bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of rutin by chemiluminescence based on a luminol–potassium periodate–ZnSe system
Authors: Li Shifeng , Zhang Li , Chen Lei , Zhong Yiman , Ni Yonghong
Published: April 2016

ZnSe QDs can induce chemiluminescence in a luminol–KIO4 system, which can then be suppressed by rutin. We designed a rapid and sensitive sensor based on this phenomenon for the determination of rutin.
Regioselective synthesis of 3,4-disubstituted isocoumarins through the Pd-catalyzed annulation of 2-iodoaromatic acids with ynamides
Authors: Liu Hongxu , Yang Yanyan , Wu Jie , Wang Xiao-Na , Chang Junbiao
Published: April 2016

A Pd(0)-catalyzed annulation of 2-iodoaromatic acids with ynamides is described for the efficient synthesis of 3,4-disubstituted isocoumarins with excellent regioselectivities.
Stabilisation of an amorphous form of ROY through a predicted co-former interaction
Authors: Corner Philip A. , Harburn J. Jonathan , Steed Jonathan W. , McCabe James F. , Berry David J.
Published: April 2016

The highly polymorphic compound ROY was the subject of a co-crystal screen. No co-crystals were found, but the study highlights the potential for future prediction of co-amorphous behaviours by determining an interaction between ROY and pyrogallol.
An analytical model of hydrogen evolution and oxidation reactions on electrodes partially covered with a catalyst
Authors: Kemppainen Erno , Halme Janne , Lund Peter D.
Published: April 2016

The overpotential of the HER/HOR on electrodes partially covered with a metallic catalyst is accurately described using an analytical 1D model.
Functionalization of mesoporous materials for lanthanide and actinide extraction
Authors: Florek Justyna , Giret Simon , Juère Estelle , Larivière Dominic , Kleitz Freddy
Published: April 2016

Recent advances in the field of functionalized mesoporous solid-phase sorbents designed for rare earth element and actinide separation/concentration could provide answers to limitations occurring in the industrial separation processes of these critical elements.
Potential antimicrobial and antiproliferative activities of autochthonous starter cultures and protease EPg222 in dry-fermented sausages
Authors: Fernández Margarita , Ruiz-Moyano Santiago , Benito María José , Martín Alberto , Hernández Alejandro , Córdoba María de Guía
Published: April 2016

This work studied the presence of nitrogen compounds with bioactive properties in Iberian pork sausages that were manufactured using different autochthonous starter cultures and protease EPg222.
Hierarchically porous monolithic silica with varying porosity using bis(trimethoxysilyl)arenes as precursors
Authors: von der Lehr Martin , Ellinghaus Rüdiger , Smarsly Bernd M.
Published: April 2016

Isomers of bis-(trimethoxysilyl)arenes were synthesized and used as organosilica precursors for the preparation of macro-mesoporous hybrid silica monoliths.
A highly stable and versatile heterobifunctional fluoroalkylation reagent for preparation of fluorinated organic compounds
Authors: Dai Jingwen , Li Zili , Wang Taisheng , Bai Ruke
Published: April 2016

A highly stable heterobifunctional fluoroalkylation reagent, 1-azido-2-chloro-1,1,2-trifluoro-2-iodoethane (ACTI) has been prepared and investigated systematically.
Aggregation enhanced excimer emission (AEEE) with efficient blue emission based on pyrene dendrimers
Authors: Abd-El-Aziz Alaa S. , Abdelghani Amani A. , Wagner Brian D. , Abdelrehim Elsayed M.
Published: April 2016

A series of fluorescent dendrimers with pyrene moieties exhibited aggregation enhanced excimer emission (AEEE). Increases in the dendrimer generation caused emission at 480 nm with a high excimer/monomer emission intensity ratio.
Visible light mediated aerobic radical C–H phosphorization toward arylphosphonates
Authors: Peng Pan , Peng Long , Wang Guangyu , Wang Fangyu , Luo Yi , Lei Aiwen
Published: April 2016

A visible light mediated radical C–H phosphorization of benzothiazoles with O2 as the sole oxidant toward the synthesis of arylphosphonates was developed.
Fabrication and characterization of flexible films of poly(vinylidene fluoride)/Pb(Fe0.5Ti0.5)O3−δ multi-ferroic nano-composite
Authors: Aggarwal Snehlata , K. S. Sreeja , Chakrabarti S. , Palkar V. R. , Bhattacharyya Arup R.
Published: April 2016

The ferroelectric, magnetic and magnetocapacitive measurements at room temperature corroborate the multiferroic nature of poly(vinylidene fluoride)–Pb(Fe0.5Ti0.5)O3−δ (PTFO) nanocomposite films with significant magnetodielectric coupling.
Synthesis and magnetooptic characterization of Cu-doped ZnO/MgO and ZnO/oleic acid core/shell nanoparticles
Authors: Mikulski J. , Sikora B. , Fronc K. , Aleshkevych P. , Kret S. , Suffczyński J. , Papierska J. , Kłopotowski Ł. , Kossut J.
Published: April 2016

The effect of Cu ion doping on the photoluminescence (PL) and magnetic behavior of ZnO/MgO and ZnO/oleic acid core/shell nanoparticles is investigated.
Investigation of biomarkers for discriminating breast cancer cell lines from normal mammary cell lines based on VOCs analysis and metabolomics
Authors: Huang Yanping , Li Yu , Luo Zewei , Duan Yixiang
Published: April 2016

The aim of this work is to investigate the volatile organic components of human breast cancer/normal cell lines for fingerprinting and exploring potential VOCs biomarkers for noninvasive diagnosis of breast cancer.
Facile electrosynthesis, characterisation and electrochemical performance of poly ortho aminophenol/Al5Y3O12 nanocomposite as a new high efficient supercapacitor
Authors: Torabian J. , Mahjani M. G. , Mohammad Shiri H. , Ehsani A. , Shabani Shayeh J.
Published: April 2016

In this paper, firstly Al5Y3O12 has been synthesized without any impurities using pulse electrochemical deposition and then fabricated POAP/YAG films to serve as the active electrode for the electrochemical supercapacitor.
Coil overlap in moderately concentrated polyelectrolyte solutions: effects of self-shielding as compared with salt-shielding as a function of chain length
Authors: Wolf Bernhard A.
Published: April 2016

Generalized intrinsic viscosity {η} of sodium polystyrene sulfonate as a function of polymer concentration in pure water and in saline solvents.
Metallophthalocyanine derivatives utilized as cathode interlayers for polymer solar cells: a practical approach to prepare a uniform film
Authors: Jia Tao , Han Jianxiong , Cheng Xiao , Zhou Weilong , Chen Youchun , Li Fenghong , Wang Yue
Published: April 2016

The cathode interlayer material, VOPc(OPyC6H13Br)8 can form a better, denser and more uniform film on the PTB7:PC71BM active layer.
A mesoporous aluminosilicate prepared by simply coating fibrous γ-AlOOH on the external surface of SBA-15 for catalytic hydrocarbon cracking
Authors: Shi Zongbo , Guan Yejun , Wu Peng , He Mingyuan
Published: April 2016

Coating fibrous γ-alumina stabilized the SBA-15 structure against collapse in steam, allowing for the facile synthesis of mesoporous aluminosilicate which showed excellent catalytic performance in the cracking of 1,3,5-triisopropyl benzene.
In situ small-angle X-ray scattering studies of sterically-stabilized diblock copolymer nanoparticles formed during polymerization-induced self-assembly in non-polar media
Authors: Derry Matthew J. , Fielding Lee A. , Warren Nicholas J. , Mable Charlotte J. , Smith Andrew J. , Mykhaylyk Oleksandr O. , Armes Steven P.
Published: April 2016

In situ SAXS studies reveal the evolution of copolymer morphology during the PISA synthesis of diblock copolymer nano-objects in mineral oil.
Beaded manganese oxide (Mn2O3) nanofibers: preparation and application for capacitive energy storage
Authors: Kolathodi Muhamed Shareef , Hanumantha Rao Samerender Nagam , Natarajan Tirupattur Srinivasan , Singh Gurpreet
Published: April 2016

Here, we report a surfactant-free electrospinning based method for the synthesis of beaded manganese oxide (Mn2O3) nanofibers and their application as supercapacitor electrodes.
Recent development in phosphors with different emitting colors via energy transfer
Authors: Li Kai , Shang Mengmeng , Lian Hongzhou , Lin Jun
Published: April 2016

A series of recent energy transfer phosphor systems with different and controllable emission colors have been summarized in this article.
Direct patterning of conductive carbon nanotube/polystyrene sulfonate composites via electrohydrodynamic jet printing for use in organic field-effect transistors
Authors: Jeong Yong Jin , Lee Xinlin , Bae Jaehyun , Jang Jaeyoung , Joo Sang Woo , Lim Sooman , Kim Se Hyun , Park Chan Eon
Published: April 2016

Conductive MWCNT/PSS composites have been directly patterned via electrohydrodynamic printing for application as source/drain electrodes in organic field-effect transistors.
Single p–n homojunction white light emitting diodes based on high-performance yellow luminescence of large-scale GaN microcubes
Authors: Lv Bingbing , Tang Yingwen , Lou Shiyun , Xu Yanling , Zhou Shaomin
Published: April 2016

Cubic phase (zinc-blende) GaN (referred to as c-GaN)-based phosphor-free white light emitting diodes (LEDs) can exhibit superior characteristics and ultrahigh efficiency compared with conventional hexagonal phase (wurtzite) GaN (referred as h-GaN)-based examples.
The Association Between Parental Mean Length of Utterance and Language Outcomes in Children With Disabilities: A Correlational Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sandbank Micheal , Yoder Paul
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this correlational meta-analysis was to examine the association between parental utterance length and language outcomes in children with disabilities and whether this association varies according to other child characteristics, such as age and disability type. This association can serve as a starting point for language intervention practices for children with disabilities.

Method

We conducted a systematic search of 42 electronic databases to identify relevant studies. Twelve studies reporting on a total of 13 populations (including 257 participants) were identified. A random-effects model was used to estimate a combined effect size across all studies as well as separate effect sizes across studies in each disability category.

Results

The combined effect size across all studies suggests a weak positive association between parental input length and child language outcomes. However, subgroup analyses within disability categories suggest that this association may differ for children with autism. Results of 4 studies including 47 children with autism show that parental input length is strongly associated with positive language outcomes in this population.

Conclusions

Present evidence suggests that clinicians should reconsider intervention practices that prescribe shorter, grammatically incomplete utterances, particularly when working with children with autism.
Appearances of pseudo-bosons from Black-Scholes equation
Authors: Bagarello F.
Published: April 2016

It is a well known fact that the Black-Scholes equation admits an alternative representation as a Schrödinger equation expressed in terms of a non-self-adjoint Hamiltonian. We show how pseudo-bosons, linear or not, naturally arise in this context, and how they can be used in the computation of the pricing kernel.
Electronic spectrum of 9-methylanthracenium radical cation
Authors: O’Connor Gerard D. , Sanelli Julian A. , Dryza Vik , Bieske Evan J. , Schmidt Timothy W.
Published: April 2016

The predissociation spectrum of the cold, argon-tagged, 9-methylanthracenium radical cation is reported from 8000 cm−1 to 44 500 cm−1. The reported spectrum contains bands corresponding to at least eight electronic transitions ranging from the near infrared to the ultraviolet. These electronic transitions are assigned through comparison with ab initio energies and intensities. The infrared D1←D0 transitions exhibit significant vibronic activity, which is assigned through comparison with TD-B3LYP excited state frequencies and intensities, as well as modelled vibronic interactions. Dissociation of 9-methylanthracenium is also observed at high visible-photon energies, resulting in the loss of either CH2 or CH3. The relevance of these spectra, and the spectra of other polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon radical cations, to the largely unassigned diffuse interstellar bands, is discussed.
DFT study of the effect of fluorine atoms on the crystal structure and semiconducting properties of poly(arylene-ethynylene) derivatives
Authors: Moral Mónica , García Gregorio , Garzón Andrés , Granadino-Roldán José M. , Fernández-Gómez Manuel
Published: April 2016

The effect of fluorine substitution on the molecular structure, crystal packing, and n-type semiconducting properties of a set of poly(arylene-ethynylene) polymers based on alternating thiadiazole and phenyl units linked through ethynylene groups has been studied by means of Density Functional Theory. As a result, an enlargement in the interplanar distance between cofacial polymer chains, as well as a decrease of the electronic coupling and electron mobility is predicted. On the other hand, fluorination could facilitate electron injection into the material. A polymer containing both alkoxy pendant chains and fluorine atoms is proposed as a compromise solution between efficiency of electron injection and charge transport within the material.
Regularized moment equations for binary gas mixtures: Derivation and linear analysis
Authors: Gupta Vinay Kumar , Struchtrup Henning , Torrilhon Manuel
Published: April 2016

The applicability of the order of magnitude method [H. Struchtrup, “Stable transport equations for rarefied gases at high orders in the Knudsen number,” Phys. Fluids 16, 3921–3934 (2004)] is extended to binary gas mixtures in order to derive various sets of equations—having minimum number of moments at a given order of accuracy in the Knudsen number—for binary mixtures of monatomic-inert-ideal gases interacting with the Maxwell interaction potential. For simplicity, the equations are derived in the linear regime up to third order accuracy in the Knudsen number. At zeroth order, the method produces the Euler equations; at first order, it results into the Fick, Navier–Stokes, and Fourier equations; at second order, it yields a set of 17 moment equations; and at third order, it leads to the regularized 17-moment equations. The transport coefficients in the Fick, Navier–Stokes, and Fourier equations obtained through order of magnitude method are compared with those obtained through the classical Chapman–Enskog expansion method. It is established that the different temperatures of different constituents do not play a role up to second order accurate theories in the Knudsen number, whereas they do contribute to third order accurate theory in the Knudsen number. Furthermore, it is found empirically that the zeroth, first, and second order accurate equations are linearly stable for all binary gas mixtures; however, although the third order accurate regularized 17-moment equations are linearly stable for most of the mixtures, they are linearly unstable for mixtures having extreme difference in molecular masses.
Revisiting the formation of cyclic clusters in liquid ethanol
Authors: Balanay Mannix P. , Kim Dong Hee , Fan Haiyan
Published: April 2016

The liquid phase of ethanol in pure and in non-polar solvents was studied at room temperature using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopies together with theoretical approach. The FT-IR spectra for pure ethanol and solution in cyclohexane at different dilution stages are consistent with 1H NMR results. The results from both methods were best explained by the results of the density functional theory based on a multimeric model. It is suggested that cyclic trimers and tetramers are dominated in the solution of cyclohexane/hexane with the concentration greater than 0.5M at room temperature. In liquid ethanol, while the primary components at room temperature are cyclic trimers and tetramers, there is a certain amount (∼14%) of open hydroxide group representing the existence of chain like structures in the equilibria. The cyclic cluster model in the liquid and concentrated solution phase (>0.5M) can be used to explain the anomalously lower freezing point of ethanol (159 K) than that of water (273 K) at ambient conditions. In addition, 1H NMR at various dilution stages reveals the dynamics for the formation of cyclic clusters.
Asymptotics of a horizontal liquid bridge
Authors: Haynes M. , O’Brien S. B. G. , Benilov E. S.
Published: April 2016

This paper uses asymptotic techniques to find the shape of a two dimensional liquid bridge suspended between two vertical walls. We model the equilibrium bridge shape using the Laplace–Young equation. We use the Bond number as a small parameter to deduce an asymptotic solution which is then compared with numerical solutions. The perturbation approach demonstrates that equilibrium is only possible if the contact angle lies within a hysteresis interval and the analysis relates the width of this interval to the Bond number. This result is verified by comparison with a global force balance. In addition, we examine the quasi-static evolution of such a two dimensional bridge.
Dynamics of hydrogenated amorphous silicon flexural resonators for enhanced performance
Authors: Mouro J. , Chu V. , Conde J. P.
Published: April 2016

Hydrogenated amorphous silicon thin-film flexural resonators with sub-micron actuation gaps are fabricated by surface micromachining on glass substrates. Experimentally, the resonators are electrostatically actuated and their motion is optically detected. Three different configurations for the electrostatic excitation force are used to study the dynamics of the resonators. In the first case, a dc voltage (Vdc) is added to an ac voltage with variable excitation frequency (Vac(ω)) and harmonic, superharmonic, and subharmonic resonances of different orders are observed. The second case consists on mixing the dc voltage (Vdc) with an ac voltage applied at a fixed frequency of twice the natural frequency of the resonator (V(2ω0)). High-amplitude parametric resonance is excited at the natural frequency of the system, ω0. This configuration allows a separation between the frequencies of the excitation and the mechanical motion. Finally, in the third case, the dc voltage (Vdc) is combined with both ac voltages, Vac(ω) and V(2ω0), and parametric resonance is excited and emerges from the fundamental harmonic resonance peak. The single-degree-of-freedom equation of motion is modeled and discussed for each case. The nonlinearity inherent to the electrostatic force is responsible for modulating the spring constant of the system at different frequencies, giving rise to parametric resonance. These equations of motion are simulated in the time and frequency domains, providing a consistent explanation of the experimentally observed phenomena. A wide variety of possible resonance modes with different characteristics can be used advantageously in MEMS device design.
Design and application of a fish-shaped lateral line probe for flow measurement
Authors: Tuhtan J. A. , Fuentes-Pérez J. F. , Strokina N. , Toming G. , Musall M. , Noack M. , Kämäräinen J. K. , Kruusmaa M.
Published: April 2016

We introduce the lateral line probe (LLP) as a measurement device for natural flows. Hydraulic surveys in rivers and hydraulic structures are currently based on time-averaged velocity measurements using propellers or acoustic Doppler devices. The long-term goal is thus to develop a sensor system, which includes spatial gradients of the flow field along a fish-shaped sensor body. Interpreting the biological relevance of a collection of point velocity measurements is complicated by the fact that fish and other aquatic vertebrates experience the flow field through highly dynamic fluid-body interactions. To collect body-centric flow data, a bioinspired fish-shaped probe is equipped with a lateral line pressure sensing array, which can be applied both in the laboratory and in the field. Our objective is to introduce a new type of measurement device for body-centric data and compare its output to estimates of conventional point-based technologies. We first provide the calibration workflow for laboratory investigations. We then provide a review of two velocity estimation workflows, independent of calibration. Such workflows are required as existing field investigations consist of measurements in environments where calibration is not feasible. The mean difference for uncalibrated LLP velocity estimates from 0 to 50 cm/s under in a closed flow tunnel and open channel flume was within 4 cm/s when compared to conventional measurement techniques. Finally, spatial flow maps in a scale vertical slot fishway are compared for the LLP, direct measurements, and 3D numerical models where it was found that the LLP provided a slight overestimation of the current velocity in the jet and underestimated the velocity in the recirculation zone.
A plasma photonic crystal bandgap device
Authors: Wang B. , Cappelli M. A.
Published: April 2016

A fully tunable plasma photonic crystal is used to control the propagation of free space electromagnetic waves in the S to X bands of the microwave spectrum. An array of discharge plasma tubes forms a simple square crystal structure with the individual plasma dielectric constant tuned through variation in the plasma density. We show, through simulations and experiments, that transverse electric mode bandgaps exist, arising from the positive and negative dielectric constant regimes of the plasma, and that the respective bandgap frequencies can be shifted through changing the dielectric constant by varying discharge current density.
Surface defect passivation of MoS2 by sulfur, selenium, and tellurium
Authors: Wang Ying , Qi Long , Shen Lei , Wu Yihong
Published: April 2016

Few-layer MoS2 field-effect transistors often show an n-type conduction behavior due to the presence of high-density sulfur vacancies. Here, we investigated the possibility of surface defect passivation of MoS2 by sulfur treatment in (NH4)2S solution or coating with an ultrathin layer of selenium or tellurium. It was found that all three elements investigated are able to induce a p-doping effect through suppressing the residual electron concentration by an amount exceeding 0.5 × 1012 cm−2 in few-layer MoS2. Among them, the sulfur-treatment exhibits the most superior thermal stability that survives thermal annealing at temperatures ≥120 °C for at least 10 h. Tellurium exhibits the strongest p-doping effect due to electron trapping by physisorption-induced gap states near the valence band edge. On the other hand, selenium is highly volatile on MoS2; it evaporates and desorbs easily due to Joule heating during electrical measurements in vacuum. The results of first-principles calculations support the experimental observations.
Theoretical investigation of carrier transfer by an optical contacting scheme for optoelectronic application
Authors: Yang Jianfeng , Ge Rongchun , Zhang Zhilong , Chen Weijian , Wang Bo , Feng Yu , Huang Shujuan , Shrestha Santosh , Patterson Robert , Conibeer Gavin
Published: April 2016

As a promising charge carrier transfer scheme, optical coupling could potentially improve the performance of an optoelectronic device for energy harvesting based on well developed nanotechnology. By extracting carriers optically, the functional features of the nano-structured material could be better used by minimizing the concerns about its electrical properties. In this paper, we present a rigorous electromagnetic model to analyze the optical carrier transfer problem. The flow of the energy is analyzed carefully by the photon transfer spectrum, and the photon emitters (electron-hole pairs) are assumed in a thermal equilibrium described by Bose-Einstein distribution. The result shows that an energy selective carrier transfer can be optically achieved at the device level by integrating the emitter and receiver into a nano-optical resonator, where both the photon emission and absorption are significantly amplified by a near-field coupling around the resonant frequency. General design and optimization schemes in practice are addressed by examining the influence of the photonic design and an energy dependent emissivity of the emitter, which can be used to develop the optical contacting concept further.
Enhanced plasmon radiative intensity from Ag nanoparticles coupled to a graphene sheet
Authors: Lu Ying-Wei , Hu Ying , Huang Chao , Cheng Sheng , Xu Chen-Xi , Luo Pai-Feng , Cheng Ji-Gui , Jiang Yang
Published: April 2016

A hybrid structure composed of Ag nanoparticles and graphene sheets has been synthesized by one-pot co-reduction process at room temperature. Compared to the isolated Ag nanoparticles, the presence of graphene enhanced the photoluminescence originating from the plasmon radiative decay of Ag nanoparticles as results of the charge injection and the near-field confinement resulting from the coupled graphene sheets.
Wave-induced seabed liquefaction around composite bucket foundations of offshore wind turbines during the sinking process
Authors: Zhang Jin-Feng , Zhang Xiao-Ning , Yu Cong
Published: April 2016

A 3D numerical model is established to simulate a wave-induced seabed dynamic response around composite bucket foundations and to consider the sinking processes that are due to negative pressures. The negative pressure has an influence on the pore-pressure of the seabed close to the foundation. The sinking velocity of the foundation has little influence on the wave-induced pore-water-pressure of the seabed. The liquefaction depth around the composite bucket wind turbine foundation decreased as a result of the negative pressure. The effects of the sinking process on seabed response weaken as the negative pressure dissipates.
Individual heteroatom identification with X-ray spectroscopy
Authors: Stroud R. M. , Lovejoy T. C. , Falke M. , Bassim N. D. , Corbin G. J. , Dellby N. , Hrncirik P. , Kaeppel A. , Noack M. , Hahn W. , Rohde M. , Krivanek O. L.
Published: April 2016

Individual heteroatoms in nanoscale materials often play a pivotal role in materials properties. To obtain maximum control over materials properties, researchers must be able to detect and identify diverse heteroatoms in samples with varying thickness and composition. Here, we demonstrate the identification of individual Si, S, P, and Ca heteroatoms in two-phase carbonaceous nanoscale mixtures with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy in a scanning transmission electron microscope. In order to fully demonstrate the robustness of the technique and the potential advantages over electron energy loss spectroscopy for single-atom speciation, no a priori constraint was placed on the sample thickness or types of heteroatom species. The various heteroatoms were identified with X-ray spectrum collection times ranging from 8 to 57 s, and normalized count rates of 0.096–0.007 counts s−1 pA−1. The lowest times/highest effective count rates were achieved by maximizing the effective dwell time on the atom, through minimizing the oversampling area of the electron beam raster.
Superharmonic resonances in a two-dimensional non-linear photonic-crystal nano-electro-mechanical oscillator
Authors: Chowdhury A. , Yeo I. , Tsvirkun V. , Raineri F. , Beaudoin G. , Sagnes I. , Raj R. , Robert-Philip I. , Braive R.
Published: April 2016

We investigate the non-linear mechanical dynamics of a nano-optomechanical mirror formed by a suspended membrane pierced by a photonic crystal. By applying to the mirror a periodic electrostatic force induced by interdigitated electrodes integrated below the membrane, we evidence superharmonic resonances of our nano-electro-mechanical system; the constant phase shift of the oscillator across the resonance tongues is observed on the onset of principal harmonic and subharmonic excitation regimes.
Magneto-optical polarization rotation in a ladder-type atomic system for tunable offset locking
Authors: Parniak Michał , Leszczyński Adam , Wasilewski Wojciech
Published: April 2016

We demonstrate an easily tunable locking scheme for stabilizing frequency-sum of two lasers on a two-photon ladder transition based on polarization rotation in warm rubidium vapors induced by magnetic field and circularly polarized drive field. Unprecedented tunability of the two-photon offset frequency is due to strong splitting and shifting of magnetic states in external field. In our experimental setup, we achieve two-photon detuning of up to 700 MHz.
Manipulation of terahertz waves by work function engineering in metal-graphite structures
Authors: Irfan Muhammad , Lee Soo Kyung , Yim Jong-Hyuk , Lee Yong Tak , Jho Young-Dahl
Published: April 2016

We manipulate the transient terahertz (THz) waves emitted from metal-graphite interfaces, where potential barriers were formed because of work function differences. To flip the phase of the THz waves, two distinct groups of metals were evaporated on n-type doped highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG): group A, which consisted of Pt, Au, and Ag with work functions larger than that of HOPG and group B, which consisted of Al and Ti with work functions smaller than that of HOPG. The phase of the transient THz lineshapes from group A was opposite to that of group B under infrared laser excitation, which is indicative of opposite band bending and concomitant interfacial doping for ambipolar transport at the metal-graphite junctions. The amplitude of the THz waves could also be manipulated by the work function differences and further quantified based on modified minority carrier mobilities at the depletion regions.
Unconventional Andreev reflection on the quasi-one-dimensional superconductor Nb2PdxSe5
Authors: Jiang Yeping , Zhang Xiaohang , Khim Seunghyun , Bhoi Dilip , Kim Kee Hoon , Greene Richard L. , Takeuchi Ichiro
Published: April 2016

We have carried out Andreev reflection measurements on point contact junctions between normal metal and single crystals of the quasi-one-dimensional (Q1D) superconductor Nb2PdxSe5 (Tc ∼ 5.5 K). The contacts of the junctions were made on either self-cleaved surfaces or crystal edges so that the current flow directions in the two types of junctions are different, and the measurements provide a directional probe for the order parameter of the superconductor. Junctions made in both configurations show typical resistances of ∼20-30 Ohms, and a clear double-gap Andreev reflection feature was consistently observed at low temperatures. Quantitative analysis of the conductance spectrum based on a modified Blonder-Tinkham-Klapwijk (BTK) model suggests that the amplitudes of two order parameters may have angular dependence in the a-c plane. Moreover, the gap to transition temperature ratio (Δ/TC) for the larger gap is substantially higher than the BCS ratio expected for phonon-mediated s-wave superconductors. We argue that the anisotropic superconducting order parameter and the extremely large gap to transition temperature ratio may be associated with an unconventional pairing mechanism in the inorganic Q1D superconductor.
A normally-closed piezoelectric micro-valve with flexible stopper
Authors: Chen Song , Lu Song , Liu Yong , Wang Jiantao , Tian Xiaochao , Liu Guojun , Yang Zhigang
Published: April 2016

In the field of controlled drug delivery system, there are still many problems on those reported micro-valves, such as the small opening height, unsatisfactory particle tolerance and high cost. To solve the above problems, a novel normally-closed piezoelectric micro-valve is presented in this paper. The micro-valve was driven by circular unimorph piezoelectric vibrator and natural rubber membrane with high elasticity was used as the valve stopper. The small axial displacement of piezoelectric vibrator can be converted into a large stroke of valve stopper based on hydraulic amplification mechanism. The experiment indicates that maximum hydraulic amplification ratio is up to 14, and the cut-off pressure of the micro-valve is 39kPa in the case of no working voltage. The presented micro valve has a large flow control range (ranging from 0 to 8.75mL/min).
Systematic conservation planning within a Fijian customary governance context
Authors: Wendt Hans K. , Weeks Rebecca , Comley James , Aalbersberg William
Published: April 2016

Although conservation planning research has influenced conservation actions globally in the last two decades, successful implementation of systematic conservation plans in regions where customary marine tenure exists has been minimal. In such regions, local community knowledge and understanding of socioeconomic realities may offer the best spatially explicit information for analysis, since required socioeconomic data are not available at scales relevant to conservation planning. Here we describe the process undertaken by the Kadavu Yaubula Management Support Team, a team of researchers from The University of the South Pacific and the local communities to assess whether systematic conservation planning tools can be effectively applied and useful in a customary governance context, using a case study from Fiji. Through a participatory approach and with the aim of meeting local-scale conservation and fisheries needs, a spatial conservation planning tool, Marxan with Zones, was used to reconfigure a collection of locally designed marine protected areas in the province of Kadavu in order to achieve broader objectives. At the local scale, the real value of such tools has been in the process of identifying and conceptualising management issues, working with communities to collate data through participatory techniques, and in engaging communities in management decision making. The output and use of the tool has been of secondary value. The outcome was invaluable for developing marine protected area network design approaches that combine traditional knowledge with ecological features in a manner appropriate to a Melanesian context.
Personality changes after the ‘year abroad’?
Authors: Tracy-Ventura Nicole , Dewaele Jean-Marc , Köylü Zeynep , McManus Kevin
Published: April 2016

This study utilizes a mixed-methods approach to investigate personality changes of British undergraduate students who spent their third year abroad in a French or Spanish-speaking country. Personality changes were measured quantitatively using the Multicultural Personality Questionnaire (MPQ, Van der Zee & Van Oudenhoven, 2000; 2001), administered twice: pre-departure and after returning to their home university. A reflective interview was also conducted at the end of their stay abroad and analysed qualitatively to investigate whether students noted any personality changes. The MPQ results demonstrate statistically significant changes over time on the Emotional Stability factor only. These results are supported by the reflective interviews as 77% of participants mentioned feeling more confident and independent after residence abroad. Based on these findings, residence abroad appears to be an example of a type of social investment with the potential to positively affect the emotional stability of university students undertaking the experience as temporary sojourners.
Phenotypes of gene disruptants in relation to a putative mitochondrial malate–citrate shuttle protein in citric acid-producing Aspergillus niger
Authors: Kirimura Kohtaro , Kobayashi Keiichi , Ueda Yuka , Hattori Takasumi
Published: April 2016

The mitochondrial citrate transport protein (CTP) functions as a malate–citrate shuttle catalyzing the exchange of citrate plus a proton for malate between mitochondria and cytosol across the inner mitochondrial membrane in higher eukaryotic organisms. In this study, for functional analysis, we cloned the gene encoding putative CTP (ctpA) of citric acid-producing Aspergillus niger WU-2223L. The gene ctpA encodes a polypeptide consisting 296 amino acids conserved active residues required for citrate transport function. Only in early-log phase, the ctpA disruptant DCTPA-1 showed growth delay, and the amount of citric acid produced by strain DCTPA-1 was smaller than that by parental strain WU-2223L. These results indicate that the CTPA affects growth and thereby citric acid metabolism of A. niger changes, especially in early-log phase, but not citric acid-producing period. This is the first report showing that disruption of ctpA causes changes of phenotypes in relation to citric acid production in A. niger.
VdThit, a Thiamine Transport Protein, Is Required for Pathogenicity of the Vascular Pathogen Verticillium dahliae
Authors: Qi Xiliang , Su Xiaofeng , Guo Huiming , Qi Juncang , Cheng Hongmei
Published: April 2016

Verticillium dahliae causes a serious wilt disease of important crops and is difficult to control. Few plasma-membrane transport proteins for nutrient acquisition have been identified for this fungus, and their involvement in the disease process is unknown. Here, a plasma-membrane protein, the V. dahliae thiamine transporter protein VdThit, was characterized functionally by deletion of the VdThit gene in V. dahliae. Disruption strains were viable, but growth and conidial germination and production were reduced and virulence was impaired. Interestingly, by supplementing exogenous thiamine, growth, conidiation, and virulence of the VdΔThit mutants were partially restored. Stress-tolerance assays showed that the VdΔThit mutant strains were markedly more susceptible to oxidative stress and UV damage. High-pressure liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses showed low levels of pyruvate metabolism intermediates acetoin and acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA) in the VdΔThit mutant strains, suggesting that pyruvate metabolism was suppressed. Expression analysis of VdThit confirmed the importance of VdThit in vegetative growth, reproduction, and invasive hyphal growth. Furthermore, a green fluorescent protein (GFP)-labeled VdΔThit mutant (VdΔThit-7-GFP) was suppressed in initial infection and root colonization, as viewed with light microscopy. Together, these results showed that VdThit plays an indispensable role in the pathogenicity of V. dahliae.
DCC: a Swiss army knife for structure factor analysis and validation
Authors: Yang Huanwang , Peisach Ezra , Westbrook John D. , Young Jasmine , Berman Helen M. , Burley Stephen K.
Published: April 2016

Since 2008, X-ray structure depositions to the Protein Data Bank archive (PDB) have required submission of experimental data in the form of structure factor files. RCSB PDB has developed the programDCCto allow worldwide PDB (wwPDB; http://wwpdb.org) biocurators, using a single command-line program, to invoke a number of third-party software packages to compare the model file with the experimental data.DCCfunctionality includes structure factor validation, electron-density map generation and slicing, local electron-density analysis, and residualBfactor analysis.DCCoutputs a summary containing various crystallographic statistics in PDBx/mmCIF format for use in automatic data processing and archiving pipelines.
Hummingbird: monitoring and analyzing flash X-ray imaging experiments in real time
Authors: Daurer Benedikt J. , Hantke Max F. , Nettelblad Carl , Maia Filipe R. N. C.
Published: April 2016

Advances in X-ray detectors and increases in the brightness of X-ray sources combined with more efficient sample delivery techniques have brought about tremendous increases in the speed of data collection in diffraction experiments. Using X-ray free-electron lasers such as the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS), more than 100 diffraction patterns can be collected in a second. These high data rates are invaluable for flash X-ray imaging (FXI), where aerosolized samples are exposed to the X-ray beam and the resulting diffraction patterns are used to reconstruct a three-dimensional image of the sample. Such experiments require immediate feedback on the quality of the data collected to adjust or validate experimental parameters, such as aerosol injector settings, beamline geometry or sample composition. The scarcity of available beamtime at the laser facilities makes any delay extremely costly. This paper presentsHummingbird, an open-source scalable Python-based software tool for real-time analysis of diffraction data with the purpose of giving users immediate feedback during their experiments.Hummingbirdprovides a fast, flexible and easy-to-use framework. It has already proven to be of great value in numerous FXI experiments at the LCLS.
Reconceptualizing the U.S. strategic food safety system
Authors: Wang Chao-shih "Jake" , Van Fleet David D.
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To introduce an innovative communicative platform to be constructed to facilitate food hazard communications as new policy initiatives shift the direction of food safety management from reaction to prevention..

Design/methodology/approach

Literature from economics and management is examined for concepts that would yield potential solutions to accomplish the purpose.

Findings

An innovative synthesis of four interrelated structural elements – resource, identity, standard, and knowledge (RISK) – is proposed as the framework for hazard communication.

Practical implications

Exchanges of food hazard knowledge and information among diverse stakeholders (consumers, suppliers, public agencies) in a complex environment requires an information architecture, a “knowledge warehouse,” that explicitly organizes interactive elements in social networks to facilitate knowledge communication among those stakeholders.

Originality/value

Drawing upon the management literature and merging it with concepts from economics yields unique perspectives, creating value and contributing to a more effective and efficient market-based food safety system.
Meta-analysis of U.S. intermediated food markets: Measuring what matters
Authors: Angelo Blake E. , Jablonski Becca B.R. , Thilmany Dawn
Published: April 2016

Purpose

A body of literature and case studies has developed as part of the reporting, outreach and evaluation of the local and regional food system projects supported by grants and other funders. Yet, there is concern that food value chains are promoted without adequately evaluating the viability of these businesses, or how these markets affect the performance and welfare of key stakeholders: farm vendors and local communities/economies.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews and summarizes a comprehensive set of U.S.-based case studies focused on food value chains. We conduct a meta-analysis to systematically capture what available case study evidence tells us about: 1) trends in the viability of food value chain businesses; 2) the impact of these businesses on participating farm vendors; and, 3) the associated community economic development outcomes (framed in terms of ‘wealth creation’).

Findings

In addition to sharing findings from the meta-analysis, we demonstrate how the lack of standardized protocols for case study development is a barrier to learning about metric comparisons, best practices, and what impacts these food value chain businesses may have. We conclude with some recommendations of how the field can move forward to evaluate and share lessons learned using more uniform, project-driven case study development.

Originality/value

This is the first study to conduct a systematic meta-analysis of U.S. food value chain businesses.
Culture matters: The influence of national culture on inclusion climate
Authors: Stoermer Sebastian , Hildisch Anna Katharina , Froese Fabian Jintae
Published: April 2016

Purpose

This paper develops a conceptual model in order to increase our understanding of the influence of national culture on the relationship between organizational diversity and inclusion management and inclusion climate.

Design/methodology/approach

Based upon a comprehensive review of diversity and inclusion management literature, we develop a conceptual model.

Findings

The model delineates how national culture influences the effectiveness of diversity and inclusion management practices in establishing an inclusion climate. In particular, we propose that low power distance, high collectivism, low uncertainty avoidance, low masculinity, high long-term orientation, and high indulgence cultures serve as a fertile context for creating an inclusion climate. Furthermore, we discuss how cultural tightness-looseness amplifies or attenuates the effects of national culture.

Research limitations/implications

The paper extends our understanding of the antecedents and boundary conditions of creating an inclusion climate. Future research could provide empirical evidence for the proposed relationships.

Practical implications

The model creates an awareness of the ease or difficulty of establishing an inclusion climate through diversity and inclusion management practices across cultures. Recommendations for developing inclusion climates in various cultural settings are provided.

Originality/value

Our multi-level model enhances our understanding of how the cultural context, i.e. national cultural values and cultural tightness-looseness, influences the emergence of an organizational inclusion climate which is further suggested to positively influence organizational innovation.
Opening up collaboration and partnership possibilities
Authors: Harp Ziegenfuss Donna , Furse Cynthia
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a unique case of a librarian–engineering faculty partnership grounded in a faculty development National Science Foundation (NSF) grant. Authors will describe processes, lessons learned, challenges and opportunities resulting from designing, implementing and evaluating a massive open online course (MOOC) focused on teaching faculty how to flip classes.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study presents a reflective review of the process of two unlikely collaborators who work together, write a grant, design faculty development training and develop and evaluate a MOOC. Decisions made, perspectives and lessons learned will be discussed.

Findings

The evolution of an NSF grant partnership involving an engineering faculty and librarian is presented. Larger issues, such as proactivity of librarians, non-traditional librarian roles and librarian versus academic identity, are raised and discussed.

Originality/value

This case study presents a unique type of librarian–faculty partnership, one where a librarian is a Co-PI on an NSF grant. Collaborator reflections on lessons learned, challenges and implications could be applicable to other digital/technology projects, online professional development initiatives and course design projects.
“Through the looking glass: envisioning new library technologies” social media trends that inform emerging technologies
Authors: Fernandez Peter
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore recent developments in a number of relatively well-established social media platforms – Google+, Facebook, Twitter and Yik Yak –to highlight the trends that are emerging within social media.

Design/methodology/approach

These trends have implications beyond just the social media space as a host of technologies take on social attributes.

Findings

Technologies such as video games, which previously functioned more or less as stand-alone pieces of software, are increasingly embracing many of the tools of social media platforms.

Practicalimplications

As a result, it is increasingly difficult to distinguish social technology from other communication technologies (Papacharissi, 2015).

Socialimplications

By examining trends in social media, we are able to not only better understand these important platforms but also acquire insight into developments that can affect a wide range of related technologies, all of which are of interest to information professionals.

Originality/value

Many of the examples the paper gave were drawn from the various social media platforms that mediate the personal and professional lives of their users.