bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relative humidity-dependent viscosities of isoprene-derived secondary organic material and atmospheric implications for isoprene-dominant forests
Authors: Song M. , Liu P. F. , Hanna S. J. , Li Y. J. , Martin S. T. , Bertram A. K.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Oxidation of isoprene is an important source of secondary organic material (SOM) in atmospheric particles, especially in areas such as the Amazon Basin. Information on the viscosities, diffusion rates, and mixing times within isoprene-derived SOM is needed for accurate predictions of air quality, visibility, and climate. Currently, however, this information is not available. Using a bead-mobility technique and a poke-flow technique combined with fluid simulations, the relative humidity (RH)-dependent viscosities of SOM produced from isoprene photo-oxidation were quantified for 20–60 μm particles at 295 ± 1 K. From 84.5 to 0% RH, the viscosities for isoprene-derived SOM varied from ~ 2 × 10−1 to ~ 3 × 105 Pa s, implying that isoprene-derived SOM ranges from a liquid to a semisolid over this RH range. These viscosities correspond to diffusion coefficients of ~ 2 × 10−8 to ~ 2 × 10−14 cm2 s−1 for large organic molecules that follow the Stokes–Einstein relation. Based on the diffusion coefficients, the mixing time of large organic molecules within 200 nm isoprene-derived SOM particles ranges from approximately 0.1 h to less than 1 s. To illustrate the atmospheric implications of this study's results, the Amazon Basin is used as a case study for an isoprene-dominant forest. Considering the RH and temperature range observed in the Amazon Basin and with some assumptions about the dominant chemical compositions of SOM particles in the region, it is likely that SOM particles in this area are liquid and reach equilibrium with large gas-phase organic molecules on short time scales, less than or equal to approximately 0.1 h.
Monitoring and modelling of soil–plant interactions: the joint use of ERT, sap flow and eddy covariance data to characterize the volume of an orange tree root zone
Authors: Cassiani G. , Boaga J. , Vanella D. , Perri M. T. , Consoli S.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Mass and energy exchanges between soil, plants and atmosphere control a number of key environmental processes involving hydrology, biota and climate. The understanding of these exchanges also play a critical role for practical purposes e.g. in precision agriculture. In this paper we present a methodology based on coupling innovative data collection and models in order to obtain quantitative estimates of the key parameters of such complex flow system. In particular we propose the use of hydro-geophysical monitoring via "time-lapse" electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) in conjunction with measurements of plant transpiration via sap flow and evapotranspiration (ET) from eddy covariance (EC). This abundance of data is fed to spatially distributed soil models in order to characterize the distribution of active roots. We conducted experiments in an orange orchard in eastern Sicily (Italy), characterized by the typical Mediterranean semi-arid climate. The subsoil dynamics, particularly influenced by irrigation and root uptake, were characterized mainly by the ERT set-up, consisting of 48 buried electrodes on 4 instrumented micro-boreholes (about 1.2 m deep) placed at the corners of a square (with about 1.3 m long sides) surrounding the orange tree, plus 24 mini-electrodes on the surface spaced 0.1 m on a square grid. During the monitoring, we collected repeated ERT and time domain reflectometry (TDR) soil moisture measurements, soil water sampling, sap flow measurements from the orange tree and EC data. We conducted a laboratory calibration of the soil electrical properties as a function of moisture content and porewater electrical conductivity. Irrigation, precipitation, sap flow and ET data are available allowing for knowledge of the system's long-term forcing conditions on the system. This information was used to calibrate a 1-D Richards' equation model representing the dynamics of the volume monitored via 3-D ERT. Information on the soil hydraulic properties was collected from laboratory and field experiments. The successful results of the calibrated modelling exercise allow for the quantification of the soil volume interested by root water uptake (RWU). This volume is much smaller (with a surface area less than 2 m2, and about 40 cm thick) than expected and assumed in the design of classical drip irrigation schemes that prove to be losing at least half of the irrigated water which is not taken up by the plants.
A review of applications of satellite SAR, optical, altimetry and DEM data for surface water modelling, mapping and parameter estimation
Authors: Musa Z. N. , Popescu I. , Mynett A.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Hydrological data collection requires deployment of physical infrastructure like rain gauges, water level gauges, as well as use of expensive equipment like echo sounders. Many countries around the world have recorded a decrease in deployment of physical infrastructure for hydrological measurements; developing countries especially have less of this infrastructure and where they exist, they are poorly maintained. Satellite remote sensing can bridge this gap, and has been applied by hydrologists over the years, with the earliest applications in water body and flood mapping. With the availability of more optical satellites with relatively low temporal resolutions globally, satellite data is commonly used for: mapping of water bodies, testing of inundation models, precipitation monitoring, and mapping of flood extent. Use of satellite data to estimate hydrological parameters continues to increase due to use of better sensors, improvement in knowledge of/and utilization of satellite data, and expansion of research topics. A review of applications of satellite remote sensing in surface water modelling, mapping and estimation is presented, and its limitations for surface water applications are also discussed.
Flash flood occurrence and relation to the rainfall hazard in a highly urbanized area
Authors: Papagiannaki K. , Lagouvardos K. , Kotroni V. , Bezes A.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. The paper examines the flash flood events that occurred during a decade in the Attica prefecture, the most urbanized region of Greece, with the aim of assessing the local vulnerability to the flash flood hazard and the effect of rainfall upon the magnitude of the induced damages. The analysis incorporates rainfall records from a network of 28 surface meteorological stations and information on the spatial distribution of the flash flood events that is derived from the active database of damaging weather events maintained by the atmospheric modelling group of the National Observatory of Athens. The main findings concern the relation between the flash flood impact, as measured by the Fire Service operations in flooded properties, and precipitation in various time intervals, as well as the possibility to define rainfall intensity thresholds for flood triggering at a more local level. It is shown that the quality of the produced thresholds depends on the distribution and density of the rain gauges that cover each specified geographical area of the Attica region.
An Analysis of the Complex Model of Motivation in Retaining and Motivating Employees
Authors: Zvavahera Promise
Published: May 2015

This paper seeks to critique the elements of the complex model of motivation which was developed with the aim of applying it in organisations with the view of motivating, retaining and improving on productivity and service delivery. The model is premised on the internal and external factors that impact on employees’ performance. The Complex Model of Motivation is deemed to be comprehensive in its application. It is noted that employees are plagued with various problems which negate on their performance. It is therefore, recommended that if this Model is applied it could go a long way in addressing most of the problems raised by employees at the workplace. This Model suggests a holistic approach involving internal and external factors that impact on the total work environment. The model is significant in that it identifies promising areas in which organisations can improve so as to provide conducive working environments.
Effect of Celebrity Endorsement on Consumer’s Perception of Corporate Image, Corporate Credibility and Corporate Loyalty (Case Study: Novin Charm Company)
Authors: Ghotbivayghan Bahareh , Hoseinzadehshahri Masoomeh , Ebrahimi Mohammadreza
Published: May 2015

Nowadays, the use of celebrity endorsement in product marketing and advertising is one of the major factors in companies’ promotion strategies. Celebrities as one of the major tools in advertising can lead to encourage consumers to use specific products and corporate loyalty because of their special and unique abilities or characteristics.Study result show that the celebrity endorsement has a positive effect on corporate image, corporate credibility and corporate loyalty. Moreover corporate image have a positive effect on corporate credibility and corporate credibility have a positive effect on corporate loyalty.
Self-medication practice among Yemeni patients in Ibb city: a survey study exploring patients’ perceptives
Authors: Mojali Salah , Al-Ghanim Saad , Alduais Ahmed Mohammed , F. Al-Shabrani Bader
Published: May 2015

Background: The main objective of this study was addressing the prevalence of self-medication, its causes, sources of information and medications in Ibb city, the Republic of Yemen.Methods: This study followed a survey-study method where the data was collected using a self-administrated questionnaire with stratified random sampling and simple random sampling procedures to select the study samples. A sample of 500 patients from the three major hospitals at Ibb city (AL-Thawrah, Nasser and Motherhood hospitals) were selected in this study. Both descriptive and referential analyses were used to answer the raised research questions.Results: The results indicated that 85% of the participants practiced self-medication in the last three months prior to data collection. The most reason reported for self-medication is that the drug supply in hospitals was unavailable. The most source of information about self-medication reported by respondents was pharmacists and the most source of medication was private pharmacies. Besides, more than half of the participants indicated prior knowledge regarding the dangers of self-medication. Chi-square analysis indicated that respondents who are urban, married and older than 40 years are more likely to practice self-medication.Conclusions: Educational campaigns and strict legislation measures relating to drugs dispensing from private pharmacies, supplying the governmental hospitals with the medications and facilitate access to health care services are among the necessary intervention(s) that may modify the behavior of individuals and protect them from potential dangers of self-medication.
Theory and Application of Characteristic Finite Difference Fractional Step Method of Capillary Force Enhanced Oil Production
Authors: Yuan Yirang , Cheng Aijie , Yang Danping , Li Changfeng , Sun Tongjun
Published: May 2015

A kind of second-order implicit characteristic fractional steps finite difference method is presented in this paper for the numerical simulation coupled system of enhanced (chemical) oil production on consideration capillary force in porous media. Some techniques, such as the calculus of variations, energy analysis method, commutativity of the products of difference operators, decomposition of high-order difference operators and the theory of a priori estimates are introduced and an optimal order error estimates in $l^2$ norm is derived. This method has been applied successfully the numerical simulation of enhanced oil production in actual oilfields, and the simulation results are quite interesting and satisfactory.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Sustainable Agriculture Research, Vol. 4, No. 2
Authors: Lee Joan
Published: May 2015

Reviewer Acknowledgements for Sustainable Agriculture Research, Vol. 4, No. 2
Editorial: The Evolving Practice of Scholarly Book Reviews
Authors: Cai Jinfa
Published: May 2015

Although the Journal for Research in Mathematics Education (JRME) published its first issue in January of 1970, the first scholarly book review appeared in the January 1977 issue under the editorship of James Wilson. In it, Thomas Kieren (1977) reviewed the 1975 National Advisory Committee on Mathematical Education (NACOME) report, Overview and Analysis of School Mathematics Grades K–12. In his editorial for the issue, Wilson (1977) wrote,
RIPOSTE: a framework for improving the design and analysis of laboratory-based research
Authors: Masca Nicholas GD , Hensor Elizabeth MA , Cornelius Victoria R , Buffa Francesca M , Marriott Helen M , Eales James M , Messenger Michael P , Anderson Amy E , Boot Chris , Bunce Catey , Goldin Robert D , Harris Jessica , Hinchliffe Rod F , Junaid Hiba , Kingston Shaun , Martin-Ruiz Carmen , Nelson Christopher P , Peacock Janet , Seed Paul T , Shinkins Bethany , Staples Karl J , Toombs Jamie , Wright Adam KA , Teare M Dawn
Published: May 2015

Lack of reproducibility is an ongoing problem in some areas of the biomedical sciences. Poor experimental design and a failure to engage with experienced statisticians at key stages in the design and analysis of experiments are two factors that contribute to this problem. The RIPOSTE (Reducing IrreProducibility in labOratory STudiEs) framework has been developed to support early and regular discussions between scientists and statisticians in order to improve the design, conduct and analysis of laboratory studies and, therefore, to reduce irreproducibility. This framework is intended for use during the early stages of a research project, when specific questions or hypotheses are proposed. The essential points within the framework are explained and illustrated using three examples (a medical equipment test, a macrophage study and a gene expression study). Sound study design minimises the possibility of bias being introduced into experiments and leads to higher quality research with more reproducible results.
Characteristics of low‐latitude TEC during solar cycles 23 and 24 using global ionospheric maps (GIMs) over Indian sector
Authors: Dashora N. , Suresh Sunanda
Published: May 2015

The characteristics of quiet time equatorial and low‐latitude total electron content over the Indian sector using global ionospheric map (GIM) data (1998–2014) are obtained filtering out the solar flare and storm effects. The results are examined and interpreted in the context of large number of previous studies. The newly found features from this study are as follows. Marked difference in nature of equinoctial asymmetry is noted between solar cycles 23 and 24. Long absence of winter anomaly both during low and high solar activity (HSA) in LL (low‐latitude) regions is found. Climatology of the diurnal cycle is provided in four categories using new criteria for demarcation of solar activity levels. Highest correlation (~77%) between GIM ionospheric electron content (IEC) and PI (solar EUV proxy index) is noted over equator in contrast to previous studies. The minimum positive contribution of PI in variation of IEC requires minimum of 2 years of data, and if more than 7–8 years of data are used, it saturates. Root‐mean‐square width of PI can be used to define the HSA. Strong QBO (quasi‐biennial oscillations) in IEC is noted in tune with the one in PI over both LL locations but QBO remains surprisingly subdued over equator. The semiannual oscillations in GIM‐IEC are found to be stronger at all locations during high solar activity and weaker between 2005 and 2011, whereas the annual oscillations are found to be substantially stronger only during HSA‐23 and weakest over southern LL location throughout 17 years.
Role of circulation scales and water mass distributions on larval fish habitats in the Eastern Tropical Pacific off Mexico
Authors: León‐Chávez Cristina A. , Beier Emilio , Sánchez‐Velasco Laura , Barton Eric Desmond , Godínez Victor M.
Published: May 2015

On the basis of five oceanographic cruises carried out in the Eastern Tropical Pacific off Mexico, relationships between the larval fish habitats (areas inhabited by larval fish assemblages) and the environmental circulation scales (mesoscale, seasonal, and interannual) were examined. Analysis of in situ data over a grid of hydrographic stations and oblique zooplankton hauls with bongo net (505 µm) was combined with orthogonal robust functions decomposition applied to altimetry anomalies obtained from satellite. During both cool (March and June) and warm (August and November) periods, Bray‐Curtis dissimilarity Index defined three recurrent larval fish habitats which varied in species composition and extent as a function of the environmental scales. The variability of the Tropical larval fish habitat (characterized by high species richness, and dominated by Vinciguerria lucetia, Diogenichthys laternatus, and Diaphus pacificus) was associated with the seasonal changes. The Transitional‐California Current larval fish habitat (dominated by V. lucetia and D. laternatus, with lower mean abundance and lower species richness than in the Tropical habitat) and Coastal‐and‐Upwelling larval fish habitat (dominated by Bregmaceros bathymaster) was associated mainly with mesoscale activity induced by eddies and with coastal upwelling. During February 2010, the Tropical larval fish habitat predominated offshore and the Transitional‐California Current larval fish habitat was not present, which we attribute to the effect of El Niño conditions. Thus, the mesoscale, seasonal, and interannual environmental scales affect the composition and extension of larval fish habitats.
Long‐term observations of North Atlantic Current transport at the gateway between western and eastern Atlantic
Authors: Roessler Achim , Rhein Monika , Kieke Dagmar , Mertens Christian
Published: May 2015

In the western North Atlantic, warm and saline water is brought by the North Atlantic Current (NAC) from the subtropics into the subpolar gyre. Four inverted echo sounders with high precision pressure sensors (PIES) were moored between 47°40′N and 52°30′N to study the main pathways of the NAC from the western into the eastern basin. The array configuration that forms three segments (northern, central, and southern) allows partitioning of the NAC and some assessment of NAC flow paths through the different Mid‐Atlantic Ridge fracture zones. We exploit the correlation between the NAC transport measured between 2006 and 2010 and the geostrophic velocity from altimeter data to extend the time series of NAC transports to the period from 1992 to 2013. The mean NAC transport over the entire 21 years is 27 ± 5 Sv, consisting of 60% warm water of subtropical origin and 40% subpolar water. We did not find a significant trend in the total transport time series, but individual segments had opposing trends, leading to a more focused NAC in the central subsection and decreasing transports in the southern and northern segments. The spectral analysis exhibits several significant peaks. The two most prominent are around 120 days, identified as the time scale of meanders and eddies, and at 4–9 years, most likely related to the NAO. Transport composites for the years of highest and lowest NAO indices showed a significantly higher transport (+2.9 Sv) during strong NAO years, mainly in the southern segment.
Magnetic flux circulation in the rotationally driven giant magnetospheres
Authors: Delamere P. A. , Otto A. , Ma X. , Bagenal F. , Wilson R. J.
Published: May 2015

The giant‐planet magnetodiscs are shaped by the radial transport of plasma originating in the inner magnetosphere. Magnetic flux transport is a key aspect of the stretched magnetic field configuration of the magnetodisc. While net mass transport is outward (ultimately lost to the solar wind), magnetic flux conservation requires a balanced two‐way transport process. Magnetic reconnection is a critical aspect of the balanced flux transport. We present a comprehensive analysis of current sheet crossings in Saturn's magnetosphere using Cassini magnetometer data from 2004 to 2012 in an attempt to quantify the circulation of magnetic flux, emphasizing local time dependence. A key property of flux transport is the azimuthal bend forward or bend back of the magnetic field. The bend back configuration is an expected property of the magnetodisc with net mass outflow, but the bend forward configuration can be achieved with the rapid inward motion of mostly empty flux tubes following reconnection. We find a strong local time dependence for the bend forward cases, localized mostly in the postnoon sector, indicating that much of the flux‐conserving reconnection occurs in the subsolar and dusk sector. We suggest that the reconnection occur in a complex and patchy network of reconnection sites, supporting the idea that plasma can be lost on small scales through a “drizzle”‐like process. Auroral implications for the observed flux circulation will also be presented.
Comprehensive analysis of the flux dropout during 7–8 November 2008 storm using multisatellite observations and RBE model
Authors: Hwang J. , Choi E.‐J. , Park J.‐S. , Fok M.‐C. , Lee D.‐Y. , Kim K.‐C. , Shin D.‐K. , Usanova M. E. , Reeves G. D.
Published: May 2015

We investigate an electron flux dropout during a weak storm on 7–8 November 2008, with Dst minimum value being −37 nT. During this period, two clear dropouts were observed on GOES 11 > 2 MeV electrons. We also find a simultaneous dropout in the subrelativistic electrons recorded by Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms probes in the outer radiation belt. Using the Radiation Belt Environment model, we try to reproduce the observed dropout features in both relativistic and subrelativistic electrons. We found that there are local time dependences in the dropout for both observation and simulation in subrelativistic electrons: (1) particle loss begins from nightside and propagates into dayside and (2) resupply starts from near dawn magnetic local time and propagates into the dayside following electron drift direction. That resupply of the particles might be caused by substorm injections due to enhanced convection. We found a significant precipitation in hundreds keV electrons during the dropout. We observe electromagnetic ion cyclotron and chorus waves both on the ground and in space. We find the drift shells are opened near the beginning of the first dropout. The dropout in MeV electrons at GEO might therefore be initiated due to the magnetopause shadowing, and the followed dropout in hundreds keV electrons might be the result of the combination of magnetopause shadowing and precipitation loss into the Earth's atmosphere.
Statistical characteristics of EMIC waves: Van Allen Probe observations
Authors: Wang Dedong , Yuan Zhigang , Yu Xiongdong , Deng Xiaohua , Zhou Meng , Huang Shiyong , Li Haimeng , Wang Zhenzhen , Qiao Zheng , Kletzing C. A. , Wygant J. R.
Published: May 2015

Utilizing the data from the magnetometer instrument which is a part of the Electric and Magnetic Field Instrument Suite and Integrated Science instrument suite on board the Van Allen Probe A from September 2012 to April 2014, when the apogee of the satellite has passed all the magnetic local time (MLT) sectors, we obtain the statistical distribution characteristics of electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves in the inner magnetosphere over all magnetic local times from L = 3 to L = 6. Compared with the previous statistical results about EMIC waves, the occurrence rates of EMIC waves distribute relatively uniform in the MLT sectors in lower L shells. On the other hand, in higher L shells, there are indeed some peaks of the occurrence rate for the EMIC waves, especially in the noon, dusk, and night sectors. EMIC waves appear at lower L shells in the dawn sector than in other sectors. In the lower L shells (L < 4), the occurrence rates of EMIC waves are significant in the dawn sector. This phenomenon may result from the distribution characteristics of the plasmasphere. The location of the plasmapause is usually lower in the dawn sector than that in other sectors, and the plasmapause is considered to be the favored region for the generation of EMIC waves. In higher L shells (L > 4) the occurrence rates of EMIC waves are most significant in the dusk sector, implying the important role of the plasmapause or plasmaspheric plume in generating EMIC waves. We have also investigated the distribution characteristics of the hydrogen band and the helium band EMIC waves. Surprisingly, in the inner magnetosphere, the hydrogen band EMIC waves occur more frequently than the helium band EMIC waves. Both of them have peaks of occurrence rate in noon, dusk, and night sectors, and the hydrogen band EMIC waves have more obvious peaks than the helium band EMIC waves in the night sector, while the helium band EMIC waves are more concentrated than the hydrogen band EMIC waves in the dusk sector. Both of them occur significantly in the noon sector, which implies the important role of the solar wind dynamic pressure.
Sea surface temperature as a tracer to estimate cross‐shelf turbulent diffusivity and flushing time in the Great Barrier Reef lagoon
Authors: Mao Yadan , Ridd Peter V.
Published: May 2015

Accurate parameterization of spatially variable diffusivity in complex shelf regions such as the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) lagoon is an unresolved issue for hydrodynamic models. This leads to large uncertainties to the flushing time derived from them and to the evaluation of ecosystem resilience to terrestrially derived pollution. In fact, numerical hydrodynamic models and analytical cross‐shore diffusion models have predicted very different flushing times for the GBR lagoon. Nevertheless, scarcity of in situ measurements used previously in the latter method prevents derivation of detailed diffusivity profiles. Here detailed cross‐shore profiles of diffusivity were calculated explicitly in a closed form for the first time from the steady state transects of sea surface temperature for different sections of the GBR lagoon. We find that diffusivity remains relatively constant within the inner lagoon (<∼20 km) where tidal current is weak, and increases linearly with sufficiently large tidal amplitude in reef‐devoid regions, but increases dramatically where the reef matrixes start and fluctuates with reef size and density. The cross‐shelf profile of steady state salinity calculated using the derived diffusivity values agrees well with field measurements. The calculated diffusivity values are also consistent with values derived from satellite‐tracked drifters. Flushing time by offshore diffusion is of the order of 1 month, suggesting the important role of turbulent diffusion in flushing the lagoon, especially in reef‐distributed regions. The results imply that previous very large residence times predicted by numerical hydrodynamic models may result from underestimation of diffusivity. Our findings can guide parameterization of diffusivity in hydrodynamic modeling.
Simultaneously inferring above‐cloud absorbing aerosol optical thickness and underlying liquid phase cloud optical and microphysical properties using MODIS
Authors: Meyer Kerry , Platnick Steven , Zhang Zhibo
Published: May 2015

The regional haze over the southeast (SE) Atlantic Ocean induced by biomass burning in southern Africa can be problematic for passive imager‐based retrievals of the underlying quasi‐permanent marine boundary layer (MBL) clouds and for estimates of top‐of‐atmosphere (TOA) aerosol direct radiative effect (DRE). Here an algorithm is introduced to simultaneously retrieve above‐cloud aerosol optical thickness (AOT), the cloud optical thickness (COT), and cloud effective particle radius (CER) of the underlying MBL clouds while also providing pixel‐level estimates of retrieval uncertainty. This approach utilizes reflectance measurements at six Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) channels from the visible to the shortwave infrared. Retrievals are run under two aerosol model assumptions on 8 years (2006–2013) of June–October Aqua MODIS data over the SE Atlantic, from which a regional cloud and above‐cloud aerosol climatology is produced. The cloud retrieval methodology is shown to yield COT and CER consistent with those from the MODIS operational cloud product (MOD06) when forcing AOT to zero, while the full COT‐CER‐AOT retrievals that account for the above‐cloud aerosol attenuation increase regional monthly mean COT and CER by up to 9% and 2%, respectively. Retrieved AOT is roughly 3 to 5 times larger than the collocated 532 nm Cloud‐Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) retrievals, though closer agreement is observed with the CALIOP 1064 nm retrievals, a result consistent with previous case study analyses. Regional cloudy‐sky above‐cloud aerosol DRE calculations are also performed that illustrate the importance of the aerosol model assumption and underlying cloud retrievals.
Linear Accelerators
Authors: Jameson Robert , Bisognano Joseph , Lapostolle Pierre
Published: May 2015

Linear accelerators (a subcategory of particle accelerators) are essential tools used for fundamental research and practical applications, including particle and nuclear physics, energy production, chemistry, materials and biological sciences, and medicine. Beams of electrons, protons, and many other particles can be generated, requiring a diversity of different accelerator structures. Scientists continue to build higher energy and higher current linear accelerators, making use of and often pushing the progress in many technological fields like high‐power radiofrequency sources, precision mechanics, high vacuum, magnetics, superconducting materials, wideband electronics, digital controls, and precision civil engineering.
Stretchable‐Rubber‐Based Triboelectric Nanogenerator and Its Application as Self‐Powered Body Motion Sensors
Authors: Yi Fang , Lin Long , Niu Simiao , Yang Po Kang , Wang Zhaona , Chen Jun , Zhou Yusheng , Zi Yunlong , Wang Jie , Liao Qingliang , Zhang Yue , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: May 2015

A stretchable‐rubber‐based (SR‐based) triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is developed that can not only harvest energy but also serve as self‐powered multifunctional sensors. It consists of a layer of elastic rubber and a layer of aluminum film that acts as the electrode. By stretching and releasing the rubber, the changes of triboelectric charge distribution/density on the rubber surface relative to the aluminum surface induce alterations to the electrical potential of the aluminum electrode, leading to an alternating charge flow between the aluminum electrode and the ground. The unique working principle of the SR‐based TENG is verified by the coupling of numerical calculations and experimental measurements. A comprehensive study is carried out to investigate the factors that may influence the output performance of the SR‐based TENG. By integrating the devices into a sensor system, it is capable of detecting movements in different directions. Moreover, the SR‐based TENG can be attached to a human body to detect diaphragm breathing and joint motion. This work largely expands the applications of TENG not only as effective power sources but also as active sensors; and opens up a new prospect in future electronics.
Enhanced Ion Current Rectification in 2D Graphene‐Based Nanofluidic Devices
Authors: Miansari Morteza , Friend James R. , Yeo Leslie Y.
Published: May 2015

Furthering the promise of graphene‐based planar nanofluidic devices as flexible, robust, low cost, and facile large‐scale alternatives to conventional nanochannels for ion transport, we show how the nonlinear current–voltage (I–V) characteristics and ion current rectification in these platforms can be enhanced by increasing the system asymmetry. Asymmetric cuts made to the 2D multilayered graphene oxide film, for example, introduces further asymmetry to that natively inherent in the structurally symmetric system, which was recently shown to be responsible for its rectification behavior due to diffusion boundary layer fore–aft asymmetry. Supported by good agreement with theory, we attribute the enhancement to the decrease in the limiting current in the positive bias state in which counter‐ion trapping occurs within the negatively charged graphene oxide sheets due to increased film permselectivity as its cross‐section and surface charge distribution is altered on one end; these effects being shown to be sensitive to the electrolyte pH. Further, we show that an imbalance in the pH or concentration in the microreservoirs flanking the film can also increase asymmetry and hence rectification, in addition to displaying a host of other phenomena associated with the I–V characteristics of typical nanochannel electrokinetic systems.
Independent evidence for an association between general cognitive ability and a genetic locus for educational attainment
Authors: Trampush Joey W. , Lencz Todd , Knowles Emma , Davies Gail , Guha Saurav , Pe'er Itsik , Liewald David C. , Starr John M. , Djurovic Srdjan , Melle Ingrid , Sundet Kjetil , Christoforou Andrea , Reinvang Ivar , Mukherjee Semanti , DeRosse Pamela , Lundervold Astri , Steen Vidar M. , John Majnu , Espeseth Thomas , Räikkönen Katri , Widen Elisabeth , Palotie Aarno , Eriksson Johan G. , Giegling Ina , Konte Bettina , Ikeda Masashi , Roussos Panos , Giakoumaki Stella , Burdick Katherine E. , Payton Antony , Ollier William , Horan Mike , Scult Matthew , Dickinson Dwight , Straub Richard E. , Donohoe Gary , Morris Derek , Corvin Aiden , Gill Michael , Hariri Ahmad , Weinberger Daniel R. , Pendleton Neil , Iwata Nakao , Darvasi Ariel , Bitsios Panos , Rujescu Dan , Lahti Jari , Le Hellard Stephanie , Keller Matthew C. , Andreassen Ole A. , Deary Ian J. , Glahn David C. , Malhotra Anil K.
Published: May 2015

Cognitive deficits and reduced educational achievement are common in psychiatric illness; understanding the genetic basis of cognitive and educational deficits may be informative about the etiology of psychiatric disorders. A recent, large genome‐wide association study (GWAS) reported a genome‐wide significant locus for years of education, which subsequently demonstrated association to general cognitive ability (“g”) in overlapping cohorts. The current study was designed to test whether GWAS hits for educational attainment are involved in general cognitive ability in an independent, large‐scale collection of cohorts. Using cohorts in the Cognitive Genomics Consortium (COGENT; up to 20,495 healthy individuals), we examined the relationship between g and variants associated with educational attainment. We next conducted meta‐analyses with 24,189 individuals with neurocognitive data from the educational attainment studies, and then with 53,188 largely independent individuals from a recent GWAS of cognition. A SNP (rs1906252) located at chromosome 6q16.1, previously associated with years of schooling, was significantly associated with g (P = 1.47 × 10−4) in COGENT. The first joint analysis of 43,381 non‐overlapping individuals for this a priori‐designated locus was strongly significant (P = 4.94 × 10−7), and the second joint analysis of 68,159 non‐overlapping individuals was even more robust (P = 1.65 × 10−9). These results provide independent replication, in a large‐scale dataset, of a genetic locus associated with cognitive function and education. As sample sizes grow, cognitive GWAS will identify increasing numbers of associated loci, as has been accomplished in other polygenic quantitative traits, which may be relevant to psychiatric illness. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Highly‐Ordered 3D Covalent Fullerene Framework
Authors: Minar Norma K. , Hou Kun , Westermeier Christian , Döblinger Markus , Schuster Jörg , Hanusch Fabian C. , Nickel Bert , Ozin Geoffrey A. , Bein Thomas
Published: May 2015

A highly‐ordered 3D covalent fullerene framework is presented with a structure based on octahedrally functionalized fullerene building blocks in which every fullerene is separated from the next by six functional groups and whose mesoporosity is controlled by cooperative self‐assembly with a liquid‐crystalline block copolymer. The new fullerene‐framework material was obtained in the form of supported films by spin coating the synthesis solution directly on glass or silicon substrates, followed by a heat treatment. The fullerene building blocks coassemble with a liquid‐crystalline block copolymer to produce a highly ordered covalent fullerene framework with orthorhombic Fmmm symmetry, accessible 7.5 nm pores, and high surface area, as revealed by gas adsorption, NMR spectroscopy, small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS), and TEM. We also note that the 3D covalent fullerene framework exhibits a dielectric constant significantly lower than that of the nonporous precursor material.
Alkane Activation Initiated by Hydride Transfer: Co‐conversion of Propane and Methanol over H‐ZSM‐5 Zeolite
Authors: Yu Si‐Min , Wu Jian‐Feng , Liu Chong , Liu Wei , Bai Shi , Huang Jun , Wang Wei
Published: May 2015

Co‐conversion of alkane with another reactant over zeolite catalysts has emerged as a new approach to the long‐standing challenge of alkane transformation. With the aid of solid‐state NMR spectroscopy and GC‐MS analysis, it was found that the co‐conversion of propane and methanol can be readily initiated by hydride transfer at temperatures of ≥449 K over the acidic zeolite H‐ZSM‐5. The formation of 13C‐labeled methane and singly 13C‐labeled n‐butanes in selective labeling experiments provided the first evidence for the initial hydride transfer from propane to surface methoxy intermediates. The results not only provide new insight into carbocation chemistry of solid acids, but also shed light on the low‐temperature transformation of alkanes for industrial applications.
Photoinduzierte Erzeugung von Ladungsträgern in epitaktischen MOF‐Dünnschichten: hohe Leistung aufgrund einer indirekten elektronischen Bandlücke?
Authors: Liu Jinxuan , Zhou Wencai , Liu Jianxi , Howard Ian , Kilibarda Goran , Schlabach Sabine , Coupry Damien , Addicoat Matthew , Yoneda Satoru , Tsutsui Yusuke , Sakurai Tsuneaki , Seki Shu , Wang Zhengbang , Lindemann Peter , Redel Engelbert , Heine Thomas , Wöll Christof
Published: May 2015

Bei anorganischen Halbleitern führt kristalline Ordnung zur Bildung einer elektronischen Bandstruktur, die deutliche Unterschiede zu ungeordnetem Material aufweist; z. B. können indirekte Bandlücken auftreten. Bei organischen Halbleitern werden solche Effekte üblicherweise nicht in Betracht gezogen, da die Bänder in der Regel flach sind und die Bandlücke daher direkt ist. Wir präsentieren hier genaue Berechnungen der elektronischen Struktur, die zeigen, dass geordnete Porphyrinstrukturen eine geringe Dispersion besetzter und nichtbesetzter Bänder aufweisen, was die Bildung einer kleinen indirekten Bandlücke zur Folge hat. Wir haben solche geordneten Strukturen experimentell mithilfe der Flüssigphasenepitaxie hergestellt und weisen nach, dass die entsprechenden kristallinen organischen Halbleiter über verbesserte photophysikalische Eigenschaften, z. B. eine hohe Ladungsträgermobilität und hohe Effizienz der Erzeugung von Ladungsträgern, verfügen. Das große Potenzial dieses neuartigen Materials demonstrieren wir anhand eines effizienten organischen Photovoltaiksystems.
A Molecular Tuning Fork in Single‐Molecule Mechanochemical Sensing
Authors: Mandal Shankar , Koirala Deepak , Selvam Sangeetha , Ghimire Chiran , Mao Hanbin
Published: May 2015

The separate arrangement of target recognition and signal transduction in conventional biosensors often compromises the real‐time response and can introduce additional noise. To address these issues, we combined analyte recognition and signal reporting by mechanochemical coupling in a single‐molecule DNA template. We incorporated a DNA hairpin as a mechanophore in the template, which, under a specific force, undergoes stochastic transitions between folded and unfolded hairpin structures (mechanoescence). Reminiscent of a tuning fork that vibrates at a fixed frequency, the device was classified as a molecular tuning fork (MTF). By monitoring the lifetime of the folded and unfolded hairpins with equal populations, we were able to differentiate between the mono‐ and bivalent binding modes during individual antibody‐antigen binding events. We anticipate these mechanospectroscopic concepts and methods will be instrumental for the development of novel bioanalyses.
Nonlinear pyrolysis layer model for thermal behavior of nonhomogeneous charring materials
Authors: Li Weijie , Huang Haiming , Xu Xiaoliang , Zhao Zhe
Published: May 2015

To improve the performance of charring materials as the thermal protection system in supersonic vehicles subjected to aerodynamic heating, we develop a nonlinear pyrolysis layer model of nonhomogeneous charring composites, propose a scheme of variable density in which the resin distribution of charring materials is taken as a piecewise linear function, and then simulate the thermal behavior of the design by means of the written calculation codes. This model reveals that the thermal behavior of charring materials depends not only upon several key parameters such as heat flux, moving interfaces, moving boundary and temperature‐dependent thermal properties, but also upon variable density. Further numerical investigations point out that the pyrolysis layer plays a very important role in the thermal protection performance. This study will be useful for the optimization of the thermal protection system in supersonic vehicles. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42331.
Synthesis of microsphere aluminum hypophosphite and its application in polyurethane elastomer
Authors: Xu Wen‐Zong , Wang Peng‐Cheng , Wang Shao‐Qing , Hu Yuan
Published: May 2015

Microsphere aluminum hypophosphite (AHP) is prepared via the hydrothermal method and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, X‐ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. Then the hydrothermal AHP and the precipitation AHP are added to the polyurethane elastomer (PUE). The flame retardant properties, thermal stability, and mechanical properties of the PUE with different kinds of AHP added are studied. The results show that the hydrothermal AHP is microsphere with a uniform particle size of around 5 µm. The limited oxygen index of the PUE with the addition of 5% hydrothermal AHP increases to 28.5 vol %. Compared with the PUE including different kinds of AHP, the peak heat release rate of added hydrothermal AHP decreases by about 6%. Hydrothermal AHP could improve the char yield which provides better flame retardancy for PUE. Meanwhile, the hydrothermal AHP‐added PUE has better mechanical properties than that with precipitation AHP added. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42370.
Characterization of a new sn‐1,3‐regioselective triacylglycerol lipase from Malbranchea cinnamomea
Authors: Tong Xiaoxue , Busk Peter Kamp , Lange Lene
Published: May 2015

The thermophilic ascomycetous fungus Malbranchea cinnamomea produces lipases (EC 3.1.1.3) that allow it to grow efficiently on medium containing triacylglycerol substrates such as plant oils or tributyrin as sole carbon source. In the transcriptome of M. cinnamomea grown on olive oil, we found one cDNA sequence encoding a putative extracellular lipase. This gene, termed as MclipA, was cloned and heterologously expressed in Pichia pastoris. The recombinant protein, rMclipA, catalyzed the hydrolysis of short‐chain fatty acid ester such as p‐nitrophenyl butyrate (C4) and long‐chain fatty acid ester such as p‐nitrophenyl myristate (C14). These results indicate that MclipA is a true triacylglycerol lipase. For rMclipA, the optimum lipase activity was obtained at 45 °C, and more than 93% of enzyme activity was retained after 24 H of incubation at temperatures up to 50 °C. rMclipA was active toward p‐nitrophenyl esters of various carbon chain lengths with peak activity on long‐chain fatty acid (C14). rMclipA displayed high sn‐1,3‐regioselectivity on hydrolyzing triolein. rMclipA can catalyze oleic acid methyl ester synthesis resulting in a 71% esterification degree after 24 H of reaction at 40 °C. These properties suggest that rMclipA has potential application in, for example, selective hydrolysis of oil, modification of triacylglycerol, and production of biodiesel.
Observational Effects on Preference Selection for Four Children on the Autism Spectrum: A Replication
Authors: Leaf Justin B. , Kassardjian Alyne , Oppenheim‐Leaf Misty L. , Tsuji Kathleen H. , Dale Stephanie , Alcalay Aditt , Leaf Jeremy A. , Ravid Daniel , Miline Christine , Leaf Ronald , Taubman Mitchell , McEachin John
Published: May 2015

Individuals with autism have been noted to have restricted interests and repetitive behavior such as nonfunctional manipulation of objects. In this study, we used an observational conditioning procedure to switch the preference of items for four individuals diagnosed with autism who are considered lower functioning. The procedure consisted of the participant observing an adult playing with toys that were initially non‐preferred by the participant in a functional and engaging manner. For two participants, results were similar to the findings by Leaf; one participant required additional conditioning procedures, and we were unable to switch the preference for the other participant. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dramaturgical and dissonance theories in explicit social context modeling for complex agents
Authors: Kochanowicz Jaroslaw , Tan Ah‐Hwee , Thalmann Daniel
Published: May 2015

Expanding the spectrum of agent social capabilities is an important challenge in agent‐based simulation and other domains. While human‐like emotionality has been vastly explored in the last 20years, little research addresses explicit, psychologically believable social situation modeling. Recently, some important elements have been underlined: hybrid connectionist models outside formal ontologies; complex subjective representations linking culture, personality and norms, and so on, but proposed solutions do not provide a formalized structure of a social experience, expressive and well‐grounded in psychology. In this paper, we develop a new approach to social situation modeling based on the dramaturgical and dissonance theories. A new component (Dramaturgical Module) is described with implementation used to generate example behavior depicting new social modeling capabilities and a believable representation of the relevant psychological theories. We present a case scenario with a dramaturgical interpretation of dynamic social situations and related cognitive dissonances resulting in a simple and flexible classification. Easily usable in reasoning, planning or affect generation, dramaturgical interpretation is additionally presented here as basis of social affect generation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hierarchical Ag/Ag2S/CuS Ternary Heterostructure Composite as an Efficient Visible‐Light Photocatalyst
Authors: Shi Yunhan , Chen Yajie , Tian Guohui , Wang Liyang , Xiao Yuting , Fu Honggang
Published: May 2015

A hierarchical Ag/Ag2S/CuS ternary heterostructure composite has been obtained through cation exchange between as‐prepared CuS nanoflowers and AgNO3 (synthesized under solvothermal conditions) and subsequent in situ UV‐light reduction. The prepared CuS nanoflowers not only provide reactive sites for in situ ion exchange with Ag+ but also perform as clapboards to prevent the excess aggregation of Ag2S nanoparticles. After exposure to UV light, a uniform Ag/Ag2S/CuS ternary heterostructure composite was obtained. In the composite, both Ag and Ag2S are grown on the surface of CuS nanoflowers. The prepared ternary heterostructure composite exhibited a significant ability for the elimination of some hazardous pollutants under visible‐light irradiation, which is much higher than that of either CuS or Ag2S/CuS. Moreover, the resultant ternary composite possesses excellent stability.