bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contracting out of Access to Justice: Enforcement of Forum-Selection Clauses in Consumer Contracts
Authors: Pavlović Marina
Published: June 2017

Forum-selection agreements in consumer contracts nominate by default the business’s home jurisdiction to resolve disputes and thus directly impact a consumer’s ability not only to access courts, but also to obtain access to substantive justice. It has been argued that courts should consider enforcing jurisdiction clauses in consumer contracts with “greater scrutiny” because of their inherent power imbalance. To examine how the courts approach forum-selection clauses in consumer contracts, this article analyzed all reported consumer cases involving forum-selection agreements in Canadian common law jurisdictions between 1995 and 2016. The analysis of these cases shows that the courts have failed to exercise the greater scrutiny that was called for. In light of the analysis of the surveyed cases, this article argues that the rules for enforcing forum-selection clauses in consumer contracts ought to be recalibrated to reflect the power dynamics of consumer relationships, the ubiquity of standard-form contracts, and their effect on consumers’ ability to obtain redress. This article proposes two suggestions for reform: legislative intervention to invalidate forum-selection clauses in consumer agreements, and reframing and recalibrating the common law strong-cause test for the enforcement of forum-selection clauses in consumer transactions.
Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis: Overcoming this Important Clinical Challenge
Authors: Emre Arif , Akbulut Sami , Sertkaya Mehmet , Bitiren Muharrem , Kale Ilhami Taner , Bulbuloglu Ertan , Yurttutan Nursel
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study was to determine possible risk factors for recurrence development in patients with idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM). Demographic, clinical, radiologic, and histopathologic characteristics of 34 consecutive patients with IGM were retrospectively reviewed. Also, 32 patients who were informed about recurrence status were divided into non-recurrent (n = 27) and recurrent (n = 5) groups. Both groups were compared for demographic and clinical parameters. This study included 34 female patients with IGM aged between 26 and 70 years (median: 38 years). During the follow-up period, no recurrence occurred in 27 patients whereas recurrence developed in 5 patients. No significant difference was found between the groups with respect to age, lesion size, breast-feeding, number of child, marital status, use of oral contraceptive, familial or personal tuberculosis history, PPD test, smoking, lesion side, lesion location on the breast, and treatment choice. The diagnostic tools of the IGM as follows: tru-cut (n = 18); incisional (n = 6); tru-cut + incisional (n = 5); tru-cut + excisional (n = 2); tru-cut + FNAB (n = 1); FNAB + excisional (n = 1) and FNAB (n = 1). Treatment options were as follow: antibiotics + drainage (n = 10); antibiotics + drainage + corticosteroid (n = 9); wait and watch (n = 6); corticosteroid (n = 3); antibiotics + antituberculous (n = 1); antituberculous (n = 1); antibiotics + breast conserving surgery + chemotherapy (n = 1); modified radical mastectomy + chemotherapy + radiotherapy (n = 1); and no available (n = 2). This study shows that no demographic and clinical data contributes to the development of recurrence disease. To give a strong message, this study should be supported by other high volume and prospective studies.
Fusion Energy Harnessing, Reactor Technology, and Sustainability
Authors: Dobran Flavio
Published: June 2017

The energy produced from the controlled thermonuclear fusion of hydrogen isotopes can replace fossil fuels and become a sustainable energy source. The fusion of deuterium and tritium has been achieved in several experimental reactors where the plasmas are confined with magnetic fields and there is high optimism that this will also be achieved with laser and ion beams. The plasma confinements and reactor technologies of tokamaks and stellarators are paving the way for building demonstration fusion reactors and subsequently commercial fusion power plants. Following a review of the magnetic and inertial plasma confinement concepts, the reactor technologies that implement these concepts are assessed for producing sustained plasma ignition, external plasma heating, control of plasma instabilities, developments of low‐activation and high strength materials, coolants for removing fusion energy from the reactor, and breeding tritium in the blanket of the reactor for achieving fuel self‐sufficiency. Sustainability of fusion energy requires the long‐term availability of fusion fuels and reactor components materials, social acceptability, minimization of waste products, and safe operation of fusion power plants. These and other issues considered strongly suggest that the fusion energy will become a viable energy source for human development.
Plant Safety
Authors: Prugh Richard W.
Published: June 2017

State and federal authorities require chemical and petrochemical companies to develop process safety management policies and practices to protect workers and the public from accidents. Furthermore, increased hazards to the environment from wastes and undesired by‐products are concerns that need to be addressed.

The main objective of this article is to provide information on accident prevention, with particular emphasis on chemical process safety. This typically requires special safety systems to ensure safe operation and close monitoring of temperature and pressure limits. Another objective is to increase appreciation to the many variables involved in handling of chemicals, to show how these variables can be quantified with respect to safety criteria, and to illustrate their application to process safety.
Reverse Osmosis
Authors: Kucera Jane
Published: June 2017

Reverse osmosis is a membrane‐based separation technology, which was developed in the late 1950s and early 1960s, with rapid advancements in the technology through the 1980s. A highly effective and cost‐efficient technology, reverse osmosis is used industrially for desalination of seawater and brackish water, wastewater recovery and reuse, municipal drinking water treatment, and other applications.

Membrane materials and types of modules used in reverse osmosis, as well as theoretical and operational aspects, general design considerations, and economics are reviewed in this article. A discussion of membrane transport theory, flux‐limiting conditions caused by concentration polarization, and membrane fouling is also included.
Temperature Measurement
Authors: White D.R.
Published: June 2017

Thermodynamic temperature is defined in terms of the rate of change of energy with entropy, and can be equated with the mean translational kinetic energy of unbound atoms and molecules. Practical temperature measurements are made on the International Temperature Scale of 1990,ITS‐90, an empirical approximation to the thermodynamic scale.ITS‐90 defines the temperature scale from 0.65 K upward based on a variety of thermometers, including platinum resistance thermometers and spectral band radiation thermometers. Measurements made using other thermometers such as industrial platinum resistance thermometers, industrial radiation thermometers, thermistors, thermocouples, and liquid‐in‐glass thermometers should be traceable toITS‐90. Advice on using, calibrating, and interpreting measurements from these thermometers is given.
Geochemistry
Authors: White William M.
Published: June 2017

Geochemistry is a subdiscipline of chemistry whose objective is understanding the processes occurring on and in the earth, its evolution, and its cosmic environment, and to using that understanding to better the human condition. It naturally divides into (a) low‐temperature or environmental geochemistry, focused on processes at or near the earth's solid surface, including the “critical zone,” the oceans, and the atmosphere, and (b) high‐temperature geochemistry focused on processes such as hydrothermal ore deposition, magmatism, and metamorphism. Isotope geochemistry takes advantage of naturally occurring variations in the isotopic composition of elements resulting from natural, nuclear, and chemical processes to further understand earth processes, both in the near‐surface environment and the earth's deep interior. Geochemistry has greatly enhanced our knowledge of nucleosynthesis, solar system formation, plate tectonics, geologic time, biological evolution, and human origins. Of particular interest in geochemistry are geochemical cycles, such as the carbon cycle, in which carbon in various chemical forms is cycled between the atmosphere, the biosphere, the ocean, sediments, and the earth's deep interior and in doing so regulates Earth's climate. Continuous geochemical research is necessary to ensure future supplies of resources critical to modern society and mitigation of the effects of recovery, use, and disposal of those resources that are critical to human health and happiness.
Oil and Gas: Well Integrity Standards
Authors: Reinicke Kurt M.
Published: June 2017

A successful deep fluid mining requires containment and control of the fluids in the necessary wells under anticipated operating conditions, known as well integrity. To achieve well integrity, barriers are used in the form of physical components, operational practices, human resources, or organizational measures that contribute to the well system reliability and prevent or stop uncontrolled fluid flow.

This contribution describes the use of physical components, ie, well barriers, and operational practices, ie, operational barriers, to achieve and maintain well integrity distinguishing well life cycle phases and well types. The work is based on recent publications of the International Organization for StandardizationISO, largely in line with standards of the American Petroleum InstituteAPI, the Norwegian organizationNORSOK, the British organization Oil & GasUK, and the GermanBVEG.
Air Conditioning Systems: Cooling and Dehumidification
Authors: Chua K.J. , Bui D.T. , Kum Ja M. , Islam M.R. , Oh S.J.
Published: June 2017

Air conditioning is essential for maintaining thermal comfort in indoor environments.

In tropical climates, the energy consumed due to heating, ventilation, and air‐conditioning (HVAC) can exceed 50% of the total energy consumption of a building. Therefore, there is tremendous potential to improve the efficiency of air‐conditioning systems for building applications.

This article focuses on recent developments in air‐conditioning systems, particularly innovative technologies in cooling and dehumidification including adsorption cooling and dew point evaporative cooling and new generations of solid‐based desiccant dehumidifiers, liquid‐based desiccants and novel membranes that are able to sieve water vapor when a trans membrane pressure is applied. The principles behind these technologies and recent progresses in terms of performance testing and improved efficiency are discussed.
Modeling the air‐sea feedback system of Madeira Island
Authors: Pullen Julie , Caldeira Rui , Doyle James D. , May Paul , Tomé Ricardo
Published: June 2017

A realistic nested data‐assimilating two‐way coupled ocean/atmosphere modeling study (highest resolution 2 km) of Madeira Island was conducted for June 2011, when conditions were favorable for atmospheric vortex shedding. The simulation's island lee region exhibited relatively cloud‐free conditions, promoting warmer ocean temperatures (∼2°C higher than adjacent waters). The model reasonably reproduced measured fields at 14 meteorological stations, and matched the dimensions and magnitude of the warm sea surface temperature (SST) wake imaged by satellite. The warm SSTs in the wake are shown to imprint onto the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) over several diurnal cycles by modulating the ABL depth up to ∼200–500 m. The erosion and dissipation of the warm ocean wake overnight was aided by atmospheric drainage flow and offshore advection of cold air (ΔT = 2°C) that produced strong upward heat fluxes (∼50 W/m2 sensible and ∼250 W/m2 latent) on an episodic basis. Nevertheless, the warm wake was never entirely eroded at night due to the cumulative effect of the diurnal cycle. The spatial pattern of the diurnal warming varied day‐to‐day in location and extent. Significant mutual interaction of the oceanic and atmospheric boundary layers was diagnosed via fluxes and temperature cross sections and reinforced by sensitivity runs. The simulation produces for the first time the interactive nature of the ocean and atmosphere boundary layers in the warm wake region of an island with complex terrain.
Toward low‐cloud‐permitting cloud superparameterization with explicit boundary layer turbulence
Authors: Parishani Hossein , Pritchard Michael S. , Bretherton Christopher S. , Wyant Matthew C. , Khairoutdinov Marat
Published: June 2017

Systematic biases in the representation of boundary layer (BL) clouds are a leading source of uncertainty in climate projections. A variation on superparameterization (SP) called “ultraparameterization” (UP) is developed, in which the grid spacing of the cloud‐resolving models (CRMs) is fine enough (250 × 20 m) to explicitly capture the BL turbulence, associated clouds, and entrainment in a global climate model capable of multiyear simulations. UP is implemented within the Community Atmosphere Model using 2° resolution (∼14,000 embedded CRMs) with one‐moment microphysics. By using a small domain and mean‐state acceleration, UP is computationally feasible today and promising for exascale computers. Short‐duration global UP hindcasts are compared with SP and satellite observations of top‐of‐atmosphere radiation and cloud vertical structure. The most encouraging improvement is a deeper BL and more realistic vertical structure of subtropical stratocumulus (Sc) clouds, due to stronger vertical eddy motions that promote entrainment. Results from 90 day integrations show climatological errors that are competitive with SP, with a significant improvement in the diurnal cycle of offshore Sc liquid water. Ongoing concerns with the current UP implementation include a dim bias for near‐coastal Sc that also occurs less prominently in SP and a bright bias over tropical continental deep convection zones. Nevertheless, UP makes global eddy‐permitting simulation a feasible and interesting alternative to conventionally parameterized GCMs or SP‐GCMs with turbulence parameterizations for studying BL cloud‐climate and cloud‐aerosol feedback.
Tip‐EnhancedRaman Scattering: Principles, Instrumentation, and the Application toe Biological Systems
Authors: Lipiec Ewelina W. , Wood Bayden R.
Published: June 2017

Tip‐enhanced Raman scattering (TERS) is a near field technique that has revolutionized molecular imaging. New developments in the technology and methodologies have recently seen unprecedented improvements in spatial resolution. This article outlines the basic theory of TERS, highlighting some of the pivotal studies in the field. This article starts with an explanation on how TERS is able to surpass the limitations of classical Raman spectroscopy such as diffraction limit and the small Raman scattering cross‐section to generate signal enhancement at nanometer resolution. This article then describes three physical phenomena including localized plasmon resonance, optical nanoantenna resonance, and the lightening rod effect to explain the enhancement generated in a TERS experiment. In the second part of this article, the application of TERS for investigating biological molecules and subcellular components is discussed along with the important methodological considerations when recording measurements of these biological complex systems. Finally, a number of pivotal studies investigating the structure of DNA, proteins, peptides, and single cells are highlighted.
Nested Cavity Optical Parametric Oscillators – A Tunable Frequency Synthesizer for Gas Sensing
Authors: Godard Antoine , Raybaut Myriam , Lefebvre Michel
Published: June 2017

Nowadays, active optical detection of molecular species is a strong field of research driven by a great number of applications coming from various sectors: environment, industrial process monitoring, defense and security, food industry, or biomedical. Active methods provide local or remote gas detection with high species discrimination, thanks to the highly selective response of rovibrational absorption lines. However, addressing a wide range of molecular signatures with an active method remains challenging as it requires the implementation of a ‘tunable frequency synthesizer’ covering the mid‐infrared domain where most absorption transitions lie.

This article deals with an original architecture based on the parametric conversion of a primary radiation delivered in the near infrared from a well‐matured laser. Taking advantage of the nonresonant feature of the down‐frequency conversion process, a wide spectral coverage is obtained (2–10 µm), while a pure radiation is achieved at a low threshold of oscillation, thanks to a doubly resonant optical parametric device using two nested cavities. After a general introduction of the principle of mode selection in such a nested cavity optical parametric oscillator (OPO), various gas sensing applications that have been performed over the past decade are reported for both local and remote sensing.
Addressing Sustainability in Biomanufacturing Facility Design
Authors: Capparella Josh , Colucci Samuel , Conner Daniel , Dick Robert , Weko Amanda
Published: June 2017

Sustainability is defined as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. A holistic optimization approach to the design of sustainable biopharmaceutical and vaccine manufacturing facility seeks to minimize energy and resources use while maximizing the efficiency of biopharmaceutical or vaccine production. The integration of sustainable engineering considerations into process technology and business productivity yields the most positive outcome for the triple bottom line of people, planet, and profits.
Gerald ofWales
Authors: Byrne Aisling
Published: June 2017

Gerald of Wales was a Cambro‐Norman churchman active in the late twelfth and early thirteenth centuries. He was a prolific writer, mostly in Latin prose. His works cover a wide range of genres and topics, but his most influential works were his four texts on Ireland and Wales. These texts focus on Irish and Welsh history, geography, and society and were key sources of information on the two countries in England and Continental Europe for much of the Middle Ages.
B
reton Lay
Authors: Boyd Matthieu
Published: June 2017

The Breton lays are short narrative poems, related to romances, fabliaux, and folktales. They plausibly or conventionally claim to derive from songs sung by the ancient Bretons or Britons in their own language. Examples in Anglo‐Norman, Old French, Middle English, Old Norse, and other languages date from c. 1150 to c. 1450. Chivalry, love, marriage, dynastic politics, and the fairy magic of the Celtic Otherworld are common topics, and many are set in the world of King Arthur. Most of the poems are anonymous; major authors include Marie de France and Chaucer. Over time the genre broadens and accommodates a variety of narratives that reflect the cultural diversity of the medieval British Isles.
Everyman
Authors: Badir Patricia
Published: June 2017

The anonymous play
The Somonyng of Everyman
is one of the latest and perhaps the best‐known of the medieval moralities. The play tells the story of Everyman's unexpected encounter with Death and the soul‐searching that ensues as the hero prepares to shed his mortal coil.
B
annockburn
Authors: Foran Susan
Published: June 2017

Bannockburn (1314) was one of the most important and decisive victories in the wars of Scottish independence. It is celebrated as a fight for Scottish freedom from English claims to lordship and is central to Scottish history and identity to this day. It also occupies a special place in medieval European history as one of the few pitched battles between two royal‐led armies in this period.
Embryogenesis
Authors: Torres Ruiz Ramón A.
Published: June 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Descriptive Studies of Zygotic Embryogenesis and Apomixis

Genetic and Experimental Analysis of Embryo Development inArabidopsisand Other Plants

Concluding Remarks

Acknowledgements
Patterns in Vegetative Development
Authors: Martienssen Rob , Dolan Liam
Published: June 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Shoot Development

Organogenesis of the Leaf

Organogenesis of the Root

Conclusions

Acknowledgements
Genetic Control of Floral Induction and Floral Patterning
Authors: Lee Ilha , Weigel Detlef , Parcy François
Published: June 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Floral Induction and Flowering Time

Floral Induction and Flower Initiation

Floral Patterning

Perspectives

Acknowledgments
Prokaryotic Systems Biology
Authors: Kacmarczyk Thadeous , Waltman Peter , Bonneau Richard
Published: June 2017

This chapter will briefly review the most common technologies employed in prokaryotic systems biology projects. When possible, we will highlight the relevance to prokaryotic biology and the role prokaryotic systems might have had in the inception of the technology overall. We will then walk the reader through four functional genomics projects. Although this review cannot cover all details of the full, field‐wide, efforts directed at even a single organism, we do think it is instructive to attempt to outline the efforts directed to each of these systems. We wish to highlight the biological insights gleaned from these studies and demonstrate that these studies illustrate a very productive interface between systems biology, computational biology and more traditional (small numbers of genes) molecular biology that is already in operation in the studies we review.
The Plant Genome: Decoding the Transcriptional Hardwiring
Authors: Grotewold Erich , Springer Nathan
Published: June 2017

Transcription consists of the retrieval of information stored in the genome into mRNAs by DNA‐dependent RNA polymerases (RNAPs). The regulation of transcription is controlled throughcis‐regulatory elements (CREs) that tether regulatory proteins, such as transcription factors (TFs), which act to direct the RNAP to transcribe specific genes with particular temporal and spatial patterns. Here, we provide a plant gene‐centred perspective of how the regulatory code is believed to be hardwired and how TFs interpret this code to deliver the appropriate signals to the transcriptional machinery.
ArabidopsisRoot Development
Authors: Luijten Marijn , Heidstra Renze
Published: June 2017

In plant development, the basic body plan is laid down during embryogenesis. Development carries on postembryogenically above and below ground with the continuous formation and outgrowth of lateral organs shaping the adult plant. In the past two decades, molecular genetics has been the preferred approach to studyArabidopsis thalianaroot development. These efforts have resulted in the identification of numerous genes, involved in as many regulatory processes of root growth and development. Incidentally, conserved mechanisms and genetic factors that act in root and shoot growth have been uncovered, revealing general principles of plant development. Transport‐mediated graded distribution of the phytohormone auxin, for example, acts as a global organizer that is locally translated into distinct cellular responses by specific auxin/indole‐3‐acetic acid–AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR pairs. In the root, these responses promote expression of thePLETHORAregulators that act dose‐dependently in controlling root morphology. The stem cell niche is uniquely defined by the combinatorial activity of the PLETHORA and SHORT‐ROOT/SCARECROW transcription factors yet deploy signaling mechanisms that are conserved in root and shoot stem cell maintenance. Perpetual divisions of the stem cells are tightly regulated, interconnecting epigenetic factors, hormonal control and core cell cycle components. In this chapter, we will focus on recent advances in our understanding ofArabidopsisroot development. Taking embryogenesis as a starting point, we will describe the genes and mechanisms involved in root meristem and stem cell patterning and maintenance.
Root Epidermal Development inArabidopsis
Authors: Horn Rebecca , Yi Keke , Menand Benoît , Pernas‐Ochoa Monica , Takeda Seiji , Walker Tom , Dolan Liam
Published: June 2017

The root epidermis is the layer of cells that surrounds the mature root before it undergoes secondary thickening and is an active interface between the plant and the soil environment. The epidermis develops early in embryogenesis along with the rest of the root meristem (radicle). Upon germination, it emerges from below the protective root cap and differentiates into hair and hairless epidermal cells. Hair cells serve to increase the surface area of the root across which water and nutrients can be transported and are the sites where the plant first makes contacts with a range of microorganisms, including the nitrogen‐fixing bacteria of the genusRhizobium. There is an enormous diversity of root epidermis types among the land plants but for the purposes of this chapter, we will focus largely on the development of the epidermis ofArabidopsis. First, we will describe the earliest stages of epidermal development in the embryo. Then, we will define the functions of a number of genes that are required for the maintenance of epidermal identity in the postembryonic seedling root and the mechanism that gives rise to the patterned array of hair and hairless cells in the epidermis. Finally, we will consider the mechanism of root hair morphogenesis and the effect of environmental factors, such as inorganic phosphate and iron, on root hair development in bothArabidopsisand some crop species.
Fern Root Development
Authors: Hou Guichuan , Blancaflor Elison B.
Published: June 2017

Ferns have a special niche among land vascular plants since they have a different mode of root system construction in comparison with that of seed plants. Ferns have nonbipolar embryos and their ‘primary roots’ are lateral in embryonic origin. There are no distinct embryonic and postembryonic phases of root development in ferns because nonseed plant embryos do not undergo dormancy and germination. A recent study in the model fern
Ceratopteris richardii
has identified two shoot‐borne root populations: stem‐born and leaf‐born, which exhibit different temporal and spatial developmental patterns. In contrast to seed plants, roots of most ferns possess a single apical cell that is the ultimate source of all cells in the root. The single root apical cell divides in a predictable manner producing daughter merophytes and each merophyte in turn divides and differentiates in a predictable pattern. Lateral root development in ferns also involves initiation of a single lateral root apical cell from the endodermal layer of the parent root. Previous studies show that exogenous auxins could not induce additional lateral root formation in ferns but inhibited both parent and lateral root growth. Although this indicates that the physiology of fern roots is similar in some respects to that of flowering plant roots, the developmental program for lateral root initiation in ferns might be different compared to flowering plants. Molecular and genetic studies of fern roots have lagged behind that of flowering plant roots. By drawing attention to the unique anatomical features of fern roots, we hope to generate more interest in ferns as a model for root developmental studies.
Energetics of Nitrogen Acquisition
Authors: Bloom Arnold J.
Published: June 2017

Plants employ a variety of mechanisms to acquire nitrogen from their environment ranging from carnivory to symbiotic relationships with bacteria. Most plants, however, obtain the majority of their nitrogen as nitrate and ammonium that their roots absorb from soils. To compete successfully against soil micro‐organisms for soil nitrate or ammonium, plants adjust their growth, development and physiology to exploit the distinct properties of each ion.

Nitrate is more mobile than ammonium through most soils. Plants can store high concentrations of nitrate, but not ammonium, within their tissues. Yet, assimilation of nitrate into amino acids is far more energy‐intensive than that of ammonium. Plants offset some of the energy costs of nitrate assimilation by coupling it with photorespiration. Rising carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere inhibits photorespiration and, thereby, nitrate assimilation. Therefore, ammonium and nitrate management will become even more critical in the future.
The Nuclear Pore Complex in Symbiosis and Pathogen Defence
Authors: Binder Andreas , Parniske Martin
Published: June 2017

Nuclear pores mediate all transport in and out of the nucleus. While nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) have been intensively studied in yeast and animals, they are not well characterized in plants. Nevertheless, forward and reverse genetic screens have identified plant nucleoporins with functions in various plant processes, including plant‐microbe interactions. This indicates that signalling between cytoplasm and nucleus is a key event in the corresponding pathways. Loss of function mutants ofLotus japonicus NUCLEOPORIN85(NUP85),NUP133andNENAare impaired in arbuscular mycorrhiza and root nodule symbiosis and unable to induce symbiotic calcium oscillations in the nucleus.Arabidopsis thaliana NUP96andNUP88are required in both pathogen‐associated molecular pattern (PAMP)‐triggered and disease‐resistance (R) gene‐mediated defence signalling. In comparison to the yeast and animal systems, this review discusses possible specific and general functions and targets of plant nucleoporins with a focus on the role of the NPC in plant‐microbe interactions.
Microstructural Engineering and Architectural Design of Metal–Organic Framework Membranes
Authors: Liu Yi , Ban Yujie , Yang Weishen
Published: June 2017

In the past decade, a huge development in rational design, synthesis, and application of molecular sieve membranes, which typically included zeolites, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), and graphene oxides, has been witnessed. Owing to high flexibility in both pore apertures and functionality, MOFs in the form of membranes have offered unprecedented opportunities for energy‐efficient gas separations. Reports on the fabrication of well‐intergrown MOF membranes first appeared in 2009. Since then there has been tremendous growth in this area along with an exponential increase of MOF‐membrane‐related publications. In order to compete with other separation and purification technologies, like cryogenic distillation, pressure swing adsorption, and chemical absorption, separation performance (including permeability, selectivity, and long‐term stability) of molecular sieve membranes must be further improved in an attempt to reach an economically attractive region. Therefore, microstructural engineering and architectural design of MOF membranes at mesoscopic and microscopic levels become indispensable. This review summarizes some intriguing research that may potentially contribute to large‐scale applications of MOF membranes in the future.
Optical Microresonators for Sensing and Transduction: A Materials Perspective
Authors: Heylman Kevin D. , Knapper Kassandra A. , Horak Erik H. , Rea Morgan T. , Vanga Sudheer K. , Goldsmith Randall H.
Published: June 2017

Optical microresonators confine light to a particular microscale trajectory, are exquisitely sensitive to their microenvironment, and offer convenient readout of their optical properties. Taken together, this is an immensely attractive combination that makes optical microresonators highly effective as sensors and transducers. Meanwhile, advances in material science, fabrication techniques, and photonic sensing strategies endow optical microresonators with new functionalities, unique transduction mechanisms, and in some cases, unparalleled sensitivities. In this progress report, the operating principles of these sensors are reviewed, and different methods of signal transduction are evaluated. Examples are shown of how choice of materials must be suited to the analyte, and how innovations in fabrication and sensing are coupled together in a mutually reinforcing cycle. A tremendously broad range of capabilities of microresonator sensors is described, from electric and magnetic field sensing to mechanical sensing, from single‐molecule detection to imaging and spectroscopy, from operation at high vacuum to in live cells. Emerging sensing capabilities are highlighted and put into context in the field. Future directions are imagined, where the diverse capabilities laid out are combined and advances in scalability and integration are implemented, leading to the creation of a sensor unparalleled in sensitivity and information content.
Recent Progress on Advanced Materials for Solid‐Oxide Fuel Cells Operating Below 500 °C
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Knibbe Ruth , Sunarso Jaka , Zhong Yijun , Zhou Wei , Shao Zongping , Zhu Zhonghua
Published: June 2017

Solid‐oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are electricity generators that can convert the chemical energy in various fuels directly to the electric power with high efficiency. Recent advances in materials and related key components for SOFCs operating at ≈500 °C are summarized here, with a focus on the materials, structures, and techniques development for low‐temperature SOFCs, including the analysis of most of the critical parameters affecting the electrochemical performance of the electrolyte, anode, and cathode. New strategies, such as thin‐film deposition, exsolution of nanoparticles from perovskites, microwave plasma heating, and finger‐like channeled electrodes, are discussed. These recent developments highlight the need for electrodes with higher activity and electrolytes with greater conductivity to generate a high electrochemical performance at lower temperatures.
Challenges and Perspectives for NASICON‐Type Electrode Materials for Advanced Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Shuangqiang , Wu Chao , Shen Laifa , Zhu Changbao , Huang Yuanye , Xi Kai , Maier Joachim , Yu Yan
Published: June 2017

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have attracted increasing attention in the past decades, because of high overall abundance of precursors, their even geographical distribution, and low cost. Apart from inherent thermodynamic disadvantages, SIBs have to overcome multiple kinetic problems, such as fast capacity decay, low rate capacities and low Coulombic efficiencies. A special case is sodium super ion conductor (NASICON)‐based electrode materials as they exhibit – besides pronounced structural stability – exceptionally high ion conductivity, rendering them most promising for sodium storage. Owing to the limiting, comparatively low electronic conductivity, nano‐structuring is a prerequisite for achieving satisfactory rate‐capability. In this review, we analyze advantages and disadvantages of NASICON‐type electrode materials and highlight electrode structure design principles for obtaining the desired electrochemical performance. Moreover, we give an overview of recent approaches to enhance electrical conductivity and structural stability of cathode and anode materials based on NASICON structure. We believe that this review provides a pertinent insight into relevant design principles and inspires further research in this respect.
Anode Improvement in Rechargeable Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Tao Tao , Lu Shengguo , Fan Ye , Lei Weiwei , Huang Shaoming , Chen Ying
Published: June 2017

Owing to their theoretical energy density of 2600 Wh kg−1, lithium–sulfur batteries represent a promising future energy storage device to power electric vehicles. However, the practical applications of lithium–sulfur batteries suffer from poor cycle life and low Coulombic efficiency, which is attributed, in part, to the polysulfide shuttle and Li dendrite formation. Suppressing Li dendrite growth, blocking the unfavorable reaction between soluble polysulfides and Li, and improving the safety of Li–S batteries have become very important for the development of high‐performance lithium sulfur batteries. A comprehensive review of various strategies is presented for enhancing the stability of the anode of lithium sulfur batteries, including inserting an interlayer, modifying the separator and electrolytes, employing artificial protection layers, and alternative anodes to replace the Li metal anode.
Spatially Resolved Large Magnetization in Ultrathin BiFeO3
Authors: Guo Er‐Jia , Petrie Jonathan R. , Roldan Manuel A. , Li Qian , Desautels Ryan D. , Charlton Timothy , Herklotz Andreas , Nichols John , van Lierop Johan , Freeland John W. , Kalinin Sergei V. , Lee Ho Nyung , Fitzsimmons Michael R.
Published: June 2017

Here, a quantitative magnetic depth profile across the planar interfaces in BiFeO3/La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 (BFO/LSMO) superlattices using polarized neutron reflectometry is obtained. An enhanced magnetization of 1.83 ± 0.16 μB/Fe in BFO layers is observed when they are interleaved between two manganite layers. The enhanced magnetic order in BFO persists up to 200 K. The depth dependence of magnetic moments in BFO/LSMO superlattices as a function of the BFO layer thickness is also explored. The results show the enhanced net magnetic moment in BFO from the LSMO/BFO interface extends 3–4 unit cells into BFO. The interior part of a thicker BFO layer has a much smaller magnetization, suggesting it still keeps the small canted AFM state. The results exclude charge transfer, intermixing, epitaxial strain, and octahedral rotations/tilts as dominating mechanisms for the large net magnetization in BFO. An explanation—one suggested by others previously and consistent with the observations—attributes the temperature dependence of the net magnetization of BFO to strong orbital hybridization between Fe and Mn across the interfaces. Such orbital reconstruction would establish an upper temperature limit for magnetic ordering of BFO.
Electrochemically Powered, Energy‐Conserving Carbon Nanotube Artificial Muscles
Authors: Lee Jae Ah , Li Na , Haines Carter S. , Kim Keon Jung , Lepró Xavier , Ovalle‐Robles Raquel , Kim Seon Jeong , Baughman Ray H.
Published: June 2017

While artificial muscle yarns and fibers are potentially important for many applications, the combination of large strokes, high gravimetric work capacities, short cycle times, and high efficiencies are not realized for these fibers. This paper demonstrates here electrochemically powered carbon nanotube yarn muscles that provide tensile contraction as high as 16.5%, which is 12.7 times higher than previously obtained. These electrochemical muscles can deliver a contractile energy conversion efficiency of 5.4%, which is 4.1 times higher than reported for any organic‐material‐based artificial muscle. All‐solid‐state parallel muscles and braided muscles, which do not require a liquid electrolyte, provide tensile contractions of 11.6% and 5%, respectively. These artificial muscles might eventually be deployed for a host of applications, from robotics to perhaps even implantable medical devices.
Metal–Organic‐Framework‐Derived Hybrid Carbon Nanocages as a Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction and Evolution
Authors: Liu Shaohong , Wang Zhiyu , Zhou Si , Yu Fengjiao , Yu Mengzhou , Chiang Chang‐Yang , Zhou Wuzong , Zhao Jijun , Qiu Jieshan
Published: June 2017

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are cornerstone reactions for many renewable energy technologies. Developing cheap yet durable substitutes of precious‐metal catalysts, especially the bifunctional electrocatalysts with high activity for both ORR and OER reactions and their streamlined coupling process, are highly desirable to reduce the processing cost and complexity of renewable energy systems. Here, a facile strategy is reported for synthesizing double‐shelled hybrid nanocages with outer shells of Co‐N‐doped graphitic carbon (Co‐NGC) and inner shells of N‐doped microporous carbon (NC) by templating against core–shell metal–organic frameworks. The double‐shelled NC@Co‐NGC nanocages well integrate the high activity of Co‐NGC shells into the robust NC hollow framework with enhanced diffusion kinetics, exhibiting superior electrocatalytic properties to Pt and RuO2 as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for ORR and OER, and hold a promise as efficient air electrode catalysts in Zn–air batteries. First‐principles calculations reveal that the high catalytic activities of Co‐NGC shells are due to the synergistic electron transfer and redistribution between the Co nanoparticles, the graphitic carbon, and the doped N species. Strong yet favorable adsorption of an OOH* intermediate on the high density of uncoordinated hollow‐site C atoms with respect to the Co lattice in the Co‐NGC structure is a vital rate‐determining step to achieve excellent bifunctional electrocatalytic activity.
3D Atomic‐Scale Insights into Anisotropic Core–Shell‐Structured InGaAs Nanowires Grown by Metal–Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Qu Jiangtao , Du Sichao , Burgess Tim , Wang Changhong , Cui Xiangyuan , Gao Qiang , Wang Weichao , Tan Hark Hoe , Liu Hui , Jagadish Chennupati , Zhang Yingjie , Chen Hansheng , Khan Mansoor , Ringer Simon , Zheng Rongkun
Published: June 2017

III–V ternary InGaAs nanowires have great potential for electronic and optoelectronic device applications; however, the 3D structure and chemistry at the atomic‐scale inside the nanowires remain unclear, which hinders tailoring the nanowires for specific applications. Here, atom probe tomography is used in conjunction with a first‐principles simulation to investigate the 3D structure and chemistry of InGaAs nanowires, and reveals i) the nanowires form a spontaneous core–shell structure with a Ga‐enriched core and an In‐enriched shell, due to different growth mechanisms in the axial and lateral directions; ii) the shape of the core evolves from hexagon into Reuleaux triangle and grows larger, which results from In outward and Ga inward interdiffusion occurring at the core–shell interface; and iii) the irregular hexagonal shell manifests an anisotropic growth rate on {112}A and {112}B facets. Accordingly, a model in terms of the core–shell shape and chemistry evolution is proposed, which provides fresh insights into the growth of these nanowires.
Biogenic Realgar As4S4 Molecular Clusters Formed by a One‐Pot Microbial‐Driven Process as a Li‐Ion Storage Material
Authors: Kim Tae‐Yang , Ahn Hyungju , Jeon Jeongsuk , Kim Mi Sug , Kim Min Gyu , Hur Hor‐Gil
Published: June 2017

Eco‐efficient biogenic strategies for the removal of toxic elements result in the formation of unique nano/microstructured materials with dual functionalities for energy conversion and storage. In one pot under aqueous conditions, the bacterium Shewanella sp. strain HN‐41 precipitates nanostructured arsenic sulfides (realgar, As4S4) and its reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites. Considering the unique structural characteristics of the freestanding molecular‐cage‐like single clusters, the biogenic realgar structure is utilized as an independent anode unit since each cluster integrates four faceted five‐membered As4S4 rings, providing a short diffusion length into each cluster and facile chemical binding onto the sulfur atoms with lone pairs of electrons. Here, the role of the biogenic realgar structure in the reversible uptake and release of Li ions into and from the molecular‐cage‐like single clusters is investigated. Using in situ As K‐edge X‐ray absorption fine structure analyses, the Li‐ion uptake ability of realgar As4S4 (As4S4↔Li20As4S4) is achieved through a two‐step mechanism: (1) molecular clustering to form Li8As4S4 (≈500 mA h g−1) and (2) alloying to form Li12As4 only in the interior of the single clusters (≈750 mA h g−1). Thus, the bacteria‐driven biological synthesis under mild conditions can provide an alternative synthetic strategy and promotes easy scale‐up for nanostructured materials.
Selective Solar‐Blind UV Monitoring Based on Organic Field‐Effect Transistor Nonvolatile Memories
Authors: Zhang Zhong‐Da , Gao Xu , Zhong Ya‐Nan , Liu Jie , Zhang Lin‐Xi , Wang Shun , Xu Jian‐Long , Wang Sui‐Dong
Published: June 2017

Ultraviolet (UV) monitoring has wide applications in diverse fields, where sensitive photodetection and recording of UV exposure history are often simultaneously required. A new strategy is herein developed to achieve solar‐blind UV monitoring. Based on organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs), nonvolatile memories with both p‐type or n‐type organic active layers demonstrate selective and storable UV response. These OFET memories are sensitive only to solar‐blind UV light of 254 nm, and have no response to UV light of 365 nm or visible light. The photoresponsive signal can be recorded in a nonvolatile manner with excellent retention and rewritable capability, which integrates solar‐blind UV detection and memory into a single device. These OFET memories are well compatible with flexible substrates, and thus could be very useful for portable and/or wearable UV dosimetry. The conventional bandgap photoexcitation mechanism is not applicable to the this case, and a UV‐induced interfacial excitation mechanism is proposed to interpret the device features.
Feasible separation regions for distillation I: Structure
Authors: Krolikowski Lechoslaw J.
Published: June 2017

A feasible separation region is determined for only four special combinations of a saturated vapor/liquid feed and total/partial condenser or reboiler. This work addresses the construction of a feasible separation region for a general case where the feed is a mixture of vapor and liquid in equilibrium and where the column is equipped with a partial/total condenser and reboiler. The analysis reveals that the product composition sets (which are defined for various reflux and reboil ratios and a fixed number of stages in each column section) are the main elements of the feasible separation region. The application of the geometric model of the column in combination with the shape of the distillation line led to the conclusion that the feasible separation region is the union of two product composition sets for both enriching and stripping columns both with an infinite number of stages. The boundary of the feasible separation region consists of several curves related to specific types of operating modes in the column. Some of these curves create a well‐known product composition multitude, whereas other curves form a generalized distillation limit. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2017
trans‐Stilbene C‐Glycosides: Synthesis by a Microwave‐Assisted Heck Reaction and Evaluation of the SGLT‐2 Inhibitory Activity
Authors: Kumar Ponnapalli Kalyana , Kumar Adak Avijit , Das Anindya , Song Jen‐Shin , Wu Szu‐Huei , Sun Chung‐Ming , Lin Chun‐Cheng
Published: June 2017

A protocol for the microwave‐assisted Heck coupling reaction of C‐aryl glycosides and styrenes has been developed for the synthesis of mono‐ and bis(C‐glycoside) stilbenes. This method exclusively provides C‐glycoside trans‐stilbenes in good yields. The Pd‐catalyzed Heck coupling reaction was successfully applied to various functionalized C‐glycosyl aryl iodides and various substituted styrenes to deliver several C‐glycoside trans‐stilbenes with high selectivity. The obtained C‐glycosyl trans‐stilbenes were also examined for human SGLT‐2 inhibitory activity.