bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Biomimetic Silk Fibroin/Sodium Alginate Composite Scaffold for Soft Tissue Engineering
Authors: Wang Yiyu , Wang Xinyu , Shi Jian , Zhu Rong , Zhang Junhua , Zhang Zongrui , Ma Daiwei , Hou Yuanjing , Lin Fei , Yang Jing , Mizuno Mamoru
Published: December 2016

A cytocompatible porous scaffold mimicking the properties of extracellular matrices (ECMs) has great potential in promoting cellular attachment and proliferation for tissue regeneration. A biomimetic scaffold was prepared using silk fibroin (SF)/sodium alginate (SA) in which regular and uniform pore morphology can be formed through a facile freeze-dried method. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies showed the presence of interconnected pores, mostly spread over the entire scaffold with pore diameter around 54~532 μm and porosity 66~94%. With significantly better water stability and high swelling ratios, the blend scaffolds crosslinked by 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) provided sufficient time for the formation of neo-tissue and ECMs during tissue regeneration. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) results confirmed random coil structure and silk I conformation were maintained in the blend scaffolds. What’s more, FI-TR spectra demonstrated crosslinking reactions occurred actually among EDC, SF and SA macromolecules, which kept integrity of the scaffolds under physiological environment. The suitable pore structure and improved equilibrium swelling capacity of this scaffold could imitate biochemical cues of natural skin ECMs for guiding spatial organization and proliferation of cells in vitro, indicating its potential candidate material for soft tissue engineering.
Leptospira surface adhesin (Lsa21) induces Toll like receptor 2 and 4 mediated inflammatory responses in macrophages
Authors: Faisal Syed M. , Varma Vivek P. , Subathra M. , Azam Sarwar , Sunkara Anil K. , Akif Mohd , Baig Mirza. S. , Chang Yung-Fu
Published: December 2016

Leptospirosis is zoonotic and emerging infectious disease of global importance. Little is understood about Leptospira pathogenesis and host immune response. In the present work we have investigated how Leptospira modulates the host innate immune response mediated by Toll-like receptors (TLRs) via surface exposed proteins. We screened Leptospira outer membrane/surface proteins for their ability to activate/inhibit TLR2/4 signaling in HEK293 cell lines. Of these the 21 kDa Leptospira surface adhesin, Lsa21 had strong TLR2 and TLR4 activity leading to production of proinflammatory cytokines and expression of costimulatory molecules in mouse macrophages. This activity of Lsa21 on innate response was dependent on activation of mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) via stimulating the rapid phosphorylation of p38, JNK and activation of transcription factor NF-κB. Additionally, neutralizing antibodies against TLR2 and TLR4 significantly inhibited cytokine secretion and attenuated Lsa21 induced phosphorylation of p38 and JNK. Furthermore, Lsa21 induced cytokine levels were significantly lower in TLR2−/− and TLR4−/− than in wild type mouse macrophage cell lines. Confocal microscopy and molecular docking confirmed that Lsa21 interacted with both TLR2 and TLR4. These results indicate that Lsa21 is a potent TLR2 and TLR4 agonist that induces strong innate response and may play important role in Leptospira pathogenesis.
Metabolic engineering of Corynebacterium crenatium for enhancing production of higher alcohols
Authors: Su Haifeng , Lin Jiafu , Wang GuangWei
Published: December 2016

Biosynthesis approaches for the production of higher alcohols as a source of alternative fossil fuels have garnered increasing interest recently. However, there is little information available in the literature about using undirected whole-cell mutagenesis (UWCM) in vivo to improve higher alcohols production. In this study, for the first time, we approached this question from two aspects: first preferentially improving the capacity of expression host, and subsequently optimizing metabolic pathways using multiple genetic mutations to shift metabolic flux toward the biosynthetic pathway of target products to convert intermediate 2-keto acid compounds into diversified C4~C5 higher alcohols using UWCM in vivo, with the aim of improving the production. The results demonstrated the production of higher alcohols including isobutanol, 2-methyl-1-butanol, 3-methyl-1-butanol from glucose and duckweed under simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) scheme were higher based on the two aspects compared with only the use of wild-type stain as expression host. These findings showed that the improvement via UWCM in vivo in the two aspects for expression host and metabolic flux can facilitate the increase of higher alcohols production before using gene editing technology. Our work demonstrates that a multi-faceted approach for the engineering of novel synthetic pathways in microorganisms for improving biofuel production is feasible.
Loss of miR-140 is a key risk factor for radiation-induced lung fibrosis through reprogramming fibroblasts and macrophages
Authors: Duru Nadire , Zhang Yongshu , Gernapudi Ramkishore , Wolfson Benjamin , Lo Pang-Kuo , Yao Yuan , Zhou Qun
Published: December 2016

Radiation-induced lung fibrosis (RILF) is a common side effect for patients with thoracic cancer receiving radiation therapy. RILF is characterized by excessive collagen deposition mediated by TGF-β1 and its downstream factor SMAD3, but the exact molecular mechanism leading to fibrosis is yet to be determined. The present study investigated the impact of miR-140 on RILF development. Herein, we first found that loss of miR-140 is a marker of fibrotic lung tissuein vivoone-year post-radiation treatment. We showed that miR-140 knockout primary lung fibroblasts have a higher percentage of myofibroblasts compared to wild type primary lung fibroblasts, and that loss of miR-140 expression leads to increased activation of TGF-β1 signaling as well as increased myofibroblast differentiation. We also identified fibronectin as a novel miR-140 target gene in lung fibroblasts. Finally, we have shown that miR-140 deficiency promotes accumulation of M2 macrophages in irradiated lung tissues. These data suggest that miR-140 is a key protective molecule against RILF through inhibiting myofibroblast differentiation and inflammation.
Counteracting bone fragility with human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Ranzoni Anna M. , Corcelli Michelangelo , Hau Kwan-Leong , Kerns Jemma G. , Vanleene Maximilien , Shefelbine Sandra , Jones Gemma N. , Moschidou Dafni , Dala-Ali Benan , Goodship Allen E. , De Coppi Paolo , Arnett Timothy R. , Guillot Pascale V.
Published: December 2016

The impaired maturation of bone-forming osteoblasts results in reduced bone formation and subsequent bone weakening, which leads to a number of conditions such as osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). Transplantation of human fetal mesenchymal stem cells has been proposed as skeletal anabolic therapy to enhance bone formation, but the mechanisms underlying the contribution of the donor cells to bone health are poorly understood and require further elucidation. Here, we show that intraperitoneal injection of human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (AFSCs) into a mouse model of OI (oim mice) reduced fracture susceptibility, increased bone strength, improved bone quality and micro-architecture, normalised bone remodelling and reduced TNFα and TGFβ sigalling. Donor cells engrafted into bones and differentiated into osteoblasts but importantly, also promoted endogenous osteogenesis and the maturation of resident osteoblasts. Together, these findings identify AFSC transplantation as a countermeasure to bone fragility. These data have wider implications for bone health and fracture reduction.
Analysis of single malt Scotch whisky using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Kiefer Johannes , Cromwell Agnita Lynda
Published: December 2016

Counterfeit and adulterate alcoholic beverages represent an economic problem for the producer but also a potential health issue for the consumer. Raman spectroscopy allows a detailed analysis through the glass wall of the bottle.
Temperature sensitive synthesis of γ-Al2O3support with different morphologies for CoMo/γ-Al2O3catalysts for hydrodesulfurization of thiophene and 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene
Authors: Liu Sijia , Liang Xin , Zhang Jie , Chen Biaohua
Published: December 2016

Two different kinds of γ-Al2O3precursors: stick-like ammonium aluminum carbonate hydroxide and willow leaf-like boehmite could be selectively synthesizedviaa facile hydrothermal method by just adjusting reaction temperature.
Ferrocenyl helquats: unusual chiral organometallic nonlinear optical chromophores
Authors: Buckley Laura E. R. , Coe Benjamin J. , Rusanova Daniela , Sánchez Sergio , Jirásek Michael , Joshi Vishwas D. , Vávra Jan , Khobragade Dushant , Pospíšil Lubomír , Ramešová Šárka , Císařová Ivana , Šaman David , Pohl Radek , Clays Koen , Van Steerteghem Nick , Brunschwig Bruce S. , Teplý Filip
Published: December 2016

New redox-switchable, cationic complexes are enantiomerically resolvable in some cases.
Al2O3coated metal sulfides: one-pot synthesis and enhanced lithium storage stability via localized in situ conversion reactions
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Zai Jiantao , Li Xiaomin , Ma Zi-feng , Qian Xuefeng
Published: December 2016

Al2O3coated Ni3S4nanoparticles have been designed to promote thein situconversion of Ni3S4, by confining the formed polysulfides within the Al2O3layer; these nanoparticles exhibit a high reversible capacity of 651.6 mA h g−1at 500 mA g−1, even after 400 cycles.
An efficient Ugi-3CR/aza Diels–Alder/Pomeranz–Fritsch protocol towards novel aza-analogues of (±)-nuevamine, (±)-lennoxamine and magallanesine: a diversity oriented synthesis approach
Authors: Vázquez-Vera Óscar , Sánchez-Badillo Jorge S. , Islas-Jácome Alejandro , Rentería-Gómez Manuel A. , Pharande Shrikant G. , Cortes-García Carlos J. , Rincón-Guevara Mónica A. , Ibarra Ilich A. , Gámez-Montaño Rocío , González-Zamora Eduardo
Published: December 2016

Diversity oriented synthesis of (±)-nuevamine, (±)-lennoxamine and magallanesine aza-analogues by MCR.
Well-defined podophyllotoxin polyprodrug brushes: preparation via RAFT polymerization and evaluation as drug carriers
Authors: Guo Yifei , Hao Chunying , Wang Xiangkang , Zhao Yanna , Han Meihua , Wang Mincan , Wang Xiangtao
Published: December 2016

Novel poly(triethylene glycol methacrylate)-b-poly(podophyllotoxin methacrylate) copolymers (PTP) with a well-defined structure were designed and synthesized by direct RAFT polymerization with the hydrophobic monomer derivative from the anticancer drug podophyllotoxin.
Synthesis, stability, and intrinsic photocatalytic properties of vanadium diselenide
Authors: He Shijie , Lin Hua , Qin Lizhao , Mao Zhou , He Hong , Li Yuan , Li Qing
Published: December 2016

As a typical, layered, so-called semimetal, vanadium diselenide (VSe2) is significantly different from other transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs).
IGF-2 coated porous collagen microwells for the culture of pancreatic islets
Authors: Forget A. , Waibel M. , Rojas-Canales D. M. , Chen S. , Kawazoe N. , Harding F. J. , Loudovaris T. , Coates P. T. H. , Blencowe A. , Chen G. , Voelcker N. H.
Published: December 2016

A new platform for the culture of pancreatic islets that improves the cell viability and quality. Paving the way for a highly efficient islet clinical transport.
Optical and electrical effects of thin reduced graphene oxide layers on textured wafer-based c-Si solar cells for enhanced performance
Authors: Nandi Anupam , Majumdar Sanhita , Datta Swapan K. , Saha Hiranmay , Hossain Syed Minhaz
Published: December 2016

Photoluminescence active amine-functionalized RGO has been synthesized and applied on c-Si solar cells leading to a 10% increase in baseline efficiency.
Enhanced thermoelectric properties of flexible Cu2−xSe (x ≥ 0.25) NW/polyvinylidene fluoride composite films fabricated via simple mechanical pressing
Authors: Pammi S. V. N. , Jella Venkatraju , Choi Jin-Seok , Yoon Soon-Gil
Published: December 2016

Enhanced thermoelectric properties of flexible Cu2−xSe NW-PVDF composite films fabricated via vacuum filtration followed by mechanical pressing (VFMP) has been studied.
Influence of polymer side chains on the photovoltaic performance of non-fullerene organic solar cells
Authors: Gong Xue , Li Guangwu , Feng Shiyu , Wu Liangliang , Liu Yahui , Hou Ran , Li Cuihong , Chen Xuebo , Bo Zhishan
Published: December 2016

The side chains of polymers had a great influence on their molecular packing, energy level, blend morphology and photovoltaic performance. The PCEs of 7.28% and 1.55% were obtained for alkoxy and alkylthio-substituted polymer based non-fullerene solar cells, respectively.
Identification of a multifunctional docking site on the catalytic unit of phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) that is utilised by multiple interaction partners
Authors: Houslay Kirsty F. , Christian Frank , MacLeod Ruth , Adams David R. , Houslay Miles D. , Baillie George S.
Published: December 2016

Cyclic AMP (cAMP)-specific phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) enzymes underpin compartmentalised cAMP signalling by localising to distinct signalling complexes. PDE4 long isoforms can be phosphorylated by mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase 2 (MK2), which attenuates activation of such enzymes through their phosphorylation by protein kinase A. Here we show that MK2 interacts directly with PDE4 long isoforms and define the sites of interaction. One is a unique site that locates within the regulatory upstream conserved region 1 (UCR1) domain and contains a core Phe141, Leu142 and Tyr143 (FLY) cluster (PDE4A5 numbering). Located with the second site is a critical core Phe693, Glu694, Phe695 (FQF) motif that is also employed in the sequestering of PDE4 long forms by an array of other signalling proteins, including the signalling scaffold β-arrestin, the tyrosyl kinase Lyn, the SUMOylation E2 ligase UBC9, the dynein regulator Lis1 (PAFAH1B1) and the protein kinase Erk. We propose that the FQF motif lies at the heart of a multifunctional docking (MFD) site located within the PDE4 catalytic unit. It is clear from our data that, as well as aiding fidelity of interaction, the MFD site confers exclusivity of binding between PDE4 and a single specific partner protein from the cohort of signalling proteins whose interaction with PDE4 involves the FQF motif.
Use of tDCS in Aphasia Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review of the Behavioral Interventions Implemented With Noninvasive Brain Stimulation for Language Recovery
Authors: Galletta Elizabeth E. , Conner Peggy , Vogel-Eyny Amy , Marangolo Paola
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to review the behavioral treatments used in aphasia rehabilitation research that have been combined with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Although tDCS in aphasia treatment has shown promise, the results have not been conclusive, and their interpretation is further compounded by the heterogeneity of study characteristics. Because implementing a behavioral task during brain stimulation has been shown to be pivotal to the adjuvant effects of tDCS, we analyze the behavioral treatments that have been paired with tDCS.

Method

A computerized database search (PubMed) was completed to document and review aphasia treatment studies that combine behavioral treatment with noninvasive brain stimulation in the form of tDCS. Two authors reviewed each aphasia tDCS article published between 2008 and 2015 and evaluated (a) the behavioral interventions for aphasia that have been combined with tDCS, and (b) the methodological variables that may have influenced language outcomes in the tDCS aphasia literature.

Conclusions

A review of the behavioral treatments implemented in tDCS aphasia rehabilitation studies highlights several methodological considerations for future investigations. Impairment-focused and pragmatic treatments have been implemented in tDCS aphasia research studies. No one behavioral approach stands out as the best treatment to combine with tDCS for the promotion of language recovery.
Self-Judgments of Word Production Accuracy in Acquired Apraxia of Speech
Authors: Wambaugh Julie , Shuster Linda , Bailey Dallin J. , Mauszycki Shannon , Kean Jacob , Nessler Christina , Wright Sandra , Brunsvold Jessica
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The ability to recognize one's own speech errors has long been considered a clinical feature of acquired apraxia of speech (AOS) despite limited empirical data supporting this notion. This study was designed to (a) investigate the ability of speakers with AOS to self-judge the accuracy of their own word productions and (b) examine the test–retest stability of a measure to quantify the self-judgments of speakers with AOS.

Method

Twenty-four speakers with AOS and aphasia repeated mono- and multisyllabic words. After each word, they indicated whether their production was correct or incorrect. This procedure was repeated 1 week later to examine performance stability.

Results

Percentage of incorrect word productions was stable for the group across times. Accuracy of judgments ranged from 64% to 100% at Time 1 and from 56% to 100% at Time 2. Inaccurate judgments of error productions (false positives) occurred much more frequently than inaccurate judgments of correct productions (false negatives).

Conclusions

Error production was remarkably stable in our participants. As a group, the participants failed to detect almost one third of words produced erroneously. However, accuracy and stability of judgments over sampling times varied across participants. Findings suggest that error awareness might be a worthwhile target for treatment in some individuals with AOS.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.14963550
Recovering With Acquired Apraxia of Speech: The First 2 Years
Authors: Haley Katarina L. , Shafer Jennifer N. , Harmon Tyson G. , Jacks Adam
Published: December 2016

Purpose

This study was intended to document speech recovery for 1 person with acquired apraxia of speech quantitatively and on the basis of her lived experience.

Method

The second author sustained a traumatic brain injury that resulted in acquired apraxia of speech. Over a 2-year period, she documented her recovery through 22 video-recorded monologues. We analyzed these monologues using a combination of auditory perceptual, acoustic, and qualitative methods.

Results

Recovery was evident for all quantitative variables examined. For speech sound production, the recovery was most prominent during the first 3 months, but slower improvement was evident for many months. Measures of speaking rate, fluency, and prosody changed more gradually throughout the entire period. A qualitative analysis of topics addressed in the monologues was consistent with the quantitative speech recovery and indicated a subjective dynamic relationship between accuracy and rate, an observation that several factors made speech sound production variable, and a persisting need for cognitive effort while speaking.

Conclusions

Speech features improved over an extended time, but the recovery trajectories differed, indicating dynamic reorganization of the underlying speech production system. The relationship among speech dimensions should be examined in other cases and in population samples. The combination of quantitative and qualitative analysis methods offers advantages for understanding clinically relevant aspects of recovery.
Special Considerations for Evaluation and Treatment of Spanish-Speaking Patients with Cleft Palate
Authors: Moore Ellen
Published: December 2016

As the Spanish-speaking population in the United States continues to grow, there is increasing need for culturally competent and linguistically appropriate treatment across the field of speech-language pathology. This paper reviews information relevant to the evaluation and treatment of Spanish-speaking and Spanish-English bilingual children with a history of cleft palate. The phonetics and phonology of Spanish are reviewed and contrasted with English, with a focus on oral pressure consonants. Cultural factors and bilingualism are discussed briefly. Finally, practical strategies for evaluation and treatment are presented. Information is presented for monolingual and bilingual speech-language pathologists, both in the community and on cleft palate teams.
Selectable multiband isolation of single pole double throw switch using transmission line stub resonator for WiMAX and LTE applications
Authors: Zobilah Abdullah M. , Zakaria Zahriladha , Shairi Noor Azwan
Published: December 2016

A selectable multiband isolation of single pole double throw (SPDT) switch with switchable transmission line stub resonators for applications of WiMAX and LTE in 2.3 and 3.5 GHz bands is presented. Two SPDT switches are presented. (Design 2) either allows selecting only one band while unselecting the other or selecting both of them. However, (Design 1) does not allow so. The transmission line stub resonator used in this design is an open stub resonator with quarter wave of the electrical length. By using a simple mathematical model, the theory of the transmission line stub resonator was discussed where it can be cascaded and resonated at centre frequencies of 2.3 and 3.5 GHz. Moreover, the cascaded transmission line stub resonators can be reconfigured between all‐pass and band‐stop responses using discrete PIN diodes. The key advantage of the proposed SPDT with switchable transmission line stub resonators is a multiband high isolation with a minimum number of PIN diodes. Therefore, the simulated and measured results showed the followings: <3 dB of insertion loss, >10 dB of return loss and >30 dB of multiband isolation in 2.3 and 3.5 GHz bands.
Fabrication of single‐layer metallic nano‐gratings as polarisers by the combination of nanoimprint lithography and lift‐off method
Authors: Wang Qianyi , Chu Jinkui , Wang Zhiwen , Zhang Huixia , Liu Ze , Guan Le
Published: December 2016

To explore the application of miniaturised polarisers into the detection of the skylight polarisation angle, a fabrication process for single‐layer metallic nano‐gratings, which was treated as polarisers in the polarised light testing instrument, was proposed. With the help of the combination of two efficient fabrication methods, the nanoimprint lithography and the lift‐off method, different directions of the metallic gratings with 200 nm period, 110 nm linewidth and 60 nm height were fabricated simultaneously on the substrate. An interval ultrasound method is proposed to avoid grating structure damage during the lift‐off process. Additionally, the effect of the SiO2 layer addition during the etching process on the transmission performance of metallic gratings is presented by a brief theory analysis and experiment results. The fabricated grating is installed on the designed testing instrument to measure the angle of polarised light and the final angle output error is within ±0.25°, which demonstrates that the fabricated metallic gratings have a good prospect as a polaroid applied in the polarisation navigation.
Do knowledge externalities lead to growth in economic complexity? Empirical evidence from Colombia
Authors: Sahdev Navroop K
Published: December 2016

We live in a complex economic system where externalities play a key role in fostering growth in complexity through increasing interdependence of interacting agents. This study tests this hypothesis for the case of Colombia. We ask whether knowledge externalities lead to growth in economic complexity. If yes, which variety of knowledge externalities—Marshall-Arrow-Romer (MAR), Porter or Jacobs? Results from our empirical investigation uphold the MAR theories of externalities or intra-industrial externalities, which are maximized with high local specialization1 and local monopoly. A pattern of convergence in economic complexity of Colombian municipalities emerges from our results, supporting Schumpeterian growth theories, which advocate that knowledge externalities drive convergence. This is in line with the recent macroeconomic trends of the Colombian economy, which is suffering from “Dutch disease” leading to a contraction in its domestic economy. We show that knowledge externalities are a mechanism through which convergence dynamics are brought about and fostered in the domestic economy.
First-principles investigation of mechanical and electronic properties of MFeAs (M = Cu, Li, and Na)
Authors: Chen Z. J. , Xu G. B. , Yan J. G. , Kuang Z. , Chen T. H. , Li D. H.
Published: December 2016

Mechanical and electronic properties of Cu2Sb-type compounds MFeAs (M = Cu, Li, and Na) have been studied by the first-principles calculations. The main trends in structure parameters, mechanical parameters, electronic bands, and densities of states (DOS) for MFeAs are analyzed according to the variable cation M sites. Our results show that the lattice constants increase, while the bulk modulus, shear modulus, and Young's modulus decrease with the increasing radii of M sites in the sequence CuFeAs → LiFeAs → NaFeAs. Mulliken overlap population indicates that different M atoms in MFeAs (M = Cu, Li, and Na) would influence the bond nature of Fe-As, which may induce the superconductivity. The disappearance of the hole-pockets affects the superconductivity in CuFeAs. Although the value of the DOSs N(EF) at the Fermi level grows with decreasing radii of M sites, it is not the only factor influencing the superconductivity. Due to the repulsive interaction between Cu-3d and Fe-3d states in CuFeAs phase, it would change the position of Fe-3d orbits and Fermi energy level after introducing Cu in this structure. Therefore, after introducing Cu in the structure would induce the different position of Fe-3d states and Fermi energy level. Therefore, we believe that the component M has an important influence on the superconductivity.
Finding order in complexity: A study of the fluid dynamics in a three-dimensional branching network
Authors: Guha Abhijit , Pradhan Kaustav , Halder Prodosh Kumar
Published: December 2016

The complex fluid dynamics associated with the flow in three-dimensional dichotomously branching networks is investigated. The flow physics described here is generic, though the particular flow geometry employed represents a model human bronchial tree. Up to six generations of branches (involving 63 straight portions and 31 bifurcation modules) are computed in one go; such computational challenges are rarely taken in the literature. In the present study, two branching configurations are considered side by side: the most widely studied in-plane configuration in which the centrelines of all generations lie on the same plane, and the 90∘ out-of-plane configuration in which the centreline of each generation is rotated with respect to its grandmother generation following a systematic methodology to form a space-filling three-dimensional structure. The paper develops a physical understanding of the fluid dynamics of branching networks and its dependence on the configuration (in-plane versus out-of-plane) and the extent (four, five, or six generations) of the network under consideration. The study of co-planar vis-à-vis non-planar configurations establishes a quantitative evaluation of the dependence of the fluid dynamics on the three-dimensional arrangement of the same individual branches. It is shown that apparent symmetry in the geometry of any two branches does not automatically imply symmetry in the flow field in those two branches. With the help of velocity contours, pressure contours, and distribution of mass flow in each branch, a qualitative and quantitative study is performed on the nature and evolution of flow asymmetry. The computations show that the degree of mass-flow asymmetry is smaller for the out-of-plane configuration (which is a more realistic model of a human bronchial tree) as compared to that for the in-plane configuration. The mass-flow asymmetry grows in each successive generation (starting from generation G2 for in-plane and G3 for out-of-plane configurations). In addition to mass-flow distribution, other types of asymmetries in the flow field are also analysed. It is established that, in spite of the complexity of the flow solutions, there also exists a systematic order such that it is possible to ascertain the flow field in all branches of a particular generation by determining the flow field in some systematically selected branches of that generation, indicating a possible route to the saving of computational resource and time.
Optimized virtual orbital subspace for faster GW calculations in localized basis
Authors: Bruneval Fabien
Published: December 2016

The popularity of the GW approximation to the self-energy to access the quasiparticle energies of molecules is constantly increasing. As the other methods addressing the electronic correlation, the GW self-energy unfortunately shows a very slow convergence with respect to the basis complexity, which precludes the calculation of accurate quasiparticle energies for large molecules. Here we propose a method to mitigate this issue that relies on two steps: (i) the definition of a reduced virtual orbital subspace, thanks to a much smaller basis set; (ii) the account of the remainder through the simpler one-ring approximation to the self-energy. We assess the quality of the corrected quasiparticle energies for simple molecules, and finally we show an application to large graphene chunks to demonstrate the numerical efficiency of the scheme.
Reporting buckling strength and elastic properties of nanowires
Authors: Shaat M. , Abdelkefi A.
Published: December 2016

Nanocrystalline-nanowires have been incorporated in many micro-/nano-scale applications. To design nanowires-based nano-devices, studies should be conducted on the characterization of the elastic properties and the buckling strengths of nanowires. The challenge associated with detecting the properties of nanowires is that their properties are size-dependent. This motivated us to propose a model for the mechanics of nanocrystalline nanowires. In the context of this model, new measures are incorportated to account for the nanowire material structure and size effects and to reflect the experimental observations of nanomaterials-nanowires. This model is then harnessed to report the ranges of the buckling strength and the elastic properties of nanowires made of nanocrystalline diamond, Si, Al, Cu, Ag, Au, and Pt, for the first time. First, we report the range of the grain boundary Young's modulus for the various nanocrystalline materials. Depending on the contents of the grain boundary and the amount of impurities, the grain boundary Young's modulus is likely to be within the reported ranges. Second, for each grain size (from 200 nm to 2 nm), we report the range of Young's modulus, shear modulus, bulk modulus, and mass density of the aforementioned nanocrystalline nanomaterials. Third, we report the buckling strength and the equivalent Young's modulus of nanowires with different sizes accounting for the nanowire surface effects. The reported ranges of the buckling strength and the elastic properties of nanowires are experimentally validated.
The structural, transport, and magnetic properties of Yb-filled skutterudites YbyFexCo4−xSb12 synthesized under high pressure
Authors: Chen Yuqi , Kawamura Yukihiro , Hayashi Junichi , Takeda Keiki , Sekine Chihiro
Published: December 2016

The effects of Fe-substitution on partially Yb filled skutterudites YbyFexCo4-xSb12 are presented from the viewpoint of crystal structure and thermoelectric, magnetic, and transport properties. A series of polycrystalline n-type YbyFexCo4-xSb12 (0.21 ≤ y ≤ 0.47, 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.76) samples were prepared using a high-pressure and high-temperature method. X-ray diffraction data suggest that all the compounds are high-purity skutterudites. For the YbyFexCo4-xSb12 with Yb content higher than 0.29 and Fe content lower than 1, the lattice constant shows a saturated behavior despite the change in the Yb/Fe content. Rietveld refinement based on the synchrotron radiation X-ray data implies that the rectangular Sb4 ring is transformed into square with increasing Yb content and/or Fe substitution content. The Yb valence gradually decreases as the Fe content increases from magnetic susceptibility analysis. According to the specific heat analysis, higher Yb filling benefits the lower Debye temperature while the Fe substitution leads to an increased Debye temperature. The Einstein temperature decreased with increasing Yb filling fraction, but Fe substitution for the Co site does not change the Einstein temperature further. Fe-substitution causes the reduction of total thermal conductivity κ, which mainly originates from the decrease of electron thermal conductivity contribution. The resistivity, Seebeck coefficient, thermal conductivity, and figure of merit (ZT) were effectively tuned due to the optimization of the carrier concentration. At the same carrier concentration, the hall mobility was decreased by Fe substitution. The proper Fe substitution content (0.2 in Yb0.25Fe0.2Co3.8Sb12) can result in a relatively high effective mass.
Energy-dependent correlations in the S-matrix of chaotic systems
Authors: Novaes Marcel
Published: December 2016

The M-dimensional unitary matrix S(E), which describes scattering of waves, is a strongly fluctuating function of the energy for complex systems such as ballistic cavities, whose geometry induces chaotic ray dynamics. Its statistical behaviour can be expressed by means of correlation functions of the kind Sij(E+ϵ)Spq†(E−ϵ), which have been much studied within the random matrix approach. In this work, we consider correlations involving an arbitrary number of matrix elements and express them as infinite series in 1/M, whose coefficients are rational functions of ϵ. From a mathematical point of view, this may be seen as a generalization of the Weingarten functions of circular ensembles.
Invited Article: Real-time sensing of flowing nanoparticles with electro-opto-mechanics
Authors: Suh Jeewon , Han Kewen , Peterson Christopher W. , Bahl Gaurav
Published: December 2016

High-Q optical resonators allow label-free detection of individual nanoparticles through perturbation of optical signatures but have practical limitations due to reliance on random diffusion to deliver particles to the sensing region. We have recently developed microfluidic optomechanical resonators that allow detection of free-flowing particles in fluid media with near perfect detection efficiency, without requiring labeling, binding, or direct access to the optical mode. Rapid detection of single particles is achieved through a long-range optomechanical interaction in which modification of the resonator vibrational modes during particle transits influences the scattered light spectra from the resonator. Here, we present a hybrid electro-opto-mechanical technique for substantially increasing the bandwidth of these opto-mechano-fluidic sensors, enabling real-time operation. The demonstrated improvements are obtained through high bandwidth lock-in measurement of the optical modulation that is induced by actuating the vibrational mode electrostatically at a fixed frequency. The presented system demonstrates temporal resolution of better than 20 μs (50 000 events/s) with particle sensing resolution (i.e., the particle size noise floor) down to 490 nm, operating in the air without any stabilization or environmental control. Our technique significantly enhances the sensing capabilities of high-Q optical resonators into the mechanics domain and allows extremely high-throughput analysis of large nanoparticle populations.
Effect of disorder on the magnetic and electronic structure of a prospective spin-gapless semiconductor MnCrVAl
Authors: Kharel P. , Herran J. , Lukashev P. , Jin Y. , Waybright J. , Gilbert S. , Staten B. , Gray P. , Valloppilly S. , Huh Y. , Sellmyer D. J.
Published: December 2016

Recent discovery of a new class of materials, spin-gapless semiconductors (SGS), has attracted considerable attention in the last few years, primarily due to potential applications in the emerging field of spin-based electronics (spintronics). Here, we investigate structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of one potential SGS compound, MnCrVAl, using various experimental and theoretical techniques. Our calculations show that this material exhibits ≈ 0.5 eV band gap for the majority-spin states, while for the minority-spin it is nearly gapless. The calculated magnetic moment for the completely ordered structure is 2.9 μB/f.u., which is different from our experimentally measured value of almost zero. This discrepancy is explained by the structural disorder. In particular, A2 type disorder, where Mn or Cr atoms exchange their positions with Al atoms, results in induced antiferromagnetic exchange coupling, which, at a certain level of disorder, effectively reduces the total magnetic moment to zero. This is consistent with our x-ray diffraction measurements which indicate the presence of A2 disorder in all of our samples. In addition, we also show that B2 disorder does not result in antiferromagnetic exchange coupling and therefore does not significantly reduce the total magnetic moment.
Micromagnetic simulation of the influence of grain boundary on cerium substituted Nd-Fe-B magnets
Authors: Liu D. , Zhao T. Y. , Li R. , Zhang M. , Shang R. X. , Xiong J. F. , Zhang J. , Sun J. R. , Shen B. G.
Published: December 2016

A three-dimensional finite element model was performed to study the magnetization reversal of (CexNd1-x)2Fe14B nanocomposite permanent magnets. The influences of volume fraction, width and performance parameters of the grain boundary (GB) composition on the coercivity were analyzed by the method of micromagnetic simulation. The calculation results indicate that the structure and chemistry of GB phase play important roles in Nd2Fe14B-based magnets. An abnormal increase in the value of coercivity is found to be connected with the GB phase, approximately when the percentage of doped cerium is between 20% and 30%. While the coercivity decreases directly with the increase in cerium content instead of being abnormal when there is no GB phase in magnets at all or the value of magnetocrystalline anisotropy or exchange integral is too large.
Interaction of Triplet Excited States of Ketones with Nucleophilic Groups: (π,π*) and (n,π*) versus (σ*,π*) States. Substituent-Induced State Switching in Triplet Ketones
Authors: Bucher Götz
Published: December 2016

The intramolecular interaction of ketone triplet excited states with nucleophilic substituents is investigated by studying the electronic properties of phenalenone and a range of phenalenones functionalized in position 9 as a model system. In accordance with the literature, a (π,π*) triplet excited state is predicted for phenalenone. Similarly, 9-fluoro-, 9-chloro-, and 9-methoxyphenalenone are calculated to have (π,π*) lowest triplet excited states, whereas the lowest triplet states of 9-bromo-, 9-iodo, 9-methylthio, and 9-dimethylaminophenalenone are predicted to have (σ*,π*) character. As a result of the interaction between halogen and oxygen lone pairs increasing with increasing orbital size, the antibonding linear combination of substituent lone pairs with oxygen lone pairs sufficiently rises in energy to change the character of the lowest triplet excited state of the 9-substituted phenalenones from (π,π*) to (σ*,π*). These unusual triplet excited states or exciplexes should essentially behave like (n,π*) triplets states, but will differ from pure (n,π*) states by showing significant spin densities at the substituent heteroatoms, predicted to reach values of 0.25 for 9-iodophenalenone, and ~0.5 for 9-dimethylaminophenalenone. Vertical T1–T2 excitation energies calculated indicate that the stabilization of the (σ*,π*) relative to the (π,π*) state can reach 1 eV. Preliminary calculations on the triplet excited states of 2-iodobenzophenone, 4-iodo-2-butanone, and iodoacetone indicate that intramolecular triplet exciplex formation should be a general phenomenon, as long as the ring being formed is at least a five-membered ring.
A Paired-Laser Photogrammetric Method for In Situ Length Measurement of Benthic Fishes
Authors: Rizzo Austin A. , Welsh Stuart A. , Thompson Patricia A.
Published: December 2016

Photogrammetry, a technique to obtain measurements from photographs, may be a valid method for measuring lengths of rare, threatened, or endangered species. Photogrammetric methods of measurement are nonintrusive and reduce the possibility of physical damage or physiological stress associated with the capture and handling of individuals. We evaluated precision and accuracy of photogrammetric length measurements relative to board measurements of Greenside Darters Etheostoma blennioides and Variegate Darters E. variatum in an aquarium and applied photogrammetry in a field study of the Diamond Darter Crystallaria cincotta, a federally listed endangered species. Digital photographs were taken of each individual using a waterproof camera equipped with two parallel lasers. Photogrammetric length measurements were digitized with ImageJ software. Agreement between board and photogrammetric measurements were high for Greenside and Variegate darters. The magnitude of differences was small between direct and photogrammetric measurements, ranging from 0.6% to 3.1%, depending on the species measured and the type of measurement taken. These results support photogrammetry as a useful method for obtaining length measurements of benthic stream fishes. Photogrammetric methods allowed for length measurements and an assessment of length frequency of 199 Diamond Darters, informative data for management that could not be collected with conventional measuring-board methods.

Received April 18, 2016; accepted September 7, 2016Published online December 20, 2016
Beyond ethnicity: the violence in Western Uganda and Rwenzori’s 99 problems
Authors: Reuss Anna , Titeca Kristof
Published: December 2016

In the Rwenzori region, a range of historical, socio-economic and political tensions have in past years resulted in a series of deadly clashes between different ethnic communities. Patronage politics of recognition of cultural kingdoms and district creation critically drives the manifestation of these tensions in ethnic violence, especially in the context of electoral contest.
No effect of acute and chronic supramaximal exercise on circulating levels of the myokine SPARC
Authors: Songsorn Preeyaphorn , Ruffino José , Vollaard Niels B. J.
Published: December 2016

Myokines may play a role in the health benefits of regular physical activity. Secreted protein acidic rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a pleiotropic myokine that has been shown to be released into the bloodstream by skeletal muscle in response to aerobic exercise. As there is evidence suggesting that SPARC release may be linked to glycogen breakdown and activation of 5’ adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase, we hypothesised that brief supramaximal exercise may also be associated with increased serum SPARC levels. In the present study, 10 participants (3 women; mean ± SD age: 21 ± 3 y, body mass index (BMI): 22 ± 3 kg m−2, and V˙O2max: 39 ± 6 mL kg−1 min−1) performed an acute bout of supramaximal cycle exercise (20‐s Wingate sprint against 7.5% of body mass, with a 1‐min warm‐up and a 3‐min cool‐down consisting of unloaded cycling). Serum SPARC levels were determined pre‐exercise as well as 0, 15, and 60 min post‐exercise and corrected for plasma volume change. To determine whether regular exercise affected the acute SPARC response, participants repeated the acute exercise protocol three times per week for four weeks, and serum SPARC response to supramaximal exercise was reassessed after this period. Acute supramaximal exercise significantly decreased plasma volume (−10%; p < .001), but was not associated with a significant change in serum SPARC levels at either the pre‐training or post‐training testing sessions. In conclusion, in contrast to aerobic exercise, a single brief supramaximal cycle sprint is not associated with an increase in serum SPARC levels, suggesting that SPARC release is not related to skeletal muscle glycogen breakdown.
A Ticket for Your Thoughts: Method for Predicting Content Recall and Sales Using Neural Similarity of Moviegoers
Authors: Barnett Samuel B , Cerf Moran
Published: December 2016

Skilled advertisers often cause a diverse set of consumers to feel similarly about their product. We present a method for measuring neural data to assess the degree of similarity between multiple brains experiencing the same advertisements, and we demonstrate that this similarity can predict important marketing outcomes. Since neural data can be sampled continuously throughout an experience and without effort and conscious reporting biases, our method offers a useful complement to measures requiring active evaluations, such as subjective ratings and willingness-to-pay (WTP) scores. As a case study, we use portable electroencephalography (EEG) systems to record the brain activity of 58 moviegoers in a commercial theater and then calculate the relative levels of neural similarity, cross-brain correlation (CBC), throughout 13 movie trailers. Our initial evidence suggests that CBC predicts future free recall of the movie trailers and population-level sales of the corresponding movies. Additionally, since there are potentially other (i.e., non-neural) sources of physiological similarity (e.g., basic arousal), we illustrate how to use other passive measures, such as cardiac, respiratory, and electrodermal activity levels, to reject alternative hypotheses. Moreover, we show how CBC can be used in conjunction with empirical content analysis (e.g., levels of visual and semantic complexity).
Reduced pelvic field sparing anastomosis for postoperative radiotherapy in selected patients with mid–upper rectal cancer
Authors: Choi Seo Hee , Chang Jee Suk , Kim Nam Kyu , Lim Joon Seok , Min Byung So , Hur Hyuk , Shin Sang Joon , Ahn Joong Bae , Kim Yong Bae , Koom Woong Sub
Published: December 2016

The aim of this study was to report the clinical results of reduced pelvic field radiotherapy (RT), excluding the anastomotic site, after total mesorectal excision in selected patients with rectal cancer. Between 2011 and 2014, 99 patients underwent upfront surgery for clinically less-advanced tumors but were finally diagnosed as pT3/N+. Among them, 50 patients with mid–upper rectal cancer who received postoperative RT with a reduced pelvic field were included in this retrospective review. This group was composed of patients with high seated tumors, complete resection with a clear circumferential resection margin, and no complication during surgery. We investigated treatment outcomes, toxicity and the effect of RT-field reduction on organs-at risk in 5 randomly selected patients. During the median follow-up period of 42 months (range: 15−59 months), tumors recurred in 9 patients (18%). The 3-year overall and disease-free survival were 98% and 81%, respectively. Distant metastasis was the dominant failure pattern (n = 8, 16%), while no recurrences occurred at or near anastomotic sites. No anastomotic complications were found on pelvic examination, images and/or colonoscopy. Reported acute and late RT-related toxicities were mostly mild to moderate, with only small numbers of Grade 3 toxicities. None of the patients developed Grade 4−5 acute or late toxicity. With a caudally reduced field, 64% reduction in absolute anastomotic exposure at the maximum dose was achieved compared with the traditional whole-pelvic field (P = 0.008). The reduced pelvic field RT was able to minimize late anastomotic complication without increasing its recurrence in selected patients with mid–upper rectal cancer in the postoperative setting.