bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cooperative distributed model predictive control for wind farms
Authors: Spudić V. , Conte C. , Baotić M. , Morari M.
Published: August 2014

This paper focuses on cooperative distributed model predictive control (MPC) of wind farms, where the farms respond to active power control commands issued by the transmission system operator. A distributed MPC scheme is proposed, which aims at satisfying the requirements imposed by the grid code while minimizing the farm‐wide mechanical structure fatigue. The distributed MPC control law is defined by a global finite‐horizon optimal control problem, which is solved at every time step by distributed optimization. The computational approach is completely distributed, that is, every turbine evaluates its own globally optimal input by considering local measurements and communicating to neighboring turbines only. Two MPC versions are compared, in the first of which the farm‐wide power output constraint is implemented as a hard constraint, whereas in the second, it is implemented as a soft constraint. As for distributed optimization methods, the alternating direction method of multipliers as well as a dual decomposition scheme based on fast gradient updates are compared. The performance of the proposed distributed MPC controller, as well as the performance of the distributed optimization methods used for its operation, are compared in the simulation on four exemplary scenarios. The results of the simulations imply that the use of cooperative distributed MPC in wind farms is viable both from a performance and from a computational viewpoint. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of molecular orientation using molecular dynamics for polymer melt flows in circular ducts
Authors: Motahari Siamak , Kanvisi Mojtaba , Kaffashi Babak
Published: August 2014

Molecular dynamic simulations have been used to develop a mathematical model to investigate the extension of the polymer chains and the polymer chain orientations in the circular duct flows. The effects of pressure loss and molecular weight are also investigated on the polymer chain orientation. The model's outputs indicate that with increasing pressure loss and subsequently the shear stress at wall, the trace of the conformation tensor increases. This is interpreted as an increase in the extension of polymer chains and the polymer chain orientation in the flow direction. The model also predicts that the increase of the molecular weight of polymer results in decrease of the trace of the conformation tensor and the extension of the polymer chains. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:1196–1202, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
20.7% efficient ion‐implanted large area n‐type front junction silicon solar cells with rear point contacts formed by laser opening and physical vapor deposition
Authors: Tao Yuguo , Payne Adam , Upadhyaya Vijaykumar D. , Rohatgi Ajeet
Published: August 2014

In this work, we report on ion‐implanted, high‐efficiency n‐type silicon solar cells fabricated on large area pseudosquare Czochralski wafers. The sputtering of aluminum (Al) via physical vapor deposition (PVD) in combination with a laser‐patterned dielectric stack was used on the rear side to produce front junction cells with an implanted boron emitter and a phosphorus back surface field. Front and back surface passivation was achieved by thin thermally grown oxide during the implant anneal. Both front and back oxides were capped with SiNx, followed by screen‐printed metal grid formation on the front side. An ultraviolet laser was used to selectively ablate the SiO2/SiNx passivation stack on the back to form the pattern for metal–Si contact. The laser pulse energy had to be optimized to fully open the SiO2/SiNx passivation layers, without inducing appreciable damage or defects on the surface of the n+ back surface field layer. It was also found that a low temperature annealing for less than 3 min after PVD Al provided an excellent charge collecting contact on the back. In order to obtain high fill factor of ~80%, an in situ plasma etching in an inert ambient prior to PVD was found to be essential for etching the native oxide formed in the rear vias during the front contact firing. Finally, through optimization of the size and pitch of the rear point contacts, an efficiency of 20.7% was achieved for the large area n‐type passivated emitter, rear totally diffused cell. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
R. B. Woodward, A Great Physical Organic Chemist
Authors: Seeman Jeffrey I.
Published: August 2014

Robert Burns Woodward is considered one of the greatest synthetic organic chemists of our time, if not the greatest. This article presents evidence that Woodward was also one of the greatest physical organic chemists as well. Among Woodward and his collaborators' most important accomplishments in the field of physical organic chemistry are: the Woodward–Hoffmann rules; the derivation and use of structure–mechanism–reactivity relationships in his multifold structure determinations and total syntheses; the Woodward ultraviolet rules and the Octant Rule; and his early demonstration that synthetic organic chemistry can contribute to the synthesis of potential superconductors and thus, to material science. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predictors of psychological functioning in children with cancer: disposition and cumulative life stressors
Authors: Howard Sharp Katianne M. , Rowe Anjoli E. , Russell Kathryn , Long Alanna , Phipps Sean
Published: August 2014

Objective

This study examined psychological functioning in children with a history of cancer and a matched sample of healthy peers, while exploring the roles of disposition and stressful life events.

Method

Participants were 255 children with a history of cancer and 101 demographically matched children (8–17 years). Children completed measures of depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS); history of stressful life events; and dispositional factors, including optimism and a five‐factor personality measure.

Results

Children with cancer did not differ from peers with regard to depression and PTSS, but reported significantly lower anxiety. In hierarchical regressions, children's depression, anxiety, and PTSS scores were largely predicted by dispositional variables and, to a lesser extent, stressful life events, after controlling for demographics and health status.

Conclusion

Children's psychological functioning is predicted primarily by disposition, and secondarily by history of stressful life events, with health status (i.e., cancer versus control) accounting for minimal, and often non‐significant variance in children's functioning. These findings further support that children with cancer are generally resilient, with factors predictive of their adjustment difficulties mirroring those of children without history of serious illness. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rapid CHannel Widening Following Weir Removal due to Bed‐Material Wave Dispersion on the River Monnow, Wales
Authors: Thomas R. J. , Constantine J. A. , Gough P. , Fussell B.
Published: August 2014

Kentchurch Weir, a low‐head weir on the river Monnow, Wales, was demolished in August 2011, releasing a sediment wave that had formed behind the structure for at least a century. We surveyed channel topography and bed‐material composition through a 1.5‐km long reach prior to weir removal and then periodically over a 2‐year period. The fill material was finer than the ambient bed material with all particles mobilized by bankfull flows. Rapid degradation of the 1460‐m3 sediment fill in the previously impounded reach occurred as bed material appeared to disperse downstream, consistent with other studies of sediment waves in gravel‐bed rivers. The riverbed profile was gradually smoothed through the study reach by degrading the elevated fill as a migrating knickpoint and aggrading the channel bed and bars immediately downstream of the former weir location. Extensive bank erosion was evident in the previously impounded reach with up to 10 m of widening following a single flow event, increasing channel width by more than 20%. Mitigation measures to enforce the riverbanks have been required as the gradual dispersion of the sediment wave continues to force flow diversion towards the riverbanks. The evolution of sediment stores behind flow obstructions follows that of sediment waves and theory available to describe wave evolution should do much to improve management efforts that seek to minimize channel widening following weir removal. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Customizing a Research‐Based Reading Practice
Authors: McMaster Kristen L. , Jung Pyung‐Gang , Brandes Dana , Pinto Viveca , Fuchs Douglas , Kearns Devin , Lemons Christopher , Sáenz Laura , Yen Loulee
Published: August 2014

Teachers are often asked to implement research‐based instructional programs with fidelity and to ensure that all students reach high academic standards. These requests sometimes conflict when teachers find that not all their students are benefiting from the research‐backed programs. In this article, we suggest that researchers and teachers can work together to balance the importance of both program fidelity and instructional flexibility, based on findings from recent research on Peer‐Assisted Learning Strategies (PALS) for Reading in Grades 2‐6. We detail how teachers can learn to implement research‐based practices with fidelity, as well as customize these practices to fit their own purposes. We end with general recommendations for customizing research‐based practices.
Parental Decisions Following Prenatal Diagnosis of Chromosomal Abnormalities: Implications for Genetic Counseling Practice in Japan
Authors: Suzumori Nobuhiro , Kumagai Kyoko , Goto Shinobu , Nakamura Akira , Sugiura‐Ogasawara Mayumi
Published: August 2014

Parental decision‐making to terminate or continue a pregnancy was studied after prenatal diagnosis of a chromosome aneuploidy among a sample of patients around the city of Nagoya, Japan. A total of 1,051 amniocentesis cases at 15–18 weeks of gestation were analyzed. Of these, 60 cases of chromosomal anomalies with aneuploidies were diagnosed by conventional cytogenetic analysis. Of the 45 diagnoses of autosomal chromosome aneuploidies, pregnancy was terminated in 93.3 % of the cases. Of the 15 cases diagnosed with sex chromosome aneuploidy, pregnancy was terminated in 46.7 %. Differences in parental decisions with respect to maternal age, gestational week at diagnosis, number of pregnancies per individual and existing number of children were not significant in patients diagnosed either with autosomal or sex chromosome aneuploidy. The findings indicate that when diagnosed with a chromosome aneuploidy in which a severe prognosis was expected, most couples decided to terminate the pregnancy in Japan. Implications of these findings for expanding the profession of genetic counseling are discussed and research recommendations are provided.
Identification of Aromatic Fatty Acids in Butter Fat
Authors: Schröder Markus , Abdurahman Halima , Ruoff Tanja , Lehnert Katja , Vetter Walter
Published: August 2014

Bovine milk fat contains a large variety of structurally different fatty acids. In this study, we describe the presence of aromatic fatty acids in a butter fat sample. Fatty acids were released from butter fat and converted into the corresponding methyl esters (FAME). Urea complexation was used to separate the main saturated fatty acids. GC/MS screening of the FAME in the filtrate of the urea complexation indicated the presence of aromatic fatty acids. By (1) conversion of two representatives into picolinyl esters which were analyzed by GC/MS, (2) linear log tR over carbon number plots (R2 = 0.95) and by the use of two reference standards we were able to show that the phenyl unit was located on the terminal carbon of the straight acyl chain of the FAME. In a fraction gathered by countercurrent chromatography we were able to identify 3‐phenylpropionic acid (Ph‐3:0), 4‐phenylbutyric acid (Ph‐4:0), 5‐phenylpentanoic acid (Ph‐5:0), 6‐phenylhexanoic acid (Ph‐6:0), 7‐phenylheptanoic acid (Ph‐7:0), 8‐phenyloctanoic acid (Ph‐8:0), 9‐phenylnonanoic acid (Ph‐9:0), 10‐phenyldecanoic acid (Ph‐10:0), 11‐phenylundecanoic acid (Ph‐11:0), 12‐phenyldodecanoic acid (Ph‐12:0), 13‐phenyltridecanoic acid (Ph‐13:0), along with one unsaturated phenyldecenoic acid (Ph‐10:1) isomer. Preliminary results indicate that the aromatic fatty acids may have been formed exogenously in the rumen of the cows. The total amount of the aromatic fatty acids was estimated at 0.15 mg/g butter fat, which corresponds with an average daily intake of ~5 mg per day in Germany and ~4.4 mg per day in Europe.
Differential activity of rice protein disulfide isomerase family members for disulfide bond formation and reduction
Authors: Onda Yayoi , Kobori Yohei
Published: August 2014

Protein disulfide isomerases (PDIs), a family of thiol‐disulfide oxidoreductases that are ubiquitous in all eukaryotes, are the principal catalysts for disulfide bond formation. Here, we investigated three rice (Oryza sativa) PDI family members (PDIL1;1, PDIL1;4, and PDIL2;3) and found that PDIL1;1 exhibited the highest catalytic activity for both disulfide bond formation and disulfide bond reduction. The activity of PDIL1;1‐catalyzed disulfide bond reduction, in which two redox‐active sites were involved, was enhanced by increasing the glutathione concentration. These results suggest that PDIL1;1 plays primary roles in both disulfide bond formation and disulfide bond reduction, which allow for redox control of protein quality and packaging.
A dodecylamine derivative of cyanocobalamin potently inhibits the activities of cobalamin‐dependent methylmalonyl‐CoA mutase and methionine synthase of Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Bito Tomohiro , Yabuta Yukinori , Ichiyanagi Tsuyoshi , Kawano Tsuyoshi , Watanabe Fumio
Published: August 2014

In this study, we showed that cyanocobalamin dodecylamine, a ribose 5′‐carbamate derivative of cyanocobalamin, was absorbed and accumulated to significant levels by Caenorhabditis elegans and was not further metabolized. The levels of methylmalonic acid and homocysteine, which serve as indicators of cobalamin deficiency, were significantly increased in C. elegans treated with the dodecylamine derivative, indicating severe cobalamin deficiency. Kinetic studies show that the affinity of the cyanocobalamin dodecylamine derivative was greater for two cobalamin‐dependent enzymes, methylmalonyl‐CoA mutase and methionine synthase, compared with their respective coenzymes, suggesting that the dodecylamine derivative inactivated these enzymes. The dodecylamine derivative did not affect the levels of mRNAs encoding these enzymes or those of other proteins involved in intercellular cobalamin metabolism, including methylmalonyl‐CoA mutase (mmcm‐1), methylmalonic acidemia cobalamin A complementation group (mmaa‐1), methylmalonic aciduria cblC type (cblc‐1), and methionine synthase reductase (mtrr‐1). In contrast, the level of the mRNAs encoding cob(I)alamin adenosyltransferase (mmab‐1) was increased significantly and identical to that of cobalamin‐deficient C. elegans. These results indicate that the cyanocobalamin‐dodecylamine derivative acts as a potent inhibitor of cobalamin‐dependent enzymes and induces severe cobalamin deficiency in C. elegans.
Emergence of multiplex mobile phone communication networks across rural areas: An Ethiopian experiment
Authors: MATOUS PETR , TODO YASUYUKI , ISHIKAWA TATSUYA
Published: August 2014

Mobile phones are spreading to remote areas of the globe, leading to the following question: “What is the potential of the new communication technologies for increasing individuals' access to information and the diffusion of attitudes and practices across rural areas of developing countries?” We have donated phones to 234 farmers selected by stratified random sampling in an agrarian region of Ethiopia and have tracked their main communication partners for six months. The panel data and qualitative interviews indicated that the phones were not typically used to expand the existing constrained social networks or to gain information from new sources but to call contacts who had been known personally and to individuals introduced through the experiment. Stochastic actor-based network models clarified that although agricultural information-seeking and casual calling are intertwined, the mechanisms underlying the evolution of instrumental and expressive communication networks are distinct. Acquaintances living beyond comfortable walking distances and individuals whom others call became preferred for information-seeking calls. Thus, mobile phones may accelerate information exchange within existing social networks and may support the creation of new information hubs that might facilitate more efficient information diffusion over long distances in the future. In contrast, the importance of geographical communities strongly prevails in casual phone conversations. Physically proximate community members who tend to be met frequently were preferred for sentiment-sharing calls. Preferential attachment was not evident for this type of communication. As a result, the network of these expressive calls was highly localized and fragmented, making it unlikely for personal feelings to diffuse across wide geographical areas through the new phone networks.
Attributing foodborne salmonellosis in humans to animal reservoirs in the European Union using a multi-country stochastic model
Authors: DE KNEGT L. V. , PIRES S. M. , HALD T.
Published: August 2014

A Bayesian modelling approach comparing the occurrence ofSalmonellaserovars in animals and humans was used to attribute salmonellosis cases to broilers, turkeys, pigs, laying hens, travel and outbreaks in 24 European Union countries.Salmonelladata for animals and humans, covering the period from 2007 to 2009, were mainly obtained from studies and reports published by the European Food Safety Authority. Availability of food sources for consumption was derived from trade and production data from the European Statistical Office. Results showed layers as the most important reservoir of human salmonellosis in Europe, with 42·4% (7 903 000 cases, 95% credibility interval 4 181 000–14 510 000) of cases, 95·9% of which was caused byS. Enteritidis. In Finland and Sweden, most cases were travel-related, while in most other countries the main sources were related to the laying hen or pig reservoir, highlighting differences in the epidemiology ofSalmonella, surveillance focus and eating habits across the European Union.
An Analysis of Patient Presentations at a 2-Day Mass-participation Cycling Event: The Ride to Conquer Cancer Case Series, 2010-2012
Authors: Lund Adam , Turris Sheila A. , Wang Peter , Mui Justin , Lewis Kerrie , Gutman Samuel J.
Published: August 2014

Objective

To analyze the unique factors involved in providing medical support for a long-distance, cross-border, cycling event, and to describe patient presentations and event characteristics for the British Columbia (BC) Ride to Conquer Cancer from 2010 through 2012.

Methods

This study was a 3-year, descriptive case series report. Medical encounters were documented, prospectively, from 2010-2012 using an online registry. Data for event-related variables also were reported.

Results

Providing medical support for participants during the 2-day ride was complicated by communication challenges, weather conditions, and cross-border issues. The total number of participants for the ride increased from 2,252 in 2010 to 2,879 in 2011, and 3,011 in 2012. Patient presentation rates (PPRs) of 125.66, 155.26, and 198.93 (per 1,000 participants) were documented from 2010 through 2012. Over the course of three years, and not included in the PPR, an additional 3,840 encounters for “self-treatment” were documented.

Conclusions

The Ride to Conquer Cancer Series has shown that medical coverage at multi-day, cross-national cycling events must be planned carefully to face a unique set of circumstances, including legislative issues, long-distance communication capabilities, and highly mobile participants. This combination of factors leads to potentially higher PPRs than have been reported for noncycling events. This study also illuminates the additional workload “self-treatment” visits place on the medical team.

LundA, TurrisSA, WangP, MuiJ, LewisK, GutmanSJ. An analysis of patient presentations at a 2-day mass-participation cycling event: The Ride to Conquer Cancer Case Series, 2010-2012. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2014;29(4):1-8.
Supplementation with methyl donors during lactation to high-fat-sucrose-fed dams protects offspring against liver fat accumulation when consuming an obesogenic diet
Authors: Cordero P. , Milagro F. I. , Campion J. , Martinez J. A.
Published: August 2014

Methyl donor supplementation has been reported to prevent obesity-induced liver fat accumulation in adult rats. We hypothesized that this protection could be mediated by perinatal nutrition. For this purpose, we assessed the response to an obesogenic diet (high-fat-sucrose, HFS) during adulthood depending on maternal diet during lactation. Female Wistar rats fed control diet during pregnancy were assigned to four postpartum dietary groups: control, control supplemented with methyl donors (choline, betaine, folic acid, vitamin B12), HFS and HFS supplemented with methyl donors. At weaning, the male offspring was transferred to a chow diet and at week 12th assigned to a control or a HFS diet during 8 weeks. The offspring whose mothers were fed HFS during lactation showed increased adiposity (19%,P<0.001). When fed the HFS diet as adults, offspring whose mothers were HFS supplemented had more body fat (23%,P<0.001) than those from HFS non-supplemented. However, they showed lower liver fat accumulation (−18%,P<0.001). Srebf1, Dnmt1 and Lepr liver mRNA levels increased after adulthood HFS feeding. In those animals HFS fed during adulthood, previous maternal HFS decreased Lepr and Dnmt1 expression levels when compared with c-HFS offspring, while the supplementation of control and HFS-fed dams, respectively, induced higher hepatic Mme and Lepr mRNA levels after adult HFS intake compared with hfs-HFS offspring. In conclusion, maternal HFS diet during lactation influenced the response to an obesogenic diet in the adult progeny. Interestingly, dietary methyl donor supplementation in lactating mothers fed an obesogenic diet reduced liver fat accumulation, but increased adipose tissue storage in adult HFS-fed offspring.
Maternal aging affects life performance of progeny in a Holstein dairy cow model
Authors: Astiz S. , Gonzalez-Bulnes A. , Sebastian F. , Fargas O. , Cano I. , Cuesta P.
Published: August 2014

The development and life performance of 404 high-producing Holstein dairy cows was studied from birth onwards and during two lactations. The management, environment and parental genetics of the cows were known in detail. Cluster analysis identified four performance ‘types’: high-yielding (HY) cows and persistently high-yielding (PHY) cows, which accounted for 33% of the animals; medium-yielding (MY) cows, 41%; and low-yielding (LY) cows, 26%. Prenatal determinants of the life performance of the progeny were analyzed. Developmental and environmental factors were excluded as determinants of performance (including birth weight, level of passive immunity transfer, growth rate, age at first parturition and reproductive efficiency). Life performance did show minor seasonal effects, with more HY cows but less PHY being born during the cold season (90.1% in HY; 58.3% in PHY v. 81.5%). Instead, the single most important factor influencing life performance of daughters was maternal age. HY cows were born from the youngest mothers (1.89±1.14 parturitions, 3.12±1.42-year old), whereas LY cows were born from the oldest (2.72±1.80 parturitions, 3.97±2.01-year old; P<0.001). Life performance of the dams did not differ among clusters. In addition, metabolic parameters (fat and protein yield) were found to correlate significantly with yields between the first and second lactations (milk yield: r=0.357; fat yield: r=0.211; protein yield: r=0.277; P<0.0001), suggesting the influence of the individual. These results suggest that under optimal health, nutritional and environmental conditions, maternal aging is an important determinant of the life performance of progeny and argue for the need to identify conditions that contribute to health and disease in progeny according to the Developmental Origin of Health and Disease or DOHaD concept. Our findings may help the development of novel management guidelines for dairy farms.
Insights into the metabolism, lifestyle and putative evolutionary history of the novel archaeal phylum ‘Diapherotrites’
Authors: Youssef Noha H , Rinke Christian , Stepanauskas Ramunas , Farag Ibrahim , Woyke Tanja , Elshahed Mostafa S
Published: August 2014

The archaeal phylum ‘Diapherotrites’ was recently proposed based on phylogenomic analysis of genomes recovered from an underground water seep in an abandoned gold mine (Homestake mine in Lead, SD, USA). Here we present a detailed analysis of the metabolic capabilities and genomic features of three single amplified genomes (SAGs) belonging to the ‘Diapherotrites’. The most complete of the SAGs, Candidatus ‘Iainarchaeum andersonii’ (Cand. IA), had a small genome (∼1.24 Mb), short average gene length (822 bp), one ribosomal RNA operon, high coding density (∼90.4%), high percentage of overlapping genes (27.6%) and low incidence of gene duplication (2.16%). Cand. IA genome possesses limited catabolic capacities that, nevertheless, could theoretically support a free-living lifestyle by channeling a narrow range of substrates such as ribose, polyhydroxybutyrate and several amino acids to acetyl-coenzyme A. On the other hand, Cand. IA possesses relatively well-developed anabolic capabilities, although it remains auxotrophic for several amino acids and cofactors. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that the majority of Cand. IA anabolic genes were acquired from bacterial donors via horizontal gene transfer. We thus propose that members of the ‘Diapherotrites’ have evolved from an obligate symbiotic ancestor by acquiring anabolic genes from bacteria that enabled independent biosynthesis of biological molecules previously acquired from symbiotic hosts. ‘Diapherotrites’ 16S rRNA genes exhibit multiple mismatches with the majority of archaeal 16S rRNA primers, a fact that could be responsible for their observed rarity in amplicon-generated data sets. The limited substrate range, complex growth requirements and slow growth rate predicted could be responsible for its refraction to isolation.
Metal-free sp3C–H functionalization: a novel approach for the syntheses of selenide ethers and thioesters from methyl arenes
Authors: Badsara Satpal Singh , Liu Yi-Chen , Hsieh Ping-An , Zeng Jing-Wen , Lu Shao-Yi , Liu Yi-Wei , Lee Chin-Fa
Published: August 2014

A DTBP-promoted, operationally simple, metal-free and solvent-free formation of C–Se and C–S bonds through sp3C–H functionalization of methyl arenes with diselenides and disulfides is described.
Morphology tuning of noble metal nanoparticles by diffusion–reaction control
Authors: Ye Feng , Liu Hui , Huang Wenlai , Yang Jun
Published: August 2014

A strategy based on diffusion–reaction control was demonstrated for the morphology tuning of noble metal nanoparticles.
Modeling, synthesis and NMR characterization of novel chimera compounds targeting STAT3
Authors: Dell'Orto Silvia , Masciocchi Daniela , Villa Stefania , Meneghetti Fiorella , Celentano Giuseppe , Barlocco Daniela , Colombo Diego , Legnani Laura , Toma Lucio , Jeon Yoon Jung , Kwon Byoung-Mog , Asai Akira , Gelain Arianna
Published: August 2014

Chimera derivatives as potential STAT3 inhibitors.
A novel gemini-like cationic lipid for the efficient delivery of siRNA
Authors: Zheng Yi , Guo Yujia , Li Yating , Wu Yun , Zhang Lihe , Yang Zhenjun
Published: August 2014

siRNA binding with a novel lipid containing a cystine in the spacer exhibited efficient gene silencing ability.
Modulation of DNA–polyamide interaction by β-alanine substitutions: a study of positional effects on binding affinity, kinetics and thermodynamics
Authors: Wang Shuo , Aston Karl , Koeller Kevin J. , Harris G. Davis , Rath Nigam P. , Bashkin James K. , Wilson W. David
Published: August 2014

The substitution of an internal pyrrole with a β motif has large and diverse effects on hairpin polyamide-DNA binding affinity, kinetics and binding orientation.
A review of extractive desulfurization of fuel oils using ionic liquids
Authors: Abro Rashid , Abdeltawab Ahmed A. , Al-Deyab Salem S. , Yu Guangren , Qazi Abdul Basit , Gao Shurong , Chen Xiaochun
Published: August 2014

Extractive desulfurization of fuel oils using ionic liquids as extractive reagents.
Electronic and optical properties of silicene nanomeshes
Authors: Ye Xue-Sheng , Shao Zhi-Gang , Zhao Hongbo , Yang Lei , Wang Cang-Long
Published: August 2014

We have investigated the electronic and optical properties of silicene nanomeshes (SNMs) using first-principle calculations.
Comparing extraction, synergism and separation of lanthanoids using acidic and neutral compounds in chloroform and one ionic liquid: is the latter always “better”?
Authors: Atanassova Maria , Kurteva Vanya , Lubenov Lubomir , Billard Isabelle
Published: August 2014

Five lanthanoid ions were extracted with 3-methyl-1-phenyl-4-(4-trifluoromethylbenzoyl)-pyrazol-5-one alone and in combination with partially substituted calix[4]arenes as synergistic agents using CHCl3 and one IL.
High temperature pyrolysis of solid products obtained from rapid hydrothermal pre-processing of pinewood sawdust
Authors: Onwudili Jude. A. , Nahil Mohamad Anas , Wu Chunfei , Williams Paul T.
Published: August 2014

A sample of pinewood sawdust was rapidly pre-processed in a torrefaction-type procedure, separately in subcritical water (neutral) and with added Na2CO3 (alkaline compound) and Nb2O5 (solid acid) in a batch reactor.
Alkylated cage silsesquioxanes: a comprehensive study of thermal properties and self-assembled structure
Authors: Wang Lei , Ishida Yoshihito , Maeda Rina , Tokita Masatoshi , Hayakawa Teruaki
Published: August 2014

Long-range straight ordered lamellar structures with controllable feature sizes at sub-10 nm scale are created by thoroughly choosing the aliphatic chain length and branch numbers of alkylated cage silsesquioxane.
Low-temperature solution growth of textured zinc oxide films for light trapping enhancement in thin film silicon solar cells
Authors: Liu Chao-Ping , Xin Jianzhuo , Wang Lei , Song Jian-jun , Lee Alex Y. S. , Ho Paul
Published: August 2014

Solution based textured ZnO film significantly improves efficiency of thin film silicon solar cells due to its light trapping effect.
Microwave-induced low temperature pyrolysis of macroalgae for unprecedented hydrogen-enriched syngas production
Authors: Bermúdez Jose M. , Francavilla Matteo , Calvo Esther G. , Arenillas Ana , Franchi Massimo , Menéndez J. Angel , Luque Rafael
Published: August 2014

An efficient methodology based on low temperature microwave-induced pyrolysis has been developed for syngas production from macroalgae.
Photocatalytic degradation of phenol by the heterogeneous Fe3O4 nanoparticles and oxalate complex system
Authors: Xu Piao , Zeng Guangming , Huang Danlian , Liu Liang , Lai Cui , Chen Ming , Zhang Chen , He Xiaoxiao , Lai Mingyong , He Yibin
Published: August 2014

A novel approach for phenol removal using Fe3O4 nanoparticles and oxalate was proposed via a radical mechanism.
Effects of a disulfide bridge prior to amyloid formation of the ABRI peptide
Authors: Ceballos Jorge A. , Giraldo Marco A. , Cossio Pilar
Published: August 2014

Computational studies characterize remarkable differences between the most probable structures of the monomeric amyloidogenic peptide, ABRI, with and without a single disulfide bond; the peptide is compact and alpha-helical with the bond, otherwise it is partially extended with slight β-bridges and an exposed hydrophobic surface area.
Direct catalytic synthesis of densely substituted 3-formylpyrroles from imines and 1,4-ketoaldehydes
Authors: Kumar Indresh , Mir Nisar A. , Ramaraju Panduga , Singh Deepika , Gupta Vivek K. , Rajnikant Rajnikant
Published: August 2014

An organocatalytic formal [3 + 2] cycloaddition have been developed between 1,4-ketoaldehydes and imines to synthesize densely substituted 3-formylpyrroles in high yields (up to 70%) under mild conditions at room temperature.
Diels–Alder reactions of pinacol alkenylboronates: an experimental and theoretical study
Authors: Vallejos Margarita M. , Grimblat Nicolás , Pellegrinet Silvina C.
Published: August 2014

We have studied the Diels–Alder reactions of pinacol alkenylboronates with cyclopentadiene under two different sets of conditions: thermal heating at 170 °C in a pressure tube and with catalytic TFA (5 mol%) at 80 °C.
Mechanical behavior of poly(methyl methacrylate)-based ionogels
Authors: Li Mingyu , Li Jianyu , Na Hui , Vlassak Joost J.
Published: August 2014

We demonstrate that the fracture energy of ionogels correlates inversely with the cross-link density. The behavior of ionogels is well captured by the ideal elastomeric gel model.
A fluorescent polymer film with self-assembled three-dimensionally ordered nanopores: preparation, characterization and its application for explosives detection
Authors: Sun Xiangcheng , Brückner Christian , Nieh Mu-Ping , Lei Yu
Published: August 2014

A three-dimensional nanoporous polystyrene/pyrene film was fabricated by dip-coating process onto a glass slide. Its fluorescence is rapidly and selectively quenched by nitroaromatic vapors.
Novel methotrexate prodrug-targeted drug delivery system based on PEG–lipid–PLA hybrid nanoparticles for enhanced anticancer efficacy and reduced toxicity of mitomycin C
Authors: Li Yang , Lin Jinyan , Wu Hongjie , Jia Mengmeng , Yuan Conghui , Chang Ying , Hou Zhenqing , Dai Lizong
Published: August 2014

Lipid–MMC in cooperation with pegylated lipid–MTX based on PEG–PE–PLA hybrid NPs can coordinate an early-phase targeting effect with a late-phase anticancer effect.
Flexoelectric behavior of bimesogenic liquid crystals in the nematic phase – observation of a new self-assembly pattern at the twist-bend nematic and the nematic interface
Authors: Balachandran R. , Panov V. P. , Panarin Y. P. , Vij J. K. , Tamba M. G. , Mehl G. H. , Song J. K.
Published: August 2014

Flexoelectricity in a bimesogenic liquid crystal exhibiting the Ntb phase is higher than that in bimesogens without it. The N–Ntb interface shows a new periodic self-assembly pattern.
ZnO anchored graphene hydrophobic nanocomposite-based bulk heterojunction solar cells showing enhanced short-circuit current
Authors: Sharma Rajni , Alam Firoz , Sharma A. K. , Dutta V. , Dhawan S. K.
Published: August 2014

Graphene-assisted charge transportation doubles the power conversion efficiency of PCPDTBT:PCBM:ZnO-based bulk heterojunction solar cells.
Photomechanical response of polymer-dispersed liquid crystals/graphene oxide nanocomposites
Authors: Yu Li , Cheng Zhangxiang , Dong Zhijiao , Zhang Yihe , Yu Haifeng
Published: August 2014

Recyclable, fast and visible-light responsive polymer-dispersed liquid crystal/graphene oxide nanocomposite films were fabricated by solution casting and mechanical stretching.
Physical layer‐optimal and cross‐layer channel access policies for hybrid overlay–underlay cognitive radio networks
Authors: Karmokar Ashok K. , Senthuran Sivasothy , Anpalagan Alagan
Published: August 2014

The authors study the opportunistic spectrum access techniques for hybrid overlay–underlay cognitive radio networks. A secondary user (SU) chooses a channel, transmission mode and adjusts its power so that the interference limit is not crossed and its throughput is maximised. The authors assume that multiple primary user (PU) channels are available and the SU conducts spectrum sensing to access the channels. The objective is to maximise the throughput by switching between the overlay and underlay transmission modes. Using finite‐horizon partially observable Markov decision process framework, the authors first study the optimal policies, where the PU is assumed to be in busy, concurrent or idle state, and the SU either stays idle or transmits with any of the two designed power levels. Although the PU's states are hidden, their activity statistics, transmission ranges and interference thresholds are assumed to be known. Via Monte Carlo simulation, the authors evaluate the performance of physical layer optimal policy (PLOP) and cross‐layer policy (CLAP) and compare them with a fully observable optimal policy. The beliefs in each slot for both policies are updated using the forward algorithm based technique. Simulation results show that the proposed CLAP is more throughput efficient than the conventional PLOP.
Ergodic interference alignment for the K user multiple input multiple output interference channel
Authors: Ren Haiying , Liu Yuanan , Liu Fang , Lv Yinghua , Liu Kaiming , Xie Gang
Published: August 2014

This study mainly focuses on the K user multiple input multiple output (MIMO) Gaussian interference channel with M antennas at each transmitter and N antennas at each receiver, in which min(M, N)/max(M, N) ≥ (K − 1)/[K(K − 2)] and K > 3. The channel coefﬁcients are time varying/frequency selective and drawn from a continuous distribution. Based on ergodic interference alignment (IA), an achievable scheme is proposed to achieve the KMN/(M + N) total degrees of freedom (DoF). Benefited from ergodic IA, the scheme can reach the goal with simply linear beamforming and finite symbols. Nevertheless, the limitation of ergodic IA is the long delay waiting for the desired channels. Hence, the actual delay is derived. Then, by multiplying factors on channel coefficients and adjusting orders of symbols, the authors optimise the delay. The formula shows that the new delay can be effectively reduced. In addition, the simplicity of coding scheme allows us to derive the closed form of achievable rate expression at any signal‐to‐noise ratio. And the optimisation of latency does not affect the data rate at all. The simulation shows that the achievable rate is close to the rate upper bound.
Boundary control of dual‐output boost converter using state‐energy plane
Authors: Messikh Tarek , Rahim Nasrudin , Saad Mekhilef
Published: August 2014

A boundary control scheme for dual‐output boost converter (DBC) with enhanced performance using second‐order switching surface is presented in this study. The derivation of the switching surface is performed in state‐energy plane rather than the state‐plane to obtain a general geometrical representation that provides a good dynamic response during start‐up and sudden load changes, achieving steady state in two switching actions. To illustrate the control characteristic and performance, a detailed mathematical analysis is fully developed and compared with other control methods for the DBC. The proposed control was simulated, implemented in a digital signal processor TMS320F2812, and tested using prototype hardware. The results obtained for the DBC show good performance in terms of fast transient response under 50% load change and respectable output DC‐bus balancing.
Proportional–integral/proportional–integral‐derivative tuning procedure of a single‐phase shunt active power filter using Bode diagram
Authors: Angélico Bruno A. , Campanhol Leonardo B.G. , Oliveira da Silva Sérgio A.
Published: August 2014

This study presents a procedure for tuning proportional–integral/proportional–integral‐derivative controllers using the frequency response method via Bode diagrams, which is relatively simple and easy to understand, and can be used when phase margin and 0 dB gain crossover frequency are project specifications. The method is validated in a practical power electronics application, considering the current and the DC‐bus voltage loops of a shunt active power filter (SAPF). A detailed analysis related to the obtaining of the DC‐bus voltage loop is also provided. In addition, a stability analysis is presented, considering how the SAPF compensation current is influenced according to the load current, taking into account different values of the grid impedance. Simulation and practical results show the effectiveness of the proposed scheme and its simplicity for being considered in practical cases.
Tri‐axial all‐metal inertial microswitch with compliant stationary electrodes to prolong contact time
Authors: Chen Wenguo , Wang Zhaoyu , Wang Yan , Yang Zhuoqing , Ding Guifu , Wang Hong , Zhao Xiaolin
Published: August 2014

A tri‐axial all‐metal inertial microswitch with compliant stationary electrodes for prolonging the contact time is proposed and fabricated. A half‐moon‐shaped cantilever structure is designed and utilised as the compliant stationary electrode in the + x ‐ and + y ‐directions. It can sufficiently deform and realise a flexible contact in horizontal directions. Similarly, the designed multi‐hole crossbeam located in the + z ‐direction also decreases its own stiffness that can reduce the bounces and prolong the contact time in the vertical direction. These dynamic contact processes of the microswitch are simulated and analysed by the finite element method. The contact time in the + x‐, + y‐ and + z ‐directions of the fabricated inertial microswitch have been tested by a dropping shock experiment, which has good agreement with the simulated ones. The crosstalk performance has been characterised by a shock test, which indicates that disturbance between the horizontal and vertical directions has been restrained.
Numerical nonlinear analysis of subcritical Rayleigh-Bénard convection in a horizontal confined enclosure filled with non-Newtonian fluids
Authors: Benouared Ouahiba , Mamou Mahmoud , Messaoudene Noureddine Ait
Published: August 2014

Non-Newtonian subcritical convection in a Rayleigh-Bénard configuration was investigated numerically, using rigid boundary conditions. The flow configuration consisted of a finite aspect ratio enclosure subject to a vertical temperature gradient, which was established by heating and cooling the lower and the upper walls by either a constant heat flux or by applying constant temperatures. The non-Newtonian fluid viscosity was modeled using the Carreau-Yasuda model. The convective flow was governed by the conservation equations, which were solved numerically using a finite difference method with a time-accurate scheme. For a shallow enclosure, when the walls were subject to constant heat fluxes, an asymptotic solution was derived assuming a parallel flow behavior. A comparison between the numerical and asymptotic solutions was performed. The effects of the controlling parameters, namely, the Rayleigh and the Prandtl numbers, and the fluid rheological parameters on the onset of subcritical convective flow were investigated. The threshold for the onset of subcritical convection was found to be well below the threshold of stationary convection and decreased considerably (with the fluid rheological parameters variation) as the fluid became more and more shear thinning. Depending on the governing parameters, steady and unsteady-periodic flow solutions were possible. Within a square enclosure with slip or no-slip vertical walls, maintaining the active walls at a constant heat flux or at constant temperature, the rheological subcritical flow behavior remained qualitatively the same, but led to different subcritical convection thresholds.
Application of Clebsch variables to fluid-body interaction in presence of non-uniform vorticity
Authors: Prakash Jai , Lavrenteva Olga M. , Nir Avinoam
Published: August 2014

In this paper we suggest a method for calculating pressure loads on non-deformable bodies of arbitrary shape undergoing general motion (translation and rotation) in an inviscid, incompressible fluid. It is assumed that the ambient flow is stationary far from the inclusions and possesses a vorticity, which is not necessarily uniform. The method is based on the decomposition of the velocity field into vortical and potential components making use of Clebsch variables. The problems of a single sphere and of a pair of equal size spheres translating in an inviscid shear flow are revisited. In the case of a simple shear, the results available in the literature are readily obtained. For non-linear shear (parabolic) ambient flow, a new force due to the non-uniformity of vorticity is found. This force acts in the direction of vorticity gradient and it does not vanish in the absence of the relative velocity of the inclusion.
Improved signal to noise ratio and sensitivity of an infrared imaging video bolometer on large helical device by using an infrared periscope
Authors: Pandya Shwetang N. , Peterson Byron J. , Mukai Kiyofumi , Sano Ryuichi , Enokuchi Akito , Takeyama Norihide
Published: August 2014

An Infrared imaging Video Bolometer (IRVB) diagnostic is currently being used in the Large Helical Device (LHD) for studying the localization of radiation structures near the magnetic island and helical divertor X-points during plasma detachment and for 3D tomography. This research demands high signal to noise ratio (SNR) and sensitivity to improve the temporal resolution for studying the evolution of radiation structures during plasma detachment and a wide IRVB field of view (FoV) for tomography. Introduction of an infrared periscope allows achievement of a higher SNR and higher sensitivity, which in turn, permits a twofold improvement in the temporal resolution of the diagnostic. Higher SNR along with wide FoV is achieved simultaneously by reducing the separation of the IRVB detector (metal foil) from the bolometer's aperture and the LHD plasma. Altering the distances to meet the aforesaid requirements results in an increased separation between the foil and the IR camera. This leads to a degradation of the diagnostic performance in terms of its sensitivity by 1.5-fold. Using an infrared periscope to image the IRVB foil results in a 7.5-fold increase in the number of IR camera pixels imaging the foil. This improves the IRVB sensitivity which depends on the square root of the number of IR camera pixels being averaged per bolometer channel. Despite the slower f-number (f/# = 1.35) and reduced transmission (τ0 = 89%, due to an increased number of lens elements) for the periscope, the diagnostic with an infrared periscope operational on LHD has improved in terms of sensitivity and SNR by a factor of 1.4 and 4.5, respectively, as compared to the original diagnostic without a periscope (i.e., IRVB foil being directly imaged by the IR camera through conventional optics). The bolometer's field of view has also increased by two times. The paper discusses these improvements in apt details.
Free volume distribution of nearly jammed hard sphere packings
Authors: Maiti Moumita , Sastry Srikanth
Published: August 2014

We calculate the free volume distributions of nearly jammed packings of monodisperse and bidisperse hard sphere configurations. These distributions differ qualitatively from those of the fluid, displaying a power law tail at large free volumes, which constitutes a distinct signature of nearly jammed configurations, persisting for moderate degrees of decompression. We reproduce and explain the observed distribution by considering the pair correlation function within the first coordination shell for jammed hard sphere configurations. We analyze features of the equation of state near jamming, and discuss the significance of observed asphericities of the free volumes to the equation of state.