liquid (from completely melted nanofoams). The temperatures for incipient and complete melting are related to porosity via a power law, (1−ϕ)k, and approach the melting temperature at zero pressure as ϕ→1.