bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silver decorated polymer supported semiconductor thin films by UV aided metalized laser printing
Authors: Halbur Jonathan C. , Padbury Richard P. , Jur Jesse S.
Published: April 2016

A facile ultraviolet assisted metalized laser printing technique is demonstrated through the ability to control selective photodeposition of silver on flexible substrates after atomic layer deposition pretreatment with zinc oxide and titania. The photodeposition of noble metals such as silver onto high surface area, polymer supported semiconductor metal oxides exhibits a new route for nanoparticle surface modification of photoactive enhanced substrates. Photodeposited silver is subsequently characterized using low voltage secondary electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and time of flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy. At the nanoscale, the formation of specific morphologies, flake and particle, is highlighted after silver is photodeposited on zinc oxide and titania coated substrates, respectively. The results indicate that the morphology and composition of the silver after photodeposition has a strong dependency on the morphology, crystallinity, and impurity content of the underlying semiconductor oxide. At the macroscale, this work demonstrates how the nanoscale features rapidly coalesce into a printed pattern through the use of masks or an X-Y gantry stage with virtually unlimited design control.
Military jet noise source imaging using multisource statistically optimized near-field acoustical holography
Authors: Wall Alan T. , Gee Kent L. , Neilsen Tracianne B. , McKinley Richard L. , James Michael M.
Published: April 2016

The identification of acoustic sources is critical to targeted noise reduction efforts for jets on high-performance tactical aircraft. This paper describes the imaging of acoustic sources from a tactical jet using near-field acoustical holography techniques. The measurement consists of a series of scans over the hologram with a dense microphone array. Partial field decomposition methods are performed to generate coherent holograms. Numerical extrapolation of data beyond the measurement aperture mitigates artifacts near the aperture edges. A multisource equivalent wave model is used that includes the effects of the ground reflection on the measurement. Multisource statistically optimized near-field acoustical holography (M-SONAH) is used to reconstruct apparent source distributions between 20 and 1250 Hz at four engine powers. It is shown that M-SONAH produces accurate field reconstructions for both inward and outward propagation in the region spanned by the physical hologram measurement. Reconstructions across the set of engine powers and frequencies suggests that directivity depends mainly on estimated source location; sources farther downstream radiate at a higher angle relative to the inlet axis. At some frequencies and engine powers, reconstructed fields exhibit multiple radiation lobes originating from overlapped source regions, which is a phenomenon relatively recently reported for full-scale jets.
Enhanced responsiveness of
Ghsr
Q343X
rats to ghrelin results in enhanced adiposity without increased appetite
Authors: Chebani Yacine , Marion Candice , Zizzari Philippe , Chettab Khadidja , Pastor Marie , Korostelev Marie , Geny David , Epelbaum Jacques , Tolle Virginie , Morisset-Lopez Séverine , Pantel Jacques
Published: April 2016

Ghrelin promotes weight gain in the form of fat without increasing appetite.
Paper of note in
Science
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: April 2016

This week’s article explains how extracellular matrix scaffolds stimulate immune responses that promote tissue repair.
Educating macrophages to clean up the tumor space
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: April 2016

CD40 agonist immunotherapy improves the efficacy of chemotherapy by directing antifibrotic macrophages to pancreatic tumors.
Impact of Fluoroquinolone Exposure Prior to Tuberculosis Diagnosis on Clinical Outcomes in Immunocompromised Patients
Authors: Lee Ju Young , Lee Hyun Jung , Kim Yong Kyun , Yu Shinae , Jung Jiwon , Chong Yong Pil , Lee Sang-Oh , Choi Sang-Ho , Shim Tae Sun , Kim Yang Soo , Woo Jun Hee , Kim Sung-Han
Published: April 2016

There have been concerns about an association of fluoroquinolone (FQ) use prior to tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis with adverse outcomes. However, FQ use might prevent clinical deterioration in missed TB patients, especially in those who are immunocompromised, until they receive definitive anti-TB treatment. All adult immunocompromised patients with smear-negative and culture-positive TB at a tertiary care hospital in Korea over a 2-year period were included in this study. Long-term FQ (≥7 days) use was defined as exposure to FQ for at least 7 days prior to TB diagnosis. A total of 194 patients were identified: 33 (17%) in the long-term FQ group and 161 (83%) in the comparator, including a short-term FQ group (
n
= 23), non-FQ group (
n
= 78), and a group receiving no antibiotics (
n
= 60). Patients in the long-term FQ group presented with atypical chest radiologic pattern more frequently than those in the comparator (77% [24/31] versus 46% [63/138];
P
= 0.001). The median time from mycobacterial test to positive mycobacterial culture appeared to be longer in the long-term FQ group (8.1 weeks versus 7.7 weeks;
P
= 0.09), although the difference was not statistically significant. Patients in the long-term FQ group were less likely to receive empirical anti-TB treatment (55% versus 74%;
P
= 0.03). The median time from mycobacterial test to anti-TB therapy was longer in the long-term FQ group (4.6 weeks versus 2.2 weeks;
P
< 0.001), but there was no significant difference in FQ resistance (0% versus 3%;
P
> 0.99) or in the 30-day (6% versus 6%;
P
> 0.99) or 90-day (12% versus 12%;
P
> 0.99) mortality rate between the two groups. FQ exposure (≥7 days) prior to TB diagnosis in immunocompromised patients appears not to be associated with adverse outcomes.
Excellent outcome of minimal residual disease-defined low-risk patients is sustained with more than 10 years follow-up: results of UK paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia trials 1997–2003
Authors: Bartram Jack , Wade Rachel , Vora Ajay , Hancock Jeremy , Mitchell Chris , Kinsey Sally , Steward Colin , Moppett John , Goulden Nick
Published: April 2016

Background

Minimal residual disease (MRD) is defined as the presence of sub-microscopic levels of leukaemia. Measurement of MRD from bone marrow at the end of induction chemotherapy (day 28) for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) can highlight a large group of patients (>40%) with an excellent (>90%) short-term event-free survival (EFS). However, follow-up in recent published trials is relatively short, raising concerns about using this result to infer the safety of further therapy reduction in the future.

Methods

We examined MRD data on 225 patients treated on one of three UKALL trials between 1997 and 2003 to assess the long-term (>10 years follow-up) outcome of those patients who had low-risk MRD (<0.01%) at day 28.

Results

Our pilot data define a cohort of 53% of children with MRD <0.01% at day 28 who have an EFS of 91% and long-term overall survival of 97%. Of 120 patients with day-28 MRD <0.01% and extended follow-up, there was one death due to treatment-related toxicity, one infectious death while in complete remission, and four relapse deaths.

Conclusions

The excellent outcome for childhood ALL in patients with MRD <0.01% after induction chemotherapy is sustained for more than 10 years from diagnosis. This supports the potential exploration of further reduction of therapy in this group, in an attempt to reduce treatment-related mortality and late effects.
Mortality and complications in 3495 children with isolated ventricular septal defects
Authors: Jortveit Jarle , Leirgul Elisabeth , Eskedal Leif , Greve Gottfried , Fomina Tatiana , Døhlen Gaute , Tell Grethe S , Birkeland Sigurd , Øyen Nina , Holmstrøm Henrik
Published: April 2016

Background

Ventricular septal defects (VSDs) are the most common congenital heart defects (CHDs). Previous studies indicate an increased risk of endocarditis, aortic regurgitation, left ventricular outflow tract obstructions, pulmonary hypertension, arrhythmias and sudden death in patients with isolated VSDs. The present nationwide cohort study reports mortality and cardiac complications requiring hospitalisation or intervention in children with isolated VSDs.

Methods and results

Medical information concerning all 943 871 live births in Norway in 1994–2009 was retrieved from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway, the Cardiovascular Disease in Norway project, the Oslo University Hospital's Clinical Registry of Congenital Heart Defects and the Norwegian Cause of Death Registry. Isolated VSDs were identified in 3495 children without known chromosomal aberrations or extracardiac malformations. Surgical or catheter-based treatment of VSD was performed in 181 (5.2%) cases. Twelve (0.3%) children with VSDs died before 2013. There was no operative mortality, and no excess mortality in children with isolated VSDs compared with children without VSDs (adjusted HR 0.8 (0.5 to 1.4), p=0.48). The following conditions were recorded as possible cardiac complications of the VSDs: endocarditis in 3 children (0.9‰), aortic regurgitation in 12 children (3.4‰), left ventricular outflow tract obstructions in no children (0.0‰), pulmonary hypertension in 1 child (0.3‰) and arrhythmias in 16 children (4.6‰).

Conclusions

The entire group of children with isolated VSDs had a favourable prognosis without excess mortality. Cardiac complications requiring hospitalisation or intervention, including endocarditis, aortic regurgitation, left ventricular outflow tract obstructions, pulmonary hypertension and arrhythmias, were infrequent during childhood.

Trial registration number

NCT02026557.
BeAM value: an indicator of the need to initiate and intensify prandial therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus receiving basal insulin
Authors: Zisman Ariel , Morales Francienid , Stewart John , Stuhr Andreas , Vlajnic Aleksandra , Zhou Rong
Published: April 2016

Introduction

In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with uncontrolled glycemia despite ongoing upward titration of basal insulin, targeting postprandial hyperglycemia may be required. Nevertheless, the point at which basal insulin is fully optimized and postprandial glucose (PPG) should be targeted with additional treatment remains unclear. We report here on the BeAM value (difference between bedtime and morning blood glucose values) as an indicator of the need to target PPG.

Methods

This study had 3 stages: exploratory, main, and proof-of-concept analyses. For the exploratory and main analyses, data were pooled from phase 3 trials in adults with T2DM adding basal insulin to oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs). The main analysis included only patients who did not reach A1C ≤7.0% (53 mmol/mol) at week 24. The proof-of-concept analysis used pooled data from phase 3 trials in adults with T2DM adding insulin glargine and a single insulin glulisine injection to OADs.

Results

In patients undergoing basal insulin titration, BeAM value increased over 24 weeks (27.8–61.7 mg/dL, n=1188; 32.6–71.2 mg/dL, n=553; exploratory and main analyses, respectively). There were significant correlations between week 24 BeAM value and postprandial contribution to hyperglycemia (Pearson's correlation coefficient (r)=0.375, p<0.001; r=0.396, p<0.001; exploratory and main analyses, respectively). When PPG was targeted (proof-of-concept analysis), the BeAM value reduced from 77.0 to 40.4 mg/dL (n=299).

Conclusions

The BeAM value described in this study is a simple, easy-to-calculate value that may identify patients with T2DM using basal insulin that need targeting of postprandial control rather than advancing basal insulin dose.
Associations of behavioural risk factors and health status with changes in physical capability over 10 years of follow-up: the MRC National Survey of Health and Development
Authors: Cooper Rachel , Muniz-Terrera Graciela , Kuh Diana
Published: April 2016

Objectives

(1) To describe changes in objective measures of physical capability between ages 53 and 60–64 years; (2) to investigate the associations of behavioural risk factors (obesity, physical inactivity, smoking) and number of health conditions (range 0–4: hand osteoarthritis (OA); knee OA; severe respiratory symptoms; other disabling or life-threatening conditions (ie, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes)) at age 53 years with these changes.

Design

Nationally representative prospective birth cohort study.

Setting

England, Scotland and Wales.

Participants

Up to 2093 men and women from the Medical Research Council National Survey of Health and Development, who have been followed-up since birth in 1946, and underwent physical capability assessments performed by nurses following standard protocols in 1999 and 2006–2010.

Main outcome measures

Grip strength and chair rise speed were assessed at ages 53 and 60–64 years. Four categories of change in grip strength and chair rise speed were identified: decline, stable high, stable low, a reference group who maintained physical capability within a ‘normal’ range.

Results

Less healthy behavioural risk scores and an increase in the number of health conditions experienced were associated in a stepwise fashion with increased risk of decline in physical capability, and also of having low levels at baseline and remaining low. For example, the sex and mutually adjusted relative-risk ratios (95% CI) of being in the stable low versus reference category of chair rise speed were 1.58 (1.35–1.86) and 1.97 (1.57–2.47) per 1 unit change in behavioural risk score and health indicator count, respectively.

Conclusions

These findings provide evidence of the associations of a range of modifiable factors with age-related changes in physical capability. They suggest the need to target multiple risk factors at least as early as mid-life when aiming to promote maintenance and prevent decline in physical capability in later life.
Examining mortality risk and rate of ageing among Polish Olympic athletes: a survival follow-up from 1924 to 2012
Authors: Lin Yuhui , Gajewski Antoni , Poznańska Anna
Published: April 2016

Objectives

Population-based studies have shown that an active lifestyle reduces mortality risk.Therefore, it has been a longstanding belief that individuals who engage in frequent exercise will experience a slower rate of ageing. It is uncertain whether this widely-accepted assumption holds for intense wear-and-tear. Here, using the 88 years survival follow-up data of Polish Olympic athletes, we report for the first time on whether frequent exercise alters the rate of ageing.

Design

Longitudinal survival data of male elite Polish athletes who participated in the Olympic Games from year 1924 to 2010 were used. Deaths occurring before the end of World War II were excluded for reliable estimates.

Setting and participants

Recruited male elite athletes N=1273 were preassigned to two categorical birth cohorts—Cohort I 1890–1919; Cohort II 1920–1959—and a parametric frailty survival analysis was conducted. An event-history analysis was also conducted to adjust for medical improvements from year 1920 onwards: Cohort II.

Results

Our findings suggest (1) in Cohort I, for every threefold reduction in mortality risk, the rate of ageing decelerates by 1%; (2) socioeconomic transitions and interventions contribute to a reduction in mortality risk of 29% for the general population and 50% for Olympic athletes; (3) an optimum benefit gained for reducing the rate of ageing from competitive sports (Cohort I 0.086 (95% CI 0.047 to 0.157) and Cohort II 0.085 (95% CI 0.050 to 0.144)).

Conclusions

This study further suggests that intensive physical training during youth should be considered as a factor to improve ageing and mortality risk parameters.
Effects of water supplemented with Saccharicterpenin and photosynthetic bacteria on egg production, egg quality, serum immunoglobulins, and digestive enzyme activities of ducks
Authors: Liu Jun , Zeng Tao , Du Xue , Li Guoqin , Yu Yongliang , Lu Lizhi , Li Chunmei
Published: April 2016

We investigated the effects of water supplemented with Saccharicterpenin and photosynthetic bacteria (PSB) on egg production, egg quality, serum immunoglobulins, and digestive enzyme activities of Jinyun ducks. A total of 400 healthy Jinyun ducks (all aged 58 wk) were randomly allotted to five treatments, with four replicates per treatment and 20 ducks in each replicate. The animals were fed a standard diet for 15 d and the experimental diet for 55 d. Experimental design is as follows: negative-control group C1 was given no supplementation, and control group 2 was given pool water (PW) with added PSB but not Saccharicterpenin. Test groups T1, T2, and T3 were given the same amount of PSB in the PW and varying levels of Saccharicterpenin in drinking water. Results suggest that PSB combined with Saccharicterpenin had beneficial effects on the average egg weight, feed to egg ratio, laying rate, and amylase activity, but some bad effects on the yolk color score. Additionally, PSB alone can increase the average egg weight.
Turbulence measurements in submerged hydraulic jumps with baffle blocks
Authors: Habibzadeh Alireza , Loewen Mark R. , Rajaratnam Nallamuthu
Published: April 2016

Laboratory measurements of turbulence in submerged hydraulic jumps with blocks downstream of a sluice gate are presented. As observed previously two flow regimes were distinguished; the deflected surface jet (DSJ) and the reattaching wall jet (RWJ) regimes. In the DSJ regime considerable turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) was generated just downstream of the blocks and the rate of dissipation of TKE was found to be very high resulting in a rapid decay of TKE. In the RWJ flow regime the magnitude of both the TKE and the dissipation rate were considerably lower but because the TKE decayed more slowly higher levels of TKE persisted farther downstream. This study provides insights into the production and dissipation of turbulence in submerged flows and helps to explain why a submerged jump with blocks with a low submergence factor; i.e., the DSJ flow regime, is as effective as a free jump in dissipating energy.
Effectiveness of dominant aggregate size range – interstitial component criteria for consistently enhanced cracking performance of asphalt mixtures in the field
Authors: Chun Sanghyun , Kim Kukjoo
Published: April 2016

This study primarily focused on evaluating the effectiveness of dominant aggregate size range – interstitial component (DASR-IC) criteria established for the purpose of asphalt mixture design and construction specifications leading to better and consistently enhanced field cracking performance using the enhanced hot-mix asphalt fracture mechanics-based performance prediction model (HMA-FM-E model) plus field performance evaluation. Results indicated that the mixtures meeting all DASR-IC criteria, including DASR porosity, disruption factor (DF), effective film thickness (EFT), and fine aggregate ratio (FAR), will have relatively better and consistently enhanced field cracking performance. The mixtures not meeting all DASR-IC criteria show inconsistent field cracking performance, including either cracked or uncracked status. Thereby, it is important to design asphalt mixtures that meet all DASR-IC criteria. The DASR-IC criteria were found to be effective and their implementation will help ensure consistently enhanced cracking performance in the field.
Siltstone: a key to cyclicity in mixed siliciclastic–carbonate successions: example from Upper Ordovician Kope Formation (Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky)
Authors: Marshall Nathan , Brett Carlton E.
Published: April 2016

The Upper Ordovician (mid-Katian) Kope Formation provides an example of how a detailed study of fine-grained siliciclastic sediment can provide sedimentological insights. The Kope Formation is an exemplar of mixed siliciclastic–carbonate cyclicity; however, most of the sedimentological research to date has focused on the fossiliferous limestone beds. Conversely, this paper provides a detailed investigation of siltstone within 42 metre-scale cycles from 26 locations spanning a large geographic area. The objective of the study is twofold: (i) to confirm the mineralogical nature of silt-sized sediment. Currently, silt-sized sediment is irregularly defined as being either carbonate or siliciclastic rich. This paper uses X-ray diffraction, thin-section, and elemental analyses to determine the mineralogy of the silt; (ii) to determine the stratigraphic distribution of siltstone beds. If a distinctive and reoccurring distribution of siltstone can be found, then it can provide additional information about environmental energy changes that led to cyclic fossiliferous limestone formation. This study finds that silt within the Kope Formation is siliciclastic and siltstone, therefore, records periodic minor pulses of coarser terrigenous sediment. Predominantly, metre-scale limestone–shale cycles show an increasing abundance of siltstone beds in the upper half of the shale interval, with a marked decrease just before the capping limestone. This finding supports the idea that limestone formation occurred during slowing sedimentation, perhaps at a time of maximum sea-level rise. Furthermore, decametre-scale fluctuations in siltstone abundance are similar in pattern to previously documented faunal variations, indicating that fauna assemblage might be more controlled by turbidity and not depth.
Widespread Late Devonian marine anoxia in eastern North America: a case study of the Kettle Point Formation black shale, southwestern Ontario
Authors: Bingham-Koslowski Nikole , Tsujita Cameron , Jin Jisuo , Azmy Karem
Published: April 2016

The Kettle Point Formation of southwestern Ontario consists of intervals of organic-rich interlaminated black shale interbedded with organic-poor greyish green mudstones and rare red beds, separated by metre-scale sequences of non-interlaminated black shale. The formation shows a largely consistent background value for the black shales around −20‰ δ34S, punctuated by a substantial positive excursion of ∼32‰ (up to +12.87‰) that coincides with a significant interval of greyish green mudstone and red beds. Lithological and geochemical data indicate that the black shales were deposited during periods of anoxia, with thick intervals of non-interlaminated black shales recording the peak of anoxia, whereas the greyish green mudstones record deposition in more oxygenated environments. Relative water depth is interpreted as the key control on the vertical and lateral distribution of the Kettle Point lithofacies. Interbedded black shales and greyish green mudstones were deposited in relatively shallow waters, where minor, short-lived falls in relative sea level promoted dysoxic to oxic conditions and the deposition of organic-poor lithologies. Non-interlaminated black shales are indicative of substantial rises in relative sea level, resulting in widespread anoxia and the deposition of thicker and more laterally extensive packages of organic-rich sediment. The formation of black shales in relatively shallow waters in southwestern Ontario implies that the extensive deposition of organic-rich sediment across eastern North America during the Late Devonian was a product of widespread anoxia related to restricted circulation in intracratonic and foreland basin depositional centers.
The study of light nuclei production in different interactions at 4.2 AGeV/c
Authors: Khan Kamal Hussain , Suleymanov M.K , Ajaz M. , Zaman Ali , Younis H.
Published: April 2016

Average multiplicity of light nuclei, produced in different interactions at 4.2 AGeV/c is studied as a function of centrality. A change in multiplicity is observed with increase in the mass of projectile. In 12CC interactions an unexpected increase in the multiplicity is seen in the most central events. These measurements are compared with the predictions of Cascade and Fritiof models, which fail to account for the experimentally observed effects. In case of 12CC, it is suggested that the inclusion of nuclear coalescence effect can be an explanation for the deviation of experimental measurements from the models’ predictions.
Establishing field stands of Russian dandelion (Taraxacum Kok-saghyz) from seed in southern Ontario, Canada
Authors: Moussavi A. , Cici S.Z.H. , Loucks C. , Van Acker R.C.
Published: April 2016

Taraxacum Kok-saghyz (L.E. Rodin) (TKS) is a natural source of rubber. There is a rising interest in TKS establishment as a new crop in Ontario. Trials were conducted at Simcoe and Guelph, Ontario between 2013 and 2014 to explore the possibility of establishing TKS plants from seed in fields in Ontario. The effects of seeding depth, watering regimes, polymer, and covering mulch on the recruitment of TKS were explored. It was found that TKS displays very low field recruitment levels regardless of treatment. KNO3 did not have any significant effect on TKS seed germination. Seedling emergence was greatest when seeds were placed on the soil surface and decreased with increasing seeding depth. Two years of field experiments highlighted that TKS seedlings recruit better in moderate conditions when the temperature is optimum for TKS germination (warm but not hot, <25 °C). TKS seedlings recruited better at Simcoe (with a sandy soil type) than at Guelph (with a loamy soil type). Overall, however, field recruitment from seed was low (15% at best) and these results suggest that establishing TKS from seed in Ontario fields remains a challenge.
Core-halo quasi-stationary states in the Hamiltonian mean-field model
Authors: Konishi Eiji
Published: April 2016

A characteristic feature of long-range interacting systems is that they become trapped in a non-equilibrium and long-lived quasi-stationary state (QSS) during the early stages of their development. We present a comprehensive review of recent studies of the core-halo structure of QSSs, in the Hamiltonian mean-field model (HMF), which is a mean-field model of mutually coupled ferromagnetic XY spins located at a point, obtained by starting from various unsteady rectangular water-bag type initial phase-space distributions. The main result exposed in this review is that the core-halo structure can be described by the superposition of two independent Lynden–Bell distributions. We discuss the completeness of collisionless relaxation of this double Lynden–Bell distribution by using both of Lynden–Bell entropy and double Lynden–Bell entropy for the systems at low energies per particle.
Recent results and perspectives on cosmology and fundamental physics from microwave surveys
Authors: Burigana Carlo , Battistelli Elia Stefano , Benetti Micol , Cabass Giovanni , De Bernardis Paolo , Di Serego Alighieri Sperello , Di Valentino Eleonora , Gerbino Martina , Giusarma Elena , Gruppuso Alessandro , Liguori Michele , Masi Silvia , Norgaard-Nielsen Hans Ulrik , Rosati Piero , Salvati Laura , Trombetti Tiziana , Vielva Patricio
Published: April 2016

Recent cosmic microwave background (CMB) data in temperature and polarization have reached high precision in estimating all the parameters that describe the current so-called standard cosmological model. Recent results about the integrated Sachs–Wolfe (ISW) effect from CMB anisotropies, galaxy surveys, and their cross-correlations are presented. Looking at fine signatures in the CMB, such as the lack of power at low multipoles, the primordial power spectrum (PPS) and the bounds on non-Gaussianities, complemented by galaxy surveys, we discuss inflationary physics and the generation of primordial perturbations in the early universe. Three important topics in particle physics, the bounds on neutrinos masses and parameters, on thermal axion mass and on the neutron lifetime derived from cosmological data are reviewed, with attention to the comparison with laboratory experiment results. Recent results from cosmic polarization rotation (CPR) analyses aimed at testing the Einstein equivalence principle (EEP) are presented. Finally, we discuss the perspectives of next radio facilities for the improvement of the analysis of future CMB spectral distortion experiments.
All-optical binary full subtractor using logic operations based on nonlinear properties of semiconductor optical amplifier
Authors: Kaur Sanmukh
Published: April 2016

We propose a new and potentially integrable scheme for the realization of an all-optical binary full subtractor employing two half-subtractors and an additional OR gate. The half-subtractor comprises an XOR gate, an AND gate, and a NOT gate. The XOR gate is realized using semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA)-based Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI). The AND, OR, and NOT gates are based on nonlinear properties of semiconductor optical amplifier. The proposed scheme is driven by two input data streams and a borrow bit from the previous less significant bit order position. In our proposed design, we achieve extinction ratios for difference and borrow output signals of 11[Formula: see text]dB and 10[Formula: see text]dB, respectively. Successful operation of the system is demonstrated at 10[Formula: see text]Gb/s return-to-zero modulated signals.
All-optical logical gates based on photoinduced molecules reorientation in amorphous polymer films
Authors: Guo Xiao-Zheng , Liu Chang , Zhou Yi , Luo Duan-Bin
Published: April 2016

A type of all-optical logical gate based on two kinds of refractive index grating in azo-dye doped polymer film is studied in this paper. Using interference recording method with two 532[Formula: see text]nm laser beams, the transient refractive gratings can be formed in poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) films containing azo-dye Disperse Red 13 (DR13). The characteristics of the transient gratings in films which are recorded by two 532[Formula: see text]nm laser beams with different polarization states are investigated by monitoring the first-order diffraction intensity of the readout He–Ne laser beam (632.8[Formula: see text]nm). It is found that the transient gratings in the polymeric films can be established and decayed in several seconds. Furthermore, we realize XOR and XNOR all-optical logical operation based on the relationship among the polarization states of the recording beams, the reading beam, and the diffraction beam.
Fano-like spectral profile in TE wave scattering by nanowire of dissipative and dispersive materials
Authors: Azwar Azrul , Soehianie Agoes , Iskandar Alexander A. , Tjia May-On
Published: April 2016

We report the result of extending the study of Fano phenomena in the scattering of TE electromagnetic wave by nanowire having complex and dispersive permittivities, [Formula: see text], on the basis of exact Mie formulation. It is shown that the spectral profiles of scattering coefficients are sensitively affected by imaginary part of the permittivity and its overall frequency dependent properties. The cascaded resonance profile reported previously for real and positive permittivity is suppressed by a large [Formula: see text] while the spectral profile is broadened by the dispersive nature of [Formula: see text] as to increase the asymmetry of the profile. The negative sign of the real part of the permittivity, except for [Formula: see text], is generally found to eliminate the resonace profile. Further, the size (radius) of the nanowire is also shown to affect the resonance profile. Specific scattering coefficients calculated for silicon (Si) and silver (Ag) nanowire using experimental data of corresponding [Formula: see text] are demonstrated to exhibit the spectral profile for certain wire sizes with nicely fitted Fano profile.
Bistable upconversion emission in Yb-sensitized Tm:ZrO2 nanophosphors at room temperature
Authors: Li Li , Zhang Bin , Du Jiaqi , Zhang Zhenguo , Wang Dexing , Zhang Xinlu
Published: April 2016

We report the strong bistability effect of multiphoton upconversion, observed at room temperature, in Yb[Formula: see text]-sensitized Tm[Formula: see text]:ZrO2 condensed-phase nanophosphors via the efficient upconversion excitation. The sizable bistability of upconversion from a collection of excited Tm[Formula: see text] ions exhibit good controllability in polarity only by varying the density of Yb[Formula: see text] sensitizer. The polarity of bistability converts regularly from clockwise into anti-clockwise cycles as the dopant density grows from 2% to 10% Yb[Formula: see text]. The results suggest a practicable way to control bistable emission of solids at room temperature.
Role of anomalous self-steepening in controlling self-accelerating Airy pulses in nonlinear metamaterials
Authors: Zhang Jinggui , Xiang Yuanjiang , Li Yongfan , Lei Dajun , Zhang Lifu
Published: April 2016

The additional dispersive magnetic permeability in metamaterials (MMs) described by the Drude model is able to generate the anomalous self-steepening (SS) effect which can be positive, negative even zero. This provides more great flexibility for us to control ultrashort pulse propagation, when compared with the corresponding case in naturally positive-index materials (PIMs). In this paper, we theoretically investigate the self-accelerating control of Airy pulse through such anomalous SS effect in MMs with a cubic nonlinearity. The emphasis is given to the counterintuitive dynamical behavior different from those in PIMs. It is shown that positive SS in MMs acts to promote the self-acceleration of such pulse and the corresponding spectral features exhibits a broad redshifted behaviors, as it does in PIMs; while the negative SS gives rise to the appearance of the opposite situation. That is to say, the self-acceleration of Airy pulse will be delayed through broadening the spectrum toward blue side. Meanwhile, the effect of the specific truncation coefficient imposed on Airy pulses in MMs also be discussed under the roles of positive and negative SS, respectively. Our findings show that the SS effect in MMs can provide a more powerful tool in controlling the self-accelerating of Airy pulse when compared with the corresponding case in PIMs.
Ultra-narrow-band perfect absorber based on high-order plasmonic resonance in metamaterial
Authors: Gu Xintong , Bai Ruiping , Jin Xing Ri , Zhang Ying Qiao , Zhang Shou , Lee Youngpak
Published: April 2016

We demonstrate an, ultra-narrow-band perfect absorber based on high-order magnetic plasmonic resonance, which is polarization independent because of the ring element in the structure. When the thickness [Formula: see text] of MgF2 is 60[Formula: see text]nm, the absorption at frequency 424.5[Formula: see text]THz is close to 1, its full width at half maximum (FWHM) is 13[Formula: see text]nm. In our structure, a wavelength sensitivity about 190[Formula: see text]nm/RIU is achieved by utilizing the absorption peaks alter upon the refractive index change. In addition, we also discuss the figure of merit (FOM*) under different reflective index of sample surface. Therefore, the ultra-narrow-band perfect absorber will provide the great potential applications to filters and plasmonic refractive index sensors.
Dorsal Anterior Cingulate Cortex: A Bottom-Up View
Authors: Heilbronner Sarah R. , Hayden Benjamin Y.
Published: April 2016

The dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) has attracted great interest from neuroscientists because it is associated with so many important cognitive functions. Despite, or perhaps because of, its rich functional repertoire, we lack a single comprehensive view of its function. Most research has approached this puzzle from the top down, using aggregate measures such as neuroimaging. We provide a view from the bottom up, with a focus on single-unit responses and anatomy. We summarize the strengths and weaknesses of the three major approaches to characterizing the dACC: as a monitor, as a controller, and as an economic structure. We argue that neurons in the dACC are specialized for representing contexts, or task-state variables relevant for behavior, and strategies, or aspects of future plans. We propose that dACC neurons link contexts with strategies by integrating diverse task-relevant information to create a rich representation of task space and exert high-level and abstract control over decision and action.
Excited-State Properties of Molecular Solids from First Principles
Authors: Kronik Leeor , Neaton Jeffrey B.
Published: April 2016

Molecular solids have attracted attention recently in the context of organic (opto)electronics. These materials exhibit unique charge carrier generation and transport phenomena that are distinct from those of conventional semiconductors. Understanding these phenomena is fundamental to optoelectronics and requires a detailed description of the excited-state properties of molecular solids. Recent advances in many-body perturbation theory (MBPT) and density functional theory (DFT) have made such description possible and have revealed many surprising electronic and optical properties of molecular crystals. Here, we review this progress. We summarize the salient aspects of MBPT and DFT as well as various properties that can be described by these methods. These properties include the fundamental gap and its renormalization, hybridization and band dispersion, singlet and triplet excitations, optical spectra, and excitonic properties. For each, we present concrete examples, a comparison to experiments, and a critical discussion.
Association of Common Variants in MMPs with Periodontitis Risk
Authors: Li Wenyang , Zhu Ying , Singh Pradeep , Ajmera Deepal Haresh , Song Jinlin , Ji Ping
Published: April 2016

Background.Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are considered to play an important role during tissue remodeling and extracellular matrix degradation. And functional polymorphisms in MMPs genes have been reported to be associated with the increased risk of periodontitis. Recently, many studies have investigated the association between MMPs polymorphisms and periodontitis risk. However, the results remain inconclusive. In order to quantify the influence of MMPs polymorphisms on the susceptibility to periodontitis, we performed a meta-analysis and systematic review.Results.Overall, this comprehensive meta-analysis included a total of 17 related studies, including 2399 cases and 2002 healthy control subjects. Our results revealed that although studies of the association betweenMMP-8−799 C/T variant and the susceptibility to periodontitis have not yielded consistent results,MMP-1(−1607 1G/2G, −519 A/G, and −422 A/T),MMP-2(−1575 G/A, −1306 C/T, −790 T/G, and −735 C/T),MMP-3(−1171 5A/6A),MMP-8(−381 A/G and +17 C/G),MMP-9(−1562 C/T and +279 R/Q), andMMP-12(−357 Asn/Ser), as well asMMP-13(−77 A/G, 11A/12A) SNPs are not related to periodontitis risk.Conclusions.No association of these common MMPs variants with the susceptibility to periodontitis was found; however, further larger-scale and multiethnic genetic studies on this topic are expected to be conducted to validate our results.
A Quantitative Genomic Approach for Analysis of Fitness and Stress Related Traits in aDrosophila melanogasterModel Population
Authors: Duun Rohde Palle , Krag Kristian , Loeschcke Volker , Overgaard Johannes , Sørensen Peter , Nygaard Kristensen Torsten
Published: April 2016

The ability of natural populations to withstand environmental stresses relies partly on their adaptive ability. In this study, we used a subset of theDrosophilaGenetic Reference Panel, a population of inbred, genome-sequenced lines derived from a natural population ofDrosophila melanogaster, to investigate whether this population harbors genetic variation for a set of stress resistance and life history traits. Using a genomic approach, we found substantial genetic variation for metabolic rate, heat stress resistance, expression of a major heat shock protein, and egg-to-adult viability investigated at a benign and a higher stressful temperature. This suggests that these traits will be able to evolve. In addition, we outline an approach to conduct pathway associations based on genomic linear models, which has potential to identify adaptive genes and pathways, and therefore can be a valuable tool in conservation genomics.
Prevalence and Correlates of Alcohol Use among a Sample of Nigerian Semirural Community Dwellers in Nigeria
Authors: Lasebikan Victor Olufolahan , Ola Bolanle Adeyemi
Published: April 2016

Objective. To determine the prevalence and correlates of alcohol use among a sample of Nigerian semirural community dwellers in Nigeria.Methods. In a single arm nonrandomized intervention study, the assessment of baseline hazardous and harmful alcohol use and associated risk factors was conducted in two semirural local government areas of Oyo State, Nigeria, with the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST). Participants included 1203 subjects 15 years and older, recruited between October 2010 and April 2011. ASSIST score of 0–10 was classified as lower risk scores, 11–26 as moderate risk, and 27+ as high risk.Results. Prevalence of lifetime alcohol use was 57.9% and current alcohol use was 23.7%. Current alcohol use was more prevalent among the younger age groupp=0.02, male genderp=0.003, unmarriedp<0.01, low educational levelp=0.003, low socioeconomic classp=0.01, unemployedp<0.001, and the Christiansp<0.01. Of the current drinkers, the majority (69.1%) were at either moderate or high health risk from alcohol use.Conclusion. Alcohol consumption is prevalent in semirural communities in Nigeria and the majority of these drinkers are at moderate or high health risk. Screening, brief intervention, and referral for treatment for unhealthy alcohol use should be integrated into community care services in Nigerian rural communities.
Study on Colloidal Model of Petroleum Residues through the Attraction Potential between Colloids
Authors: Zhang Long-li , Yang Guo-hua , Yang Chao-he , Que Guo-he
Published: April 2016

The samples of DaGang atmospheric residue (DG-AR), Middle East atmospheric residue (ME-AR), TaHe atmospheric residue (TH-AR), and their thermal reaction samples were chosen for study. All the samples were fractioned into six components separately, including saturates plus light aromatics, heavy aromatics, light resins, middle resins, heavy resins, and asphaltenes. The dielectric permittivity of the solutions of these components was measured, and the dielectric permittivity values of the components can be determined by extrapolation, which increased steadily from saturates plus light aromatics to asphaltenes. Moreover, the Hamaker constants of the components were calculated from their dielectric permittivity values. The Van der Waals attractive potential energy between colloids corresponding to various models could be calculated from the fractional composition and the Hamaker constants of every component. It was assumed that the cores of colloidal particles were formed by asphaltenes and heavy resins mainly; the other fractions acted as dispersion medium. For the three serials of thermal reaction samples, the Van der Waals attraction potential energy between colloids for this kind of model was calculated. For TH-AR thermal reaction samples, the Van der Waals attraction potential energy presented the maximum as thermal reaction is going on, which was near to the end of coke induction period.
Clinical Outcome and Prognostic Factors of Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy for T4 Stage Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Luo Yangkun , Gao Yang , Yang Guangquan , Lang Jinyi
Published: April 2016

Objective. To analyze the clinical outcomes and prognostic factors of intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for T4 stage nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).Methods. Between March 2005 and March 2010, 110 patients with T4 stage NPC without distant metastases were treated. All patients received IMRT. Induction and/or concurrent chemotherapy were given. 47 (42.7%) patients received IMRT replanning.Results. The 5-year local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), regional recurrence-free survival (RRFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) rates were 90.1%, 97.0%, 67.5%, 63.9%, and 64.5%, respectively. Eleven patients experienced local-regional failure and total distant metastasis occurred in 34 patients. 45 patients died and 26 patients died of distant metastasis alone. The 5-year LRFS rates were 97.7% and 83.8% for the patients that received and did not receive IMRT replanning, respectively (P=0.023). Metastasis to the retropharyngeal lymph nodes (RLN) was associated with inferior 5-year OS rate (61.0% versus 91.7%,P=0.034). The gross tumor volume of the right/left lymph nodes (GTVln) was an independent prognostic factor for DMFS (P=0.006) and PFS (P=0.018). GTVln was with marginal significance as the prognostic factor for OS (P=0.050).Conclusion. IMRT provides excellent local-regional control for T4 stage NPC. Benefit of IMRT replanning may be associated with improvement in local control. Incorporating GTVln into the N staging system may provide better prognostic information.
Discovery and Characterization of Iron Sulfide and Polyphosphate Bodies Coexisting inArchaeoglobus fulgidusCells
Authors: Toso Daniel B. , Javed Muhammad Mohsin , Czornyj Elizabeth , Gunsalus Robert P. , Zhou Z. Hong
Published: April 2016

Inorganic storage granules have long been recognized in bacterial and eukaryotic cells but were only recently identified in archaeal cells. Here, we report the cellular organization and chemical compositions of storage granules in the Euryarchaeon, Archaeoglobus fulgidusstrain VC16, a hyperthermophilic, anaerobic, and sulfate-reducing microorganism. Dense granules were apparent inA. fulgiduscells imaged by cryo electron microscopy (cryoEM) but not so by negative stain electron microscopy. Cryo electron tomography (cryoET) revealed that each cell contains one to several dense granules located near the cell membrane. Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) show that, surprisingly, each cell contains not just one but often two types of granules with different elemental compositions. One type, named iron sulfide body (ISB), is composed mainly of the elements iron and sulfur plus copper; and the other one, called polyphosphate body (PPB), is composed of phosphorus and oxygen plus magnesium, calcium, and aluminum. PPBs are likely used for energy storage and/or metal sequestration/detoxification. ISBs could result from the reduction of sulfate to sulfide via anaerobic energy harvesting pathways and may be associated with energy and/or metal storage or detoxification. The exceptional ability of these archaeal cells to sequester different elements may have novel bioengineering applications.
Operational Risk Aggregation Based on Business Line Dependence: A Mutual Information Approach
Authors: Wang Wenzhou , Shi Limeng , Zhu Xiaoqian
Published: April 2016

The dependencies between different business lines of banks have serious effects on the accuracy of operational risk estimation. Furthermore, the dependencies are far more complicated than simple linear correlation. While Pearson correlation coefficient is constructed based on the hypothesis of a linear association, the mutual information that measures all the information of a random variable contained in another random variable is a powerful alternative. Based on mutual information, the generalized correlation coefficient which can capture both linear and nonlinear correlation can be derived. This paper models the correlation between business lines by mutual information and normal copula. The experiment on a real-world Chinese bank operational risk data set shows that using mutual information to model the dependencies between business lines is more reasonable than linear correlation.