bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Clay‐Based Films
Authors: Ebina Takeo
Published: February 2018

Phyllosilicate (clay) is used as a filler to improve the thermal stability and gas barrier properties of plastic films. However, few film preparation trials used clays as the main component. Many researchers have studied clay‐based films (CBFs) that are heat‐resistant and have high gas barrier properties against various gases (such as oxygen, water vapor, and hydrogen) over a wide range of temperatures. An organic binder improves the film toughness, but increases gas permeation. CBFs are obtained by solution casting and show excellent incombustibility and electrical insulation. Moreover, transparent films, e. g. for optoelectronic applications, can be prepared using synthetic clay, which does not contain colored impurities. The water vapor barrier properties of CBFs were achieved using reduced‐charge smectite. Applications of CBF materials include food packaging, solar cell back sheets, hydrogen tanks, gaskets, water vapor barrier display films, substrates for printed electronics, thermal insulation, and electric insulation. Recent achievements in the field and future prospects are discussed.
Detection of spasticity angle of occurrence in upper limb using magnetic MoCap and construction of a severity evaluation method
Authors: Tan Tun Jie , Saito Masachika , Mitobe Kazutaka
Published: February 2018

Currently, in Japan, the number of patients with spasticity is increasing, along with the number of patients with injuries to the central nervous system due to an aging population. The modified Ashworth scale (MAS) is a representative method for the evaluation of spasticity in an upper limb. However, evaluation with MAS is subjective and is dependent on the experience of the attending physician. In addition, due to the low resolution of the evaluation scale used for MAS, a precise evaluation of the degree of recovery after rehabilitation for patients with spasticity and determining the effectiveness of the treatment is still a challenge. In this paper, we constructed an elbow joint angle measurement system using magnetic motion capture (MoCap) devices. We measured the flexion and extension movements of the upper limbs of patients with mild spasticity and constructed a method of detection for spasticity angle of occurrence and proposed a severity evaluation method. © 2018 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Broad spectrum insect resistance and metabolites in close relatives of the cultivated tomato
Authors: Vosman Ben , van’t Westende Wendy P. C. , Henken Betty , van Eekelen Henriëtte D. L. M. , de Vos Ric C. H. , Voorrips Roeland E.
Published: February 2018

Wild relatives of tomato possess effective means to deal with several pests, among which are a variety of insects. Here we studied the presence of resistance components againstTrialeurodes vaporariorum, Myzus persicae, Frankliniella occidentalis,andSpodoptera exiguain the Lycopersicon group ofSolanumsectionLycopersiconby means of bioassays and comprehensive metabolite profiling. Broad spectrum resistance was found inSolanum galapagenseand a few accessions ofS. pimpinellifolium. Resistance to the sap sucking insects may be based on the same mechanism, but different from the caterpillar resistance. Large and highly significant differences in the leaf metabolomes were found betweenS. galapagense,containing type IV trichomes, and its closest relativeS. cheesmaniae,which lacks type IV trichomes. The most evident differences were the relatively high levels of different methylated forms of the flavonoid myricetin and many acyl sucrose structures inS. galapagense. Possible candidate genes regulating the production of these compounds were identified in theWf-1QTL region ofS. galapagense, which was previously shown to confer resistance to the whiteflyB. tabaci.The broad spectrum insect resistance identified inS. galapagensewill be very useful to increase resistance in cultivated tomato.
Understanding and mitigating hydrogen embrittlement of steels: a review of experimental, modelling and design progress from atomistic to continuum
Authors: Barrera O. , Bombac D. , Chen Y. , Daff T. D. , Galindo-Nava E. , Gong P. , Haley D. , Horton R. , Katzarov I. , Kermode J. R. , Liverani C. , Stopher M. , Sweeney F.
Published: February 2018

Hydrogen embrittlement is a complex phenomenon, involving several length- and timescales, that affects a large class of metals. It can significantly reduce the ductility and load-bearing capacity and cause cracking and catastrophic brittle failures at stresses below the yield stress of susceptible materials. Despite a large research effort in attempting to understand the mechanisms of failure and in developing potential mitigating solutions, hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms are still not completely understood. There are controversial opinions in the literature regarding the underlying mechanisms and related experimental evidence supporting each of these theories. The aim of this paper is to provide a detailed review up to the current state of the art on the effect of hydrogen on the degradation of metals, with a particular focus on steels. Here, we describe the effect of hydrogen in steels from the atomistic to the continuum scale by reporting theoretical evidence supported by quantum calculation and modern experimental characterisation methods, macroscopic effects that influence the mechanical properties of steels and established damaging mechanisms for the embrittlement of steels. Furthermore, we give an insight into current approaches and new mitigation strategies used to design new steels resistant to hydrogen embrittlement.
A dynamically reconfigurable logic cell: from artificial neural networks to quantum-dot cellular automata
Authors: Naqvi Syed Rameez , Akram Tallha , Iqbal Saba , Haider Sajjad Ali , Kamran Muhammad , Muhammad Nazeer
Published: February 2018

Considering the lack of optimization support for Quantum-dot Cellular Automata, we propose a dynamically reconfigurable logic cell capable of implementing various logic operations by means of artificial neural networks. The cell can be reconfigured to any 2-input combinational logic gate by altering the strength of connections, called weights and biases. We demonstrate how these cells may appositely be organized to perform multi-bit arithmetic and logic operations. The proposed work is important in that it gives a standard implementation of an 8-bit arithmetic and logic unit for quantum-dot cellular automata with minimal area and latency overhead. We also compare the proposed design with a few existing arithmetic and logic units, and show that it is more area efficient than any equivalent available in literature. Furthermore, the design is adaptable to 16, 32, and 64 bit architectures.
Natural biological control ofChrysodeixis includens
Authors: Pereira R.R. , Neves D.V.C. , Campos J.N. , Santana Júnior P.A. , Hunt T.E. , Picanço M.C.
Published: February 2018

A wide variety of abiotic and biotic factors act on insect pests to regulate their populations. Knowledge of the time and magnitude of these factors is fundamental to understanding population dynamics and developing efficient pest management systems. We investigate the natural mortality factors, critical pest stages, and key mortality factors that regulateChrysodeixis includenspopulations via ecological life tables. The total mortality caused by natural factors was 99.99%. Natural enemies were the most important mortality factors in all pest stages. The critical stages ofC. includensmortality were second and fourth instars. The key mortality factors were predation by ants in the second instar and predation by Vespidae in the fourth instar. The elimination of these factors can cause an increase of 77.52 and 85.17% ofC. includenspopulation, respectively. This study elucidates the importance of natural enemies and other natural mortality factors inC. includenspopulation regulation. These factors should be considered in developing and implementingC. includensmanagement strategies and tactics in order to achieve effective and sustainable pest control.
Urbaser S.A. and Consorcio de Aguas Bilbao Bizkaia, Bilbao Biskaia Ur Partzuergoa v. The Argentine Republic
Authors: Livesey Alastair
Published: February 2018

On 8 December 2016, an International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) tribunal chaired by Professor Andreas Bucher, with co-arbitrators Professor Pedro J. Martinez-Fraga (Claimants' appointee) and Professor Campbell McLachlan QC (Respondent's appointee), issued its award in Urbaser and CAAB v. Argentina (Award). The dispute related to a Concession Contract granted to Aguas Del Gran Buenos Aires S.A. (AGBA), a company in which Claimants were shareholders, for the provision of water and sewerage services in the Province of Greater Buenos Aires (Province). Claimants alleged that they had faced numerous obstacles created by the Province's authorities, which precluded the efficient and profitable operation of their Concession. Respondent counterclaimed that Claimants had failed to make the necessary investment in the Concession, thereby violating their obligation under international law based on the human right to water.
Die Variabilität pflegerischer Kompetenzen – eine Übersicht
Authors: Gensheimer Karsten
Published: February 2018

Zusammenfassung. Fachkompetenz umfasst Wissen und Fertigkeiten. Sie wird als Fähigkeit angesehen, Aufgaben und Problemstellungen in eigenständiger Art und Weise und fachlich angemessener Form, methodengeleitet zu bearbeiten und das Ergebnis zu beurteilen. Dabei bezeichnet das Wissen die Gesamtheit der Fakten, Grundsätze und Theorien in einem Arbeitsbereich. Fertigkeiten bezeichnen die Fähigkeit, erworbenes Wissen anzuwenden, um Aufgaben ausführen und Probleme lösen zu können. Sie werden sowohl als kognitive (zum Beispiel logisches Denken), wie auch als praktische Fertigkeiten (Geschicklichkeit und Verwendung von Methoden) beschrieben (Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung, 2011).
Nominee for Key U.S. Environmental Agency Withdraws
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: February 2018

Democrats urge the Trump administration to nominate somebody who has respect for science and environmental laws to lead the White House Council on Environmental Quality.
Isolation and Expansion of Multipotent Progenitors from Human Trabecular Meshwork
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Cai Subo , Tseng Scheffer C. G. , Zhu Ying-Ting
Published: February 2018

To expand multi-potent progenitors from human trabecular meshwork (TM), we have created a new optimized method on two-dimensional (2D) followed by three–dimensional (3D) Matrigel in modified embryonic stem cell medium supplemented with 5% fetal bovine serum (MESCM + 5% FBS). The expanded TM cells were small cuboidal cells expressing TM markers such as AQP1, MGP, CHI3L1, and AnkG, embryonic stem cell (ESC) markers such as Oct4, Sox2, Nanog, and ABCG2, and neural crest (NC) markers such as p75NTR, FOXD3, Sox9, Sox10, and MSX1. Although expanded cells lost expression of these markers after passage, the cells regained the markers when Passage 2 cells were seeded on 3D Matrigel through activation of canonical BMP signaling. Such restored progenitors could differentiate into corneal endothelial cells, adipocytes, and chondrocytes but not keratocytes or osteocytes. Therefore, we have concluded that human TM harbors multipotent progenitors that can be effectively isolated and expanded using 2D Matrigel in MESCM + 5% FBS. This unique in vitro model system can be used to understand how TM is altered in glaucoma and whether such TM progenitor cells might one day be used for treating glaucoma or corneal endothelial dysfunction.
Circulating exosomal microRNAs reveal the mechanism of Fructus Meliae Toosendan-induced liver injury in mice
Authors: Zheng Jie , Yu Lingqi , Chen Wen , Lu Xiaoyan , Fan Xiaohui
Published: February 2018

The toxicological mechanisms of liver injury caused by most traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) remain largely unknown. Due to the unique features, exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) are currently attracting major interests to provide further insights into toxicological mechanisms. Thus, taking Fructus Meliae Toosendan as an example of hepatoxic TCM, this study aimed to elucidate its hepatotoxicity mechanisms through profiling miRNAs in circulating exosomes of Fructus Meliae Toosendan water extract (FMT)-exposed mice. Biological pathway analysis of the 64 differentially expressed exosomal miRNAs (DEMs) showed that hepatic dysfunction induced by FMT likely related to apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cell cycle dysregulation. Integrated analysis of serum exosomal DEMs and hepatic differentially expressed mRNAs further enriched oxidative stress and apoptosis related pathways. In vitro validation studies for omics results suggested that FMT-induced DNA damage was mediated by generating intracellular reactive oxygen species, leading to cell apoptosis through p53-dependent mitochondrial damage and S-phase arrest. Nrf2-mediated antioxidant response was activated to protect liver cells. Moreover, serum exosomal miR-370-3p, the most down-regulated miRNA involving in these pathways, might be the momentous event in aggravating cytotoxic effect of FMT by elevating p21 and Cyclin E. In conclusion, circulating exosomal miRNAs profiling could contribute to deepen the understanding of TCM-induced hepatotoxicity.
Host-guest complexes of imazalil with cucurbit[8]uril and β-cyclodextrin and their effect on plant pathogenic fungi
Authors: Al-Dubaili Naji , El-Tarabily Khaled , Saleh Na’il
Published: February 2018

We report the control of imazalil (IMZ) antifungal activity utilizing its non-covalent assembly with β-cyclodextrins (β-CD) and cucurbit[8]uril (CB8) macrocycles, as well as its stimuli-responsive disassembly with cadaverine. The NMR results are consistent with inclusion of a single IMZ molecule inside the cavities of either CB8 from its aromatic site or β-CD from its aliphatic end. Efficient complex formation with both host molecules and controlled released upon the addition of cadaverine is supported by NMR measurements. The stimuli-responsiveness of the same host-guest assemblies with cadaverine was validated against seven economically important plant pathogenic fungi which cause agriculturally important plant diseases across the globe. While loading the drug into macrocycles cavities suppressed its activity, subsequent adding of cadaverine efficiently restored it up. The results in the present paper enable researchers working in the area of mycology and plant pathology to inhibit or reduce the fungal growth on demand in order to control these economically important plant pathogenic fungi.
Streptomyces sp metabolite(s) promotes Bax mediated intrinsic apoptosis and autophagy involving inhibition of mTOR pathway in cervical cancer cell lines
Authors: Dan Vipin Mohan , Muralikrishnan Balaji , Sanawar Rahul , J. S. Vinodh , Burkul Bhushan Bapusaheb , Srinivas Kalanghad Puthankalam , Lekshmi Asha , Pradeep N. S. , Dastager Syed G. , Santhakumari B. , Santhoshkumar Thankayyan R. , Kumar R. Ajay , Pillai Madhavan Radhakrishna
Published: February 2018

In cervical cancer, the association between HPV infection and dysregulation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway (PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway) places mTOR as an attractive therapeutic target. The failure of current treatment modalities in advanced stages of this cancer and drawbacks of already available mTOR inhibitors demand for novel drug candidates. In the present study we identified the presence of a mTOR inhibitor in an active fraction of the ethyl acetate extract of Streptomyces sp OA293. The metabolites(s) in the active fraction completely inhibited mTORC1 and thereby suppressed activation of both of its downstream targets, 4E-BP1 and P70S6k, in cervical cancer cells. In addition, it also stalled Akt activation via inhibition of mTORC2. The mechanism of mTOR inhibition detailed in our study overcomes significant drawbacks of well known mTOR inhibitors such as rapamycin and rapalogs. The active fraction induced autophagy and Bax mediated apoptosis suggesting that mTOR inhibition resulted in programmed cell death of cancer cells. The molecular weight determination of the components in active fraction confirmed the absence of any previously known natural mTOR inhibitor. This is the first report of complete mTOR complex inhibition by a product derived from microbial source.
Characterization of Retinal Ganglion Cell and Optic Nerve Phenotypes Caused by Sustained Intracranial Pressure Elevation in Mice
Authors: Shen Guofu , Link Schuyler , Kumar Sandeep , Nusbaum Derek M. , Tse Dennis Y. , Fu Yingbin , Wu Samuel M. , Frankfort Benjamin J.
Published: February 2018

Elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) can result in multiple neurologic sequelae including vision loss. Inducible models of ICP elevation are lacking in model organisms, which limits our understanding of the mechanism by which increased ICP impacts the visual system. We adapted a mouse model for the sustained elevation of ICP and tested the hypothesis that elevated ICP impacts the optic nerve and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). ICP was elevated and maintained for 2 weeks, and resulted in multiple anatomic changes that are consistent with human disease including papilledema, loss of physiologic cupping, and engorgement of the optic nerve head. Elevated ICP caused a loss of RGC somas in the retina and RGC axons within the optic nerve, as well as a reduction in both RGC electrical function and contrast sensitivity. Elevated ICP also caused increased hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1 alpha expression in the ganglion cell layer. These experiments confirm that sustained ICP elevation can be achieved in mice and causes phenotypes that preferentially impact RGCs and are similar to those seen in human disease. With this model, it is possible to model human diseases of elevated ICP such as Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension and Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome.
Genome-wide investigation of pentatricopeptide repeat gene family in poplar and their expression analysis in response to biotic and abiotic stresses
Authors: Xing Haitao , Fu Xiaokang , Yang Chen , Tang Xiaofeng , Guo Li , Li Chaofeng , Xu Changzheng , Luo Keming
Published: February 2018

Pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins, which are characterized by tandem 30–40 amino acid sequence motifs, constitute of a large gene family in plants. Some PPR proteins have been identified to play important roles in organellar RNA metabolism and organ development in Arabidopsis and rice. However, functions of PPR genes in woody species remain largely unknown. Here, we identified and characterized a total of 626 PPR genes containing PPR motifs in the Populus trichocarpa genome. A comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the poplar PPR gene family was performed, including chromosomal location, phylogenetic relationships and gene duplication. Genome-wide transcriptomic analysis showed that 154 of the PtrPPR genes were induced by biotic and abiotic treatments, including Marssonina brunnea, salicylic acid (SA), methyl jasmonate (MeJA), mechanical wounding, cold and salinity stress. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis further investigated the expression profiles of 11 PtrPPR genes under different stresses. Our results contribute to a comprehensive understanding the roles of PPR proteins and provided an insight for improving the stress tolerance in poplar.
Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor-associated Protein Inhibits Angiotensin II-induced Insulin Resistance with Suppression of Oxidative Stress in Skeletal Muscle Tissue
Authors: Ohki Kohji , Wakui Hiromichi , Kishio Nozomu , Azushima Kengo , Uneda Kazushi , Haku Sona , Kobayashi Ryu , Haruhara Kotaro , Kinguchi Sho , Yamaji Takahiro , Yamada Takayuki , Minegishi Shintaro , Ishigami Tomoaki , Toya Yoshiyuki , Yamashita Akio , Imajo Kento , Nakajima Atsushi , Kato Ikuma , Ohashi Kenichi , Tamura Kouichi
Published: February 2018

Enhancement of AT1 receptor-associated protein (ATRAP) in adipose tissue improves high fat diet (HFD)-induced visceral obesity and insulin resistance, and suppresses adipose oxidative stress. However, HFD loading is not a direct stimulatory factor for AT1 receptor. In the present study, we investigated the effect of chronic, low-dose angiotensin II (Ang II) stimulation on glucose and lipid metabolism in mice and functional role of ATRAP. ATRAP expression was higher in adipose tissue (5–10-fold) and skeletal muscle tissue (approximately 1.6-fold) in ATRAP transgenic (TG) mice compared with wild-type (WT) mice. After Ang II infusion, insulin sensitivity was impaired in WT mice, but this response was suppressed in TG mice. Unexpectedly, Ang II infusion did not affect the adipose tissue profile in WT or TG mice. However, in skeletal muscle tissue, Ang II stimulus caused an increase in oxidative stress and activation of p38 MAPK, resulting in a decrease in glucose transporter type 4 expression in WT mice. These responses were suppressed in TG mice. Our study suggests that Ang II-induced insulin resistance is suppressed by increased ATRAP expression in skeletal muscle tissue. Hyperactivity of AT1 receptor could be related to formation of insulin resistance related to metabolic syndrome.
Adaptable surfactant-mediated method for the preparation of anisotropic metal chalcogenide nanomaterials
Authors: McCarthy S. A. , Ratkic R. , Purcell-Milton F. , Perova T. S. , Gun’ko Y. K.
Published: February 2018

The hot injection synthesis of nanomaterials is a highly diverse and fundamental field of chemical research, which has shown much success in the bottom up approach to nanomaterial design. Here we report a synthetic strategy for the production of anisotropic metal chalcogenide nanomaterials of different compositions and shapes, using an optimised hot injection approach. Its unique advantage compared to other hot injection routes is that it employs one chemical to act as many agents: high boiling point, viscous solvent, reducing agent, and surface coordinating ligand. It has been employed to produce a range of nanomaterials, such as CuS, Bi2S3, Cu2-xSe, FeSe2, and Bi4Se3, among others, with various structures including nanoplates and nanosheets. Overall, this article will highlight the excellent versatility of the method, which can be tuned to produce many different materials and shapes. In addition, due to the nature of the synthesis, 2D nanomaterial products are produced as monolayers without the need for exfoliation; a significant achievement towards future development of these materials.
A dinitro-functionalized metal–organic framework featuring visual and fluorogenic sensing of H2S in living cells, human blood plasma and environmental samples
Authors: Nandi Soutick , Banesh Sooram , Trivedi Vishal , Biswas Shyam
Published: February 2018

UiO-66-(NO2)2 MOF has been employed for colorimetric and fluorimetric detection of H2S in living cells, blood plasma and environmental samples.
Recent progress in the development of near-infrared organic photothermal and photodynamic nanotherapeutics
Authors: Zhu Houjuan , Cheng Penghui , Chen Peng , Pu Kanyi
Published: February 2018

Phototherapies including photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) have gained considerable attention due to their high tumor ablation efficiency, excellent spatial resolution and minimal side effects on normal tissue.
Enhancing the thermoelectric performance of gamma-graphyne nanoribbons by introducing edge disorder
Authors: Cui Xiao , Ouyang Tao , Li Jin , He Chaoyu , Tang Chao , Zhong Jianxin
Published: February 2018

Edge disorder could dramatically improve the thermoelectric performance of gamma-graphyne nanoribbons.
Associative behaviour and effect of functional groups on the fluorescence of graphene oxide
Authors: Ozcan Sefika , Vempati Sesha , Çırpan Ali , Uyar Tamer
Published: February 2018

We juxtaposed structural, vibrational and emission properties of graphene oxide with and without a model dispersant. This unveiled a strong associative behavior between graphene oxide sheets and the effect of H-bonds on the photophysical properties.
Near-infrared-driven Cr(vi) reduction in aqueous solution based on a MoS2/Sb2S3 photocatalyst
Authors: Yuan Xingzhong , Wang Hui , Wang Junjie , Zeng Guangming , Chen Xiaohong , Wu Zhibin , Jiang Longbo , Xiong Ting , Zhang Jin , Wang Hou
Published: February 2018

A novel MoS2/Sb2S3 composite with enhanced near-infrared photocatalytic efficiency was fabricated.
Carbon nitride creates thioamides in high yields by the photocatalytic Kindler reaction
Authors: Kurpil B. , Kumru B. , Heil T. , Antonietti M. , Savateev A.
Published: February 2018

Potassium poly(heptazine imide), a carbon nitride based photocatalyst, effectively promotes the Kindler reaction of thioamide bond formation using amines and elemental sulfur as building blocks under visible light irradiation.
Complex formation of nickel(ii) and zinc(ii) ions with peptide fragments of rat amylin
Authors: Dávid Ágnes , Hartman Éva Tünde , Lihi Norbert , Sóvágó Imre , Várnagy Katalin
Published: February 2018

For nickel(ii)-SSNX-NH2 an equilibrium between the common (NH2,3N−(peptide)) and (NH2,2N−(peptide),N−(asparagine)) coordination modes was observed in a basic solution resulting in an increased stability of the complexes.
Photofunctional hybrids of TiO2 and titanium metal–organic frameworks for dye degradation and lanthanide ion-tuned multi-color luminescence
Authors: Zhu Shu-Yin , Yan Bing
Published: February 2018

A hybrid, MIL-125(Ti)@TiO2, is synthesized to test its Rh B degradation performance, and it shows a better elimination ratio as compared to pure TiO2. The white light integration is further discussed after lanthanide ions (Sm3+, Eu3+, Tb3+) are doped into the hybrid.
Hydrothermal alkaline sulfite pretreatment in the delivery of fermentable sugars from sugarcane bagasse
Authors: Tavares João , Łukasik Rafał M. , de Paiva Teresa , da Silva Flávio
Published: February 2018

Integration of hydrothermal and alkaline processing in the formation of upgradable sugars for advanced processing of sugarcane bagasse residues.
A novel fluorescent functional monomer as the recognition element in core–shell imprinted sensors responding to concentration of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol
Authors: Ren Baixiang , Qi Huan , Li Xiuying , Liu Lihui , Gao Lin , Che Guangbo , Hu Bo , Wang Liang , Lin Xue
Published: February 2018

We have demonstrated a molecularly imprinted sensor with a fluorescent functional monomer instead of the traditional functional monomers to detect 2,4,6-TCP.
Screening of peptide probe binding to particulate matter with a high metal content
Authors: Tanaka Masayoshi , Alvin Aw Wei Liang , Okochi Mina
Published: February 2018

Using peptide array, peptides binding to particulate matter with high metal content were screened and characterized by focusing on the different spot colors (yellow, mixed and gray).
Photocatalytic selectivity switch to C–C scission: α-methyl ejection oftert-butanol on TiO2(110)
Authors: Walenta Constantin A. , Kollmannsberger Sebastian L. , Courtois Carla , Tschurl Martin , Heiz Ueli
Published: February 2018

The thermal and photochemical mechanistic pathways for tertiary alcohols on the rutile TiO2(110)-surface are studied with the example oftert-butanol.
An improved extraction chromatographic purification of tungsten from a silicate matrix for high precision isotopic measurements using MC-ICPMS
Authors: Mei Qing-Feng , Yang Jin-Hui , Yang Yue-Heng
Published: February 2018

An improved chemical method is developed to accurately measure the W isotopic compositions of silicate samples with a precision of better than ±0.05ε on ε182W.
Tailoring the structural and morphological properties of hydroxyapatite materials to enhance the capture efficiency towards copper(ii) and lead(ii) ions
Authors: Campisi Sebastiano , Castellano Carlo , Gervasini Antonella
Published: February 2018

This study deals with the use of calcium hydroxyapatite (HAP) materials as adsorbents for removing heavy metal ions from polluted waters.
Frequency tuning hysteresis of a dual‐resonance divide‐by‐three cross‐coupled injection‐locked frequency divider
Authors: Jang Sheng‐Lyang , Jian Shih‐Jie , Hsue Ching‐Wen
Published: February 2018

This paper studies the frequency tuning effect on the locking range property of a dual‐resonance 3:1 injection‐locked frequency divider (ILFD) fabricated in a foundry 0.18 μm BiCMOS process. The ILFD architecture is based on a capacitive cross‐coupled oscillator in conjunction with a resistor‐degraded dual‐resonance resonator for the locking range improvement. At a power consumption of 5.26 mW and at injection power of Pinj = 0 dBm the locking range from the measurement is from 6.2 to 12.6 GHz (68.09%). The frequency tuning range of the free‐running ILFD shows a frequency tuning hysteresis effect; at low input power level the locking range shows bipolar locking ranges and at high injection power the locking range is independent of the measured voltage tuning direction.
Superconducting spiral bandpass filter designed by a pseudo‐Fourier technique
Authors: Huang Frederick , Bolli Pietro , Cresci Luca , Mariotti Sergio , Panella Dario , Lopez‐Perez Jose A. , Garcia Pablo
Published: February 2018

An iterative technique to adjust ripple in a bandpass filter has been developed by curve‐fitting numerical data. It gives an approximate relation of ripple against filter coupling coefficients and resonator resonant frequencies instead of finding a Jacobian matrix for each individual filter, in exchange for making more iterations. Numerical examples show reasonable convergence for Chebyshev filters up to the 16th‐order, coupled quadruplets, coupled triplets and folded cross‐coupled filters. A bandpass filter for a radio telescope in Yebes, Spain is designed and measured, a tenth‐order superconducting spiral filter with 7% bandwidth, 2295 MHz centre frequency, <0.1 dB ripple and overall substrate size 30 mm × 8 mm. The 11 iterative simulations totalled 8.5 h of computer processing time.
Analysis of the coupling effects on main feeder in more electrical aircraft
Authors: Lu Zhang
Published: February 2018

Isolation distance is an important consideration in aircraft wiring for coupling effect. according to electrical wiring interconnect system (EWIS) isolation requirements specified in SAE 50881D and airworthiness regulations CCAR 25.1707, explicit isolation distances are not specified. Aircraft wiring is complex or diverse. In order to evaluate coupling effects between the main feeder and signal wire, the three‐phase‐seven‐wire main feeder with 230 VAC, 250 kVA was chosen as the simulation object. The impedance model of three‐phase feeder is given with which the coupling effects can be analysed in theory at first. The coupling voltage amplitude is the main evaluation index. In the simulation process, the following cases are chosen: different distances between signal wire and main feeder; signal wire lies in the different phase of the main feeder; isolation distance analysis with types of loads; there exits arc faults on main feeder. Based on the analysis of the simulation results, proposed methods to reduce the coupling effects between wires are given. Through the work in this study, it has some guiding significance for wire or cable laying.
Effect of varying Indium concentration of InGaAs channel on device and circuit performance of nanoscale double gate heterostructure MOSFET
Authors: Biswas Kalyan , Sarkar Angsuman , Sarkar Chandan Kumar
Published: February 2018

The detailed numerical analysis is performed to study and evaluate the impact of Indium (In) concentrations of the Indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) channel on different device performances of InGaAs/In phosphide double gate metal–oxide–semiconductor field‐effect transistor using TCAD software. The RF/analogue figures of merits under investigation are transconductance (gm), transconductance‐to‐current ratio (gm/Id), cut‐off frequency (fT), maximum frequency of oscillations (fmax) etc. A cascode amplifier is then designed using the device under study and its voltage transfer characteristics and differential gain are plotted to estimate the device performance in circuits. It is seen that with higher Indium content, the analogue/RF performance of the device significantly improves.
Hydrodynamics with gas–grain chemistry and radiative transfer: comparing dynamical and static models
Authors: Sipilä O. , Caselli P.
Published: February 2018

Context. We study the evolution of chemical-abundance gradients using dynamical and static models of starless cores.

Aims. We aim to quantify if the chemical abundance gradients given by a dynamical model of core collapse, which includes time-dependent changes in density and temperature, differ greatly from abundances derived from static models where the density and temperature structures of the core are kept fixed as the chemistry evolves.

Methods. We developed a new one-dimensional spherically symmetric hydrodynamics code that couples the hydrodynamics equations with a comprehensive time-dependent gas–grain chemical model, including deuterium and spin-state chemistry, and radiative transfer calculations to derive self-consistent time-dependent chemical-abundance gradients. We apply the code to model the collapse of a starless core up to the point when the infall flow becomes supersonic.

Results. The abundances predicted by the dynamical and static models are almost identical at early times during the quiescent phase of core evolution. After the onset of core collapse, the results from the two models begin to diverge: at late times the static model generally underestimates abundances in the high-density regions near the core center, and overestimates them in the outer parts of the core. Deuterated species are clearly overproduced by the static model near the center of the model core. On the other hand, simulated lines of NH3 and N2H+ are brighter in the dynamical model because they originate in the central part of the core where the dynamical model predicts higher abundances than the static model. The reason for these differences is that the static model ignores the history of the density and temperature profiles which has a large impact on the abundances, and therefore on the molecular lines. Our results also indicate that the use of a very limited chemical network in hydrodynamical simulations may lead to an overestimate of the collapse timescale, and in some cases may prevent the collapse altogether. Limiting the set of molecular coolants has a similar effect. In our model, most of the line cooling near the center of the core is due to HCN, CO, and NO.

Conclusions. Our results show that the use of a static physical model is not a reliable method of simulating chemical abundances in starless cores after the onset of gravitational collapse. The abundance differences between the dynamical and static models translate to large differences in line emission profiles, showing that the difference between the models is at the observable level. The adoption of complex chemistry and a comprehensive set of cooling molecules is necessary to model the collapse adequately.
Application of Information Technology Solution for Early Warning Systems at Water Utilities
Authors: Bałut Alicja
Published: February 2018

Deployment of IT solutions in water utilities in Poland concerns nowadays lots beyond GIS implementation projects [1]. The scope of modern IT platforms is truly advanced software for complete management of water treatment processes and involved objects, including ranges of various types of equipment. There are multiply factors that disrupt required volumes of supplied water. They are normally classified as natural, accidental and intentional. This paper addresses potential residing in already deployed IT solutions of water utilities in and also in new ones being now developed. Primarily- from the perspective of intentional, terrorist threats. This document depicts operating procedures that are called in case of spotted contamination in a water supply (damage of key elements of the network infrastructure) or in case of an introduction factors. This paper also discusses relevant IT tools with access provided to network operators or water plant owners that are extremely useful in accurate pinpointing the treat and in following relevant operating procedures and related actions.
Drinking Water Supply without Use of a Disinfectant
Authors: Rajnochova Marketa , Tuhovcak Ladislav , Rucka Jan
Published: February 2018

The paper focuses on the issue of drinking water supply without use of any disinfectants. Before the public water supply network operator begins to consider switching to operation without use of chemical disinfection, initial assessment should be made, whether or not the water supply system in question is suitable for this type of operation. The assessment is performed by applying the decision algorithm. The initial assessment is followed by another decision algorithm which serves for managing and controlling the process of switching to drinking water supply without use of a disinfectant. The paper also summarizes previous experience and knowledge of this way operated public water supply systems in the Czech Republic.
Sewage Management Changes in the North-eastern Poland After Accession to the European Union
Authors: Skarżyński Szymon , Bartkowska Izabela
Published: February 2018

Poland's accession to the European Union contributed to the infrastructure development of the whole country. One of the elements of the modernized infrastructure is the sewage network and facilities on this network, as well as facilities for waste water treatment and disposal of sludge. A wide stream of funds flowing to the country, and consequently also to the north-eastern polish voivodeships (Podlaskie, Warmian-Masurian, Lublin), allowed modernization, organize, and sometimes to build a new sewage management of this part of the country. The main factors and parameters that allow us to evaluate the development of the sewage management in north-eastern Poland are included: percentage of population using sewage treatment plants, number of municipal sewage plants with the division of their type, number of industrial plants, number of septic tanks, amount of sewage purified in a year, amount of sludge produced in the year, design capacity of sewage treatment plant, size of plant in population equivalent (PE). From a number of investments in the field of wastewater management carried out in the discussed area in the period after Poland's accession to the European Union, 9 investments were considered the most important, 3 from each of the voivodeships.
Synthesis of epi-Chloranthalactones A, B, D and E
Authors: Lee Victor , Fenlon Thomas , Jones Michael , Adlington Robert
Published: February 2018

The synthesis of various epimers of the lindenane class of sesquiterpenes from epi-lindenene, based on a possible biosynthetic ­hypothesis, is described.
Tatort Krankenhaus
Authors: Friesacher Heiner
Published: February 2018

Dieses Buch schockiert und irritiert, macht wütend und ratlos zugleich, lässt bangen und hoffen – und ist ein wichtiges und mutiges Buch!
Hauptstadtkongress 2018: Deutscher Pflegekongress
Authors: Hillebrand Ralf-Thomas
Published: February 2018

Ganz gleich, wer die künftige Bundesregierung stellt: Die Pflege wird ein zentrales Thema bleiben! Der neue Bundestag hat bereits über Personalausstattung und Bezahlung in der Pflege debattiert und dringenden Handlungsbedarf konstatiert.
Manager des Jahres 2016: Ansgar Jonietz: „Das ist erst der Anfang!“
Authors: Brülke Beatrice
Published: February 2018

Ansgar Jonietz wurde 2016 zum „Manager des Jahres“ gewählt. Die Auszeichnung erhielt der Geschäftsführer der „Was hab‘ ich?“ gGmbH für seinen Einsatz zur Verbesserung der Arzt-Patienten-Kommunikation. Seitdem hat das Unternehmen große Schritte gemacht.
Extensor Mechanism Injury in the Pediatric Population—A Clinical Review
Authors: Sessions William , Herring Matthew , Truong Walter
Published: February 2018

The extensor mechanism of the knee—consisting of the four muscles of the quadriceps, the quadriceps tendon, the patella, and the patellar ligament—is essential for lower extremity function during both standing and ambulation. The presence of articular cartilage and growing physes in the pediatric knee, coupled with the generation of significant tensile force, creates an opportunity for pathology unique to the pediatric population.

Tibial tubercle fractures and patella injuries are quite rare, and even pediatric-trained orthopaedic surgeons may not be exposed to these injuries on a regular basis. It is the intent of this article to discuss the current literature regarding the mechanism of injury, diagnostic workup, classification, indications for surgical versus non-surgical management, and techniques for operative management for both tibial tubercle and patella (transverse and sleeve) fractures.
Update Ventrikuläre Tachykardien
Authors: Fürnkranz Alexander , Makimoto Hisaki
Published: February 2018

Was ist neu?

Idiopathische ventrikuläre Tachykardien Die Inzidenz dieser Rhythmusstörungen nimmt zu. 5 % der Patienten mit idiopathischen ventrikulären Tachykardien (IVT) sind von einer assoziierten Kardiomyopathie betroffen. Gemäß der aktuellen ESC-Leitlinien ist bei symptomatischen Patienten die Katheterablation bei den häufigsten Formen Therapie der 1. Wahl.

Ventrikuläre Tachykardien bei struktureller Herzerkrankung Subkutan implantierbare Cardioverter-Defibrillatoren erweitern insbesondere bei jungen Patienten oder erhöhter sondenassoziierter Infektionsgefahr die therapeutischen Möglichkeiten, das Risiko des plötzlichen Herztodes zu senken. Aktuelle Metaanalysen zur Behandlung rezidivierender ICD-Schockabgaben zeigen eine signifikante Reduktion durch die Katheterablation, pharmakologisch ist nur für Amiodaron ein signifikanter Effekt nachweisbar. In dieser Indikation besteht gemäß aktueller ESC-Leitlinie für beide Therapiealternativen eine Klasse-I-Indikation, eine Klasse-IIa-Indikation nach einmaligem Auftreten einer anhaltenden VT bei Patienten mit ICD.
High n-type Sb dopant activation in Ge-rich poly-Ge1−xSnx layers on SiO2 using pulsed laser annealing in flowing water
Authors: Takahashi Kouta , Kurosawa Masashi , Ikenoue Hiroshi , Sakashita Mitsuo , Nakatsuka Osamu , Zaima Shigeaki
Published: February 2018

Heavy n-type doping in polycrystalline Ge (poly-Ge) is still under development owing to the low solid solubility and the low activation ratio of group-V dopants in Ge. To solve this problem, we have investigated ultra-short (55 ns) laser pulse annealing in flowing water for Sb-doped amorphous Ge1−xSnx layers (x ≈ 0.02) on SiO2. It is found that fully melting a Ge1−xSnx layer down to the Ge1−xSnx/SiO2 interface leads to a large grained (∼0.8 μmϕ) growth, resulting in not only a high electrical activation ratio (∼60%) of Sb atoms in the polycrystals but also a high electron density around 1020 cm−3. As a result, the electron mobility in the Ge-rich poly-Ge1−xSnx layers exceeds that in single-crystalline Si even in the region of a high electron density around 1020 cm−3. The low thermal budget process opens up the possibility for developing Ge1−xSnx based devices fabricated on 3D integrated circuits as well as flexible substrates.
Monolithic integration of InGaAs/InP multiple quantum wells on SOI substrates for photonic devices
Authors: Li Zhibo , Wang Mengqi , Fang Xin , Li Yajie , Zhou Xuliang , Yu Hongyan , Wang Pengfei , Wang Wei , Pan Jiaoqing
Published: February 2018

A direct epitaxy of III-V nanowires with InGaAs/InP multiple quantum wells on v-shaped trenches patterned silicon on insulator (SOI) substrates was realized by combining the standard semiconductor fabrication process with the aspect ratio trapping growth technique. Silicon thickness as well as the width and gap of each nanowire were carefully designed to accommodate essential optical properties and appropriate growth conditions. The III-V element ingredient, crystalline quality, and surface topography of the grown nanowires were characterized by X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, photoluminescence, and scanning electron microscope. Geometrical details and chemical information of multiple quantum wells were revealed by transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Numerical simulations confirmed that the optical guided mode supported by one single nanowire was able to propagate 50 μm with ∼30% optical loss. This proposed integration scheme opens up an alternative pathway for future photonic integrations of III-V devices on the SOI platform at nanoscale.
Synthesis of molybdenum carbide superconducting compounds by microwave-plasma chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Zhao Hongyang , Cai Kang , Ma Zhibin , Cheng Zhenxiang , Jia Tingting , Kimura Hideo , Fu Qiuming , Tao Hong , Xiong Liwei
Published: February 2018

A method to synthesize molybdenum carbides has been developed based on microwave plasma treatment with methane and hydrogen mixed gases, using a microwave-plasma chemical vapor deposition device. The device framework and its mechanism are described in detail. Two-dimensional α-Mo2C has been directly synthesized by a plate-to-plate substrate holder structure with a microwave power of 920 W and a partial pressure of 20 kPa. In-situ optical emission spectroscopy was used to measure the radical types in the plasma ball during glow discharge. The as-grown α-Mo2C samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy to determine their phases, purity and chemical groups. The superconducting transition temperature was measured, and the transition temperatures of the relevant phases are discussed in detail. The results confirmed that this method is an efficient way to obtain molybdenum carbides and inspire new research interest in transition metal carbides, which have many intrinsic local properties and applications.
A two-phase model for aluminized explosives on the ballistic and brisance performance
Authors: Kim Wuhyun , Gwak Min-cheol , Lee Young-hun , Yoh Jack J.
Published: February 2018

The performance of aluminized high explosives is considered by varying the aluminum (Al) mass fraction in a heterogeneous mixture model. Since the time scales of the characteristic induction and combustion of high explosives and Al particles differ, the process of energy release behind the leading detonation wave front occurs over an extended period of time. For simulating the performance of aluminized explosives with varying Al mass fraction, HMX (1,3,5,7-tetrahexmine-1,3,5,7-tetrazocane) is considered as a base explosive when formulating the multiphase conservation laws of mass, momentum, and energy exchanges between the HMX product gases and Al particles. In the current study, a two-phase model is utilized in order to determine the effects of the Al mass fraction in a condensed phase explosive. First, two types of confined rate stick tests are considered to investigate the detonation velocity and the acceleration ability, which refers to the radial expansion velocity of the confinement shell. The simulation results of the confined rate stick test are compared with the experimental data for the Al mass fraction range of 0%–25%, and the optimal Al mass fraction is provided, which is consistent with the experimental observations. Additionally, a series of plate dent test simulations are conducted, the results of which show the same tendency as those of the experimental tests with varying Al mass fractions.
High-power Yb-fiber comb based on pre-chirped-management self-similar amplification
Authors: Luo Daping , Liu Yang , Gu Chenglin , Wang Chao , Zhu Zhiwei , Zhang Wenchao , Deng Zejiang , Zhou Lian , Li Wenxue , Zeng Heping
Published: February 2018

We report a fiber self-similar-amplification (SSA) comb system that delivers a 250-MHz, 109-W, 42-fs pulse train with a 10-dB spectral width of 85 nm at 1056 nm. A pair of grisms is employed to compensate the group velocity dispersion and third-order dispersion of pre-amplified pulses for facilitating a self-similar evolution and a self-phase modulation (SPM). Moreover, we analyze the stabilities and noise characteristics of both the locked carrier envelope phase and the repetition rate, verifying the stability of the generated high-power comb. The demonstration of the SSA comb at such high power proves the feasibility of the SPM-based low-noise ultrashort comb.