bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The spectrum of pyruvate oxidation defects in the diagnosis of mitochondrial disorders
Authors: Sperl Wolfgang , Fleuren Leanne , Freisinger Peter , Haack Tobias B. , Ribes Antonia , Feichtinger René G. , Rodenburg Richard J. , Zimmermann Franz A. , Koch Johannes , Rivera Isabel , Prokisch Holger , Smeitink Jan A. , Mayr Johannes A.
Published: December 2014

Pyruvate oxidation defects (PODs) are among the most frequent causes of deficiencies in the mitochondrial energy metabolism and represent a substantial subset of classical mitochondrial diseases. PODs are not only caused by deficiency of subunits of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDHC) but also by various disorders recently described in the whole pyruvate oxidation route including cofactors, regulation of PDHC and the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier. Our own patients from 2000 to July 2014 and patients identified by a systematic survey of the literature from 1970 to July 2014 with a pyruvate oxidation disorder and a genetically proven defect were included in the study (n=628). Of these defects 74.2% (n=466) belong to PDHC subunits, 24.5% (n=154) to cofactors, 0.5% (n=3) to PDHC regulation and 0.8% (n=5) to mitochondrial pyruvate import. PODs are underestimated in the field of mitochondrial diseases because not all diagnostic centres include biochemical investigations of PDHC in their routine analysis. Cofactor and transport defects can be missed, if pyruvate oxidation is not measured in intact mitochondria routinely. Furthermore deficiency of the X‐chromosomal PDHA1 can be biochemically missed depending on the X‐inactivation pattern. This is reflected by an increasing number of patients diagnosed recently by genetic high throughput screening approaches. PDHC deficiency including regulation and import affect mainly the glucose dependent central and peripheral nervous system and skeletal muscle. PODs with combined enzyme defects affect also other organs like heart, lung and liver. The spectrum of clinical presentation of PODs is still expanding. PODs are a therapeutically interesting group of mitochondrial diseases since some can be bypassed by ketogenic diet or treated by cofactor supplementation. PDHC kinase inhibition, chaperone therapy and PGC1α stimulation is still a matter of further investigations.
Illness characteristics and symptoms in an Irish early intervention for psychosis service
Authors: Lyne J. P. , O’Donoghue B. , Roche E. , Behan C. , Jordan I. , Renwick L. , Turner N. , O’Callaghan E. , Clarke M.
Published: December 2014

Objectives

Study of illness characteristics and symptoms in a young population with psychosis can assist for understanding of their needs, and can inform service planning strategies. The aims of the current study were to describe illness characteristics and symptoms of a first episode psychosis (FEP) sample aged 25 years and under, and compare with a sample aged over 25 years.

Methods

Interviews were conducted for 437 individuals aged 16–65 years presenting with suspected psychosis between 2005 and 2012 in a defined catchment area (population of 390 000) using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM IV to determine the presence of a psychosis diagnosis. Individuals with confirmed psychosis were assessed using standardised instruments to determine illness characteristics at first presentation.

Results

Among the 25 years, and under FEP sample, 23.9% had their first onset of symptoms (prodromal or psychotic) before 18 years of age. After controlling for confounders, the sample aged 25 years and under had a significantly shorter log transformed duration of untreated psychosis (p=0.002), more negative symptoms (p=0.045) and greater frequency of comorbid cannabis abuse diagnosis (p=0.027).

Conclusions

Symptom onset in a youth FEP sample frequently occurs before age 18 years. Certain illness characteristics differed across the age categories, such as greater negative symptoms and cannabis abuse in the youth sample. Overall, the findings support the provision of adequate strategies for management of negative symptom deficits and substance abuse across all ages in FEP.
COVERS FOR S-ACTS AND CONDITION (A) FOR A MONOID S
Authors: BAILEY ALEX , GOULD VICTORIA , HARTMANN MIKLÓS , RENSHAW JAMES , SHAHEEN LUBNA
Published: December 2014

A monoid S satisfies Condition (A) if every locally cyclic left S-act is cyclic. This condition first arose in Isbell's work on left perfect monoids, that is, monoids such that every left S-act has a projective cover. Isbell showed that S is left perfect if and only if every cyclic left S-act has a projective cover and Condition (A) holds. Fountain built on Isbell's work to show that S is left perfect if and only if it satisfies Condition (A) together with the descending chain condition on principal right ideals, MR. We note that a ring is left perfect (with an analogous definition) if and only if it satisfies MR. The appearance of Condition (A) in this context is, therefore, monoid specific. Condition (A) has a number of alternative characterisations, in particular, it is equivalent to the ascending chain condition on cyclic subacts of any left S-act. In spite of this, it remains somewhat esoteric. The first aim of this paper is to investigate the preservation of Condition (A) under basic semigroup-theoretic constructions. Recently, Khosravi, Ershad and Sedaghatjoo have shown that every left S-act has a strongly flat or Condition (P) cover if and only if every cyclic left S-act has such a cover and Condition (A) holds. Here we find a range of classes of S-acts $\mathcal{C}$ such that every left S-act has a cover from $\mathcal{C}$ if and only if every cyclic left S-act does and Condition (A) holds. In doing so we find a further characterisation of Condition (A) purely in terms of the existence of covers of a certain kind. Finally, we make some observations concerning left perfect monoids and investigate a class of monoids close to being left perfect, which we name left$\mathcal{IP}$a-perfect.
Prevention Across the Spectrum: a randomized controlled trial of three programs to reduce risk factors for both eating disorders and obesity
Authors: Wilksch S. M. , Paxton S. J. , Byrne S. M. , Austin S.B. , McLean S. A. , Thompson K. M. , Dorairaj K. , Wade T. D.
Published: December 2014

Background

A randomized controlled trial of three school-based programs and a no-intervention control group was conducted to evaluate their efficacy in reducing eating disorder and obesity risk factors.

Method

A total of 1316 grade 7 and 8 girls and boys (mean age = 13.21 years) across three Australian states were randomly allocated to: Media Smart; Life Smart; the Helping, Encouraging, Listening and Protecting Peers (HELPP) initiative; or control (usual school class). Risk factors were measured at baseline, post-program (5 weeks later), and at the 6- and 12-month follow-ups.

Results

Media Smart girls had half the rate of onset of clinically significant concerns about shape and weight than control girls at the 12-month follow-up. Media Smart and HELPP girls reported significantly lower weight and shape concern than Life Smart girls at the 12-month follow-up. Media Smart and control girls scored significantly lower than HELPP girls on eating concerns and perceived pressure at the 6-month follow-up. Media Smart and HELPP boys experienced significant benefit on media internalization compared with control boys and these were sustained at the 12-month follow-up in Media Smart boys. A group × time effect found that Media Smart participants reported more physical activity than control and HELPP participants at the 6-month follow-up, while a main effect for group found Media Smart participants reported less screen time than controls.

Conclusions

Media Smart was the only program to show benefit on both disordered eating and obesity risk factors. Whilst further investigations are indicated, this study suggests that this program is a promising approach to reducing risk factors for both problems.
Maternal depression symptoms, unhealthy diet and child emotional–behavioural dysregulation
Authors: Pina-Camacho L. , Jensen S. K. , Gaysina D. , Barker E. D.
Published: December 2014

Background

Maternal depression and unhealthy diet are well-known risk factors for adverse child emotional–behavioural outcomes, but their developmental relationships during the prenatal and postnatal periods are largely uncharted. This study sought to examine the inter-relationships between maternal depression symptoms and unhealthy diet (assessed during pregnancy and postnatal periods) in relation to child emotional–behavioural dysregulation (assessed at the ages of 2, 4 and 7 years).

Method

In a large prospective birth cohort of 7814 mother–child pairs, path analysis was used to examine the independent and inter-related associations of maternal depression symptoms and unhealthy diet with child dysregulation.

Results

Higher prenatal maternal depression symptoms were prospectively associated with higher unhealthy diet, both during pregnancy and the postnatal period, which, in turn, was associated with higher child dysregulation up to the age of 7 years. In addition, during pregnancy, higher maternal depression symptoms and unhealthy diet were each independently associated with higher child dysregulation up to the age of 7 years. These results were robust to other prenatal, perinatal and postnatal confounders (such as parity and birth complications, poverty, maternal education, etc.).

Conclusions

Maternal depression symptoms and unhealthy diet show important developmental associations, but are also independent risk factors for abnormal child development.
Unwrapping ‘Norwegianness’: politics of difference in Karpe Diem
Authors: Sandve Birgitte
Published: December 2014

This article addresses notions of ‘Norwegianness’ in rap music. Based on comparative audiovisual analyses and close readings of two different versions of Norwegian rap group Karpe Diem's 2010 hit ‘Byduer i dur’, the author's main objective is to question how issues concerning ethnicity and cultural belonging are negotiated through audiovisual representations and in the self-fashioning of the artists. The analyses and readings rest upon two central issues. First, to uncover how Karpe Diem's spectacle of ‘otherness’ might be considered alongside aspects of ethnicity, cultural belonging and national identity within a Norwegian context. Secondly, to argue that identity is constructed as flexible and free-floating, which provides an opportunity to reconsider notions of ‘Norwegianness’ through musical performance. By proposing a decentred approach to analysing audiovisual texts, the author intends to shed light on how Karpe Diem's performances could be read as part of a discourse on nationhood in contemporary Norwegian society. Following this, the national trauma of 22 July 2011 should be considered a significant backdrop for the readings and critical discussions undertaken throughout this paper.
Food system sustainability for health and well-being of Indigenous Peoples
Authors: Kuhnlein Harriet V
Published: December 2014

Objective

To describe how Indigenous Peoples understand how to enhance use of their food systems to promote sustainability, as demonstrated in several food-based interventions.

Design

Comments contributed by partners from case studies of Indigenous Peoples and their food systems attending an international meeting were implemented with public health interventions at the community level in nine countries.

Setting

The Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Conference Center in Bellagio, Italy, where experiences from case studies of Indigenous Peoples were considered and then conducted in their home communities in rural areas.

Subjects

Leaders of the Indigenous Peoples’ case studies, their communities and their academic partners.

Results

Reported strategies on how to improve use of local food systems in case study communities of Indigenous Peoples.

Conclusions

Indigenous Peoples’ reflections on their local food systems should be encouraged and acted upon to protect and promote sustainability of the cultures and ecosystems that derive their food systems. Promoting use of local traditional food biodiversity is an essential driver of food system sustainability for Indigenous Peoples, and contributes to global consciousness for protecting food biodiversity and food system sustainability more broadly. Key lessons learned, key messages and good practices for nutrition and public health practitioners and policy makers are given.
Gene Expression Induced by Cerebral Ischemia: An Apoptotic Perspective
Authors: MacManus John P. , Linnik Matthew D.
Published: December 2014

The flow of new information on gene expression related to apoptosis has been relentless in the last several years. This has also been the case with respect to gene expression after cerebral ischemia. Many of genes associated with an apoptotic mode of cell death have now been studied in the context of experimental cerebral ischemia from the immediate early genes through modulating genes such as bcl-2 to genes in the final execution phase such as interleukin-1β converting enzyme (ICE)-related proteases. It was impossible to adequately cite all primary reports on these subjects. However, many excellent reviews have appeared in the last year, which together, cover all these areas of interest. In this review, we have elected to cite only reports published since January 1996 and use an extensive collection of reviews (indicated in italics) to guide the reader to the earlier literature. Our intent is to provide the reader with a timely and useful analysis of the current state of the art. It is hoped that this approach does not cause offense with our colleagues whose contributions before 1996 laid the foundation for much of this work.
The host metabolite D-serine contributes to bacterial niche specificity through gene selection
Authors: Connolly James P R , Goldstone Robert J , Burgess Karl , Cogdell Richard J , Beatson Scott A , Vollmer Waldemar , Smith David G E , Roe Andrew J
Published: December 2014

Escherichia coli comprise a diverse array of both commensals and niche-specific pathotypes. The ability to cause disease results from both carriage of specific virulence factors and regulatory control of these via environmental stimuli. Moreover, host metabolites further refine the response of bacteria to their environment and can dramatically affect the outcome of the host–pathogen interaction. Here, we demonstrate that the host metabolite, D-serine, selectively affects gene expression in E. coli O157:H7. Transcriptomic profiling showed exposure to D-serine results in activation of the SOS response and suppresses expression of the Type 3 Secretion System (T3SS) used to attach to host cells. We also show that concurrent carriage of both the D-serine tolerance locus (dsdCXA) and the locus of enterocyte effacement pathogenicity island encoding a T3SS is extremely rare, a genotype that we attribute to an ‘evolutionary incompatibility’ between the two loci. This study demonstrates the importance of co-operation between both core and pathogenic genetic elements in defining niche specificity.
Decelerated genome evolution in modern vertebrates revealed by analysis of multiple lancelet genomes
Authors: Huang Shengfeng , Chen Zelin , Yan Xinyu , Yu Ting , Huang Guangrui , Yan Qingyu , Pontarotti Pierre Antoine , Zhao Hongchen , Li Jie , Yang Ping , Wang Ruihua , Li Rui , Tao Xin , Deng Ting , Wang Yiquan , Li Guang , Zhang Qiujin , Zhou Sisi , You Leiming , Yuan Shaochun , Fu Yonggui , Wu Fenfang , Dong Meiling , Chen Shangwu , Xu Anlong
Published: December 2014

Vertebrates diverged from other chordates ~500 Myr ago and experienced successful innovations and adaptations, but the genomic basis underlying vertebrate origins are not fully understood. Here we suggest, through comparison with multiple lancelet (amphioxus) genomes, that ancient vertebrates experienced high rates of protein evolution, genome rearrangement and domain shuffling and that these rates greatly slowed down after the divergence of jawed and jawless vertebrates. Compared with lancelets, modern vertebrates retain, at least relatively, less protein diversity, fewer nucleotide polymorphisms, domain combinations and conserved non-coding elements (CNE). Modern vertebrates also lost substantial transposable element (TE) diversity, whereas lancelets preserve high TE diversity that includes even the long-sought RAG transposon. Lancelets also exhibit rapid gene turnover, pervasive transcription, fastest exon shuffling in metazoans and substantial TE methylation not observed in other invertebrates. These new lancelet genome sequences provide new insights into the chordate ancestral state and the vertebrate evolution.
Label-free imaging and identification of typical cells of acute myeloid leukaemia and myelodysplastic syndrome by Raman microspectroscopy
Authors: Vanna R. , Ronchi P. , Lenferink A. T. M. , Tresoldi C. , Morasso C. , Mehn D. , Bedoni M. , Picciolini S. , Terstappen L. W. M. M. , Ciceri F. , Otto C. , Gramatica F.
Published: December 2014

Heamatopoietic cancer cells from patients were objectively and accurately recognized by high-resolution Raman imaging and their characteristic Raman spectra.
Supercritical fluid (CO2) chromatography for quantitative determination of selected cancer therapeutic drugs in the presence of potential impurities
Authors: Ganipisetty Venkata Narasimha Rao , Ravi B. , Reddy Ch. Rajsekhara , Gurjar RajKumar , Manoj P. , Nadh R. Venkata , Gudipati Gnana dev
Published: December 2014

In the present study, supercritical fluid (CO2) chromatographic methods were validated for the estimation of two cancer therapeutic drugs, fulvestrant and azacitidine, using UPC2system.
Guanidinium iodide-catalyzed oxidative α-nitroalkylation of β-ketoamides
Authors: Yasui Koji , Kato Takanari , Kojima Kohei , Nagasawa Kazuo
Published: December 2014

Oxidative nitroalkylation of β-ketoamides and nitroalkanes, mediated by hypoiodide generated from tert-butyl hydrogen peroxide and a catalytic amount of guanidinium iodide, afforded the corresponding α-nitroalkyl-β-ketoamides in up to 97% yield.
How is the AIE mechanism profoundly changed in an ESIPT family: the novel introduction of a tetraphenylethene group onto (Z)-3-(quinolin-2-ylmethylene)-3,4-dihydroquinoxalin-2(1H)-one
Authors: Wu Ding-Er , Yao Qi-Chao , Xia Min
Published: December 2014

The first example showing that the AIE mechanism can be completely changed from restriction of TICT to RIR by the introduction of a tetraphenylethene group onto a molecule with ESIPT character is reported herein.
Unraveling the degradation of artificial amide bonds in nylon oligomer hydrolase: from induced-fit to acylation processes
Authors: Baba Takeshi , Boero Mauro , Kamiya Katsumasa , Ando Hiroyuki , Negoro Seiji , Nakano Masayoshi , Shigeta Yasuteru
Published: December 2014

To unravel the factor that provides the ability to degrade non-biological amide bond with nylon oligomer hydrolase, we investigated the process from induced-fit to acylation by a combination of different theoretical methods.
Structural heterogeneity and dynamics of dyes on TiO2: implications for charge transfer across organic–inorganic interfaces
Authors: Christianson Jeffrey R. , Schmidt J. R.
Published: December 2014

Structural heterogeneity, solvation, and thermal fluctuations all contribute to multiple dye–semiconductor charge injection rates.
Revealing the interactions between pentagon–octagon–pentagon defect graphene and organic donor/acceptor molecules: a theoretical study
Authors: Li Jie-Wei , Liu Yu-Yu , Xie Ling-Hai , Shang Jing-Zhi , Qian Yan , Yi Ming-Dong , Yu Ting , Huang Wei
Published: December 2014

The cyano group interacts strongly with 5–8–5 defect graphene, changes the bands near the Fermi level and enhances the infrared light absorption.
Gold-catalyzed cyclopropanation reactions using a carbenoid precursor toolbox
Authors: Qian Deyun , Zhang Junliang
Published: December 2014

This review highlights recent advances in gold-catalyzed selective cyclopropanation divided by the type of carbenoid precursors.
Conversion of dimethyl ether to toluene under an O2 stream over W/HZSM-5 catalysts
Authors: Wang Bo , Wang Hui , Liu Guangbo , Li Xuemin , Wu Jinhu
Published: December 2014

The direct conversion of dimethyl ether (DME) to toluene without other aromatics is realized over W/HZSM-5 catalysts with high W contents.
A heterometallic macrocycle as a redox-controlled molecular hinge
Authors: Schouwey Clément , Papmeyer Marcus , Scopelliti Rosario , Severin Kay
Published: December 2014

The geometry of a heterometallic Pt–Cu macrocycle is controlled by the redox state of the Cu centers. An elongated form with a long Pt⋯Pt distance is observed for Cu(i), whereas a folded form with a short Pt⋯Pt distance is found for Cu(ii).
Microbial electrochemistry and technology: terminology and classification
Authors: Schröder Uwe , Harnisch Falk , Angenent Largus T.
Published: December 2014

This paper provides a scaffold for the development of a clear and consistent terminology and classification of microbial electrochemistry and microbial electrochemical technologies.
Occurrence of emerging and priority pollutants in municipal reverse osmosis concentrates
Authors: Wei Xiaozhu , Gu Ping , Zhang Guanghui , Huang Jianjun
Published: December 2014

This paper aimed to investigate the occurrence and concentrations of emerging and priority pollutants in the municipal reverse osmosis concentrate (ROC) using liquid–liquid extraction (LLE) followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.
River transport of mercury from artisanal and small-scale gold mining and risks for dietary mercury exposure in Madre de Dios, Peru
Authors: Diringer Sarah E. , Feingold Beth J. , Ortiz Ernesto J. , Gallis John A. , Araújo-Flores Julio M. , Berky Axel , Pan William K. Y. , Hsu-Kim Heileen
Published: December 2014

Environmental sampling over 560 km of the Madre de Dios River indicated a gradient of mercury exposure from areas of active mining to downstream communities.
Capturing molecules with plasmonic nanotips in microfluidic channels by dielectrophoresis
Authors: Schäfer Christian , Kern Dieter P. , Fleischer Monika
Published: December 2014

A method for the collection and concentration of molecules on arrays of metallic nanocones is presented, making use of the high electric field gradients at the nanotips. The nanocones are integrated into a microfluidic channel and used as nanoelectrodes. By applying an AC voltage, dielectrophoresis is used to capture molecules from the channel region on the nanocones.
Predicting self-assembly and structure in diluted aqueous solutions of modified mono- and bis-β-cyclodextrins that contain naphthoxy chromophore groups
Authors: Carmona Thais , Martina Katia , Rinaldi Laura , Boffa Luisa , Cravotto Giancarlo , Mendicuti Francisco
Published: December 2014

Mono-cyclodextrins, whose appended groups contain a naphthoxy moiety, form tail-to-tail non-covalent dimers in water solution. Bis-CDs do not exhibit self-association.
Aqueous intramolecular Mizoroki–Heck reaction of (2-iodophenyl)(3-methyl-1H-indol-1-yl)methanone: a model reaction for the in situ performance evaluation of Pd catalysts
Authors: Signori Aline M. , Latocheski Eloah , Albuquerque Brunno L. , Faggion Deonildo , Bisol Tula B. , Meier Lidiane , Domingos Josiel B.
Published: December 2014

The activity of Pd catalysts for C–C coupling reactions is evaluated by using UV-vis spectroscopy and a Heck model reaction.
π-Conjugated polymers derived from 2,5-bis(2-decyltetradecyl)-3,6-di(selenophen-2-yl)pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,4(2H,5H)-dione for high-performance thin film transistors
Authors: Lee Tae Wan , Lee Dae Hee , Shin Jicheol , Cho Min Ju , Choi Dong Hoon
Published: December 2014

Novel DSDPP-containing conjugated polymers with different donor monomers were synthesized and their charge transport properties were investigated by fabricating thin film transistors.
The CASE 2014 symposium: Catalysis and sensing for our environment, Xiamen 7th–9th November 2014
Authors: Fossey John S. , Brittain William D. G.
Published: December 2014

The CASE 2014 symposium: catalysis and sensing for our environment, Xiamen 7th–9th November 2014
Modelling and evaluation of hydrogen desorption kinetics controlled by surface reaction and bulk diffusion for magnesium hydride
Authors: Drozdov I. V. , Vaßen R. , Stöver D.
Published: December 2014

The ‘shrinking core’ model has been applied for the evaluation of hydrogen desorption kinetics during decomposition of magnesium hydride.
A facile strategy to achieve high conduction and excellent chemical stability of lithium solid electrolytes
Authors: Song Shufeng , Lu Jia , Zheng Feng , Duong Hai M. , Lu Li
Published: December 2014

This research addresses the combination of high conductivity and excellent electrochemical stability in lithium solid electrolytes by halide doping.
Bio-inspired polydopamine-coated clay and its thermo-oxidative stabilization mechanism for styrene butadiene rubber
Authors: Wang Lu , Hu Linjia , Gao Shangbing , Zhao Detao , Zhang Liqun , Wang Wencai
Published: December 2014

In situthermal-oxidative ageing tests by electron spin resonance (ESR) evidence that polydopamine (PDA) deposited onto clay can act as excellent radical-scavenger and thus significantly diminish the thermolysis of styrene butadiene rubber (SBR).
Study on hydrogen storage properties of Mg–X (X = Fe, Co, V) nano-composites co-precipitated from solution
Authors: Liu Yana , Zou Jianxin , Zeng Xiaoqin , Ding Wenjiang
Published: December 2014

A systematic investigation has been performed on the hydrogen sorption properties of the Mg–X (X = Fe, Co, V) nano-composites co-precipitated from solution through an adapted Rieke method.
Copper-catalyzed oxidative esterification of unactivated C(sp3)–H bonds with carboxylic acids via cross dehydrogenative coupling
Authors: Zhou Jiadi , Jin Can , Li Xiaohan , Su Weike
Published: December 2014

An effective copper-catalyzed esterification of unactivated (non-benzylic and allylic) C(sp3)–H bonds of hydrocarbons with Selectfluor as an oxidant has been developed.
Structure–activity relationship studies of cyclopropenimines as enantioselective Brønsted base catalysts
Authors: Bandar Jeffrey S. , Barthelme Alexandre , Mazori Alon Y. , Lambert Tristan H.
Published: December 2014

New insights aid in the understanding and design of cyclopropenimine-based asymmetric catalysts.
Analysis of the structure and degree of crystallisation of 70Li2S–30P2S5 glass ceramic
Authors: Seino Yoshikatsu , Nakagawa Masaru , Senga Minoru , Higuchi Hiroyuki , Takada Kazunori , Sasaki Takayoshi
Published: December 2014

Structural analysis of 70Li2S–30P2S5 glass ceramic by 31P MAS NMR revealed a strong correlation between the degree of crystallisation and the lithium ionic conductivity.
Enhanced efficiency in polymer solar cells via hydrogen plasma treatment of ZnO electron transport layers
Authors: Gao Hong Li , Zhang Xing Wang , Meng Jun Hua , Yin Zhi Gang , Zhang Liu Qi , Wu Jin Liang , Liu Xin
Published: December 2014

We present a novel and efficient route to improve the open-circuit voltage and efficiency of polymer solar cells by modifying ZnO electron transport layer with H-plasma treatment.
Self-supported carbon coated TiN nanotube arrays: innovative carbon coating leads to an improved cycling ability for supercapacitor applications
Authors: Grote Fabian , Zhao Huaping , Lei Yong
Published: December 2014

Innovative carbon coating on nano-porous anodic aluminum oxide templates enables coatings on dense self-supported nanostructured arrays in a reverse manner for applications in energy devices (e.g., supercapacitors).
Elaboration of porous silicon carbide by soft templating molecular precursors with semi-fluorinated alkanes
Authors: Nardin T. , Gouze B. , Cambedouzou J. , Bauduin P. , Wong Chi Man M. , Deschanels X. , Bourgeois D. , Meyer D. , Diat O.
Published: December 2014

We present a novel soft templating approach (STA) for the elaboration of porous silicon carbide (SiC) in oxygen- and moisture-free atmospheres.
Porous perovskite calcium–manganese oxide microspheres as an efficient catalyst for rechargeable sodium–oxygen batteries
Authors: Hu Yuxiang , Han Xiaopeng , Zhao Qing , Du Jing , Cheng Fangyi , Chen Jun
Published: December 2014

The porous micro–nanostructured CaMnO3 electrode delivered a high specific capacity, high rate capacity and enhanced cyclability in rechargeable sodium–oxygen batteries.
Beyond graphene: materials chemistry toward high performance inorganic functional materials
Authors: Chen Kunfeng , Song Shuyan , Xue Dongfeng
Published: December 2014

Newly developed crystallization routes have been designed to tailor graphene materials with specific functionalities, which can be a new direction in graphene R&D.
Novel dithiols as capping ligands for CdSe quantum dots: optical properties and solar cell applications
Authors: Kumar Avvaru Praveen , Huy Bui The , Kumar Begari Prem , Kim Jong Hwa , Dao Van-Duong , Choi Ho-Suk , Lee Yong-Ill
Published: December 2014

Recently, organic ligands have been shown to play a significant role in optical and electronic properties of CdSe quantum dots and also in solar cell applications.
A giant electrocaloric effect of a Pb0.97La0.02(Zr0.75Sn0.18Ti0.07)O3 antiferroelectric thick film at room temperature
Authors: Zhao Ye , Hao Xihong , Zhang Qi
Published: December 2014

A maximum ΔT of 53.8 °C at 5 °C was achieved at 900 kV cm−1 for a PLZST AFE thick film.
A novel fluorescent amphiphilic glycopolymer based on a facile combination of isocyanate and glucosamine
Authors: Zhang Xiqi , Zhang Xiaoyong , Wang Ke , Liu Hongliang , Gu Zhen , Yang Yang , Wei Yen
Published: December 2014

A novel fluorescent amphiphilic glycopolymer was synthesized through radical polymerization and subsequent glycosylation with glucosamine, and self-assembled into nanoparticles for cell imaging.
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles enhance macrophage activation by LPS through a TLR4-dependent intracellular pathway
Authors: Bianchi Massimiliano G. , Allegri Manfredi , Costa Anna L. , Blosi Magda , Gardini Davide , Del Pivo Camilla , Prina-Mello Adriele , Di Cristo Luisana , Bussolati Ovidio , Bergamaschi Enrico
Published: December 2014

TiO2nanoparticles enhance LPS-dependent NO production and cytokine secretion through a mechanism that involves TLR4-mediated p38-signalling and requires phagocytosis.
Shared Storybook Reading – An Authentic Context for Developing Literacy, Language, and Communication Skills
Authors: Clendon Sally , Erickson Karen , van Rensburg Retha J. , Amm Jessamy
Published: December 2014

Shared storybook reading provides an authentic context for facilitating the literacy, language, and communication skills of children with complex communication needs who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). This paper discusses the research surrounding the effectiveness of shared storybook reading and provides suggestions on how to maximize the language and literacy outcomes for children who use AAC. The paper highlights how simple AAC technologies, aided language displays, and picture communication symbols can be used to support communication during shared storybook reading for beginning communicators. In addition, it outlines how systematic strategies can be implemented to extend the communication skills of children with access to comprehensive AAC systems. Finally, the paper discusses the need to select books for shared storybook reading that are appealing, engaging, and age-appropriate, and the importance of providing frequent opportunities for repeated readings.
Bullying in Children and Teenagers Who Stutter and the Relation to Self-Esteem, Social Acceptance, and Anxiety
Authors: Cook Susanne , Howell Peter
Published: December 2014

This study examined the relationship of bullying to self-esteem and anxiety in children and teenagers who stutter. Bullying in 59 children and teenagers who stutter was assessed using a newly-developed questionnaire, the Bullying Assessment. Additionally, the participants completed the Harter Self-Perception questionnaire, and an adapted version of the State-Trait-Anxiety Inventory. A significant correlation was found between bullying and the peer-related self-perception and state anxiety in a shop. The analysis was then repeated for two different age groups (children and teenagers) to assess whether or not there were differences over ages. For children, a relation between bullying and self-esteem was found, whereas for teenagers there was a relation between bullying and state anxiety. Clinical implications discuss strategies how to deal with bullying and highlight the importance of in-vivo-training and working on self-confidence.
Coping With Stuttering
Authors: Swartz Eric , Irani Farzan , Gabel Rodney
Published: December 2014

Purpose:

The purpose of this research was to gain a deeper understanding about coping strategies by adults who stutter (AWS).

Methods:

A mixed methods approach was used to gather responses from 61 participants in response to a questionnaire with forced choice and open-ended questions. Participants were recruited via speech-language pathologists who forwarded the questionnaire to present and past clients who stutter.

Results:

Successful coping with stuttering had a positive correlation with a lower stuttering severity. The following themes where indicative of successful coping with stuttering: (1) living your life with stuttering, (2) managing stuttering with no negative impact, and (3) positive effects and speech therapy and techniques on stuttering. Unsuccessful coping with stuttering was described as: (1) avoidance, (2) negative impact on life, (3) treatment did not work, and (4) coping is difficult.

Conclusions:

The findings from this study indicated that AWS with a lower severity of stuttering cope better with their stuttering. Qualitative responses provided insight into how AWS perceive successful and unsuccessful coping with stuttering and how that impacts their overall quality of life.
Orbital Roof Fractures: A Clinically Based Classification and Treatment Algorithm
Authors: Connon FelicityVictoria , Austin S. J. B. , Nastri A. L.
Published: December 2014

Orbital roof fractures are relatively uncommon in craniofacial surgery but present a management challenge due to their anatomy and potential associated injuries. Currently, neither a classification system nor treatment algorithm exists for orbital roof fractures, which this article aims to provide. This article provides a literature review and clinical experience of a tertiary trauma center in Australia. All cases admitted to the Royal Melbourne Hospital with orbital roof fractures between January 2011 and July 2013 were reviewed regarding patient characteristics, mechanism, imaging (computed tomography), and management. Forty-seven patients with orbital roof fractures were treated. Three of these were isolated cases. Forty were male and seven were female. Assault (14) and falls (13) were the most common causes of injury. Forty-two patients were treated conservatively and five had orbital roof repairs. On the basis of the literature and local experience, we propose a four-point system, with subcategories allowing for different fracture characteristics to impact management. Despite the infrequency of orbital roof fractures, their potential ophthalmological, neurological, and functional sequelae can carry a significant morbidity. As such, an algorithm for management of orbital roof fractures may help to ensure appropriate and successful management of these patients.
Quantitative characterization of arc discharge as vacuum interface
Authors: Huang S. , Zhu K. , Lu Y. R. , Wang S. Z. , Hershcovitch A. , Yang L. , Zhang X. Y.
Published: December 2014

An arc discharge with channel diameters of 3 mm and 6 mm and lengths between 30 mm and 60 mm was experimentally investigated for its potential to function as plasma window, i.e., interface vacuum regions of different pressures. Electron temperature of the plasma channel measured spectroscopically varied in the range of 7000 K to 15 000 K, increasing with discharge current while decreasing with gas flow rate. That plasma window had a slightly positive I-V characteristics over the whole range of investigated current 30 A–70 A. Measurements of pressure separation capability, which were determined by input current, gas flow rate, discharge channel diameter, and length, were well explained by viscosity effect and “thermal-block” effect. The experimental results of global parameters including temperature, gas flow rate, and voltage had a good agreement with the simulation results calculated by an axis-symmetry Fluent-based magneto-hydrodynamic model.
Solution pH change in non-uniform alternating current electric fields at frequencies above the electrode charging frequency
Authors: An Ran , Massa Katherine , Wipf David O. , Minerick Adrienne R.
Published: December 2014

AC Faradaic reactions have been reported as a mechanism inducing non-ideal phenomena such as flow reversal and cell deformation in electrokinetic microfluidic systems. Prior published work described experiments in parallel electrode arrays below the electrode charging frequency (fc), the frequency for electrical double layer charging at the electrode. However, 2D spatially non-uniform AC electric fields are required for applications such as in plane AC electroosmosis, AC electrothermal pumps, and dielectrophoresis. Many microscale experimental applications utilize AC frequencies around or above fc. In this work, a pH sensitive fluorescein sodium salt dye was used to detect [H+] as an indicator of Faradaic reactions in aqueous solutions within non-uniform AC electric fields. Comparison experiments with (a) parallel (2D uniform fields) electrodes and (b) organic media were employed to deduce the electrode charging mechanism at 5 kHz (1.5fc). Time dependency analysis illustrated that Faradaic reactions exist above the theoretically predicted electrode charging frequency. Spatial analysis showed [H+] varied spatially due to electric field non-uniformities and local pH changed at length scales greater than 50 μm away from the electrode surface. Thus, non-uniform AC fields yielded spatially varied pH gradients as a direct consequence of ion path length differences while uniform fields did not yield pH gradients; the latter is consistent with prior published data. Frequency dependence was examined from 5 kHz to 12 kHz at 5.5 Vpp potential, and voltage dependency was explored from 3.5 to 7.5 Vpp at 5 kHz. Results suggest that Faradaic reactions can still proceed within electrochemical systems in the absence of well-established electrical double layers. This work also illustrates that in microfluidic systems, spatial medium variations must be considered as a function of experiment time, initial medium conditions, electric signal potential, frequency, and spatial position.
Determination of plasma frequency, damping constant, and size distribution from the complex dielectric function of noble metal nanoparticles
Authors: Mendoza Herrera Luis J. , Arboleda David Muñetón , Schinca Daniel C. , Scaffardi Lucía B.
Published: December 2014

This paper develops a novel method for simultaneously determining the plasma frequency ωP   and the damping constant γfree in the bulk damped oscillator Drude model, based on experimentally measured real and imaginary parts of the metal refractive index in the IR wavelength range, lifting the usual approximation that restricts frequency values to the UV-deep UV region. Our method was applied to gold, silver, and copper, improving the relative uncertainties in the final values for ωp (0.5%–1.6%) and for γfree (3%–8%), which are smaller than those reported in the literature. These small uncertainties in ωp and γfree determination yield a much better fit of the experimental complex dielectric function. For the case of nanoparticles (Nps), a series expansion of the Drude expression (which includes ωp and γfree determined using our method) enables size-dependent dielectric function to be written as the sum of three terms: the experimental bulk dielectric function plus two size corrective terms, one for free electron, and the other for bound-electron contributions. Finally, size distribution of nanometric and subnanometric gold Nps in colloidal suspension was determined through fitting its experimental optical extinction spectrum using Mie theory based on the previously determined dielectric function. Results are compared with size histogram obtained from Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM).
A soft ferromagnetic multiwire-based inductance coil sensor for sensing applications
Authors: Devkota J. , Luong T. , Liu J. S. , Shen H. , Qin F. X. , Sun J. F. , Mukherjee P. , Srikanth H. , Phan M. H.
Published: December 2014

We present an effective approach to improve the sensitivity of inductance coil sensors by designing a sensor core that consists of multiple soft ferromagnetic microwires. A systematic study of the longitudinally excited magneto-inductive (LEMI) effect has been performed in a non-magnetic copper wire coil with a filler composed of multiple Co-rich amorphous microwires. Melt-extracted microwires of Co68.2Fe4.3B15Si12.5 and glass-coated microwires of Co68B15Si10Mn7 with excellent soft magnetic properties were used for this study. We have shown that the LEMI ratio and field sensitivity of an inductive coil depend strongly upon the filler-to-air ratio inside the coil, the magnetic softness, and the anisotropy axis distribution of the microwire. Relative to a single-microwire based sensor, the LEMI ratio and field sensitivity of a multi-microwire based sensor are enhanced by three to four times, when varying the number of microwires inside the inductive coil. The sensitivity of the sensor using four glass-coated Co68B15Si10Mn7 microwires in the core reaches a maximum value of 1957%/Oe. Our study paves a pathway for the development of novel room-temperature electric contact free magnetic sensors for use in industry, biomagnetism, space science, and geoscience.
Generation of pure spin currents via spin Seebeck effect in self-biased hexagonal ferrite thin films
Authors: Li Peng , Ellsworth David , Chang Houchen , Janantha Praveen , Richardson Daniel , Shah Faisal , Phillips Preston , Vijayasarathy Tarah , Wu Mingzhong
Published: December 2014

Light-induced generation of pure spin currents in a Pt(2.5 nm)/BaFe12O19(1.2 μm)/sapphire(0.5 mm) structure is reported. The BaFe12O19 film had strong in-plane uniaxial anisotropy and was therefore self-biased. Upon exposure to light, a temperature difference (ΔT) was established across the BaFe12O19 thickness that gave rise to a pure spin current in the Pt via the spin Seebeck effect. Via the inverse spin Hall effect, the spin current produced an electric voltage across one of the Pt lateral dimensions. The voltage varied with time in the same manner as ΔT and flipped its sign when the magnetization in BaFe12O19 was reversed.
Kinetics and genetic algorithm study of acid catalysed hydrolysis of water hyacinth biomass
Authors: Das S. , Bhattacharya A. , Ganguly A. , Gu Sai , Chatterjee P. K.
Published: December 2014

Industrialization has elevated our energy demand during the last century by many a folds, to deal with the rapid social growth. Non-renewable energy sources, like petroleum being the main source of energy, have become scarce due to their overuse and limited available reserve. Water hyacinth can be considered as a good source of lignocellulosic biomass. Cellulose and hemi-cellulose derived from water hyacinth via effective bioprocess can be converted to bioethanol. Production of liquid fuel from biomass can only be made economically viable and sustainable only if the de-polymerization of the recalcitrant hemi-cellulosic fraction of the biomass can be optimally utilized. The study aims to obtain an in-depth mechanistic understanding of the catalytic reaction involved in dilute sulphuric acid pre-treatment of water hyacinth biomass. Acid catalysed hemi-cellulose hydrolysis reaction kinetics in water hyacinth was studied based on a bi-phasic model. Arrhenius equation was used to study the kinetic modelling in a greater depth. A distinct relationship of soaking time of the biomass in the acid before hydrolysis on the activation energy and frequency factor was observed. A maximum xylose yield of 76.96% was predicted by the genetic algorithm based model for the optimum operating conditions; operating temperature (135.8 °C), concentration of sulphuric acid (5.6%), treatment time (17.45 min), and soaking time (3.99 h).
Optical antenna enhanced graphene photodetector
Authors: Chakraborty Chitraleema , Beams Ryan , Goodfellow Kenneth M. , Wicks G. W. , Novotny Lukas , Nick Vamivakas A.
Published: December 2014

We report on the integration of an individual, metal-based, plasmonic nano-antenna on a graphene photodetector. The device exhibits an electromagnetic resonance at a wavelength of 580 nm with well-defined polarization sensitivity. With no applied bias voltage, this antenna-coupled graphene photodetector features a responsivity of ∼17 nA/μW, which is four orders of magnitude higher than previously studied single antenna enhanced detectors. Finally, we measure a signal-to-noise ratio of ∼200 in a 1-Hz bandwidth, with an average photocurrent value of 1.2 nA.
In situ tuning and probing the ambipolar field effect on multiwall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Chen Li-Ying , Chang Chia-Seng
Published: December 2014

We report a method of fabricating ultra-clean and hysteresis-free multiwall carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNFETs) inside the ultra-high vacuum transmission electron microscope equipped with a movable gold tip as a local gate. By tailoring the shell structure of the nanotube and varying the drain-source voltage (Vds), we can tune the electronic characteristic of a multiwall CNFET in situ. We have also found that the Schottky barriers of a multiwall CNFET are generated within the nanotube, but not at the nanotube/electrode contacts, and the barrier height has been derived. We have subsequently demonstrated the ambipolar characteristics of the CNFET with concurrent high-resolution imaging and local gating.
Thermal and mechanical stability of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks polymorphs
Authors: Bouëssel du Bourg Lila , Ortiz Aurélie U. , Boutin Anne , Coudert François-Xavier
Published: December 2014

Theoretical studies on the experimental feasibility of hypothetical Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks (ZIFs) have focused so far on relative energy of various polymorphs by energy minimization at the quantum chemical level. We present here a systematic study of stability of 18 ZIFs as a function of temperature and pressure by molecular dynamics simulations. This approach allows us to better understand the limited stability of some experimental structures upon solvent or guest removal. We also find that many of the hypothetical ZIFs proposed in the literature are not stable at room temperature. Mechanical and thermal stability criteria thus need to be considered for the prediction of new MOF structures. Finally, we predict a variety of thermal expansion behavior for ZIFs as a function of framework topology, with some materials showing large negative volume thermal expansion.
Metasurface optical antireflection coating
Authors: Zhang Boyang , Hendrickson Joshua , Nader Nima , Chen Hou-Tong , Guo Junpeng
Published: December 2014

Light reflection at the boundary of two different media is one of the fundamental phenomena in optics, and reduction of reflection is highly desirable in many optical systems. Traditionally, optical antireflection has been accomplished using single- or multiple-layer dielectric films and graded index surface structures in various wavelength ranges. However, these approaches either impose strict requirements on the refractive index matching and film thickness, or involve complicated fabrication processes and non-planar surfaces that are challenging for device integration. Here, we demonstrate an antireflection coating strategy, both experimentally and numerically, by using metasurfaces with designer optical properties in the mid-wave infrared. Our results show that the metasurface antireflection is capable of eliminating reflection and enhancing transmission over a broad spectral band and a wide incidence angle range. The demonstrated antireflection technique has no requirement on the choice of materials and is scalable to other wavelengths.