bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancement of Ionic Conductivity in La2Mo2O9-Based Nanocrystalline Films Synthesized by a PVP Assisted Sol-Gel Method
Authors: Zhuang Zhong , Zhang De Ming , Wang Xian Ping , Fang Qian Feng
Published: November 2010

High-quality 5% W- and Gd-doped La2Mo2O9 nanocrystalline films were successfully synthesized on poly-alumina substrates via a PVP-assisted sol-gel method with inorganic salts as precursors, combined with the rapid thermal annealing and novel three stages annealing procedures. Dense and uniform La2Mo2O9-based films with 90 nm in grain size and 1 μm in thickness were obtained by only twice spin coatings and sintering at 600 oC. The electrical conductivity of the films at 600 oC reaches 0.028 and 0.025 S/cm for W- and Gd-doped samples, respectively.
Preparation and Characterization of CdTe/Porous Silicon System
Authors: Lv Xiao Yi , Chen Wen Jie , Hou Jun Wei , Jia Zhen Hong , Zhong Fu Ru , Jiang Tao
Published: November 2010

We report the structural and photoluminescence properties of CdTe/Porous silicon (PS) composite system prepared by chemical vapor deposition. The XRD pattern accord with the standard pattern of cadmium telluride of the samples was evaluated and the morphology of CdTe particles was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The composite sample gives a strong luminescence and the mechanism of photoluminescence with CdTe/PS has also been discussed.
Ionic Conductivity Measurements of LaF3 Polycrystalline Powders
Authors: Zhou Ming , Tian Yan Wen
Published: November 2010

With the help of impedance spectroscopy, the complex impedances of three kinds of ultrafine LaF3 polycrystalline powders (industrial grade LaF3 polycrystalline powder, ultrafine LaF3 polycrystalline powder prepared with sol-gel technique, and ultrafine LaF3 polycrystalline powder prepared with microwave method) were measured, and their ionic conductivities were derived. It is found that the ionic conductivities of the industrial grade LaF3 polycrystalline powder and the ultrafine LaF3 polycrystalline powder prepared with microwave method are higher than that of the ultrafine LaF3 polycrystalline powder prepared with sol-gel technique.
Effects of Dopant 5-Sulfosalicylic Acid on Conductivity of Ferric Chloride Oxidized Polypyrrole
Authors: Huang Yuan Ming , Zhou Fu Fang , Ma Qing Lan , Meng Ming , Pan Chun Xu
Published: November 2010

The effects of dopant 5-sulfosalicylic acid on the conductivity of polypyrrole were investigated. Under the condition of fixed molar ratio of oxidant-to-monomer (0.75: 1.00), a dozen of polypyrrole samples were made from chemical polymerizing the monomer pyrrole in aqueous medium by varying the dopant-to-monomer molar ratio. It was found that the dopant affected the conductivity and particle size of the synthesized polypyrrole. A maximum value for electrical conductivity of 5575 S/m was achieved when the molar ratio of dopant: oxidant: monomer is 2.25:0.75:1.00.
Smart Windows with Different Thicknesses of V2O5 as Ion Storage Layers
Authors: Alamri Saleh N. , Joraid Ahamed A.
Published: November 2010

Smart windows were fabricated with different thicknesses of amorphous V2O5, which acts as an ion storage layer. In these devices, V2O5 was deposited by thermal evaporation at a substrate temperature of 200 oC, and an electrochromic layer (WO3) was deposited by electron beam evaporation at a substrate temperature of 250 oC. Both layers were amorphous. V2O5 was found to exhibit direct-forbidden electron transitions, whereas the WO3 layer exhibited indirect-allowed electron transitions. An increase in the thickness of V2O5 from 78 nm to 313 nm reduced the colouration efficiency from 64 to 48 cm2/C, and the time of the transmission variation curve from the coloured state to the bleached state was increased from 82.41 s to 558 s.
The Anti-Glare Detector Based on Liquid Crystal
Authors: Wang Shui Wei , Tang Yuan He , Yang Xu San , Zhang Huan Huan , Xu Yong Kui , Zhang Xun , Liu Yao , Gao Gang , Wang Tan , Yang Zhi Kai
Published: November 2010

Based on the electro-optical property of liquid crystal (LC), an eye controlling anti-glare detector is designed in this paper. According to the transmission characteristics of SONY- LCX029 materials, the principle and working mode of anti-glare are described. The detector can get the object’s images by eye-controlling focus (ECF) module and exposure metering module. The LC can change each pixel’s transmission with the reasonably designed control circuit so that the glare is restrained. An experiment of SONY-LCX029 LCD (liquid crystal display) transmission changes with the gray level proved that the transmission of the LCD changes from 1.28% to 25.60%, reducing 2 orders of magnitude of strong light at least.
Synthesis and Mesomorphic Properties of a Series of Cholesteric Liquid Crystals
Authors: Ma Qing Lan , Huang Yuan Ming
Published: November 2010

A series of cholesterol liquid crystal compounds was synthesized. Phase-transition temperatures and mesomorphic textures of these synthesized compounds were characterized with differential scanning calorimetry and polarized optical microscopy, respectively. In these molecules the terminal ester chains CnH2n-1COO-, where n was the number of carbon atoms in the terminal ester chains, were linked to the cholesterol core. All of the synthesized cholesterol compounds exhibited mesophases for the first heating. However, as temperature decreased from their clearing points, their micrographs can also be divided into two categories, the first category exhibits branch-like mesophase textures for n in the range of 1-10 while the second category exhibits branch-like crystal textures for n in the range of 11-18.
Phase Separation in Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal Device
Authors: Ma Qing Lan , Huang Yuan Ming
Published: November 2010

Polymer dispersed liquid crystal device was prepared by the method of polymerization induced phase separation. The phase separation in our PDLC device was characterized by a polarized optical microscope. Our results demonstrated that the phase-separated droplets in our PDLC device presented the four-brush radial, bipolar and axial configurations. Furthermore, these configurations were simulated by mathematica tool
Effect of Magnetic Field on Molecular Orientation of Disklike Nematic Liquid Crystalline Polymer
Authors: Fu Shu Fang , Bai Jing , Zhang Qiang , Qu Xiu Rong
Published: November 2010

The effect of magnetic field on the flow-phase diagram of discotic nematic liquid crystalline polymers (LCPs) is analyzed with the extended Doi theory in which the molecular shape parameter is defined at negative one. The evolution equation for the probability function of the LCP molecules is solved without any closure approximations. The transition among flow-orientation modes, such as tumbling, wagging and aligning defined similar to the rodlike LCPs, are strongly affected by the magnetic fields parallel to the flow direction.
Dependence of Phase Transition of a Bent-Core Liquid Crystal on the Heating Rate
Authors: Ma Qing Lan , Huang Yuan Ming
Published: November 2010

A bent-core liquid crystal compound N,N-bis (4-propoxybenzylidene)benzene- 1,3-diamine was synthesized. Phase transition properties of the synthesized compound with the deferent heating rate were characterized with differential scanning calorimetry and polarized optical microscopy. , respectively. Our results demonstrated that the bent-core compound exhibited the completely undivided multi-phases in heating-rate ranges from 1oC/min to 6oC/min while it showed a broad-peak crystal phase in higher heating-rate ranges of 7-10oC/min for the first heating.
Solid State Photovoltaic Cells Using Poly-[2-Methoxy-5-(2-Ethylhexyloxy)-Phenylene Vinylene as Hole Transport Material
Authors: Quan Shan Yu , Yang Lin Mei , Zhang Xu Dong , Liu Cong
Published: November 2010

Solid state photovoltaic cells have been fabricated using a ruthenium dye complex as a sensitizer, and poly[2-methoxy-5-(2-ethyl-hexyloxy)-phenylene vinylene] (MEH-PPV) as a hole transporting layer. A compact TiO2 layers with no pores has been introduced to prevent charge losses related to back reactions. The photovoltaic properties of MEH-PPV/dye coated TiO2 electrodes and MEH-PPV coated TiO2 electrodes with and without using compact TiO2 layers were investigated. The compact TiO2 layer increased the current from 0.09 mA/cm2 to 0.4 mA/cm2. Further improvement in current was achieved by inserting a dye interlayer between nanoporous TiO2 and MEH-PPV. In this case, the current increased up to 2 mA/cm2 yielding an efficiency of 0.3 %.
Fabrication and Characterization of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell with Different Microstructure ZnO
Authors: Wang Yan Xiang , Ma Ting Li , Fan Xue Yun , Li Xiao Yan
Published: November 2010

In order to improve the performance of the dye-sensitized solar cells based on ZnO films, ZnO nanoparticles of different size and morphology were prepared by hydrothermal and solvothermal synthesis methods. Electrodes applied to dye-sensitized solar cell were prepared by the screen-printing method. The effects of ZnO nanoparticles of different size and morphology on the photovoltaic characteristics of dye-sensitized ZnO solar cells were investigated. The results show that: The short-circuit current density and the energy conversion efficiency of the ZnO nanosheets DSSC are 0.13 mA/cm2 and 0.02%. The short-circuit current density and the energy conversion efficiency of cells prepared with ZnO nanorods with diameter 500nm and length 5μm are 1.91 mA/cm2 and 0.03%.The best performance achieved in the present work was a conversion efficiency of 3.46% for the cells prepared with ZnO nanoparticles with diameters 80nm.
Effects of Phosphoric Acid on the Photovoltaic Properties of Photovoltaic Cells with Laminated Polypyrrole-Fullerene Layers
Authors: Zhou Fu Fang , Ma Qing Lan , Huang Yuan Ming , She Zhuo Ran , Pan Chun Xu
Published: November 2010

By applying phosphoric acid in dispersion of fullerene in the fabrication of polypyrrolefullerene photovoltaic cells we present laminated active structure of polypyrrole and subsequent fullerene layers, with two other reference methods to incorporate fullerene: (i) in a physically blended monolayer; and (ii) in a blend from chemical reaction. I-V characteristics show that a blend monolayer cell can display photosensitive effect however without photovoltaics; a bilayer cell displays photovoltaics either in dark or in illumination, with its VOC up to1V and its JSC up to12.5 μA cm-2 under AM1 105 mW cm-2 condition. The results demonstrate that phosphoric acid is effective in dispersion of fullerene as well as combining it with polypyrrole layer in a photovoltaic cell. The effects of phosphoric acid in fabricating a bilayered photovoltaic cell are discussed mainly in terms of H-bonding.
Fabrication and Electric Transport in MgB2 Doped with Nanosized Carbon-Based Core-Shell Structures
Authors: Sandu Viorel , Aldica Gheorghe Virgil , Popa Stelian , Cimpoiasu Elena , Dumitrache Florian , Sandu Elena
Published: November 2010

We present the fabrication and electric properties of MgB2 ceramic samples doped with nanosized spheres, 4-8 nm, of graphite with a metallic core. The samples were prepared using the spark plasma sintering technique. The size of the additive is comparable to the superconducting coherence length. The short processing time limits the diffusion of the carbon while keeping the core intact. Therefore, in addition to the doping with carbon, the metallic core, which has the size smaller than the superconducting coherence length, create pinning centers which might improve the dissipationless electric transport. The results are analyzed in the framework of different pinning models.
Properties of the Colossal Magnetoresistivity and its Field Sensitivity of the Mixed-Valence Manganites Nd0.52Sr0.48MnO3
Authors: Ren Shi Wei , Liu Tian Shan , Li Zhan He
Published: November 2010

In this paper, according to the model proposed by Wagner et al., the properties of the magnetically aligned clusters in rare earth manganite Nd0.52Sr0.48MnO3 film are investigated. As we all have known, even at the same temperature and in the same external magnetic field the colossal magnetoresistivity (CMR) effects of different manganites are different. Through imitating the variation of the magnetoresistance (MR) with respect to some physics parameters, the built-in factors that can influence the value of MR and the field sensitivity are analyzed. The investigations show that the CMR effects, to some extent, can be governed by the size of the magnetically aligned clusters. In addition, through analyzing the different magnetoresistance scaling in different magnetic phases it is found that with the paramagnetic-ferromagnetic transition a sudden change in the size of the magnetically aligned clusters occurs, the physical origin of which are explored.
One-Pot Synthesis of Multi-Branched FeO(OH) Nanorods
Authors: Sun De Hui , Zhang Ji Lin , Sun De Xin , Hao Yu
Published: November 2010

Multi-branched FeO(OH) nanorods are successfully prepared using a facile one-pot solution-phase synthesis method. Their morphology and structure were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) absorption spectrum. The results show amount of surfactant (PEO)20(PPO)70(PEO)20 (P123) and precipitant hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA) have significant effect on the shape of the particles. When 20-25 g of the P123 alcohol solution (20 wt%) is added the reaction solution containing 5.0 mL HMTA (2 mol/L) or when 18 g of the P123 alcohol solution (20 wt%) is added the reaction solution containing 10.0 mL HMTA (2 mol/L), the multi-branched FeO(OH) nanorods can be obtained. While when 19-22 g of the P123 alcohol solution (20 wt%) is added the reaction solution containing 10.0 mL HMTA (2 mol/L), the products became the Fe3O4 nanosheets with irregular shape. A possible growth mechanism of the multi-branched FeO(OH) nanorods is suggested.
Analysis of Barium-Bearing Glass Doped with Chromium Oxide
Authors: Won-In Krit , Dutchaneephet J. , Pongkrapan Sorapong , Sirikulrat N. , Dararutana Pisutti
Published: November 2010

Barium-bearing glass samples were fabricated in a laboratory scale using quartz sands that was a by-product of feldspar floatation in Tak Province, northern Thailand, and 30-wt% barite from Loei Province, northeastern Thailand, as the main compositions. Cr2O3 of concentrations ranging from 0.01 to 5.0 wt% was doped into the glass mixture. The dried powders were wellmixed in a ceramic crucible and melted in an electric furnace at 1250°C for 6 hr. Bubble-free glass samples were yielded after cooling down. The glass colors were changed from colorless to green by the addition of Cr2O3. Dielectric property, color, specific gravity, and refractive index of the glass samples were analyzed. It was found that dielectric constant, specific gravity, and refractive index increased with increasing amount of Cr2O3 dopant. Measurements of UV-VIS-NIR spectra and microstuctural analysis using scanning electron microscope were also carried out and discussed.
Plasmonic Responses of Gold Nanoparticles on Organic Vapor: Shape Effect
Authors: Nengsih Sri , Umar Akrajas Ali , Salleh Muhamad Mat , Yahaya Muhammad , Oyama Munetaka , Majlis Burhanuddin Yeop
Published: November 2010

This paper reports the study on the shape effect of gold nanoparticles on their plasmonic responses to the vapor samples, such as methanol, ethanol and propanol. In typical process, it was observed that the plasmonic of gold nanoparticles was very sensitive to the presences of the vapor samples by giving the change in the absorption as well as the shift in the SPR peaks position. It was also found that the plasmonic responses to the vapor indicated a significant improved if the gold nanoparticles prepared in the form of nanorods morphology. The plasmonic response of the spherical and nanorods gold nanoparicles to the gasses will be discussed.
Research on Cu-Fe Laser and Tungsten-Arc Inert-Gas Hybrid Welding
Authors: Liu Neng Wen , Wang Yun Shan
Published: November 2010

To achieve the welding of the larger copper substrate and iron parts, the new method of laser-TIG (Tungsten-arc Inert-Gas welding) hybrid welding is proposed. Experiment shows that the Ni-Cr alloy cladding layer is firstly prepared by YAG laser on the welding body of copper surface, it is metallurgically combined with copper substrate, and then the 5 mm diameter iron cylinder is welded by TIG welding in the cladding layer. The welding zone is fine, no weld cracks is observed under the microscope, metallographic analysis shows that copper and iron is the metallurgical bond.
Single-Layer Silica Anti-Reflective Films Modified with Polytetramethylene Glycol
Authors: Tian Hong , Yang Dong Jiang , Xu Yao
Published: November 2010

Single-layer silica films modified with polytetramethylene glycol (PTMEG) were prepared via sol-gel process in the presence of NH4OH as catalyst. Compared with the pure SiO2 coating, the hybrid films possessed higher lased-induced damage threshold (LDT). The characterization results from AFM and TEM indicated that the introduction of PTMEG molecules changes the structure of the colloidal silica matrix, which directly resulted in the improvement of the transparency and LDT.
Evaluation of Properties of Lapped PZT Ceramics and Silicon Cantilever Based on Eutectic Bonding and Dicing Process
Authors: Li Yi Gui , Sun Jian , Liu Jing Quan , Yang Chun Sheng , He Dan Nong , Tanaka Katsuhiko , Sugiyama Susumu
Published: November 2010

Piezoelectric sensor can produce voltage when deflected (function as an energy harvester) while piezoelectric actuator can deflect when a voltage is applied. Different device applications have different requirements on the thickness and in-plane geometry of the Lead Zirconate Titanate(PZT) piezoelectric layers and thus have their own processing difficulties. In this paper, PZT-Au-Si cantilever is fabricated by eutectic bonding and dicing process.The properties of lapped PZT ceramics and silicon cantilever is also evaluated. The PZT-Au-Si cantilever applications for both piezoelectric actuators and energy harvesters have been confirmed.
MicroRNA-101 Targets MAPK Phosphatase-1 To Regulate the Activation of MAPKs in Macrophages
Authors: Zhu Qing-Yuan , Liu Qin , Chen Jian-Xia , Lan Ke , Ge Bao-Xue
Published: November 2010

MAPK phosphatase-1 (MKP-1) is an archetypical member of the dual-specificity phosphatase family that deactivates MAPKs. Induction of MKP-1 has been implicated in attenuating the LPS- or peptidoglycan-induced biosynthesis of proinflammatory cytokines, but the role of noncoding RNA in the expression of the MKP-1 is still poorly understood. In this study, we show that MKP-1 is a direct target of microRNA-101 (miR-101). Transfection of miR-101 attenuates induction of MKP-1 by LPS as well as prolonged activation of p38 and JNK/stress-activated protein kinase, whereas inhibition of miR-101 enhances the expression of MKP-1 and shortens p38 and JNK activation. We also found that expression of miR-101 is induced by multiple TLR ligands, including LPS, peptidoglycan, or polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid, and that inhibition of PI3K/Akt by LY294002 or Akt RNA interference blocks the induction of miR-101 by LPS in RAW264.7 macrophage cells. Moreover, treatment of cells with dexamethasone, a widely used anti-inflammatory agent, markedly inhibits miR-101 expression and enhances the expression of MKP-1 in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Together, these results indicate that miR-101 regulates the innate immune responses of macrophages to LPS through targeting MKP-1.
Clinical Application of Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cells for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Chatterjea Anindita , Meijer Gert , van Blitterswijk Clemens , de Boer Jan
Published: November 2010

The gold standard in the repair of bony defects is autologous bone grafting, even though it has drawbacks in terms of availability and morbidity at the harvesting site. Bone-tissue engineering, in which osteogenic cells and scaffolds are combined, is considered as a potential bone graft substitute strategy. Proof-of-principle for bone tissue engineering using mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) has been demonstrated in various animal models. In addition, 7 human clinical studies have so far been conducted. Because the experimental design and evaluation parameters of the studies are rather heterogeneous, it is difficult to draw conclusive evidence on the performance of one approach over the other. However, it seems that bone apposition by the grafted MSCs in these studies is observed but not sufficient to bridge large bone defects. In this paper, we discuss the published human clinical studies performed so far for bone-tissue regeneration, using culture-expanded, nongenetically modified MSCs from various sources and extract from it points of consideration for future clinical studies.
The Paradox of Being a Wounded Healer: Henri J.M. Nouwen’s Contribution to Pastoral Theology
Authors: Nolte S. Philip , Dreyer Yolanda
Published: November 2010

This article is the first in a series of two dealing with Henri Nouwen’s contribution to pastoral care. The present article focuses on the impact of cognitive dissonance and the role it plays in pastors becoming constrained in their ministry. The point of departure is that during the past two decades, pastors have been subjected to profound changes. While pastors view their involvement with people in the social and faith communities in which they live and work as guiding people towards a life of wholeness and integrity, they themselves, because of their own inner woundedness, struggle to live a life of wholeness. This article investigates how pastors can act congruently and with integrity in a world that has been profoundly changed by a shift from a modern to a postmodern paradigm. This reflection explores the ancient Greek mythological origins of the concept ‘wounded healer’. It also shows that, in its utilisation by the Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung, the concept became a metaphor. This insight leads to a discussion of how Henri Nouwen applied the significance of the metaphor to pastoral ministry. The discussion takes on the form of certain relevant biographical side notes on Nouwen’s contribution to pastoral theology. The article concludes with an exposition of Nouwens’s use of the metaphor in his book, The wounded healer: Ministry in contemporary society.
Does employee remuneration dispersion in the South African economy enhance labour productivity? The Gauteng manufacturing industry as a case study
Authors: Van Zyl Gerhardus
Published: November 2010

Orientation: The paper dealt with the application of a suitable econometric estimation model or procedure to measure the relation between employee-remuneration gaps and labour productivity in the Gauteng manufacturing industry.Research purpose: The aim of the article was to estimate the sign and magnitude of the relation between employee-remuneration gaps and labour productivity econometrically. The Gauteng manufacturing sector was used as a case study.Motivation for the study: The empirical research was deemed necessary given the current important debate on the perceived impact and fairness of expanding employee-remuneration gaps in the South African workplace. International studies have been conducted on this particular topic but very limited empirical research has been published regarding the South African situation.Research design, approach and method: A log-linear two-step OLS estimation was used to estimate the sign and magnitude of the relation between employee-remuneration gaps and labour productivity. Employee remuneration gap-labour productivity (ERGLP) indicator coefficients were estimated, taking into consideration employee characteristics, skill levels and business or economic uncertainty.Main findings: The signs of the ERGLP indicator coefficients were positive in terms of all the categories, indicating a positive relation between employment-remuneration gaps and labour productivity (at varying magnitudes). The squared ERGLP indicator coefficients confirmed the existence of diminishing marginal productivity characteristics after an optimal employee- remuneration gap level.Practical/managerial implications: It is recommended that, given the unionised nature of the lower-skilled employee segment in South Africa, greater labour-productivity gains for organisations would stem from a more dispersed employee-remuneration regime for the higher-skilled employee segment (albeit in a less uncertain business or economic environment).Contribution/value-add: An econometric estimation procedure that can be applied to the measurement of the productivity gains of employee-remuneration gaps for different industries in the South African economy was established.
Animal Models of Autism: An Epigenetic and Environmental Viewpoint
Authors: Iwata Keiko , Matsuzaki Hideo , Takei Nori , Manabe Takayuki , Mori Norio
Published: November 2010

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder of social behavior, which is more common in males than in females. The causes of autism are unknown; there is evidence for a substantial genetic component, but it is likely that a combination of genetic, environmental and epigenetic factors contribute to its complex pathogenesis. Rodent models that mimic the behavioral deficits of autism can be useful tools for dissecting both the etiology and molecular mechanisms. This review discusses animal models of autism generated by prenatal or neonatal environmental challenges, including virus infection and exposure to valproic acid (VPA) or stress. Studies of viral infection models suggest that interleukin-6 can influence fetal development and programming. Prenatal exposure to the histone deacetylase inhibitor VPA has been linked to autism in children, and male VPA-exposed rats exhibit a spectrum of autistic-like behaviors. The experience of prenatal stress produces male-specific behavioral abnormalities in rats. These effects may be mediated by epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation resulting in alterations to the transcriptome.
Size distribution of alkyl amines in continental particulate matter and their online detection in the gas and particle phase
Authors: VandenBoer T. C. , Petroff A. , Markovic M. Z. , Murphy J. G.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. An ion chromatographic method is described for the quantification of the simple alkyl amines: methylamine (MA), dimethylamine (DMA), trimethylamine (TMA), ethylamine (EA), diethylamine (DEA) and triethylamine (TEA), in the ambient atmosphere. Limits of detection (3σ) are in the tens of pmol range for all of these amines, and good resolution is achieved for all compounds except for TMA and DEA. The technique was applied to the analysis of time-integrated samples collected using a micro-orifice uniform deposition impactor (MOUDI) with ten stages for size resolution of particles with aerodynamic diameters between 56 nm and 18 μm. In eight samples from urban and rural continental airmasses, the mass loading of amines consistently maximized on the stage corresponding to particles with aerodynamic diameters between 320 and 560 nm. The molar ratio of amines to ammonium (R3NH+/NH4+) in fine aerosol ranged between 0.005 and 0.2, and maximized for the smallest particle sizes. The size-dependence of the R3NH+/NH4+ ratio indicates differences in the relative importance of the processes leading to the incorporation of amines and ammonia into secondary particles. The technique was also used to make simultaneous hourly online measurements of amines in the gas phase and in fine particulate matter using an Ambient Ion Monitor Ion Chromatograph (AIM-IC). During a ten day campaign in downtown Toronto, DMA, TMA+DEA, and TEA were observed to range from below detection limit to 2.7 ppt in the gas phase. In the particle phase, MAH+ and TMAH++DEAH+ were observed to range from below detection limit up to 15 ng m−3. The presence of detectable levels of amines in the particle phase corresponded to periods with higher relative humidity and higher mass loadings of nitrate. While the hourly measurements made using the AIM-IC provide data that can be used the evaluate the application of gas-particle partitioning models to amines, the strong size-dependence of the R3NH+/NH4+ ratio indicates that using bulk measurements and an assumption of internal mixing may not be appropriate.
Modeling of Ceramic Foams for Filtration Simulation
Authors: Redenbach Claudia , Wirjadi Oliver , Rief Stefan , Wiegmann Andreas
Published: November 2010

We present a stochastic model for the microstructure of a ceramic foam filter which is produced by coating an open polymer foam with liquid ceramic. First, we fit a random Laguerre tessellation to the polymer foam skeleton. Then, the coating is modeled using locally adaptable morphology which allows for the reproduction of the ceramic foam's locally varying strut thickness. Furthermore, we introduce methods for the estimation of the intensity and orientation distribution of the closed facets which are formed during the coating process. By computation of the permeability of the foam in different directions we show that the anisostropic behavior of the material is reproduced correctly in the model.
Vitamin E Microspheres Embedded Within a Biocompatible Film for Planar Delivery
Authors: Borodina Tatiana , Grigoriev Dmitry , Markvicheva Elena , Möhwald Helmuth , Shchukin Dmitry
Published: November 2010

We demonstrate a new one‐batch approach to the fabrication of a biocompatible Ca‐alginate film with embedded vitamin E‐loaded microspheres that could be used for planar dermal drug delivery. Stable vitamin E microspheres, coated with gum acacia, are produced by ultrasonic treatment of a two‐phase liquid system. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicates an interaction between biopolymer functional groups induced by ultrasonication. Confocal laser fluorescence microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) demonstrate a homogeneous microsphere distribution within the Ca‐alginate polymer film. The kinetics of in vitro vitamin E release found for the polymer film with entrapped microspheres was much more sustained (100% in 96 h) compared to the polymer film with vitamin E embedded in the free state (100% in 5 h). The novelty of the proposed research involves the ultrasonic fabrication of loaded microspheres and formation of biodegradable coating directly doped with microspheres.
High Fill Factor and Open Circuit Voltage in Organic Photovoltaic Cells with Diindenoperylene as Donor Material
Authors: Wagner Julia , Gruber Mark , Hinderhofer Alexander , Wilke Andreas , Bröker Benjamin , Frisch Johannes , Amsalem Patrick , Vollmer Antje , Opitz Andreas , Koch Norbert , Schreiber Frank , Brütting Wolfgang
Published: November 2010

Small‐molecule photovoltaic cells using diindenoperylene (DIP) as a new donor material in combination with the fullerene C60 as an electron acceptor are demonstrated. In addition to the successful application in planar and bulk heterojunction devices, a comprehensive analysis including structural studies, the determination of the energy level alignment and electrical transport investigations is given, stressing the correlation between growth conditions, film morphology, and device performance. Due to pronounced crystallinity and a large surface area of DIP films grown at elevated temperature, exceptionally high fill factors of almost 75% are achieved in planar heterojunction cells. Bulk heterojunctions exhibit large‐scale phase separation forming a bicontinuous network of both molecular species, which enables efficient exciton dissociation and charge carrier transport. The high ionization potential of DIP and the favorable energy level alignment with the fullerene C60 yield large open circuit voltages close to 1 V and comparable power conversion efficiencies of about 4% in both cell architectures.
Recent Trends in Surface Characterization and Chemistry with High‐Resolution Scanning Force Methods
Authors: Barth Clemens , Foster Adam S. , Henry Claude R. , Shluger Alexander L.
Published: November 2010

The current status and future prospects of non‐contact atomic force microscopy (nc‐AFM) and Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) for studying insulating surfaces and thin insulating films in high resolution are discussed. The rapid development of these techniques and their use in combination with other scanning probe microscopy methods over the last few years has made them increasingly relevant for studying, controlling, and functionalizing the surfaces of many key materials. After introducing the instruments and the basic terminology associated with them, state‐of‐the‐art experimental and theoretical studies of insulating surfaces and thin films are discussed, with specific focus on defects, atomic and molecular adsorbates, doping, and metallic nanoclusters. The latest achievements in atomic site‐specific force spectroscopy and the identification of defects by crystal doping, work function, and surface charge imaging are reviewed and recent progress being made in high‐resolution imaging in air and liquids is detailed. Finally, some of the key challenges for the future development of the considered fields are identified.
Genes that move the window of viability of life: Lessons from bacteria thriving at the cold extreme
Authors: de Lorenzo Víctor
Published: November 2010

Whether occurrence of life at the physicochemical extremes results from the entire adaptation of organisms to such settings or it originates from the action of a few genes has been debated for a long time. Recent evidence suggests that a limited number of functions suffice to change the predilection of microorganisms for radically different environmental scenarios. For instance, expression of a few genes from cold‐loving bacteria in mesophilic hosts allows them to grow at much lower temperatures and become heat‐sensitive. This has been exploited not only for constructing Escherichia coli strains able to grow at 5–10 °C (and thus optimised as hosts for heterologous gene expression) but also for designing vaccines based on temperature‐sensitive pathogens. Occurrence of genes/functions that reframe the windows of viability may also ask for a revision of some concepts in microbial ecology and may provide new tools for engineering bacteria with a superior biotechnological performance.
Mitochondrial tyrosine phosphoproteome: New insights from an up‐to‐date analysis
Authors: Cesaro Luca , Salvi Mauro
Published: November 2010

Tyrosine phosphorylation is a newcomer in the mitochondrial signaling and is currently emerging as an important mechanism for regulating mitochondrial processes. But to what extent? By analyzing an updated draft of the mitochondrial tyrosine phosphoproteome, the following observations can be drawn: more than a hundred mitochondrial proteins undergo tyrosine phosphorylation, phosphotyrosine proteins are distributed in each of the submitochondrial compartments, and mitochondrial tyrosine phosphorylated proteins are involved in a variety of functions as metabolism (electron transport chain, Krebs cycle, fatty acid and amino acid metabolism), solute and protein transport, mitochondrial translation machinery, quality protein assessment, oxidative stress, apoptosis, fission, and other. This large and varied collection suggests that tyrosine phosphorylation could be a widespread mechanism in modulating mitochondrial functions. Moreover the in silico model is here used to explore potential effects of tyrosine phosphorylation on selected mitochondrial proteins pointing out some future perspectives in this field. © 2010 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of New Dicationic Azolium Salts and Their Application as NHC Precursors in Suzuki—Miyaura Coupling.
Authors: Khan Sadaf Sadiq , Liebscher Juergen
Published: November 2010

Nine salts are prepared and tested in the title reaction.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed Decarbonylative Coupling of Alkynyl Carboxylic Acids with Benzyl Halides or Aryl Halides.
Authors: Zhang Wen‐Wu , Zhang Xing‐Guo , Li Jin‐Heng
Published: November 2010

The reaction allows an efficient access to benzylic alkynes and diarylalkynes.
ChemInform Abstract: Enantioselective Friedel—Crafts Alkylation of Furans and Indoles with Simple α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones Catalyzed by Oxazaborolidinone.
Authors: Adachi Shinya , Tanaka Fumi , Watanabe Kazuya , Watada Atsushi , Harada Toshiro
Published: November 2010

OXB, derived from allo‐threonine, together with N,N‐dimethylaniline as an additive is highly efficient for the process.
ChemInform Abstract: Asymmetric Direct Vinylogous Aldol Reaction of Unactivated γ‐Butenolide to Aldehydes.
Authors: Yang Yang , Zheng Ke , Zhao Jiannan , Shi Jian , Lin Lili , Liu Xiaohua , Feng Xiaoming
Published: November 2010

This reaction allows simple and efficient access to chiral butenolides of type (III).
ChemInform Abstract: Pyridazine Derivatives and Related Compounds. Part 23. Synthesis of 3‐Substituted Pyrazolo[3,4‐c]pyridazines and Their Application as Disperse Dyes.
Authors: Deeb A. , Yassin F. , Ouf N. , Shehta W.
Published: November 2010

A set of 20 disperse dyes (V)/(VIII) is synthesized by reaction of hydrazinopyrazolopyridazine (IV) with arylazoacetylacetone or ‐malononitrile.
ChemInform Abstract: Isolation of 2 New Metabolites, JBIR‐74 and JBIR‐75, from the Sponge‐Derived Aspergillus sp. fS14.
Authors: Takagi Motoki , Motohashi Kenichiro , Shin‐Ya Kazuo
Published: November 2010

The two new metabolites JBIR‐74 (Ia) and JBIR‐75 (Ib) do not show cytotoxic and antimicrobial activity.
ChemInform Abstract: Preparation and Properties of Polysaccharide‐Based Hydrogel
Authors: Xiao Congming
Published: November 2010

Review: 50 refs.
Improved Removal of Indoor Volatile Organic Compounds by Activated Carbon Fiber Filters Calcined with Copper Oxide Catalyst
Authors: Huang Yi‐Chin , Luo Chin‐Hsiang , Yang Shinhao , Lin Yi‐Chang , Chuang Chi‐Yu
Published: November 2010

Heating, ventilating, and air‐conditioning (HVAC) systems ensure indoor air quality and provide a comfortable environment. However, the conventional HVAC systems only provide indoor ventilation and adjust temperature and humidity. This work removes indoor volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using a feasible and novel air‐cleaning for an HVAC system, to remove indoor VOCs. An activated carbon‐fiber (ACF) filter calcined with copper oxide (CuO) catalyst, called a CuO/ACF catalyst filter, was the developed kit. Formaldehyde, a major VOC, was chosen as the target pollutant. Experiments were performed to confirm the filtration ability of the CuO/ACF catalyst filter in removing formaldehyde in a stainless‐steel chamber equipped with a simplified HVAC system. Total air exchange rate (ACH) was controlled at 0.5 and 1.0 h−1, the fresh ACH was 0.15 and 0.30 h−1, and relative humidity (RH) was set at 30 and 70%. A first‐order decay of formaldehyde existed in the controlled chamber when the two pretreated CuO/ACF catalyst filters were employed. Experimental results demonstrate that the CuO/ACF catalyst filters removed formaldehyde effectively. The decay constant was 0.425 and 0.618 h−1 for 0.5 and 2.0 ppm formaldehyde, respectively. Moreover, the formaldehyde decay rate increased as total ACH, fresh ACH, RH, and the Cu(NO3)2 concentration for calcination of CuO/ACF catalyst filter increased.
Novel Polymeric Resin for Solid Phase Extraction and Determination of Lead in Waters
Authors: Karaaslan Nagihan M. , Senkal B. Filiz , Cengiz Emine , Yaman Mehmet
Published: November 2010

Interest in preconcentration techniques for the determination of metals at ultratrace levels still continues increasingly because of some disadvantages of flameless atomic absorption spectrometry and the high costs of other sensitive methods in compared to flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). Among preconcentration techniques, solid‐phase extraction is the most popular because of a number of advantages. In this work, thiol‐containing sulfonamide resin was synthesized, characterized, and applied as a new sorption material for solid phase extraction and determination of lead in natural water samples. The optimization of experimental conditions was performed using the parameters including pH, contact time, and volumes of initial and elution solutions. After preconcentration procedure, FAAS was used for determinations. The synthesized resin exhibits the superiority in compared to the other adsorption reagents because of the fact that there is no necessity of any complexing reagent as well as high sorption capacity. Consequently, 280‐fold improvement in the sensitivity of analytical scheme was achieved by combining the slotted tube atom trap‐atomic absorption spectrometry (STAT‐FAAS) and the developed preconcentration method. The limit of detection was found to be 0.15 ng mL−1. The Pb2+ concentrations in the studied water samples were found to be in the range of 0.9–6.7 ng mL−1.
Biogeochemical Characterizations and Reclamation Strategies of Saline Sodic Soil in Northeastern China
Authors: Yu Junbao , Wang Zhichun , Meixner Franz X. , Yang Fu , Wu Huifeng , Chen Xiaobing
Published: November 2010

Soil salinity and sodicity is considered one of the most import impediments to agricultural development in Northeast China. The contents of TP and TK decrease with soil depth and high coefficients of variation were found in TOC, AN, and AP. Mean EC in the 0–50 cm soil layers ranged from 0.61 to 0.89 dS m−1 and the average soluble ion concentrations in the topsoil (0–10 cm) were approximately 11.38 mmol L−1 for Na+, 1.21 mmol L−1 for Ca2+, and 0.40 mmol L−1 for Mg2+. High SAR existed in the layers 10–50 cm, indicating the studied soil was bearing low salinity in the top layer and high sodic layer in the subsurface. The soil presented strong alkali reactions all through the profile with pH over 9.5. To improve and utilize saline sodic soil rationally, several strategies were put forward based on long‐term field studies and demonstration works. The results implied that ameliorating with sand, applying farm yard manure, regenerating salt tolerant grasses and leaching with groundwater, and growing rice were effective measures for improving physical and chemical qualities of saline sodic soil.
Biphasic effects of chronic ethanol exposure on insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake in primary cultured rat skeletal muscle cells: role of the Akt pathway and GLUT4
Authors: Qu Wei , Zhao Lina , Peng Xiaolin , Yang Xuefeng , Ying Chenjiang , Hao Liping , Sun Xiufa
Published: November 2010

Background

Mild or moderate chronic alcohol intake has been shown to be associated with increased insulin sensitivity, while chronic alcohol abuse demonstrates a contrary effect. The mechanism underlying this biphasic effect has not yet been clarified. We investigated whether chronic ethanol exposure mediates biphasic changes on insulin sensitivity and whether the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/Akt pathway is involved in vitro.

Methods

Primary cultured rat skeletal muscle cells were exposed to ethanol (0–400 mM) for 24 h. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by the 3H‐labelled 2‐deoxyglucose uptake assay.

Phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase, cytosol and cell membrane glucose transporter‐4 (GLUT4), as well as the Akt phosphorylated form, were analyzed by Western blots.

Results

Biphasic effects of ethanol on insulin sensitivity were observed in primary cultured skeletal muscle cells in a dose‐dependent manner. Compared with the untreated group, 50 and 100 mM concentrations of ethanol resulted in a significant increase in 2‐deoxyglucose uptake by 29 and 28%, respectively, while higher concentrations of ethanol (200, 400 mM) showed a significant decrease in 2‐deoxyglucose uptake by 28 and 47%, respectively. The changes in glucose transport activity were in line with the changes in Akt Ser473 phosphorylation and GLUT4 expression in an ethanol dose‐dependent biphasic manner. The phosphorylation of Akt and GLUT4 protein contents were up‐regulated after treatment with low concentrations of ethanol (50, 100 mM) and down‐regulated with high concentrations of ethanol (200, 400 mM) for 24 h.

Conclusion

Ethanol mediates biphasic changes on insulin sensitivity at least in part via the Akt pathway and GLUT4 expression. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 alpha (PPARGC1A) gene polymorphisms and type 2 diabetes mellitus: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Ying , Mo Xingbo , Chen Shufeng , Lu Xiangfeng , Gu Dongfeng
Published: November 2010

Background

The association between peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 alpha (PPARGC1A) polymorphisms and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been investigated in several studies, but these studies yielded contradictory results. We conducted a meta‐analysis to assess the association between three polymorphisms (Gly482Ser, Thr394Thr and Thr612Met) in PPARGC1A and T2DM.

Methods

A literature‐based search was conducted to collect data. The additive model was chosen to investigate the association between the three polymorphisms and T2DM. The random effects model was used if there was heterogeneity between studies. In addition, subgroup meta‐analyses were made according to the ethnic groups.

Results

Twenty‐three studies were enrolled in this meta‐analysis (7539 cases and 9562 controls for Gly482Ser, 1818 cases and 2376 controls for Thr394Thr, 2042 cases and 1289 controls for Thr612Met). In the combined analysis of all eligible studies, a significant association was found between Gly482Ser, Thr394Thr and T2DM with pooled odds ratios 1.19 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.05–1.34] and 1.33 (95% CI 1.04–1.70), respectively, but great heterogeneity was found between studies. In the subgroup meta‐analyses, we found that Gly482Ser and Thr394Thr polymorphisms were associated with the risk of T2DM, and the pooled odds ratios were 1.66 (95% CI 1.28–2.15) and 1.72 (95% CI 1.45–2.03), respectively, in the Indian population; no significant evidence was found in the Caucasian and East Asian populations.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis indicated that Gly482Ser and Thr394Thr polymorphisms of PPARGC1A gene were significantly associated with the risk of T2DM, especially in the Indian population. No relationship was found between the Thr612Met and risk of T2DM. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of microbial contaminants in urine
Authors: Ojanperä Suvi , Leinonen Antti , Apajalahti Juha , Lauraeus Marko , Alaja Susanna , Moisander Teija , Kettunen Anu
Published: November 2010

Modern, molecular microbiological methods were applied to urine samples from control subjects and athletes for characterization of the microbial community. High abundance of lactobacilli, enterococci, and enterobacteria was detected in urine samples, suggesting that gastrointestinal and urogenital tracts act as contamination sources. Athlete samples, but not control samples, showed an abundance of pseudomonads, a bacterial group reported to metabolize steroids. Overall, the bacteria detected are known to be capable of altering steroid profiles, emphasizing the importance of good hygiene at sampling in reliable doping control. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.