bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct Free Carrier Photogeneration in Single Layer and Stacked Organic Photovoltaic Devices
Authors: Chandran Hrisheekesh Thachoth , Ng Tsz‐Wai , Foo Yishu , Li Ho‐Wa , Qing Jian , Liu Xiao‐Ke , Chan Chiu‐Yee , Wong Fu‐Lung , Zapien Juan Antonio , Tsang Sai‐Wing , Lo Ming‐Fai , Lee Chun‐Sing
Published: April 2017

High performance organic photovoltaic devices typically rely on type‐II P/N junctions for assisting exciton dissociation. Heremans and co‐workers recently reported a high efficiency device with a third organic layer which is spatially separated from the active P/N junction; but still contributes to the carrier generation by passing its energy to the P/N junction via a long‐range exciton energy transfer mechanism. In this study the authors show that there is an additional mechanism contributing to the high efficiency. Some bipolar materials (e.g., subnaphthalocyanine chloride (SubNc) and subphthalocyanine chloride (SubPc)) are observed to generate free carriers much more effectively than typical organic semiconductors upon photoexcitation. Single‐layer devices with SubNc or SubPc sandwiched between two electrodes can give power conversion efficiencies 30 times higher than those of reported single‐layer devices. In addition, internal quantum efficiencies (IQEs) of bilayer devices with opposite stacking sequences (i.e., SubNc/SubPc vs SubPc/SubNc) are found to be the sum of IQEs of single layer devices. These results confirm that SubNc and SubPc can directly generate free carriers upon photoexcitation without assistance from a P/N junction. These allow them to be stacked onto each other with reversible sequence or simply stacking onto another P/N junction and contribute to the photocarrier generation.
Amorphous TiO2 Shells: A Vital Elastic Buffering Layer on Silicon Nanoparticles for High‐Performance and Safe Lithium Storage
Authors: Yang Jianping , Wang Yunxiao , Li Wei , Wang Lianjun , Fan Yuchi , Jiang Wan , Luo Wei , Wang Yang , Kong Biao , Selomulya Cordelia , Liu Hua Kun , Dou Shi Xue , Zhao Dongyuan
Published: April 2017

Smart surface coatings of silicon (Si) nanoparticles are shown to be good examples for dramatically improving the cyclability of lithium‐ion batteries. Most coating materials, however, face significant challenges, including a low initial Coulombic efficiency, tedious processing, and safety assessment. In this study, a facile sol–gel strategy is demonstrated to synthesize commercial Si nanoparticles encapsulated by amorphous titanium oxide (TiO2), with core–shell structures, which show greatly superior electrochemical performance and high‐safety lithium storage. The amorphous TiO2 shell (≈3 nm) shows elastic behavior during lithium discharging and charging processes, maintaining high structural integrity. Interestingly, it is found that the amorphous TiO2 shells offer superior buffering properties compared to crystalline TiO2 layers for unprecedented cycling stability. Moreover, accelerating rate calorimetry testing reveals that the TiO2‐encapsulated Si nanoparticles are safer than conventional carbon‐coated Si‐based anodes.
Directional Construction of Vertical Nitrogen‐Doped 1T‐2H MoSe2/Graphene Shell/Core Nanoflake Arrays for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Deng Shengjue , Zhong Yu , Zeng Yinxiang , Wang Yadong , Yao Zhujun , Yang Fan , Lin Shiwei , Wang Xiuli , Lu Xihong , Xia Xinhui , Tu Jiangping
Published: April 2017

The low utilization of active sites and sluggish reaction kinetics of MoSe2 severely impede its commercial application as electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). To address these two issues, the first example of introducing 1T MoSe2 and N dopant into vertical 2H MoSe2/graphene shell/core nanoflake arrays that remarkably boost their HER activity is herein described. By means of the improved conductivity, rich catalytic active sites and highly accessible surface area as a result of the introduction of 1T MoSe2 and N doping as well as the unique structural features, the N‐doped 1T‐2H MoSe2/graphene (N‐MoSe2/VG) shell/core nanoflake arrays show substantially enhanced HER activity. Remarkably, the N‐MoSe2/VG nanoflakes exhibit a relatively low onset potential of 45 mV and overpotential of 98 mV (vs RHE) at 10 mA cm−2 with excellent long‐term stability (no decay after 20 000 cycles), outperforming most of the recently reported Mo‐based electrocatalysts. The success of improving the electrochemical performance via the introduction of 1T phase and N dopant offers new opportunities in the development of high‐performance MoSe2‐based electrodes for other energy‐related applications.
Synergistically Controlled Stemness and Multilineage Differentiation Capacity of Stem Cells on Multifunctional Biointerfaces
Authors: Wu Chih‐Yu , Liu Hui‐Yu , Huang Chao‐Wei , Yeh Shu‐Yun , Cheng Nai‐Chen , Ding Shih‐Torng , Chen Hsien‐Yeh
Published: April 2017

Demonstrations of defined and controlled stem cell culture or differentiation advance fundamental life science research and the possibility of curing diseases. Here, the multifunctional concept of using defined matrix/interface modifications to support cell culture is demonstrated to provide synergistic coupling of concurrently immobilized fibroblast growth factor 2 and chitosan, and the resulting cell culture matrix/interface enables the proliferation of spheroids of adipose stem cells with enhanced stemness and the capacity to (trans‐)differentiate into multiple cell lineages in the mesoderm, endoderm, and ectoderm. The modification and the coimmobilization are performed using a straightforward one‐step vapor‐based coating technology applicable to a wide range of cell culture materials. The coating technology raises the important prospect of designing a material interface that incorporates effective and sustainable factors to determine stem cell fate through the use of a facile multicomponent modification approach on culture substrates.
One‐Pot Three‐Component Synthesis of Alkylthio‐/Arylthio‐ Substituted Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine Derivatives via C(sp2)–H Functionalization
Authors: Zhu Wenhui , Ding Yingcai , Bian Zhaogang , Xie Ping , Xu Baojun , Tang Qiujie , Wu Wei , Zhou Aihua
Published: April 2017

Sulfenylation is an important transformation to generate C−S bonds in organic synthesis. Here, two three‐component synthetic protocols have been developed by using imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine, inorganic, odorless S8 and alcohols or arylboronic acids as reactants to make alkylthio‐/arylthio‐substituted imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine derivatives via C(sp2)–H functionalization. The reactions proceeded with high efficiency and broad functional group tolerance, affording the products regioselectively and in good yields.

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Modified Amino Acid‐Derived Phosphine‐Imine Ligands for Palladium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Arylation of Cyclic N‐Sulfonyl Imines
Authors: Zhou Bo , Li Kaizhi , Jiang Chunhui , Lu Yixin , Hayashi Tamio
Published: April 2017

A series of chiral phosphine‐imine ligands were synthesized starting with α‐amino acids and examined for palladium‐catalyzed asymmetric addition of arylboronic acids to cyclic N‐sulfonyl imines. High catalytic activities (up to 99% yield) and high enantioselectivities (up to 98% ee) were achieved for cyclic N‐sulfonyl aldimines and ketimines with five and six‐membered ring structures.

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Enriching CO2 Activation Sites on Graphitic Carbon Nitride with Simultaneous Introduction of Electron‐Transfer Promoters for Superior Photocatalytic CO2‐to‐Fuel Conversion
Authors: Sun Zhuxing , Wang Songcan , Li Qian , Lyu Miaoqiang , Butburee Teera , Luo Bin , Wang Haiqiang , Fischer Julia Melisande Theresa Agatha , Zhang Cheng , Wu Zhongbiao , Wang Lianzhou
Published: April 2017

Limited CO2 adsorption and inefficient charge transfer of graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) have been the two major obstacles for its application in photocatalytic CO2 reduction. In this work, a new type of carbon nitride photocatalyst (K‐incorporated amino‐rich carbon nitride, K‐AUCN) is designed and prepared by a facile posttreatment of urea‐polymerized g‐C3N4 (UCN) using KOH as a chemical activation agent. The resultant K‐AUCN has not only enriched intrinsic amino groups for superior CO2 adsorption, but also incorporated potassium and carbon defects as electron promoters for efficient photocatalytic reduction of CO2 in the presence of water vapor. Compared to UCN, the photocatalytic CO2 conversion performance on K‐AUCN is drastically promoted by five folds with 7.7‐time increase in CO2 adsorption. This work not only presents a simple design of low‐cost photocatalyst for CO2 reduction with enhanced performance, but shall also inspire more rational design of efficient catalysts for photocatalytic reduction of CO2 and other specific photocatalytic reactions.
Preparation and properties of polyvinylidene fluoride/tetra‐needle like‐zinc oxide whisker composites
Authors: Weng Ling , Ju Peihai , Zhang Xiaorui , Liu Lizhu
Published: April 2017

With the rapid development of the electronics industry, dielectric materials with a high‐dielectric constant are playing an increasingly important role in the performance of electronic devices. In this study, a composite that employed polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) as a matrix and four‐needle zinc oxide whisker (T‐ZnOw) for reinforcement was prepared by casting method. The microstructure and crystallization behavior of the PVDF/T‐ZnOw were analyzed by SEM, FT‐IR and XRD. Thermal stability and electrical properties of the composites, included the dielectric constant, dielectric loss and electrical breakdown strength, were tested. Analysis on microstructures indicated that the T‐ZnOw in composites were uniformly dispersed and some of the whisker's tips had penetrated through the surface of the composites because of the special four‐needle structure. Experimental results showed that the addition of T‐ZnOw significantly improved the thermal stability of the composites. Broadband dielectric spectroscopy test results showed that the dielectric properties and conductivity of the composites significantly improved with the increase in T‐ZnOw contents. The dielectric constant of the composites was 113 at 100 Hz when the T‐ZnOw content was 20% at weight content.
Engineering the Electronic Properties of Two‐Dimensional Transition Metal Dichalcogenides by Introducing Mirror Twin Boundaries
Authors: Komsa Hannu‐Pekka , Krasheninnikov Arkady V.
Published: April 2017

Grain boundaries in 2D materials can have marked influence on the material properties. The effects can be not only detrimental, but also beneficial in transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), so that controlling the density and type of the boundaries in these systems should be important for engineering their properties. However, this is often possibly only during the growth stage. Molybdenum and tungsten dichalcogenides feature a particular set of 60° mirror twin boundaries, which are reported to occur upon merging of the growing flakes, to appear during growth to accommodate for the nonstoichiometry of the sample, or to be produced a posteriori by electron irradiation or thermal annealing. Furthermore, different preparation conditions lead to different atomic structure of the boundary, which consequently exhibit different electronic properties. This has obviously garnered interest for the ability to control grain boundary types and densities. In this progress report, the recent experimental and theoretical work related to the characterization of mirror twin boundaries is reviewed. A consistent set of formation energies for the mirror twin boundaries is provided, which then allows a coherent picture on the formation mechanisms under different conditions to be drawn. Finally, the electronic structure of these boundaries is analyzed and their potential applications are discussed.
Fluid dynamic characterization of a laboratory scale rocked bag bioreactor
Authors: Marsh Douglas T. J. , Lye Gary J. , Micheletti Martina , Odeleye Akinlolu O. O. , Ducci Andrea , Osborne Matthew D.
Published: April 2017

Single‐use technology is being widely adopted for the manufacture of biotherapeutics and cell therapy products. Rocked single‐use bioreactors in particular have been commonly used, however, the hydrodynamics have rarely been characterized and are poorly understood. In this work, phase‐resolved Particle Image Velocimetry and high frequency visual fluid tracking were used to investigate the flow pattern and velocity characteristics for the first time. The studies were performed on an optically accessible mimic of a Sartorius 2L CultiBag at different conditions. Wave formation was observed and higher rocking speeds caused the fluid to move proportionately out of phase with respect to the platform. Dimensional comparisons of fluid velocities with conventional bioreactors suggest that similar fluid dynamics characteristics can be achieved between rocked and stirred configurations. These results provide a first insight into the fluid dynamics of a novel bioreactor type at relevant process conditions supporting the generation of scale translation laws. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical EngineersAIChE J, 63: 4177–4187, 2017
Direct measurement of droplet breakage in a pulsed disc and doughnut column
Authors: Zhou Hao , Jing Shan , Fang Qi , Li Shaowei , Lan Wenjie
Published: April 2017

The lack of experimental data for the droplet breakup has been one of the limitations for the application of population balance model (PBM). In this work, a high‐speed camera was used to directly measure the droplet breakup frequency and daughter size distribution in a pulsed disc and doughnut column. It was found from the captured video that multiple breakup events were more frequently observed than binary breakup. The multiple breakup was treated as an original breakup and several intermediate breakups to characterize the process quantitatively. The effects of pulsation intensity, dispersed phase flow rates, and the spatial locations were investigated in detail. Empirical correlations were finally established for both the breakup frequency function and the daughter droplet size distribution function and fitted well with the experimental data. The correlation equations were then used in a simplified PBM to calculate the droplet number density, which further proved the feasibility of the correlations. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 4188–4200, 2017
Expeditious modeling of vapor transport and reactions in polymeric materials
Authors: Sun Yunwei , Tong Charles , Harley Stephen J. , Glascoe Elizabeth A.
Published: April 2017

We present a methodology for approximating dynamic adsorption of vapor coupled with diffusion in polymeric materials. In previous publications, the dynamic adsorption was represented by ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and solved in concentration and parameter space. To accelerate the calculation, we have developed a statistical approximation method using computationally cheap surrogate models (e.g., algebraic polynomials) that replace the ODE solutions of adsorption and are coupled with the diffusion equations. Since the polynomial presentation of the adsorption term is obtained in a standard format prior to modeling coupled sorption‐diffusion, the adsorption operator can be expressed as input data in the transport code. Compared to conventional operator‐splitting methods, the polynomial approximation of adsorption offers better computational efficiency. The methodology is demonstrated and validated using a dynamic Langmuir adsorption model that is coupled to diffusion and absorption models and applied to a water vapor sorption‐diffusion process in polydimethylsiloxane polymers. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 4079–4089, 2017
Global hypomethylation is an independent prognostic factor in diffuse large B cell lymphoma
Authors: Wedge Eileen , Hansen Jakob Werner , Garde Christian , Asmar Fazila , Tholstrup Dorte , Kristensen Søren Sommer , Munch‐Petersen Helga D. , Ralfkiaer Elisabeth , Brown Peter , Grønbæk Kirsten , Kristensen Lasse Sommer
Published: April 2017

Global hypomethylation has been linked to disease progression in several cancers, but has not been reported for Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). This study aimed to assess global methylation in DLBCL and describe its prognostic value. Mean LINE1 methylation, a validated surrogate measure for global methylation, was measured in DNA from 67 tumor biopsies. Additionally, cell‐free circulating DNA (cfDNA) in plasma samples from 74 patients was tested to assess the feasibility of global hypomethylation as a biomarker in liquid biopsies. LINE1 methylation was assessed using a commercially available kit, based on pyrosequencing of PCR amplified bisulfite‐treated DNA. Global hypomethylation was detected in a subset of cases and was associated with poor overall survival in both tumor biopsies (P = .001) and cfDNA (P = .009). It was the strongest risk factor in multivariate analysis in both biopsies (HR: 10.65, CI: 2.03‐55.81, P = .005) and cfDNA (HR: 11.87, CI: 2.80‐50.20, P = .001), outperforming conventional clinical risk factors. Finally, hierarchical cluster analyses were performed for the cfDNA samples using previously published gene‐specific methylation data. This analysis shows that global hypomethylation co‐occurs with other epigenetic abnormalities, including DAPK1 promoter hypermethylation. In conclusion, we have shown that global hypomethylation is strongly associated with poor survival in DLBCL both when present in tumor biopsy DNA and when detected in plasma cfDNA, and has potential for clinical application as a prognostic biomarker.
The ecology of population dispersal: Modeling alternative basin‐plateau foraging strategies to explain the Numic expansion
Authors: Magargal Kate E. , Parker Ashley K. , Vernon Kenneth Blake , Rath Will , Codding Brian F.
Published: April 2017

Objectives

The expansion of Numic speaking populations into the Great Basin required individuals to adapt to a relatively unproductive landscape. Researchers have proposed numerous social and subsistence strategies to explain how and why these settlers were able to replace any established populations, including private property and intensive plant processing. Here we evaluate these hypotheses and propose a new strategy involving the use of landscape fire to increase resource encounter rates.

Methods

Implementing a novel, spatially explicit, multi‐scalar prey choice model, we examine how individual decisions approximating each alternative strategy (private property, anthropogenic fire, and intensive plant processing) would aggregate at the patch and band level to confer an overall benefit to this colonizing population. Analysis relies on experimental data reporting resource profitability and abundance, ecological data on the historic distribution of vegetation patches, and ethnohistoric data on the distribution of Numic bands.

Results

Model results show that while resource privatization and landscape fires produce a substantial advantage, intensified plant processing garners the greatest benefit. The relative benefits of alternative strategies vary significantly across ecological patches resulting in variation across ethnographic band ranges. Combined, a Numic strategy including all three alternatives would substantially increase subsistence yields.

Conclusions

The application of a strategy set that includes landscape fire, privatization and intensified processing of seeds and nuts, explains why the Numa were able to outcompete local populations. This approach provides a framework to help explain how individual decisions can result in such population replacement events throughout human history.
A case of cerebral tuberculoma mimicking neurocysticercosis
Authors: Yuzawa Hiroko , Hirose Yousuke , Kimura Tomonori , Kimura Sho , Sugawara Hisanori , Yanagisawa Asako , Toi Sono , Ohashi Takashi , Sadahiro Tomohito
Published: April 2017

Case

A 42‐year‐old Peruvian woman residing in Japan for 11 years with a family history of neurocysticercosis presented to our intensive care unit with fever and intense headache.

Computed tomography indicated multiple micronodular lesions in the brain parenchyma, and cerebral tuberculoma and neurocysticercosis were considered in the differential diagnosis. Neurocysticercosis was initially suspected, and oral praziquantel was initiated. However, because of a high adenosine deaminase level in the cerebrospinal fluid and positive peripheral blood interferon gamma release test result, cerebral tuberculoma was subsequently considered.

Outcome

Antituberculous drugs with steroids were initiated on day 10, after which the symptoms gradually resolved; the patient was discharged on day 29. Gadolinium‐contrast magnetic resonance imaging 8 months later showed reduced nodular shadows, confirming cerebral tuberculoma.

Conclusion

Immediate diagnosis and treatment are imperative for cerebral tuberculoma, a lethal infection. Considering the recent increases in immigration worldwide, increased cases of tuberculoma mimicking neurocysticercosis are expected.
Associative Covalent Relay: An Oxadiazolone Strategy for Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Primary Pyridinylamines
Authors: Yu Xiaolong , Chen Kehao , Wang Qi , Guo Shan , Zha Shanke , Zhu Jin
Published: April 2017

A relay formalism is proposed herein for categorizing the interplay among reactants, target product, and catalytic center in transition‐metal catalysis, an important factor that can dictate overall catalysis viability and efficiency. In this formalism, transition‐metal catalysis can proceed by dissociative relay, associative covalent relay, and associative dative relay modes. An intriguing associative covalent relay process operates in rhodium(III)‐catalyzed oxadiazolone‐directed alkenyl C−H coupling with alkynes and allows efficient access to primary pyridinylamines. Although the primary pyridinylamine synthesis mechanism is posteriori rationalized, the relay formalism formulated herein can provide an important mechanistic conceptual framework for future catalyst design and reaction development.
In‐Phase Ultra High‐Resolution In Vivo NMR
Authors: Fugariu Ioana , Bermel Wolfgang , Lane Daniel , Soong Ronald , Simpson Andre J.
Published: April 2017

Although current NMR techniques allow organisms to be studied in vivo, magnetic susceptibility distortions, which arise from inhomogeneous distributions of chemical moieties, prevent the acquisition of high‐resolution NMR spectra. Intermolecular single quantum coherence (iSQC) is a technique that breaks the sample's spatial isotropy to form long range dipolar couplings, which can be exploited to extract chemical shift information free of perturbations. While this approach holds vast potential, present practical limitations include radiation damping, relaxation losses, and non‐phase sensitive data. Herein, these drawbacks are addressed, and a new technique termed in‐phase iSQC (IP‐iSQC) is introduced. When applied to a living system, high‐resolution NMR spectra, nearly identical to a buffer extract, are obtained. The ability to look inside an organism and extract a high‐resolution metabolic profile is profound and should find applications in fields in which metabolism or in vivo processes are of interest.
Auto‐Tandem Catalysis with Frustrated Lewis Pairs for Reductive Etherification of Aldehydes and Ketones
Authors: Bakos Mária , Gyömöre Ádám , Domján Attila , Soós Tibor
Published: April 2017

Herein we report that a single frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) catalyst can promote the reductive etherification of aldehydes and ketones. The reaction does not require an exogenous acid catalyst, but the combined action of FLP on H2, R‐OH or H2O generates the required Brønsted acid in a reversible, “turn on” manner. The method is not only a complementary metal‐free reductive etherification, but also a niche procedure for ethers that would be either synthetically inconvenient or even intractable to access by alternative synthetic protocols.
Cyclic (Alkyl)(amino)carbenes (CAACs): Recent Developments
Authors: Melaimi Mohand , Jazzar Rodolphe , Soleilhavoup Michèle , Bertrand Guy
Published: April 2017

Discovered in 2005, cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbenes (CAACs) are among the most nucleophilic (σ donating) and also electrophilic (π‐accepting) stable carbenes known to date. These properties allow them to activate a variety of small molecules and enthalpically strong bonds, to stabilize highly reactive main‐group and transition‐metal diamagnetic and paramagnetic species, and to bind strongly to metal centers, which gives rise to very robust catalysts. The most important results published up to the end of 2013 are briefly summarized, while the majority of this Review focuses on findings reported within the last three years.
Fabrication of a sulfonated aramid‐graphene nanoplatelet composite paper and its performance as a supercapacitor electrode
Authors: Bose Saswata , Basu Sankhadeep , Das Arit , Rahman Mehabub , Drzal Lawrence T.
Published: April 2017

Sulfonated aramid (SA) fiber modified graphene nanoplatelet (GnP) paper was fabricated employing simple vacuum filtration technique. The SA macromolecules were noncovalently attached on the surface of GnP through π−π interactions. Robustness of the film was characterized via dynamic mechanical analysis study. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy was employed to investigate the extent of surface functionalization. The specific capacitance of 166 F/g was obtained for the sulfonated graphene nanoplatelet composite paper with 97% of specific capacitance retained after 1000 cycles establishing the cyclic stability of the said composite paper. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45099.
Ensemble forecasting of Corbicula fluminea worldwide distribution: Projections of the impact of climate change
Authors: Gama Mafalda , Crespo Daniel , Dolbeth Marina , Anastácio Pedro Manuel
Published: April 2017

Global biodiversity is at risk owing to climate change, and freshwater ecosystems are expected to suffer the most. In recent years niche‐based models (NBMs) have been used to predict species distribution and are an important tool for conservation and management of aquatic ecosystems. In this work, the current and future climatic suitability areas of the invasive species Corbicula fluminea, which has known adverse ecological and economic impacts, were investigated.

The species distribution modelling was based on nine algorithms in BIOMOD2, summarized in an ensemble forecasting approach. To model the species distribution, eight climatic parameters related to temperature and precipitation variables were considered. Three time frames (current, 2050 and 2070) were modelled using four increasing CO2 emission scenarios.

The performance of individual models was excellent according to the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and good to excellent according to true skill statistics (TSS). Annual mean temperature, minimum temperature of the coldest month and mean temperature of the coldest quarter were the most important variables predicting C. fluminea occurrence. Of the total continental area, 6.6% was predicted to be suitable for C. fluminea in current conditions.

In the future, suitable area will increase from the current value of 6.6% to values from 9.4% to 12.6%, according to the 2050 projections and up to 12.7% in 2070 in high emission scenarios.

Overall, the results indicate that climate change will favour the expansion of C. fluminea into new river basins, especially at higher latitudes, and that future climatic scenarios may double the suitable area for Corbicula fluminea.
“Applying anatomy to something I care about”: Authentic inquiry learning and student experiences of an inquiry project
Authors: Anstey Lauren M.
Published: April 2017

Despite advances to move anatomy education away from its didactic history, there is a continued need for students to contextualize their studies to make learning more meaningful. This article investigates authentic learning in the context of an inquiry‐based approach to learning human gross anatomy. Utilizing a case‐study design with three groups of students (n = 18) and their facilitators (n = 3), methods of classroom observations, interviews, and artifact collection were utilized to investigate students' experiences of learning through an inquiry project. Qualitative data analysis through open and selective coding produced common meaningful themes of group and student experiences. Overall results demonstrate how the project served as a unique learning experience where learners engaged in the opportunity to make sense of anatomy in context of their interests and wider interdisciplinary considerations through collaborative, group‐based investigation. Results were further considered in context of theoretical frameworks of inquiry‐based and authentic learning. Results from this study demonstrate how students can engage anatomical understandings to inquire and apply disciplinary considerations to their personal lives and the world around them. Anat Sci Educ 10: 538–548. © 2017 American Association of Anatomists.
Probing the Effect of Salinity and pH on Surface Interactions between Air Bubbles and Hydrophobic Solids: Implications for Colloidal Assembly at Air/Water Interfaces
Authors: Cui Xin , Shi Chen , Zhang Shuo , Xie Lei , Liu Jing , Jiang Dazhi , Zeng Hongbo
Published: April 2017

In this work, a bubble probe atomic force microscope (AFM) was employed to quantify the interactions between two air bubbles and between an air bubble and an octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS)‐hydrophobized mica under various aqueous conditions. The key parameters (e.g., surface potentials, decay length of hydrophobic attraction) were obtained by analyzing the measured forces through a theoretical model based on Reynolds lubrication theory and an augmented Young–Laplace equation by including effect of disjoining pressure. The bubble‐OTS hydrophobic attraction with a decay length of 1.0 nm was found to be independent of solution pH and salinity. These parameters were further used to predict the attachment of OTS‐hydrophobized particles onto the air/water interface, demonstrating that particle attachment driven by hydrophobic attraction could be facilitated by suppressing electrical double‐layer repulsion at low pH or high salinity condition. This facile methodology can be readily extended to quantify interactions of many other colloidal particles with gas/water and oil/water interfaces, with implications for colloidal assembly at different interfaces in many engineering applications.
Design and Implementation of The Plug&Play Enabled Flexible Modular Wireless Sensor and Actuator Network Platform
Authors: Mikhaylov Konstantin , Petäjäjärvi Juha
Published: April 2017

In this paper we address the problem of increasing the flexibility of the contemporary wireless sensor and actuator networks (WSANs) in regard to the design of the nodes. For this we propose the concept of a Plug&Play enabled modular WSAN node platform. According to our concept, the new WSAN nodes with desired functionalities can be built by stacking together the different hardware modules encapsulating power sources, processing units, wired and wireless transceivers, sensors and actuators, or even sets of these. Once a node is built, it automatically discovers and identifies all the connected hardware modules, obtains required software and tunes its own operation taking into account the node's structure, available resources and active applications. In this paper we first present the concept and then report the developed hardware and software architectures and the most critical mechanisms enabling implementation. Also we discuss the practical implementations and report the evaluation results for the prototyped solution. Our results show that the developed platform is much more feature and resource rich than the existing ones, which is achieved at a cost of increased consumption and size. We believe that the unique features of the proposed platform have the potential to drastically change the procedure of WSAN development, especially when it comes to experimenting and developing dynamic WSANs with a heterogeneous structure. In this respect the hardware identification and reconfiguration capabilities conceived in the platform can be utilized in full and may drastically increase the performance of WSANs, if combined with novel control and optimization schemes yet to be developed.
On The Modeling of Twin Rotor MIMO System Using Chirp Inputs as Test Signals
Authors: Paul Parthish Kumar , Jacob Jeevamma
Published: April 2017

This paper addresses the modeling problem for the twin rotor multi input multi output system. To develop experimental data, this popular commercial laboratory model of a helicopter from Feedback Instruments Ltd is excited with band limited chirp inputs. The conclusions drawn in this paper lead to four significant achievements: 1) derivation of a linear nominal model for Twin Rotor MIMO System, TRMS in short, from its equivalent nonlinear mathematical representation; 2) dynamic modeling of TRMS; 3) determination of non‐minimum phase dynamics; and 4) determination of linear operating region. The work considers systematic study of the system dynamics of TRMS and analytical treatment of its identified data leading to derivation of the RHP zero dynamics followed by pictorial illustrations indicating resonant modes associated with the plant. The method used in the present paper can be essentially used in modeling of 2 × 2 plants exhibiting non‐minimum phase dynamics and model uncertainties.
Greenhouse gases stabilizing winter atmosphere in the Indo‐Gangetic plains may increase aerosol loading
Authors: Fosu Boniface O. , Wang S.‐Y. Simon , Wang Sheng‐Hsiang , Gillies Robert R. , Zhao Lin
Published: April 2017

The concentration of aerosols along the Indo‐Gangetic Plains (IGP) and their adverse effects on human health and the environment are increasing, particularly in winter, when the IGP is prone to high anthropogenic aerosol loading (i.e. particulate matter – PM). In this study, three reanalysis datasets including the MERRA aerosol reanalysis were analyzed to characterize the relationship between winter atmospheric stability and aerosols. Due to the lack of long‐term aerosol observations, an empirical relationship between PM and the atmospheric temperature lapse rate was derived. It is shown that PM and stability have a strong relationship at the lower troposphere. Analyses of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) single‐forcing experiments indicate that the recent stabilization of the atmosphere in the IGP can be explained by both greenhouse gas (GHG) and aerosol forcings. Since a more stable atmosphere traps more PM, stabilization alone can increase aerosols even in the absence of changes in emission sources. Regional simulation with fixed anthropogenic aerosol loading also supports this finding. Thus, enhanced stabilization caused by both aerosols and GHG in the atmosphere can further increase winter aerosol loading in the IGP.
Changes in the ENSO–rainfall relationship in the Mediterranean California border region
Authors: Pavia Edgar G.
Published: April 2017

The El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO)–rainfall relationship in the Mediterranean California border region (MCBR) changed recently: considering 30‐year running periods (1951–1952 to 1980–1981, until 1986–1987 to 2015–2016) in four stations, ENSO–rainfall correlations (r), and mean precipitation (P) decreased almost simultaneously. Moreover, r and P appear related throughout the entire record: at the beginning and recently both seem lower than at an intermediate stage. Similar results are found for gridded precipitation data in the vicinity of the MCBR, suggesting that periods of recurrent dry seasons have been less related to ENSO than periods of numerous rainy seasons in this region during the last 65 years.
Inclusion of land use changes in long‐term regional climate simulations over East Asia
Authors: Zhao Deming , Wu Jian
Published: April 2017

Long‐term simulations with regional climate models (RCMs) show biases over East Asia that result partly from fix‐in‐time land use data (EX2001). Using four satellite‐based land use images (EX8901) from the past 30 years instead of default values, 34‐year integrations were performed to make comparisons (EX8901 minus EX2001) over East Asian land areas. The decreased albedo (−0.019) resulted in weakened upward short‐wave flux, contributing to positive surface radiative forcing (2.89 W m−2), which then induced enhanced sensible heat fluxes. The near‐surface wind speed was weakened (−0.15 m s−1) in relation to the increased roughness length (0.042 m) and weakened pressure gradient, and induced a decreased precipitation bias of 0.0095 mm day−1. The increased ground temperature and enhanced soil water content promoted strengthened sensible and latent heat fluxes, which induced a decreased surface air temperature bias (−0.24 °C). Results show that by including land use changes, model simulations can be improved.
Unifying pricing formula for several stochastic volatility models with jumps
Authors: Baustian Falko , Mrázek Milan , Pospíšil Jan , Sobotka Tomáš
Published: April 2017

In this paper, we introduce a unifying approach to option pricing under continuous‐time stochastic volatility models with jumps. For European style options, a new semi‐closed pricing formula is derived using the generalized complex Fourier transform of the corresponding partial integro‐differential equation. This approach is successfully applied to models with different volatility diffusion and jump processes. We also discuss how to price options with different payoff functions in a similar way.

In particular, we focus on a log‐normal and a log‐uniform jump diffusion stochastic volatility model, originally introduced by Bates and Yan and Hanson, respectively. The comparison of existing and newly proposed option pricing formulas with respect to time efficiency and precision is discussed. We also derive a representation of an option price under a new approximative fractional jump diffusion model that differs from the aforementioned models, especially for the out‐of‐the money contracts. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can explicit teaching of knowledge improve reading attainment? An evaluation of the Core Knowledge curriculum
Authors: See Beng Huat , Gorard Stephen , Siddiqui Nadia
Published: April 2017

In England, as elsewhere, there is a tension in primary schools between imparting knowledge and teaching basic skills like literacy and numeracy. State‐mandated programmes are generally concerned with structure and skills. However, a number of ministers and advisers across administrations have sought to expand the explicit teaching of world knowledge (culture, geography and science) as advocated by E. D. Hirsch in the Core Knowledge curriculum. This paper describes an independent evaluation of an adaptation of that approach, called the ‘Word and World Reading’ programme as used with children aged 7 to 9 in England, to assess its impact on wider literacy. Nine primary schools were randomised to receive the intervention from the start and another eight a year later. The outcomes, assessed by the Progress in English test in literacy after one year, showed no discernible effect overall (‘effect’ size −0.03), and a small improvement for those eligible for free school meals (+0.06). There was no school dropout, but the missing data for around 18% of 1628 pupils means the results must be treated with some caution. Observations suggest that the lack of clear benefits could be due to the poor quality of implementation in some schools or classes. Perhaps teachers as professionals do not respond well to prescriptive curricula. It is also possible that factual knowledge does not translate directly to improved literacy skills, at least not within one year. Teaching children facts alone in this way cannot be justified solely in terms of improved literacy. Even the scheme on which this intervention was based stressed the need for pupils to learn how to handle facts as well as to learn the facts themselves.
Dauerhafte Betonfahrbahndecken durch Verwendung unterschiedlicher Bindemittel in Ober‐ und Unterbeton
Authors: Müller Matthias , Ludwig Horst‐Michael , Schulte‐Schrepping Christoph , Breitenbücher Rolf
Published: April 2017

Die Eignung hüttensandhaltiger Zemente sowie von Steinkohlenflugaschen zur Vermeidung einer betonschädigenden Alkali‐Kieselsäure‐Reaktion (AKR) im Beton ist hinreichend bekannt. Im deutschen Betonstraßenbau werden entsprechende Bindemittel jedoch nur selten eingesetzt, da eine Verschlechterung des Frost‐Tausalz‐Widerstands des Betons erwartet wird, insbesondere bei hohen Klinkersubstitutionsraten. Die zweischichtige Bauweise von Fahrbahndecken bietet hier die Möglichkeit, Zemente mit erhöhtem Hüttensandanteil nur im Unterbeton einzusetzen, während im hochbelasteten, dünnen Oberbeton weiterhin klinkerreiche Zemente verwendet werden. So kann die Gefahr einer schädigenden AKR im Unterbeton vermindert werden, ohne den Frost‐Tausalz‐Widerstand der Fahrbahndecke zu beeinträchtigen. Diese Herangehensweise wird im aktuellen Regelwerk (TL Beton‐StB 07) allerdings noch ausgeschlossen. Für den Ober‐ und Unterbeton ist ein Zement der gleichen Art und Festigkeitsklasse zu verwenden. Weiterhin ist die Anrechnung von Steinkohlenflugasche auf den Wasserzementwert von Straßenbeton nicht zulässig. Im Rahmen eines Forschungsvorhabens sollten daher die notwendigen theoretischen sowie labortechnischen Kenntnisse gewonnen werden, um die Chancen und Risiken einer flexibleren Bindemittelanwendung im Betonstraßenbau einzuschätzen.
Characterization of a novel allergenic protein from the octocoral Scleronephthya gracillima (Kuekenthal) that corresponds to a new GFP‐like family named Akane
Authors: Kato Yuko , Jimbo Mitsuru , Sakakibara Youichi , Onizuka Reiko , Takahashi Tatsuya , Matsuhashi Sachiko , Mita Hajime , Amada Kei , Imahara Yukimitsu , Tanabe Kimiko , Toda Akihisa , Kamiya Hisao
Published: April 2017

Certain marine organisms have been known to cause allergic reactions among occupational fishermen. We have previously reported that bronchial asthma among the workers engaged in spiny lobster fishing in Japan was caused by octocorals such as Dendronephthya sp. and Scleronephthya gracillima (previously named Alcyonium gracillimum).

Now we have found another octocoral, Scleronephthya gracillima (Kuekenthal), which causes the allergic disease in fishermen. The octocoral was characterized as a new green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐like family. The new allergen has a molecular mass of 27 kDa in 1D and 2D SDS‐PAGE under reduced conditions. The 27 kDa component was determined to be an allergen by western blotting, ECL immune staining method and absorption of patient sera with the antigen. Furthermore, the combination of analysis with LC‐ESI‐MS/MS and MASCOT search in the NCBInr database concluded the 27 kDa component had the sequence YPADI/LPDYFK, and that the 22 kDa component had the sequence QSFPEGFSWER, which both matched a GFP‐like protein in Acropora aculeus and in Montastraea annularis. Further analysis by MALDI‐TOF/MS/MS and MASCOT search in the NCBInr database of all 27 kDa eight spot components from 2D SDS‐PAGE indicated that the sequence QSFPEGFSWER also matched as GFP‐like protein in Lobophyllia hemprichii and Scleractinia sp. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the new allergenic protein that corresponds to a new GFP‐like protein named Akane, and which has fluorescent emissions in the red and green part of the spectra at 628 nm and 508 nm, respectively.
Luminescence properties of Ce3+ in orthosilicate oxyapatite NaY9(SiO4)6O2
Authors: Xie Mubiao , Xie Wei , Zhu Guoxian , Pan Rongkai
Published: April 2017

Ce3+‐doped orthosilicate oxyapatite NaY9(SiO4)6O2 phosphors NaY9–x(SiO4)6O2:xCe3+ were prepared by a conventional high‐temperature solid‐state reaction method, and their spectroscopic characteristics were systematically investigated. The occupancies of Ce3+ ions at two different sites (Wyckoff 6 h and 4f sites) in NaY9(SiO4)6O2 were determined. The influence of doping concentration on the emission intensity of Ce3+ was investigated and the critical distance Rc was estimated in terms of the concentration quenching data.
A fine‐tuned composition of protein nanofibrils yields an upgraded functionality of displayed antibody binding domains
Authors: Schmuck Benjamin , Sandgren Mats , Härd Torleif
Published: April 2017

Elevated performance of instruments and electronic devices is frequently attained through miniaturization of the involved components, which increases the number of functional units in a given volume. Analogously, to conquer the limitations of materials used for the purification of monoclonal antibodies and for the sensitivity of immunoassays, the support for capturing antibodies requires miniaturization. A suitable scaffold for this purpose are cross‐β structured protein nanofibrils, as they offer a superior surface area over volume ratio and because manipulation can be implemented genetically. To display the antibody binding Z‐domain dimers (ZZ) along the surface of the fibrils and grant maximal accessibility to the functional units, the N‐terminal fragments of the fibrillating translation release factor Sup35 or ureidosuccinate transporter Ure2, both from Saccharomyces cerevisae, are simultaneously fibrillated with the chimeric‐proteins Sup35‐ZZ and ZZ‐Ure2, respectively. Optimization of the fibril composition yields a binding capacity of 1.8 mg antibody per mg fibril, which is a binding capacity that is almost 20‐fold higher, compared to the commercially available affinity medium gold standard, protein A sepharose. This study lifts the craft of nanofibril functionalization to the next level, and offers a universal framework to improve biomaterials that rely on the display of functional proteins or enzymes.
Biocatalytic virus capsid as nanovehicle for enzymatic activation of Tamoxifen in tumor cells
Authors: Tapia‐Moreno Alejandro , Juarez‐Moreno Karla , Gonzalez‐Davis Oscar , Cadena‐Nava Ruben D. , Vazquez‐Duhalt Rafael
Published: April 2017

Most of the drugs used in chemotherapy should be activated by a transformation catalyzed by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. In this work, bacteriophage P22 virus‐like particles (VLPs) containing CYP activity, immunologically inert and functionalized in order to be recognized by human cervix carcinoma cells and human breast adenocarcinoma cells were designed. The CYP was encapsulated inside the virus capsid obtained from the bacteriophage P22. CYP and coat protein were both heterologously expressed inE. coli. The VLPs with enzymatic activity were covered with polyethylene glycol that was functionalized in its distal end with folic acid in order to be recognized by folate receptors exhibited on tumor cells. The capacity of biocatalytic VLPs to be recognized and internalized into tumor cells is demonstrated. The VLP‐treated cells showed enhanced capacity for the transformation of the pro‐drug tamoxifen, which resulted in an increase of the cell sensitivity to this oncological drug. In this work, the potential use of biocatalytic VLPs vehicles as a delivery system of medical relevant enzymes is clearly demonstrated. In addition to cancer treatment, this technology also offers an interesting platform as nano‐bioreactors for intracellular delivery of enzymatic activity for other diseases originated by the lack of enzymatic activity.