bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rustic Adornments for Homes of Taste
Authors: Hibberd Shirley
Published: January 2015

James Shirley Hibberd (1825–90) was a journalist and horticultural writer who worked as a bookseller before devoting his time to researching and lecturing and publishing on gardening. An active member of the Royal Horticultural Society, he edited several gardening magazines including Floral World, and his writing was widely enjoyed and respected. This book, first published in 1856, is Hibberd's carefully researched and practical guide to decorating the home and garden. Hibberd explains the practical aspects of garden design, the pleasures of bee-keeping, and how to construct a pond or aquarium. Full of useful advice on everything from preserving cut flowers to the ideal species of bird to keep in an aviary, this is a charming and enjoyable manual for the Victorian gardener which was very popular in its time, and remains a useful source for the cultural historian as well as an entertaining treat for the general reader.
Icones Plantarum
Authors: Hooker William Jackson
Published: January 2015

This world-famous work was begun by Sir William Jackson Hooker (1785–1865) in 1837, and the ten volumes reissued here were produced under his authorship until 1854, at which point his son, Joseph Dalton Hooker (1817–1911) continued the work of publication. Hooker's own herbarium, or collection of preserved plant specimens, was so extensive that at one point he stored it in one house and lived in another; it was left to the nation on his death. Each volume contains 100 line drawings of plants, and each is accompanied by a full Latin description, with notes in English on habitat and significant features. The order of the plants in each volume is not systematic, but two 'indexes' at the beginning provide plant lists, in alphabetical order and 'arranged according to the natural orders'.
Grand Strategy in Theory and Practice
Authors: Martel William C.
Published: January 2015

This book explores fundamental questions about grand strategy, as it has evolved across generations and countries. It provides an overview of the ancient era of grand strategy and a detailed discussion of its philosophical, military, and economic foundations in the modern era. The author investigates these aspects through the lenses of four approaches - those of historians, social scientists, practitioners, and military strategists. The main goal is to provide contemporary policy makers and scholars with a historic and analytic framework in which to evaluate and conduct grand strategy. By providing greater analytical clarity about grand strategy and describing its nature and its utility for the state, this book presents a comprehensive theory on the practice of grand strategy in order to articulate the United States' past, present, and future purpose and position on the world stage.
Visual Culture in Contemporary China
Authors: Tang Xiaobing
Published: January 2015

Exploring a wealth of images ranging from woodblock prints to oil paintings, this beautifully illustrated full-color study takes up key elements of the visual culture produced in the People's Republic of China from its founding in 1949 to the present day. In a challenge to prevailing perceptions, Xiaobing Tang argues that contemporary Chinese visual culture is too complex to be understood in terms of a simple binary of government propaganda and dissident art, and that new ways must be sought to explain as well as appreciate its multiple sources and enduring visions. Drawing on rich artistic, literary, and sociopolitical backgrounds, Tang presents a series of insightful readings of paradigmatic works in contemporary Chinese visual arts and cinema. Lucidly written and organized to address provocative questions, this compelling study underscores the global and historical context of Chinese visual culture and offers a timely new perspective on our understanding of China today.
Impact of fish oils on the outcomes of a mouse model of acutePseudomonas aeruginosapulmonary infection
Authors: Caron Emilie , Desseyn Jean-Luc , Sergent Luce , Bartke Nana , Husson Marie-Odile , Duhamel Alain , Gottrand Frédéric
Published: January 2015

Pseudomonas aeruginosais an opportunistic Gram-negative bacterium that causes pneumonia in immunocompromised humans and severe pulmonary damage in patients with cystic fibrosis. Imbalanced fatty acid incorporation in membranes, including increased arachidonic acid and decreased DHA concentrations, is known to play a critical role in chronic inflammation associated with bacterial infection. Other lipids, such as EPA and alkylglycerols, are also known to play a role in inflammation, particularly by stimulating the immune system, decreasing inflammation and inhibiting bacterial growth. In this context, the goal of the present study was to assess the effect of dietary DHA/EPA, in a 2:1 ratio, and alkylglycerols, as natural compounds extracted from oils of rays and chimeras, respectively, on the inflammatory reaction induced byP. aeruginosapulmonary infection in mice. To this end, mice were fed with a control diet or isolipidic, isoenergetic diets prepared with oils enriched in DHA/EPA (2:1) or alkylglycerols for 5 weeks before the induction of acuteP. aeruginosalung infection by endotracheal instillation. In our model, DHA/EPA (2:1) significantly improved the survival of mice after infection, which was associated with the acceleration of bacterial clearance and the resolution of inflammation leading to the improvement of pulmonary injuries. By contrast, alkylglycerols did not affect the outcomes ofP. aeruginosainfection. Our findings suggest that supplementation with ray oil enriched in DHA/EPA (2:1) can be considered as a preventive treatment for patients at risk forP. aeruginosainfection.
Non-Household Populations: Implications for Measurements of Poverty Globally and in the UK
Authors: CARR-HILL ROY
Published: January 2015

Data from household surveys have increasingly been used as a basis for social policy. They are generally inappropriate for obtaining information about the poorest, and therefore for policies concerned with tackling poverty and deprivation. They omit certain groups by design: the homeless; those in institutions; and mobile, nomadic or pastoralist populations. In addition, in practice, they typically under-represent those in fragile, disjointed or multiple occupancy households, those in urban slums and those in areas deemed as insecure. These sub-groups constitute a pretty comprehensive, ostensive definition of the ‘poorest’.

The sources of worldwide estimates of the missing populations are briefly described, with those for the UK discussed in greater detail, paying attention to their likely income and wealth. At least 250 million of the poorest of the poor are omitted worldwide; and in the UK about half a million of the poorest are missing from survey sample frames.

In the UK, these ‘missing’ population sub-groups bias the analysis of income inequalities and affect the validity of formulae that have been developed for the geographical allocation of resources to health and social care.
Experience as Artifact: Transformations of the Immaterial
Authors: Cramer Franz Anton
Published: January 2015

The article analyzes an artistic project that is situated on the dividing line between the realm of performance and of exhibition. The Musée de la Danse in Rennes, France, contests the dichotomies of object and experience and introduces a notion of exhibition-as-performance. In so doing, the “Dancing Museum” suggests new perspectives on, and comprehensions of, the materiality involved in both museal and performance-based modes of presentation.
Manifesto for a National Choreographic Centre
Authors: Charmatz Boris
Published: January 2015

The search for the “centre”… For a dancer, this word resonates physically first of all. Not so long ago, the dancer, when he was training, was systematically told to “find his centre”. But today, it is generally acknowledged that the body has no centre, and he doesn't miss it. The body of modern times has no need for a centre, because that absent centre, the core which would enable one to feel reassured, isn't there, has ceased to be there. For in the void of a body expropriated of its centre, there is room for dance.
Blood Flow Distribution in Cerebral Arteries
Authors: Zarrinkoob Laleh , Ambarki Khalid , Wåhlin Anders , Birgander Richard , Eklund Anders , Malm Jan
Published: January 2015

High-resolution phase—contrast magnetic resonance imaging can now assess flow in proximal and distal cerebral arteries. The aim of this study was to describe how total cerebral blood flow (tCBF) is distributed into the vascular tree with regard to age, sex and anatomic variations. Forty-nine healthy young (mean 25 years) and 45 elderly (mean 71 years) individuals were included. Blood flow rate (BFR) in 21 intra- and extracerebral arteries was measured. Total cerebral blood flow was defined as BFR in the internal carotid plus vertebral arteries and mean cerebral perfusion as tCBF/brain volume. Carotid/vertebral distribution was 72%/28% and was not related to age, sex, or brain volume. Total cerebral blood flow (717±123 mL/min) was distributed to each side as follows: middle cerebral artery (MCA), 21%; distal MCA, 6%; anterior cerebral artery (ACA), 12%, distal ACA, 4%; ophthalmic artery, 2%; posterior cerebral artery (PCA), 8%; and 20% to basilar artery. Deviating distributions were observed in subjects with ‘fetal’ PCA. Blood flow rate in cerebral arteries decreased with increasing age ( P<0.05) but not in extracerebral arteries. Mean cerebral perfusion was higher in women (women: 61±8; men: 55±6 mL/min/100 mL, P<0.001). The study describes a new method to outline the flow profile of the cerebral vascular tree, including reference values, and should be used for grading the collateral flow system.
Characterization of Blood Flow in the Mouse Dorsal Spinal Venous System before and after Dorsal Spinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Farrar Matthew J , Rubin Jonathan D , Diago Darcy M , Schaffer Chris B
Published: January 2015

The availability of transgenic strains has made the laboratory mouse a popular model for the study of healthy and diseased state spinal cord (SC). Essential to identifying physiologic and pathologic events is an understanding of the microvascular network and flow patterns of the SC. Using 2-photon excited fluorescence (2PEF) microscopy we performed in vivo measurements of blood flow in the lower thoracic portion of the mouse dorsal spinal vein (dSV) and in the first upstream branches supplying it, denoted as dorsal ascending venules (dAVs). We found that the dSV had large radiculomedullary veins (RMVs) exiting the SC, and that flow in the dSV between pairs of RMVs was bidirectional. Volumetric flow increased in each direction away from the point of bifurcation. Flow in the upstream dAVs varied with diameter in a manner consistent with a constant distal pressure source. By performing ex vivo 2PEF microscopy of fluorescent-gel perfused tissue, we created a 3-D map of the dorsal spinal vasculature. From these data, we constructed a simple model that predicted changes in the flow of upstream branches after occlusion of the dSV in different locations. Using an atraumatic model of dSV occlusion, we confirmed the predictions of this model in vivo.
Crystallographic and spectroscopic snapshots reveal a dehydrogenase in action
Authors: Huo Lu , Davis Ian , Liu Fange , Andi Babak , Esaki Shingo , Iwaki Hiroaki , Hasegawa Yoshie , Orville Allen M. , Liu Aimin
Published: January 2015

Aldehydes are ubiquitous intermediates in metabolic pathways and their innate reactivity can often make them quite unstable. There are several aldehydic intermediates in the metabolic pathway for tryptophan degradation that can decay into neuroactive compounds that have been associated with numerous neurological diseases. An enzyme of this pathway, 2-aminomuconate-6-semialdehyde dehydrogenase, is responsible for ‘disarming’ the final aldehydic intermediate. Here we show the crystal structures of a bacterial analogue enzyme in five catalytically relevant forms: resting state, one binary and two ternary complexes, and a covalent, thioacyl intermediate. We also report the crystal structures of a tetrahedral, thiohemiacetal intermediate, a thioacyl intermediate and an NAD+-bound complex from an active site mutant. These covalent intermediates are characterized by single-crystal and solution-state electronic absorption spectroscopy. The crystal structures reveal that the substrate undergoes an E/Z isomerization at the enzyme active site before an sp3-to-sp2 transition during enzyme-mediated oxidation.
A label-free approach to kinetic analysis and high multiplex detection of targeted drugs with phase surface plasmon resonance imaging
Authors: Wang Yijia , Zhang Chonglei , Zhang Yuquan , Fang Hui , Min Changjun , Zhu Siwei , Yuan X.-C.
Published: January 2015

Phase SPRi biosensor with ability of high multiplex detection was applied to monitor binding reaction on different regions of chip.
Biofunctionalized dendritic polyaniline nanofiber for in situ amplified glucometer-based enzyme immunoassay of tumor marker
Authors: Wu Sheng , Chen Jinsuo , Tian Yujian , Tang Xiaoming , Li Wei , Li Jieming
Published: January 2015

A new glucometer-based enzyme immunoassay was developed for the sensitive detection of alpha-fetoprotein using biofunctional dendritic polyaniline nanofibers as the signal-transduction tag.
A slow, continuous beam of cold benzonitrile
Authors: Patterson David , Doyle John M.
Published: January 2015

A cold, continuous, high flux beam of benzonitrile has been created via buffer gas cooling.
Tuning the thermoelectric properties of a single-molecule junction by mechanical stretching
Authors: Torres Alberto , Pontes Renato B. , da Silva Antônio J. R. , Fazzio Adalberto
Published: January 2015

We theoretically investigate, as a function of the stretching, the behaviour of the Seebeck coefficient, the electronic heat conductance and the figure of merit of a molecule-based junction composed of a benzene-1,4-dithiolate (BDT) molecule coupled to Au(111) surfaces at room temperature.
The accurate estimation of physicochemical properties of ternary mixtures containing ionic liquids via artificial neural networks
Authors: Cancilla John C. , Díaz-Rodríguez Pablo , Matute Gemma , Torrecilla José S.
Published: January 2015

A graphic scheme of the mathematical tool designed is able to estimate physicochemical properties of a ternary mixture.
Mechanistic insights into hydrogen generation for catalytic hydrolysis and alcoholysis of silanes with high-valent oxorhenium(v) complexes
Authors: Wang Wenmin , Wang Jiandi , Huang Liangfang , Wei Haiyan
Published: January 2015

The ionic outer-sphere pathway, which proceeds via the nucleophilic anti attack of water or alcohol on the silicon atom is the most favorable pathway for the high-valent oxorhenium(v) complex-catalyzed hydrolysis/alcoholysis of organosilanes.
Promotional effect of doping SnO2 into TiO2 over a CeO2/TiO2 catalyst for selective catalytic reduction of NO by NH3
Authors: Zhang Lei , Li Lulu , Cao Yuan , Xiong Yan , Wu Shiguo , Sun Jingfang , Tang Changjin , Gao Fei , Dong Lin
Published: January 2015

The promotional effect of SnO2 in a Ce/TiO2 catalyst for NH3-SCR reaction.
Mechanistic insight into the Z–E isomerization catalysis of azobenzenes mediated by bare and core–shell gold nanoparticles
Authors: Simoncelli Sabrina , Aramendía Pedro F.
Published: January 2015

We explored the catalytic effect of 15 nm diameter gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) upon the thermal Z–E isomerization reaction of azobenzene and nine 4 and 4-4′ substituted azobenzenes (ABs).
Improved three-way catalytic activity of bimetallic Ir–Rh catalysts supported on CeO2–ZrO2
Authors: Haneda Masaaki , Kaneko Takahiro , Kamiuchi Naoto , Ozawa Masakuni
Published: January 2015

The addition of a small amount of Ir caused a significant increase in the TWC performance of Rh/CeO2–ZrO2.
A cyclodiphosphazane based pincer ligand, [2,6-{μ-(tBuN)2P(tBuHN)PO}2C6H3I]: NiII, PdII, PtII and CuI complexes and catalytic studies
Authors: Ananthnag Guddekoppa S. , Mague Joel T. , Balakrishna Maravanji S.
Published: January 2015

Pincer complexes derived from difunctional cyclodiphosphazanes and their multimetallic macrocycles and catalytic studies have been described.
Single ion magnet behaviour in a two-dimensional network of dicyanamide-bridged cobalt(ii) ions
Authors: Palion-Gazda Joanna , Klemens Tomasz , Machura Barbara , Vallejo Julia , Lloret Francesc , Julve Miguel
Published: January 2015

The 2D coordination polymer of dca-bridged cobalt(ii), [Co(dca)2(atz)2]n, exhibits slow relaxation of the magnetization at low temperatures being thus a new example of single-ion magnet (SIM).
X-shaped benzoylbenzophenone derivatives with crossed donors and acceptors for highly efficient thermally activated delayed fluorescence
Authors: Lee Sae Youn , Yasuda Takuma , Park In Seob , Adachi Chihaya
Published: January 2015

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials based on benzoylbenzophenone, AcPmBPX and PxPmBPX, were designed and synthesized.
Cooperative ion pair recognition by multitopic l-ornithine based salt receptors
Authors: Piątek Piotr , Zdanowski Szymon , Romański Jan
Published: January 2015

The development of l-ornithine based multitopic receptors allowed us to obtain an effective and selective salt receptor.
Hot off the press
Authors: Hill Robert A. , Sutherland Andrew
Published: January 2015

A personal selection of 32 recent papers is presented covering various aspects of current developments in bioorganic chemistry and novel natural products such as forazoline A from an Actinomadura species.
Enhanced S2 emission in carbazole-based ionic liquids
Authors: Siraj Noureen , Das Susmita , Hasan Farhana , Lu Chengfei , Kiruri Lucy W. , Steege Gall Karen E. , Warner Isiah M.
Published: January 2015

Energy level diagram for carbazoleimidazolium based ionic liquids.
Copolymers with acetyl-protected thiol pendant groups as highly efficient stabilizing agents for gold surfaces
Authors: González-Fernández Daniel , Torneiro Mercedes , López-Quintela M. Arturo , Lazzari Massimo
Published: January 2015

We showed the potential of novel multifunctional sulfur-containing polymers as model ligands for the preparation of sub-5 nm gold nanoparticles.
Visible-light photocatalytic activity of nitrogen-doped NiTiO3 thin films prepared by a co-sputtering process
Authors: Bellam Jagadeesh Babu , Ruiz-Preciado Marco Alejandro , Edely Mathieu , Szade Jacek , Jouanneaux Alain , Kassiba Abdel Hadi
Published: January 2015

NiTiO3 thin films grown using a co-sputtering process exhibited well defined structural, morphological and optical characteristics, which showed enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity.
Colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescent chemodosimeter for selective sensing of fluoride and cyanide ions: tuning selectivity in proton transfer and C–Si bond cleavage
Authors: Mahapatra Ajit Kumar , Manna Saikat Kumar , Pramanik Bhaskar , Maiti Kalipada , Mondal Sanchita , Ali Syed Samim , Mandal Debasish
Published: January 2015

An anthraimidazolyldione based colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescent chemodosimeter (LHSi) was designed and synthesized for fluoride and cyanide ion sensing.
Nitrogen-doped porous graphene–activated carbon composite derived from “bucky gels” for supercapacitors
Authors: Zheng C. , Zhou X. F. , Cao H. L. , Wang G. H. , Liu Z. P.
Published: January 2015

Graphene-based “bucky gels” are used to prepare nitrogen-doped porous graphene–AC composite material for supercapacitors.
Pyrochlore Ta-doped antimony oxide as a novel adsorbent for efficient strontium removal
Authors: Mu Wanjun , Zhang Rui , Li Xingliang , Xie Xiang , Yu Qianhong , Lv Kai , Wei Hongyuan , Jian Yuan
Published: January 2015

Incorporation of Ta5+ into the antimony oxide led to an expansion of the pyrochlore structure, and increases in the surface hydroxyl group content of the sorbent, consequently improving the Sr2+ adsorption capacity considerably.
Gas-phase dehydration of glycerol over thermally-stable SAPO-40 catalyst
Authors: Lourenço J. P. , Fernandes A. , Bértolo R. A. , Ribeiro M. F.
Published: January 2015

SAPO-40 as a stable and highly active catalyst for the selective dehydration of glycerol towards acrolein.
Yttria stabilized zirconia derived from metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Yue Zifeng , Liu Shucheng , Liu Yi
Published: January 2015

Mesoporous yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) with single cubic structures is obtained via a two-step thermal treatment based on a Y-doped UiO-66 template.
Group VI transition metal carbonyl hydrosulfides Na[M(CO)5(SH)] (M = Cr, Mo, W) as water-soluble H2S-releasing agents
Authors: Poh Hwa Tiong , Bengali Ashfaq A. , Fan Wai Yip
Published: January 2015

Group VI metal carbonyl hydrosulfides as water-soluble H2S-releasing molecules.
A nanopoint Schottky-gate array device: surface defect application and molecular detection
Authors: Sung Chun-Han , Chien Tzu-Chiao , Chang Chih-Ming , Chang Chien-Min , Yeh Ping-Hung
Published: January 2015

Nanopoint Schottky-gate array devices (NPSGAD) can considerably enhance the sensitivity, the signal current output level and the gas levels distinguishability.
Trench structure assisted alignment in ultralong and dense carbon nanotube arrays
Authors: An Jianing , Zhan Zhaoyao , Salila Vijayalal Mohan Hari Krishna , Sun Gengzhi , Hansen Reinack Varghese , Zheng Lianxi
Published: January 2015

In situimprovement in the alignment of ultralong and dense CNT arrays has been achieved with the assistance of trench structures on flat substrates.
Nonlinear optical enhancement caused by a higher order multipole mode of metallic triangles
Authors: A. van der Veen Monique , Rosolen Gilles , Verbiest Thierry , Vanbel Maarten K. , Maes Bjorn , Kolaric Branko
Published: January 2015

We describe a nonlinear optical study of gold triangles that exploits a higher order plasmonic resonance.
Wafer-scale and environmentally-friendly deposition methodology for extremely uniform, high-performance transistor arrays with an ultra-low amount of polymer semiconductors
Authors: Cho Jangwhan , Ko Yeongun , Cheon Kwang Hee , Yun Hui-Jun , Lee Han-Koo , Kwon Soon-Ki , Kim Yun-Hi , Chang Suk Tai , Chung Dae Sung
Published: January 2015

We report a novel approach for fabricating ultra-uniform, large areal polymer transistors with extremely low consumption of polymer semiconductors.
Visible-light photodetector with enhanced performance based on a ZnO@CdS heterostructure
Authors: Zhu Linghui , Li Chao , Li Yujia , Feng Caihui , Li Feng , Zhang Dezhong , Chen Zhanguo , Wen Shanpeng , Ruan Shengping
Published: January 2015

ZnO@CdS heterostructure prepared by solvothermal method was used to fabricate visible-light photodetector which showed better photon sensing property than the pristine CdS nanowires based device.
Minimally Invasive Surgery for Traumatic Fractures in Ankylosing Spinal Diseases
Authors: Nayak Nikhil R. , Pisapia Jared M. , Abdullah Kalil G. , Schuster James M.
Published: January 2015

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Objective

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) are two related diseases that significantly increase the risk of unstable spinal fractures from seemingly trivial trauma. Given the older age and higher surgical risk profile of most of these patients, minimally invasive (MIS) approaches to the treatment of such fractures may reduce operative risk and physiologic stress.

Methods

Eleven consecutive patients with hyperextension thoracolumbar injuries and a diagnosis of AS or DISH admitted to a single level I trauma center between June 2009 and June 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were treated with MIS stabilization. In addition, the patients were administered the Oswestry Disability Index and EuroQol-5D surveys to evaluate patient-reported outcomes regarding disability and health-related quality of life, respectively.

Results

Of the 11 patients, 10 were alive at the time of review. The mean follow-up time was 28 months. The average age was 77 years old with a mean body mass index of 34. All patients had severe systemic disease, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade III, with multiple medical comorbidities. Seven segments on average were included in the operative construct. There were no instrumentation failures or nonunions requiring revision surgery. The average postoperative Oswestry disability index was 21.5% (range: 0 to 34%), corresponding to low to moderate disability, and the average EuroQol-5D utility score was 0.77 (range: 0.60 to 1), a similar average postoperative utility value to those published in the literature on elective surgery for degenerative lumbar conditions.

Conclusions

MIS stabilization, when used on patients with good preoperative neurologic status, can successfully manage spinal fractures in patients with AS and DISH and preserve a favorable postoperative quality of life with limited disability.
Helium induced fine structure in the electronic spectra of anthracene derivatives doped into superfluid helium nanodroplets
Authors: Pentlehner D. , Slenczka A.
Published: January 2015

Electronic spectra of organic molecules doped into superfluid helium nanodroplets show characteristic features induced by the helium environment. Besides a solvent induced shift of the electronic transition frequency, in many cases, a spectral fine structure can be resolved for electronic and vibronic transitions which goes beyond the expected feature of a zero phonon line accompanied by a phonon wing as known from matrix isolation spectroscopy. The spectral shape of the zero phonon line and the helium induced phonon wing depends strongly on the dopant species. Phonon wings, for example, are reported ranging from single or multiple sharp transitions to broad (Δν > 100 cm−1) diffuse signals. Despite the large number of example spectra in the literature, a quantitative understanding of the helium induced fine structure of the zero phonon line and the phonon wing is missing. Our approach is a systematic investigation of related molecular compounds, which may help to shed light on this key feature of microsolvation in superfluid helium droplets. This paper is part of a comparative study of the helium induced fine structure observed in electronic spectra of anthracene derivatives with particular emphasis on a spectrally sharp multiplet splitting at the electronic origin. In addition to previously discussed species, 9-cyanoanthracene and 9-chloroanthracene will be presented in this study for the first time.
Determination of carrier diffusion length in GaN
Authors: Hafiz Shopan , Zhang Fan , Monavarian Morteza , Avrutin Vitaliy , Morkoç Hadis , Özgür Ümit , Metzner Sebastian , Bertram Frank , Christen Jürgen , Gil Bernard
Published: January 2015

Diffusion lengths of photo-excited carriers along the c-direction were determined from photoluminescence (PL) and cross-sectional cathodoluminescence (CL) measurements in p- and n-type GaN epitaxial layers grown on c-plane sapphire by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition. The investigated samples incorporate a 6 nm thick In0.15Ga0.85N active layer capped with either 500 nm p-GaN or 1500 nm n-GaN. The top GaN layers were etched in steps and PL from the InGaN active region and the underlying layers was monitored as a function of the top GaN thickness upon photo-generation near the surface region by above bandgap excitation. Taking into consideration the absorption in the top GaN layer as well as active and underlying layers, the diffusion lengths at 295 K and at 15 K were measured to be 93 ± 7 nm and 70 ± 7 nm for Mg-doped p-type GaN and 432 ± 30 nm and 316 ± 30 nm for unintentionally doped n-type GaN, respectively, at photogenerated carrier densities of 4.2 × 1018 cm−3 using PL spectroscopy. CL measurements of the unintentionally doped n-type GaN layer at much lower carrier densities of 1017 cm−3 revealed a longer diffusion length of 525 ± 11 nm at 6 K.
Forming-free, bi-directional polarity conductive-bridge memory devices with Ge2Sb2Te5 solid-state electrolyte and Ag active electrode
Authors: Huang Yin-Hsien , Chen Hsuan-An , Wu Hsin-Han , Hsieh Tsung-Eong
Published: January 2015

Preparation and characteristics of conductive-bridge random access memory devices containing Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST) chalcogenide as the solid-state electrolyte, Ag as the active electrode, and W-Ti as the counter electrode are presented. As revealed by the electrical measurement, only the samples containing crystalline GST exhibited the resistive switching behaviors. With an insertion of ZnS-SiO2 dielectric layer at the Ag/GST interface and a postannealing at 100 °C for 1 min, the sample exhibited the best electrical performance with satisfactory cycleability and retention properties. Moreover, the forming-free and bi-directional polarity features were observed in such a sample type. Microstructure and composition analyses found the finely dispersed nano-scale Ag clusters in GST and, when electrical bias is applied, the migrating Ag ions may build up the connections in between neighboring Ag clusters. Moreover, grain boundaries in polycrystalline GST might be the main paths for Ag migration. The thread-like conduction channels in GST hence form, leading to the low resistance state of sample. On the contrary, the depletion of Ag in GST broke the connections in between Ag clusters when the electrical bias is reversed. This led to the rupture of conduction channels and, hence, the high resistance state of sample. The low operational voltage, forming-free, and bi-directional polarity features observed in (AZGW)T sample might also originated from the fine dispersion of Ag clusters in GST electrolyte.
Copper nano-clusters prepared by one-step electrodeposition and its application on nitrate sensing
Authors: Li Y. , Sun J.Z. , Bian C. , Tong J.H. , Dong H.P. , Zhang H. , Xia S.H.
Published: January 2015

This paper describes the fabrication and characterization of copper nano-clusters prepared by a simple one-step electrodeposition process on platinum microelectrode, and the application for nitrate determination. The one-step electrodepostion process was performed by chronoamperometry scan in acidic copper sulphate electrolyte directly. The SEM and electrochemical examination showed that the morphologies and microstructures of deposited copper layers can be precisely controlled by using different deposition voltages. It was found that the copper layer is porous when the deposition voltage is higher than -500 mV, and this porous layer has a larger effective surface area compared with the corresponding smooth flat copper layer deposited under voltage less than -300 mV. Under the optimized deposition voltage, copper clusters constructed by uniform nanoparticles with an average diameter of about 100 nm can be obtained. The mechanism of electrodeposition process for this method was also speculated. The copper layers deposited under different voltages are used in a series of tests in order to evaluate their performance for nitrate sensing. The experimental results reveal that the microelectrode modified by fixed potential deposition under -700 mV had a higher sensitivity of 39.31 μA/mmolL−1 for nitrate detection within the concentration ranging from 0.1 mmolL−1 to 4.0 mmolL−1.
Biochemical profiles and physicochemical parameters of beef from cattle raised under contrasting feeding systems and pre-slaughter management
Authors: Pighin D. G. , Davies P. , Pazos A. A. , Ceconi I. , Cunzolo S. A. , Mendez D. , Buffarini M. , Grigioni G.
Published: January 2015

Diet and pre-slaughter stress are key factors that may affect the biochemical processes during conversion of muscle into meat. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of two different pre-slaughter stress managements (PSM) at a slaughterhouse in Angus steers raised and finished in two contrasting feeding systems (FS grain and pasture systems), on the peri mortem muscle metabolism, and its relation to of meat quality. Results obtained showed that a higher level of pre-slaughter stress increased (P < 0.05) glucose, lactate and proteins blood levels and decreased (P < 0.05) the redness (a* parameter) of adipose tissue. Regarding feeding strategy, pasture-fed animals displayed increased (P < 0.05) levels of haematocrit and insulin concentrations, and higher (P < 0.05) muscle pH decrease during the first 3 h post mortem. Despite final pH (pH 24 h) of M. longissimus dorsi (LD) was not significantly modified, LD hardness was significantly affected by an interaction effect of FS and PSM. Lower pre-slaughter stress level led to a decrease (P < 0.05) of LD hardness in grain-fed animals. In general terms, results showed an impact of PSM and FS on meat quality through pH-independent mechanisms.
Histochemical structure and immunolocalisation of the hyaluronan system in the dromedary oviduct
Authors: Mohey-Elsaeed Omnia , Marei Waleed F. A. , Fouladi-Nashta Ali A. , El-Saba Abdel-Aleem A.
Published: January 2015

We investigated the local modulation of some histochemical properties of oviducts of the dromedary (Camelus dromedarius), focusing on the immnolocalisation of hyaluronic acid (HA) synthases (HAS2 and HAS3), hyaluronidases (HYAL2 and HYAL1) and the HA receptor CD44 in the ampulla and isthmus. Abundant acidic mucopolysaccharides (glycosaminoglycans) were detected by Alcian blue staining along the luminal surface of both ciliated and non-ciliated epithelial cells (LE). Staining for HAS2 was higher in the primary epithelial folds of the ampulla compared with the isthmus, especially in secretory cells, adluminal epithelial surface and supranuclear cell domain. HAS3 staining was stronger in the LE of the isthmus than ampulla. HYAL2 was detected in the LE in the ampulla and isthmus and was more intense in the adluminal projections of secretory cells. HYAL1 was weakly detected in the LE with no difference between the ampulla and isthmus. Strong CD44 immunostaining was present in the LE of the ampulla and isthmus. CD44 staining was higher in secretory cells than in ciliated epithelial cells and was higher in the supranuclear region than the basal region of the cytoplasm. In conclusion, we provide evidence that HA synthesis and turnover occur in the camel oviduct. Differences in HAS2 and HAS3 expression suggest regional differences in the molecular size of HA secreted in oviductal fluid that may influence oviduct–gamete interaction in the camel.
Characterisation of several ankyrin repeat protein variant 2, a phosphoprotein phosphatase 1-interacting protein, in testis and spermatozoa
Authors: Silva Joana Vieira , Korrodi-Gregório Luís , Luers Georg , Cardoso Maria João , Patrício António , Maia Nuno , da Cruz e Silva Edgar F. , Fardilha Margarida
Published: January 2015

Phosphoprotein phosphatase 1 (PPP1) catalytic subunit gamma 2 (PPP1CC2), a PPP1 isoform, is largely restricted to testicular germ cells and spermatozoa. The key to understanding PPP1 regulation in male germ cells lies in the identification and characterisation of its interacting partners. This study was undertaken to determine the expression patterns of the several ankyrin repeat protein variant 2 (SARP2), a PPP1-interacting protein, in testis and spermatozoa. SARP2 was found to be highly expressed in testis and spermatozoa, and its interaction with human spermatozoa endogenous PPP1CC2 was confirmed by immunoprecipitation. Expression analysis by RT-qPCR revealed that SARP2 and PPP1CC2 mRNA levels were significantly higher in the spermatocyte fraction. However, microscopy revealed that SARP2 protein was only present in the nucleus of elongating and mature spermatids and in spermatozoa. In spermatozoa, SARP2 was prominently expressed in the connecting piece and flagellum, as well as, to a lesser extent, in the acrosome. A yeast two-hybrid approach was used to detect SARP2-interacting proteins and a relevant interaction with a novel sperm-associated antigen 9 (SPAG9) variant, a testis and spermatozoa-specific c-Jun N-terminal kinase-binding protein, was validated in human spermatozoa. Given the expression pattern of SARP2 and its association with PPP1CC2 and SPAG9, it may play a role in spermiogenesis and sperm function, namely in sperm motility and the acrosome reaction.
Inflammation-sensitive super enhancers form domains of coordinately regulated enhancer RNAs
Authors: Hah Nasun , Benner Chris , Chong Ling-Wa , Yu Ruth T. , Downes Michael , Evans Ronald M.
Published: January 2015

Significance

Super enhancers (SEs) are enhancer-dense regions found near genes that play key roles in determining cellular identity. Using global nuclear run-on sequencing (GRO-Seq), we find extensive regulation of enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) within SEs in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment in macrophages. Both activation and repression of gene expression are associated with SEs and eRNA transcription dynamics. Furthermore, we find that each SE acts as a single regulatory unit within which eRNA and genic transcripts are coordinately regulated. We also find that transcription factor (TF) composition within an SE determines regulatory properties of each SE and associated eRNAs. We propose that signal-dependent SEs and their eRNAs function as molecular rheostats integrating the binding profiles of key regulators to produce dynamic profiles of gene expression.
The school effectiveness movement: origins, shortcomings and future possibilities
Authors: Chitty Clyde
Published: January 2015

This paper argues that the school effectiveness/school improvement movement has provided an antidote to the pessimism and fatalism of the 1970s. However, it is deficient in four important respects: (1) it places too much emphasis on the notion of progressive school management as the dynamic of change; (2) it fails to take full account of the characteristics of the education system as a whole; (3) it shows little regard for issues of social class; (4) it has little to say about issues of curriculum content and pedagogy.
Quality assurance, the educational standards debate, and the commodification of educational research
Authors: Elliott John
Published: January 2015

The idea of quality assurance dominates educational discourse at the present time. This is reflected in the emphasis placed on test and examination results, inspections and school performance indicators. It is argued in this article that this is not simply an attempt to legitimate traditional conceptions of knowledge. It is also an attempt to construct a new narrative of knowledge. School effectiveness research is an example of this as it applies a performativity criterion to educational research methodology. The article concludes by suggesting that action research may be subordinated to the logic of performativity, and as a result is less able to fulfil its proper purpose which is to create the conditions for innovative experiments in education.
History skills and the NSW 1986 Two Unit Modern History syllabus part 2: focus on learning experiences and evaluation
Authors: Harvey P. I. , Maxwell T. W.
Published: January 2015

In exploring the syllabus writers' intentions and in an analysis of the NSW Two Unit Modern History syllabus, selection and organization of learning experiences and evaluation specified in the document were found to be wanting. Learning experiences were to be student‐centred with considerable teacher autonomy and hence a lack of specific information on pedagogy. There was indirect advice only on the organization of learning experiences associated with skills development. While skills as processes are set out to be examined, there are considerable difficulties associated with using the specified objectives as the basis for evaluation. This article is a companion piece to Harvey and Maxwell (1996).
Forgeries and Fakes
Authors: Orlandi Silvia , Caldelli Maria Letizia , Gregori Gian Luca
Published: January 2015

The issue of epigraphic forgeries is closely connected not only to the history of epigraphy, but also to the rediscovery and reuse of antiquity in the Middle Ages and during the Renaissance and Baroque Period. This chapter analyzes the concepts of “forgery,” addresses the theme of fakes in epigraphy, a relatively new field, and studies the modes of transmission (on paper or stone) of such artefacts. It also analyzes the forgerers’ intentions and the conditions under which historical and documentary forgeries were created, especially in Italy.
The Major Corpora and Epigraphic Publications
Authors: Bruun Christer
Published: January 2015

This chapter presents briefly the history of modern Roman—primarily Latin—epigraphic corpora. The purpose is both to chronicle progress in this field since Theodor Mommsen in the mid-nineteenth century and to provide a roadmap for those who need to find their way through the sometimes bewildering collection of epigraphic corpora and other publications. Regardless of the convenient electronic epigraphic databases available on the internet, it is today, and will for the foreseeable future remain, indispensable to consult the readings and commentaries to be found in the standard epigraphic publications.
The “Epigraphic Habit” in the Roman World
Authors: Beltrán Lloris Francisco
Published: January 2015

Since the 1980s scholars have ceased considering Roman inscriptions simply in functional terms—as sources of historical information—and started to treat them as a cultural phenomenon worthy of serious consideration. This change in perspective, as well as the realization that there was a permanent bond between text and monument, represents the most productive shift in approach in recent epigraphic scholarship. This chapter analyzes the “epigraphic habit” in order to explain why people wrote on stone throughout Italy and the provinces, linking its rise to the proliferation of urbanization, literacy, and the desire for self-representation.
The Roman Republic
Authors: Salomies Olli
Published: January 2015

The purpose of this chapter is to illustrate the range and distinctive features of Latin republican epigraphy. It focuses on inscriptions from the last century or so of the Republic (c. 150 to 30 BCE), analyzing their quantity, geographical spread, and typology, pointing out some distinctions between “republican” and “imperial” Latin epigraphy. It also analyzes the letter-forms, language, and orthography of both private and public inscription s.
Inscriptions and the Narrative of Roman History
Authors: Potter David S.
Published: January 2015

This chapter offers an analysis of how inscriptions can complement the narratives of Roman history from the third century BCE to the third century CE provided in literary sources. They reveal certain historical events or details that would otherwise be unknown, and they supplement the information offered by the surviving Roman historians .
Religion in Rome and Italy
Authors: Kajava Mika
Published: January 2015

While inscriptiones sacrae—mostly dedications to deities or other texts dealing with their cults—traditionally occupy the first section of epigraphic corpora, the other sections also provide much evidence for religious beliefs and practices in the Roman world. Thus dedications to deities, religious calendars, sacred regulations, and curse tablets provide an obvious starting-point for the study of Roman religion. Other inscriptions also enrich our understanding of such topics as cultic personnel, sacrifices, temples, religious festivals, funerary rituals, and concepts of death and the afterlife .
Religion in the Roman Provinces
Authors: Rives James B.
Published: January 2015

Without inscriptions, the study of religion in the Roman provinces would scarcely exist. Much can be learned from the rich material remains about sanctuaries, iconography, and even cult practices, but apart from a few scattered references in literary sources, we would know almost nothing of the names of the deities worshipped, very little of religious organization and cult personnel, and far less about key issues such as the interaction of local and imperial religious traditions. This chapter also emphasizes a few of the less obvious insights into ancient conceptions of the divine that we can gain from inscriptions.
Urban Infrastructure and Euergetism Outside the City of Rome
Authors: Horster Marietta
Published: January 2015

This chapter explores the connection between the monumentalization of cities, the use of local resources, and the involvement of benefactors in civic building operations. At its peak the Roman Empire comprised a mosaic of some two thousand flourishing cities. For the establishment and maintenance of their infrastructure, they benefited in large part from the contributions of wealthy citizens and, in some situations, of outside sponsors. This chapter uses epigraphic evidence to explain what financial resources cities had at their disposal and who was responsible for benefactions that benefited the communities and their inhabitants. It also discusses the nature of the benefactions and what such munificence meant for the cities.
Spectacle in Rome, Italy, and the Provinces
Authors: Carter Michael J. , Edmondson Jonathan
Published: January 2015

The city of Rome and other urban communities throughout the empire were alive with spectacles of all kinds, including triumphs, funerals, executions, and religious festivals with their various games (ludi). This chapter considers the critical role that inscriptions play in our understanding of Roman spectacles. It focuses in particular on spectacles in the theatre (ludi scaenici), circus (ludi circenses), athletic stadium, and especially the amphitheatre (munera and venationes). Epigraphic discoveries of many types continue to add new details and insights that our moralizing literary sources simply ignore: tombstones of spectacle performers; statue-bases honouring local elites who sponsored spectacles; building inscriptions from theatres, amphitheatres, and circuses; senatorial decrees, imperial edicts/letters, and municipal laws regulating public spectacle; announcements of upcoming spectacles; curse tablets; and inscribed artifacts depicting gladiators, actors, and charioteers.
Women in the Roman World
Authors: Caldelli Maria Letizia
Published: January 2015

Inscriptions help us reconstruct some elements of the lived experience of women in the Roman world. This chapter analyzes the epigraphic evidence for women’s role in economic, cultural, religious, and civic life, acknowledging the inevitable biases inherent in such texts. We do not usually have access to women’s views of themselves or of each other, since men were responsible for the majority of the relevant inscriptions. Nevertheless, we can study how men looked upon women, how they reacted to them, and what their expectations of Roman women were .
Communications and Mobility in the Roman Empire
Authors: Kolb Anne
Published: January 2015

Due to the size of the Roman Empire, communication routes, whether by land or water, were crucial to its functioning. The road system was a characteristic feature of Roman imperial rule and symbolized Roman power in a ubiquitous and visible way. Inscriptions are fundamental for understanding certain key aspects of transport and communication: roads and road building, milestones, the development and regulations of the cursus publicus, communication practices, and mobility and connectivity in the Roman empire .