bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular richness of the diffuse interstellar medium: a signpost of turbulent dissipation
Authors: Falgarone Edith , Godard Benjamin , Forêts Guillaume Pineau des , Gerin Maryvonne
Published: March 2015

The Herschel/HIFI absorption spectroscopy surveys reveal the unexpected molecular richness of the Galactic diffuse ISM, even in gas of very low average H2 molecular fraction. In particular, two hydrides, CH+ and SH+ with highly endoenergetic formation routes have abundances that challenge models of UV-driven chemistry. The intermittent dissipation of turbulence appears as a plausible additional source of energy for the diffuse ISM chemistry. We present recent results of the so-called models of Turbulent Dissipation Regions (TDR). The abundances of many of the molecules observed in the diffuse ISM, including CO that is used as a tracer of the molecular clouds mass, may be understood in the framework of the TDR models.
Gravitational fragmentation of the Carina Flare supershell
Authors: Wünsch Richard
Published: March 2015

We study the gravitational fragmentation of a thick shell comparing the analytical theory to 3D hydrodynamic simulations and to observations of the Carina Flare supershell. We use both grid-based (AMR) and particle-based (SPH) codes to follow the idealised model of the fragmenting shell and found an excellent agreement between the two codes. Growth rates of fragments at different wavelength are well described by the pressure assisted gravitational instability (PAGI) - a new theory of the thick shell fragmentation. Using the APEX telescope we observe a part of the surface of the Carina Flare supershell (GSH287+04-17) in the 13CO(2–1) line. We apply a new clump-finding algorithm DENDROFIND to identify 50 clumps. We determine the clump mass function and we construct the minimum spanning tree connecting clumps positions to estimate the typical distance among clumps. We conclude that the observed masses and distances correspond well to the prediction of PAGI.
Statistical study of the ISM of GRB hosts
Authors: de Ugarte Postigo A. , Fynbo J. P. U. , Thöne C. C. , Christensen L. , Gorosabel J. , Sánchez-Ramírez R.
Published: March 2015

Gamma-ray burst (GRB) afterglows shine, during a brief period of time as the most luminous objects that can be detected in the Universe. They have been observed at almost any redshift, from our nearby environment (the nearest one, at z = 0.08) to the very distant Universe (the current record holder at z = 9.4). Their optical spectra are well reproduced by a clean, simple power law, making them ideal light houses to probe the interstellar medium of their host galaxies at any redshift. We have used the largest sample of GRB afterglow spectra collected to date to perform a statistical study of the interstellar medium in their host galaxies. By analysing the distribution of equivalent widths of the most prominent absorption features we evaluate the different types of environments that host GRBs and study their diversity.
Knowing the people who come to public astronomical observatories: The case of Akita prefecture, Japan
Authors: Kawamura N.
Published: March 2015

The purpose of this research is to know and gain a better understanding of people who come to astronomical observatories and to find out more about their experiences and thoughts on astronomy. To find some of the issues about science communication in astronomy, the author carried out questionnaire research studies involving high school students and junior high school and elementary school teachers.
Exploring science and technology through the Herschel space observatory
Authors: Minier V. , Rouzé M.
Published: March 2015

Because modern astronomy associates the quest of our origins and high-tech instruments, communicating and teaching astronomy explore both science and technology. We report here on our work in communicating astronomy to the public through Web sites (www.herschel.fr), movies on Dailymotion (www.dailymotion.com/AstrophysiqueTV) and new ITC tools that describe interactively the technological dimension of a space mission for astrophysics.
Hinode, the Sun, and public outreach
Authors: Yaji K. , Tonooka H. , Shimojo M. , Tokimasa N. , Suzuki D. , Nakamichi A. , Shimoikura I.
Published: March 2015

Extended Abstract

Hinode is a solar observation satellite in Japan and its launch was in September 2006. Its name means “SUNRISE“ in Japanese. It has three instruments onboard in visible light, X-ray, EUV to solve mystery of coronal heating and origins of magnetic fields.

Hinode has been providing us with impressive solar data, which are very important for not only investigating solar phenomena but also giving new knowledge about the sun to the public. In order to efficiently communicate Hinode data to the public, we organized working group for public use of Hinode data. which are composed of both researchers and educators in collaboration. As follow, we introduce our activities in brief.

For the public use of Hinode data, at first, we produced two DVDs introducing Hinode observation results. In particular, second DVD contains a movie for kids, which are devloped to picturebook. Now, it is under producing an illustrated book and a planetarium program. It turn out that the DVDs help the public understand the sun from questionnaire surveys. Second, we developed teaching materials from Hinode data and had a science classroom about the sun, solar observations, practice with PC such as imaging software at junior high school. As the results, they had much interests in Hinode data. Third, we have joint observations with high school students and so on in a few years. The students compare their own data with Hinode data and have a presentation at science contests. The joint observations make their motivation higher in their activities.

It is important to record and report our activities in some ways. So, we positively publish papers and have presentions in domestic/international meetings. Though we are supported in budget, resources and so on by NAOJ Hinode Team, we apply research funds for promoting our EPO activities and acquire some funds such as NAOJ Joint Research Expenses and Grands-Aid for Scientific Research Funds since the launch.

This way, since its launch, we have continued various and constant EPO activities for the public use of Hinode data and have been giving intense impacts and high interest to the public. As the result, our activities contribute in further extension of Hinode Mission. Those are quite unique and would be reference of other similar ones. Hinode is now operating and solar activities might get more higher.

As long as SUN RISE, we would GO FORWARD!!
Mitaka “Taiyokei“ (solar system) walk; a collaborative science outreach program by institues, local government, and shopping stores
Authors: Handa T. , Agata H. , Ooasa S. , Karasaki K. , Kitahori N. , Arai M. , Ohta A. , Nishino K. , Ishii T. , Yoshida C. , Taguchi T. , Totsuka E. , Watanabe S. , Fukaya H. , Kakihana Y. , Inoue A , Itabashi K. , Yoshida E. , Ikeda K. , Saito K. , Kamoshita T.
Published: March 2015

It is difficult to get a real scale image of the solar system through lecture. A scale model is a classical and one of good solutions (e.g. Handa et al.2003, Handa et al.2008). Through this model, people living in or visiting to the city can physically understand the scale of the solar system. This scale gives 1 cm for Earth's diameter and 115 m for 1 AU. However, some gadget is required to make it attractive for public citizens.
A Global view of the Eclipse over the Earth (GEE) in 2009 and 2012
Authors: Handa T. , Hata K. , Hara T. , Horaguchi T. , Hiramatsu M. , Arai T. , Sato Y. , Ohnishi K.
Published: March 2015

A solar eclipse is one of the most popular events in astronomy. Although it is the single astronomical event, it gives different images from place to place and changes in time. It is the most important message from astronomy to the public that an apparent face depends on the viewpoint and we should get the comprehensive view.
Communicating astronomy by the Unizul Science Centre
Authors: Beesham A. , Beesham N.
Published: March 2015

The University of Zululand, situated along the east coast of KwaZulu-Natal, has a thriving Science Centre (USC) situated in the developing port city of Richards Bay. Over 30 000 learners visit the centre annually, and it consists of an exhibition area, an auditorium, lecture areas and offices. The shows consist of interactive games, science shows, competitions, quizzes and matriculation workshops. Outreach activities take place through a mobile science centre for schools and communities that cannot visit the centre.
LAMOST and China-VO
Authors: Zhao Yongheng
Published: March 2015

LAMOST is a special reflecting Schmidt telescope used to observe ten million spectra of celestial objects. There are about half million spectra released in the pilot survey of LAMOST. In the “Big Data“ era of astronomy, Virtual Observatory will play an important role to make use of those massive spectral data of LAMOST.
Knowledge Discovery Workflows in the Exploration of Complex Astronomical Datasets
Authors: D'Abrusco Raffaele , Fabbiano Giuseppina , Laurino Omar , Massaro Francesco
Published: March 2015

The massive amount of data produced by the recent multi-wavelength large-area surveys has spurred the growth of unprecedentedly massive and complex astronomical datasets that are proving the traditional data analysis techniques more and more inadequate. Knowledge discovery techniques, while relatively new to astronomy, have been successfully applied in several other quantitative disciplines for the determination of patterns in extremely complex datasets. The concerted use of different unsupervised and supervised machine learning techniques, in particular, can be a powerful approach to answer specific questions involving high-dimensional datasets and degenerate observables. In this paper I will present CLaSPS, a data-driven methodology for the discovery of patterns in high-dimensional astronomical datasets based on the combination of clustering techniques and pattern recognition algorithms. I shall also describe the result of the application of CLaSPS to a sample of a peculiar class of AGNs, the blazars.
Galaxy Zoo: Outreach and Science Hand in Hand
Authors: Masters Karen L. ,   the Galaxy Zoo Team
Published: March 2015

Galaxy Zoo (www.galaxyzoo.org) is familiar to many as a hugely successful public engagement project. Hundreds of thousands of members of the public have contributed to Galaxy Zoo which collects visual classifications of galaxies in Sloan Digital Sky Survey and Hubble Space Telescope images. Galaxy Zoo has inspired a suite of similar Citizen Science projects known as “The Zooniverse“ (www.zooniverse.org) which now has well over half a million participants. Galaxy Zoo has also shown itself, in a series of peer reviewed papers, to be a fantastic database for the study of galaxy evolution. In this invited talk I described how that public engagement via citizen science is not only an effective means of outreach from data intensive surveys, but if done right can and must also increase the scientific output of the survey.
Unexplained Spectral Phenomena in the Interstellar Medium
Authors: Kwok Sun
Published: March 2015

We present an overview of the present observational status of unexplained spectral phenomena in the ISM. The possibility of organic molecules and solids as the carrier of the DIB, 217 nm feature, ERE, UIR, and the 21 and 30 μm features is discussed.
Amorphous Hydrocarbon Optical Properties
Authors: Jones Anthony
Published: March 2015

Hydrogenated amorphous carbon materials, a-C(:H), whose optical properties evolve in response to UV irradiation processing are promising candidate materials for cosmic carbonaceous dust. The optical properties of a:C(:H) particles have been derived as a function of size, band gap and hydrogen content over a wide wavelength range (EUV-cm) and can be used to investigate the size-dependent evolution of a-C(:H) material properties in the ISM.
Synthesis and Transformation of Carbonaceous Nanoparticles
Authors: Mennella Vito
Published: March 2015

The physical properties of carbonaceous nanoparticles depend on the production conditions. In addition, these properties are modified by heat, UV and ion irradiation and gas interaction. We will discuss the synthesis and transformation of carbon nanoparticles that have been proposed as carriers of aromatic and aliphatic spectroscopic features observed in the interstellar medium.
China in Action – Starry Sky Project of China
Authors: Wang Xiaohua , Wang Yifeng , Ren Hui
Published: March 2015

Two pilot Starlight Parks and Protection Areas are under planning.
Knowing What is Best
Authors: Griffin R. E. M.
Published: March 2015

Already, and with good reason, light pollution is recognized as one of the most damaging legacies that current “civilization“ is bequeathing to its children. Denying them the opportunity, even the right, to experience visually the majesty and awe of the universe has obvious repercussions for our science, and other contributors to this meeting are addressing those eloquently. But it is also critically important to place light pollution in the cadre of the general environmental degradation which unbridled technology is causing. The amount of power consumed by one outdoor light is only a minuscule drop in the ocean, but enough of those drops make an ocean. Using low-wattage bulbs, and getting more power out of them via halogen or LED technology, can ease the drain on the supply of power, but when several can be run, and run brighter, than a single tungsten lamp and cost is the only goal, the consumer simply installs more of them.

We all hope for a restored and sustainable environment, but the challenge is first to learn and practice the essential difference between “want“ and “need”. A more specific challenge is to educate the affluent countries about the deleterious effects of nighttime lights on human health and on other bio-systems and species, and to explain the truth about “security“ issues. If astronomers place the needs of their own science too foremost they risk the criticism of selfishness: why are our own scientific requirements more important than the pleasure and health benefits of a whole town in pursuing sports activities outdoors after sunset? How can the need to illuminate streets, intersections, parking lots and to deter intruders be less necessary for personal and community safety and wellbeing than some rather esoteric scientific opportunities for a small population of astronomers?

Dark Sky Preserves are a lovely concept but they are not the full answer; reducing light pollution is the responsibility of every citizen, and ensuring good astronomical conditions in a few remote parks must does not excuse the prevailing cavalier attitudes that are causing light pollution to be blithely accelerated everywhere else.

The solution is Education, and for astronomers the key is to tone down the astronomically important and to emphasize the many general benefits of reducing light pollution. It is only when the non-astronomical community starts offering the astronomical advantages too of its own volition that we will see true progress in fighting this most pervasive of modern environmental disasters.
Night of Darkness Campaign: Make Light Pollution Something Everybody Cares About
Authors: Pas Friedel
Published: March 2015

To battle light pollution issues, influence the market so that customers request only good lighting. An important factor in doing this is to convince decision makers that light pollution is something the whole society cares about. This article gives an overview of an existing campaign that does this and emphasizes some important factors to consider in your campaign.
The Night Sky Monitoring Network in Hong Kong
Authors: Pun Chun S. J. , So Chu W. , Wong Chung F. T.
Published: March 2015

The Night Sky Monitoring Network is a project that aims to study the extent, distribution, and properties of the light pollution condition in the populous metropolis of Hong Kong. Continuous measurements of the Night Sky Brightness (NSB) at strategically chosen locations that cover a wide range of population density and land usage were made, with over 2.5 million NSB readings collected in 18 months up to June 2012. Results from the project are presented, with focus on the contrast between the urban and rural night sky profiles, and light pollution contributions from artificial lightings. This project is supported by the Environment and Conservation Fund of the Hong Kong SAR government (ECF 10/2009, ECF 1/2007).
The Effects of Lamp Spectral Distribution on Sky Glow over Observatories
Authors: Luginbuhl C. B. , Boley P. A. , Davis D. R. , Duriscoe D. M.
Published: March 2015

Using a wavelength-generalized version of the Garstang (1991) model, we evaluate overhead sky glow as a function of distance up to 300 km, from a variety of lamp types, including common gas discharge lamps and several types of LED lamps. We conclude for both professional, and especially cultural (visual), astronomy, that low-pressure sodium and narrow-spectrum amber LED lamps cause much less sky glow than all broad-spectrum sources.
Summaries of SpS17 Discussions IAU GA 2012 Special Session on Light Pollution
Authors: Walker Constance E. , Parks Bob , McKenna Dan , Sefako Ramotholo , Smith Malcolm , Galadí-Enríquez David
Published: March 2015

To address light pollution issues, IAU Commissions 41, 46, 50, and 55 are involved in getting the word out to the public and IAU members via cultural, educational, technical; however, efforts can always improve and evolve. To carry out a successful light pollution abatement program supported by the IAU, it takes a diversity of groups, professions, and disciplines with their collective knowledge and experience. In manifesting dark skies awareness effectively, we are stronger together than we are alone; therefore, combining efforts of Commissions 41, 46, 50 and 55 with organizations like the International Dark-Sky Association, Astronomers Without Borders, The World at Night and partnering with events like Earth Hour or GLOBE at Night is a good step forward.
Insights From Twin Research: Conference at Royal Childrens Hospital, Melbourne, Australia / Twin Studies: Timing of Monozygotic Splitting and Commentary; Gestational Diabetes; ICOMBO’S Post-Partum Depression Study; Photographs of Conjoined Twins / Human Interest: Rare Quadruplets; Mistaken Identity on the Soccer Field; Prenatal Laser Surgery on Triplets; Twins Born to Prince and Princess of Monaco
Authors: Segal Nancy L.
Published: March 2015

Highlights from a conference, ‘Healthier Kids: Insights From Twin Research’, held in Melbourne, Australia on December 5, 2014, are summarized. In addition to informative and exciting presentations and discussions of recent findings, three key themes emerged: (1) results from twin research have important implications for non-twins, (2) researchers from diverse disciplines should be encouraged to participate actively in twin research, and (3) investigators, twins and families need to work more collaboratively. Next, papers and studies concerning the biological bases of monozygotic (MZ) twinning, gestational diabetes and post-partum depression are reviewed. Finally, general interest reports of rare quadruplets, mistaken identity, prenatal laser surgery and a royal twin birth are provided.
Fabrication of three-dimensionally interconnected nanoparticle superlattices and their lithium-ion storage properties
Authors: Jiao Yucong , Han Dandan , Ding Yi , Zhang Xianfeng , Guo Guannan , Hu Jianhua , Yang Dong , Dong Angang
Published: March 2015

Three-dimensional superlattices consisting of nanoparticles represent a new class of condensed materials with collective properties arising from coupling interactions between close-packed nanoparticles. Despite recent advances in self-assembly of nanoparticle superlattices, the constituent materials have been limited to those that are attainable as monodisperse nanoparticles. In addition, self-assembled nanoparticle superlattices are generally weakly coupled due to the surface-coating ligands. Here we report the fabrication of three-dimensionally interconnected nanoparticle superlattices with face-centered cubic symmetry without the presynthesis of the constituent nanoparticles. We show that mesoporous carbon frameworks derived from self-assembled supercrystals can be used as a robust matrix for the growth of nanoparticle superlattices with diverse compositions. The resulting interconnected nanoparticle superlattices embedded in a carbon matrix are particularly suitable for energy storage applications. We demonstrate this by incorporating tin oxide nanoparticle superlattices as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, and the resulting electrochemical performance is attributable to their unique architectures.
Double-scattering/reflection in a Single Nanoparticle for Intensified Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Zhang Kun , Chen Hangrong , Guo Xiasheng , Zhang Dong , Zheng Yuanyi , Zheng Hairong , Shi Jianlin
Published: March 2015

Ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs) designed by the conventional composition-based strategy, often suffer from relatively low ultrasound utilization efficiency. In this report, a structure-based design concept of double-scattering/reflection in a single nanoparticle for enhancing ultrasound imaging has been proposed. To exemplify this concept, a rattle-type mesoporous silica nanostructure (MSN) with two contributing interfaces has been employed as the ideal model. Contributed by double-scattering/reflection interfaces, the rattle-type MSN, as expected, performs much better in in vitro and in vivo ultrasound imaging than the other two nanostructures (solid and hollow) containing only one scattering/reflection interface. More convincingly, related acoustic measurements and simulation calculations also confirm this design concept. Noticeably, the rattle-type MSN has also been demonstrated capable of improving intracellular ultrasound molecular imaging. As a universal method, the structure-design concept can extend to guide the design of new generation UCAs with many other compositions and similar structures (e.g., heterogeneous rattle-type, double-shelled).
Centrosome maturation requires YB-1 to regulate dynamic instability of microtubules for nucleus reassembly
Authors: Kawaguchi Atsushi , Asaka Masamitsu N. , Matsumoto Ken , Nagata Kyosuke
Published: March 2015

Microtubule formation from the centrosome increases dramatically at the onset of mitosis. This process is termed centrosome maturation. However, regulatory mechanisms of microtubule assembly from the centrosome in response to the centrosome maturation are largely unknown. Here we found that YB-1, a cellular cancer susceptibility protein, is required for the centrosome maturation. Phosphorylated YB-1 accumulated in the centrosome at mitotic phase. By YB-1 knockdown, microtubules were found detached from the centrosome at telophase and an abnormal nuclear shape called nuclear lobulation was found due to defective reassembly of nuclear envelope by mis-localization of non-centrosomal microtubules. In conclusion, we propose that YB-1 is important for the assembly of centrosomal microtubule array for temporal and spatial regulation of microtubules.
Photo-induced optical activity in phase-change memory materials
Authors: Borisenko Konstantin B. , Shanmugam Janaki , Williams Benjamin A. O. , Ewart Paul , Gholipour Behrad , Hewak Daniel W. , Hussain Rohanah , Jávorfi Tamás , Siligardi Giuliano , Kirkland Angus I.
Published: March 2015

We demonstrate that optical activity in amorphous isotropic thin films of pure Ge2Sb2Te5 and N-doped Ge2Sb2Te5N phase-change memory materials can be induced using rapid photo crystallisation with circularly polarised laser light. The new anisotropic phase transition has been confirmed by circular dichroism measurements. This opens up the possibility of controlled induction of optical activity at the nanosecond time scale for exploitation in a new generation of high-density optical memory, fast chiroptical switches and chiral metamaterials.
Uterine artery impedance during the first eight postpartum weeks
Authors: Guedes-Martins L. , Gaio A. R. , Saraiva J. , Cunha A. , Macedo F. , Almeida H.
Published: March 2015

The aim of this study was to construct reference ranges for the uterine artery (UtA) mean pulsatility (PI) and resistance (RI) indices from 1–8 weeks postpartum. A prospective, cross-sectional and observational study was performed with 320 healthy women from week 1 through week 8 postpartum. UtAs were examined transvaginally using colour and pulsed Doppler imaging and the means of the right and left values of the PI and RI, as well as the presence or absence of a bilateral protodiastolic notch, were recorded. The 5th, 50th and 95th reference percentile curves for the UtA-PI and UtA-RI were derived using regression models. The adjusted reference intervals uncovered a convergence trend at the week 8 time-point, although impedance was lower at the week 1 time-point in multiparous women compared with primiparous women. The notching prevalence was 22.5% (9/40) at week 1 and 95.0% (38/40) at week 8. The study revealed consistent evidence of a progressive increase of postpartum uterine impedance and provided new average UtA-PI and UtA-RI reference charts for weeks 1 through 8. Multiparity does not change the trend but does impart a lower rate of increase, likely as a consequence of previous vascular structural and functional differences.
Selective chemical binding enhances cesium tolerance in plants through inhibition of cesium uptake
Authors: Adams Eri , Chaban Vitaly , Khandelia Himanshu , Shin Ryoung
Published: March 2015

High concentrations of cesium (Cs+) inhibit plant growth but the detailed mechanisms of Cs+ uptake, transport and response in plants are not well known. In order to identify small molecules with a capacity to enhance plant tolerance to Cs+, chemical library screening was performed using Arabidopsis. Of 10,000 chemicals tested, five compounds were confirmed as Cs+ tolerance enhancers. Further investigation and quantum mechanical modelling revealed that one of these compounds reduced Cs+ concentrations in plants and that the imidazole moiety of this compound bound specifically to Cs+. Analysis of the analogous compounds indicated that the structure of the identified compound is important for the effect to be conferred. Taken together, Cs+ tolerance enhancer isolated here renders plants tolerant to Cs+ by inhibiting Cs+ entry into roots via specific binding to the ion thus, for instance, providing a basis for phytostabilisation of radiocesium-contaminated farmland.
Label free sensing of creatinine using a 6 GHz CMOS near-field dielectric immunosensor
Authors: Guha S. , Warsinke A. , Tientcheu Ch. M. , Schmalz K. , Meliani C. , Wenger Ch.
Published: March 2015

In this work we present a CMOS high frequency direct immunosensor operating at 6 GHz (C-band) for label free determination of creatinine.
Structural and functional changes in high-density lipoprotein induced by chemical modification
Authors: Murakami Tatsuya , Okamoto Haruki , Kim Hyungjin
Published: March 2015

The timing of TRITC–apoA-I conjugation significantly influences the structural and functional properties of reconstituted HDL particles.
Amplification of light collection in solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells via the antenna effect through supramolecular assembly
Authors: Louahem M’Sabah Bilel , Boucharef Mourad , Warnan Julien , Pellegrin Yann , Blart Errol , Lucas Bruno , Odobel Fabrice , Bouclé Johann
Published: March 2015

Efficient energy transfer steps from an organic antenna bound via supramolecular interactions to an organic dyad are demonstrated within solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells.
Synthesis of bifunctional molecules containing [12]aneN3 and coumarin moieties as effective DNA condensation agents and new non-viral gene vectors
Authors: Yue Pan , Zhang Ying , Guo Zhi-Fo , Cao Ao-Cheng , Lu Zhong-Lin , Zhai Yong-Gong
Published: March 2015

Bifunctional molecules with different combinations of [12]aneN3 and coumarin moieties were successfully applied in DNA condensation and gene transfection.
A novel 1,8-naphthalimide derivative with an open space for an anion: unique fluorescence behaviour depending on the binding anion's electrophilic properties
Authors: Izawa Hironori , Nishino Shoji , Sumita Masato , Akamatsu Masaaki , Morihashi Kenji , Ifuku Shinsuke , Morimoto Minoru , Saimoto Hiroyuki
Published: March 2015

We have designed a novel 1,8-naphthalimide derivative with an open space for an anion.
Effect of SiO2/Al2O3 ratio on the activities of CoRu/ZSM-5 Fischer–Tropsch synthesis catalysts
Authors: Yao Man , Yao Nan , Liu Bin , Li Shuo , Xu Lijun , Li Xiaonian
Published: March 2015

Interaction between Co and framework defects decreases the activity of the ZSM-5-supported CoRu catalyst in the FTS reaction.
High-quality hydrogen generated from formic acid triggered by in situ prepared Pd/C catalyst for fuel cells
Authors: Lv Qing , Feng Ligang , Hu Chaoquan , Liu Changpeng , Xing Wei
Published: March 2015

High-quality hydrogen can be generated from formic acid triggered by in situ prepared Pd/C catalyst in ambient conditions. The obtained gas can be directly fed into proton exchange membrane fuel cells indicating a very promising application.
Controllable synthesis of mesoporous carbon nanospheres and Fe–N/carbon nanospheres as efficient oxygen reduction electrocatalysts
Authors: Wei Jing , Liang Yan , Zhang Xinyi , Simon George P. , Zhao Dongyuan , Zhang Jin , Jiang Sanping , Wang Huanting
Published: March 2015

Mesoporous carbon nanospheres and their derived Fe–N/carbon nanospheres were synthesized for efficient oxygen reductionviaan acid-assisted organic–organic self-assembly approach.
Two Schiff base ligands for distinguishing ZnII/CdII sensing—effect of substituent on fluorescent sensing
Authors: Zheng Zhi-Peng , Wei Qin , Yin Wen-Xia , Wan Lin-Tao , Huang Xia , Yu Ying , Cai Yue-Peng
Published: March 2015

Two Schiff base ligands (HL1, HL2) were synthesized as fluorescent sensors for Zn2+ or Cd2+. With an ethoxyl group, HL1 can distinguishingly sense Zn2+ and Cd2+, while HL2 exclusively responds to Zn2+.
Formation and phase transition of hydrogel in a zwitterionic/anionic surfactant system
Authors: Fan Haiming , Zhao Shuzhi , Li Bingcheng , Fan Haijian , Kang Wanli , Huang Jianbin
Published: March 2015

Hydrogel was formed in a mixture of the zwitterionic surfactant HDPS (with a saturated C16tail) and anionic surfactant SDS, and could easily be switched between gel and sol by dual stimulus–response processes employing temperature and salt.
Synthesis, physical and electroluminescence properties of 3,6-dipyrenylcarbazole end capped oligofluorenes
Authors: Sangchart Tidaratana , Niroram Arunroj , Kaewpuang Teadkait , Prachumrak Narid , Namuangruk Supawadee , Sudyoadsuk Taweesak , Keawin Tinnagon , Saengsuwan Sayant , Jungsuttiwong Siriporn , Maensiri Santi , Kungwan Nawee , Promarak Vinich
Published: March 2015

A series of oligofluorenes bearing 3,6-dipyrenylcarbazoles as the terminal substituents showed strong blue emission with good solubility, and thermally stable amorphous and excellent film-forming properties. OLEDs using these materials exhibited excellent device performance.
Mesoporous poly(ethylene-co-vinyl alcohol) monolith captured with silver nanoparticles as a SERS substrate: facile fabrication and ultra-high sensitivity
Authors: Wang Guowei , Yoshikawa Hiroyuki , Tamiya Eiichi , Uyama Hiroshi
Published: March 2015

A facile method to fabricate a mesoporous poly(ethylene-co-vinyl alcohol) (EVOH) monolith captured with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was developed.
Transgender Voice and Communication: Introduction and International Context
Authors: Pickering Jack
Published: March 2015

Transgender voice and communication is a growing area of clinical service delivery in the United States and around the world; however, many clinicians are unsure where to begin if they are interested in working with people who are transgender, transsexual, or gender nonconforming/gender variant. Recently, at the Biennial Symposium of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) in Bangkok, Thailand, a group of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and speech-language therapists (SLTs) from around the world gathered to discuss ways of disseminating information about transgender voice and communication to clinicians interested in serving this underrepresented and misunderstood clinical population. The symposium participants also brainstormed ways of reaching out to students so they would have an increased awareness of this area of clinical service delivery. In order to address these goals, this article introduces transgender voice and communication with a focus on: (a) key terminology for practicing SLPs and SLTs, (b) the role of WPATH in voice and communication intervention, and (c) a group therapy program for people in the transgender community.
Muscle Tension Dysphonia: A Rationale for Symptomatic Subtypes, Expedited Treatment, and Increased Therapy Compliance
Authors: Spencer Martin L.
Published: March 2015

This article will briefly identify the variable nature of muscle tension dysphonia (MTD). Causes such as psychogenicity and maladaptive “vocal posture” will be described and questioned. Special Interest Group (SIG) 3 members may benefit from identification of the strengths and weaknesses of an ongoing movement towards a symptomatically generic “MTD.” More specific subtyping of MTD into 9 categories will be proposed, as well as description of associated therapy methods. Increased patient awareness that some subtypes may be self-correctable could simplify intervention, increase compliance, and improve clinician and researcher effectiveness.
An Efficient Aromatization of 2-Amino-4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzo-[b]thiophene-3-carboxylates in Dimethyl Sulfoxide Catalyzed by p-Toluenesulfonic Acid
Authors: Adib Mehdi , Soheilizad Mehd , Rajai-daryasaraei Saideh , Mirzaei Peiman
Published: March 2015

A novel oxidation–aromatization of alkyl 2-amino-4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzo[b]thiophene-3-carboxylates is reported. The Gewald product, obtained from three-component condensation reaction between a cyclohexanone, an alkyl cyanoacetate, and sulfur, underwent an oxidation reaction in dimethyl sulfoxide in the presence of a catalytic amount of p-toluenesulfonic acid to give the corresponding alkyl 2-aminobenzo[b]thiophene-3-carboxylate in excellent yield.
Cantilever stress measurements for pulsed laser deposition of perovskite oxides at 1000 K in an oxygen partial pressure of 10−4 millibars
Authors: Premper J. , Sander D. , Kirschner J.
Published: March 2015

An in situ stress measurement setup using an optical 2-beam curvature technique is described which is compatible with the stringent growth conditions of pulsed laser deposition (PLD) of perovskite oxides, which involves high substrate temperatures of 1000 K and oxygen partial pressures of up to 1 × 10−4 millibars. The stress measurements are complemented by medium energy electron diffraction (MEED), Auger electron spectroscopy, and additional growth rate monitoring by a quartz microbalance. A shielded filament is used to allow for simultaneous stress and MEED measurements at high substrate temperatures. A computer-controlled mirror scans an excimer laser beam over a stationary PLD target. This avoids mechanical noise originating from rotating PLD targets, and the setup does not suffer from limited lifetime issues of ultra high vacuum (UHV) rotary feedthroughs.
Ablation and cone formation mechanism on CR-39 by ArF laser irradiation
Authors: Shakeri Jooybari B. , Afarideh H. , Lamehi-Rachti M. , Ghergherehchi M.
Published: March 2015

In this work, chemical properties, surface modification, and micro structures formation on ablated polyallyl di-glycol carbonate (CR-39) polymer by ArF laser irradiation (λ = 193 nm) at various fluences and pulse number were investigated. CR-39 samples have been irradiated with an ArF laser (193 nm) at a repetition rate of 1 Hz. Threshold fluence of ablation and effective absorption coefficient of CR-39 were determined. Conical microstructures (Taylor cone) formed on laser-ablated CR-39 exhibit: smooth, Taylor cone shape walls and sharp tips together with interference and well defined fringe-structure with a period of 230 nm, around cone base. Mechanism of cone formation and cone evolution of CR-39 ablated surface were investigated by change of fluences (at a given pulse number) and pulse number (at a given fluence). Cone height, cone base, and region of interface were increased in micrometer steps by increasing the total fluence. Depression on the base of the cone and the circular fringe were simulated. FTIR spectra were measured and energy dispersive x-ray analysis of irradiated and un-irradiated samples was performed.
Communal institutions for the management of rangeland resources and dairy production in Taleghan Valley, Northern Iran
Authors: Ghorbani M. , Mehrabi A. A. , Azarnivand H. , Bastani S. , Jafari M. , Seeland K.
Published: March 2015

Mutual help among pastoralists plays a key role in herding in rural Iran where pastoralists share a rich knowledge of dairy production. Nariyan village, located in the Taleghan region in Northern Iran, was chosen for this study on local traditions of the dairy production chain because it is still largely based on reciprocal sharing of labour and milk and local traditions of social cohesion. The results reveal that an elaborate network of communal institutions, based on seasonal cooperation, exists among pastoralists that regulate the use and management of milk and milk products. Different social roles, such as those of owners of herds of different sizes, herd manager and shepherds, are organised in a traditional co-operative institution, called Shirvâreh, a summer seasonal cooperative that strengthens social ties among the pastoralists and guarantees an efficient dairy production chain for subsistence and marketing. Precise data on milk-sharing reciprocity, such as are provided in this paper, seem to be rare for this geographical region if there are any at all, and this fills a gap in empirical rangeland science as it adds to the theory of traditional knowledge being a means to harmonise societal inequalities.
The future of food production research in the rangelands: challenges and prospects for research investment, organisation and human resources
Authors: Roxburgh C. W. , Pratley J. E.
Published: March 2015

Food production research in rangelands depends heavily on the National Agricultural Research System for its research and development outcomes. Future outcomes are uncertain as funding sources are limited and much of the expertise is entering the retirement phase without a succession plan. Private research investment has contributed to some extent but there remains a need for governments to continue to support those aspects that deliver public good or address market failure. This review considers the varying contexts in funding and research organisation globally while using Australia as a case study for more detailed analyses of trends in livestock production research capacity in the rangelands. The major concern expressed is that the availability of a well educated and trained workforce is uncertain and this may hamper rangelands from contributing sufficiently to global food security and national conservation goals.
Wash functions downstream of Rho1 GTPase in a subset ofDrosophilaimmune cell developmental migrations
Authors: Verboon Jeffrey M. , Rahe Travis K. , Rodriguez-Mesa Evelyn , Parkhurst Susan M.
Published: March 2015

Drosophila immune cells, the hemocytes, undergo four stereotypical developmental migrations to populate the embryo, where they provide immune reconnoitering, as well as a number of non–immune-related functions necessary for proper embryogenesis. Here, we describe a role for Rho1 in one of these developmental migrations in which posteriorly located hemocytes migrate toward the head. This migration requires the interaction of Rho1 with its downstream effector Wash, a Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome family protein. Both Wash knockdown and a Rho1 transgene harboring a mutation that prevents Wash binding exhibit the same developmental migratory defect as Rho1 knockdown. Wash activates the Arp2/3 complex, whose activity is needed for this migration, whereas members of the WASH regulatory complex (SWIP, Strumpellin, and CCDC53) are not. Our results suggest a WASH complex–independent signaling pathway to regulate the cytoskeleton during a subset of hemocyte developmental migrations.
Too Busy to Eat with the Kids? Parental Work and Children's Eating
Authors: Chen Susan E. , Möser Anke , Nayga Rodolfo M.
Published: March 2015

Parents influence their children's eating behavior by providing access to certain types of food, creating enjoyable mealtimes and associations with food, and by role modeling. In this study we investigate the association between parental employment and parental time spent eating with their children. Using data from the 2001/02 German Time Budget Survey, we explore associations between time spent eating with children and labor force participation in Germany. We find that parental labor force participation is negatively associated with time spent eating with children. Each additional hour of work per day by the mother is associated with a 2.4 minute decrease in the amount of time the mother spends eating with her children. For paternal hours of work, we find that the more time a father spends working, the less time the child spends eating with the father or with both parents. Overall, we find evidence of mother inter‐gender time substitution and some amount of time/food away from home substitution. Understanding how parents allocate their time, where they are most likely to eat, and what drives these decisions is an important endeavor since parents play a critical role in shaping and reinforcing their children's eating practices.
Modulation of the activity of moxifloxacin and solithromycin in an in vitro pharmacodynamic model of Streptococcus pneumoniae naive and induced biofilms
Authors: Vandevelde Nathalie M. , Tulkens Paul M. , Muccioli Giulio G. , Van Bambeke Françoise
Published: March 2015

Objectives

Bacterial biofilms developing in the bronchial tree of patients experiencing acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (AECBs) are suggested to cause relapses and recurrences of the disease because the matrix barrier impairs antibiotic access to the offending organisms. We examined whether bronchodilators could modulate pneumococcal biofilm development and antibiotic action using an in vitro model.

Methods

Streptococcus pneumoniae strains from patients hospitalized for AECBs and two reference strains (ATCC 49619 and R6) were screened for biofilm formation (multi-well plates; 2–11 days of growth). Ipratropium and salbutamol (alone or in combination) were added at concentrations of 1.45 and 7.25 mg/L, respectively (mimicking those in the bronchial tree), and their effects were measured on biofilm formation and modulation of the activity of antibiotics [full antibiotic concentration-dependent effects (pharmacodynamic model)] with a focus on moxifloxacin and solithromycin. Bacterial viability and biomass were measured by the reduction of resazurin and crystal violet staining, respectively. Release of sialic acid (from biofilm) and neuraminidase activity were measured using enzymatic and HPLC–MS detection of sialic acid.

Results

All clinical isolates produced biofilms, but with fast disassembly if from patients who had received muscarinic antagonists. Ipratropium caused: (i) reduced biomass formation and faster biofilm disassembly with free sialic acid release; and (ii) a marked improvement of antibiotic activity (bacterial killing and biomass reduction). Salbutamol stimulated neuraminidase activity associated with improved antibiotic killing activity (reversed by zanamivir) but modest biomass reduction.

Conclusions

Ipratropium and, to a lesser extent, salbutamol may cooperate with antibiotics for bacterial clearance and disassembly of pneumococcal biofilms.
In vitro activity of gentamicin, vancomycin or amikacin combined with EDTA or l-arginine as lock therapy against a wide spectrum of biofilm-forming clinical strains isolated from catheter-related infections
Authors: Lebeaux David , Leflon-Guibout Véronique , Ghigo Jean-Marc , Beloin Christophe
Published: March 2015

Objectives

Treatment of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) is hampered by the characteristic tolerance of bacterial biofilms towards antibiotics. Our objective was to study the effect of the combination of antibiotics and the alkaline amino acid l-arginine or the cation chelator EDTA on the bacterial killing of in vitro biofilms formed by an array of clinical strains responsible for CRBSI and representative of epidemiologically relevant bacterial species.

Methods

Among 32 strains described in a previous clinical study, we focused on the most antibiotic-tolerant strains including CoNS (n = 4), Staphylococcus aureus (n = 4), Enterococcus faecalis (n = 2), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 4) and Enterobacteriaceae (n = 4). We used an in vitro biofilm model (96-well plate assay) to study biofilm tolerance and tested various combinations of antibiotics and non-antibiotic adjuvants. Gentamicin, amikacin or vancomycin was combined with disodium EDTA or l-arginine for 24 h to reproduce the antibiotic lock therapy (ALT) approach. Killing of biofilm bacteria was measured by cfu quantification after a vigorous step of pipetting up and down in order to detach all biofilm bacteria from the surface of the wells.

Results

Both of our adjuvant strategies significantly increased the effect of antibiotics against biofilms formed by Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial pathogens. The combination of gentamicin + EDTA was active against all tested strains apart from one P. aeruginosa. The combination of gentamicin + l-arginine was active against most of the tested strains with the notable exception of CoNS for which no potentiation was observed. We also demonstrated that amikacin + EDTA was active against Gram-negative bacteria and that vancomycin + EDTA was active against Gram-positive bacteria.

Conclusions

The addition of EDTA enhanced the activity of gentamicin, amikacin and vancomycin against biofilms formed by a wide spectrum of bacterial strains responsible for CRBSI.
Dramatic niche shifts and morphological change in two insular bird species
Authors: Alström Per , Jønsson Knud A. , Fjeldså Jon , Ödeen Anders , Ericson Per G. P. , Irestedt Martin
Published: March 2015

Colonizations of islands are often associated with rapid morphological divergence. We present two previously unrecognized cases of dramatic morphological change and niche shifts in connection with colonization of tropical forest-covered islands. These evolutionary changes have concealed the fact that the passerine birds madanga,Madanga ruficollis, from Buru, Indonesia, and São Tomé shorttail,Amaurocichla bocagii, from São Tomé, Gulf of Guinea, are forest-adapted members of the family Motacillidae (pipits and wagtails). We show thatMadangahas diverged mainly in plumage, which may be the result of selection for improved camouflage in its new arboreal niche, while selection pressures for other morphological changes have probably been weak owing to preadaptations for the novel niche. By contrast, we suggest thatAmaurocichla's niche change has led to divergence in both structure and plumage.