bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sympatric morphological and genetic differentiation of the pearl oysterPinctada radiata(Bivalvia: Pterioida) in the northern Persian Gulf
Authors: Rajaei Moein , Farahmand Hamid , Poorbagher Hadi , Mortazavi Mohammad Sedigh , Farhadi Ahmad
Published: November 2014

The pearl oyster,Pinctada radiata, shows great variation in shell morphology throughout its distribution. This variation can be related to phenotypic plasticity, genetic variability or a combination of both. Using geometric morphometric and microsatellite DNA analyses, two morphologically distinct populations of the pearl oyster were studied in the northern Persian Gulf, i.e. from the Lavan and Hendourabi Islands. Ten landmarks were selected to define the shape of the left shell. In addition, concentration of Zn, Mg, Fe, Cu, Pb, Cd, Mn and Cr of the soft tissues were measured using atomic absorption spectrometry. Six microsatellite loci were used to assess the population genetic structure of the pearl oyster. There were morphometric differences between the populations suggesting the existence of two morphotypes. There was a significant difference between the two populations in concentrations of Fe, Mg, Zn, Cd, Mn and Cr indicating that the specimens from the Lavan Island experience a more stressful environment than those from the Hendourabi Island. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated that the proportion of the genetic variation attributed to differences among populations of the pearl oyster was highly significant for bothFSTandRST(FST = 0.066,RST = 0.265,P < 0.001). Our findings showed that stressful conditions resulting from heavy metals may have a direct influence on the separation of the populations in Lavan and Hendourabi despite the lack of a physical barrier.
Bubbles of Congruent Primes
Authors: THORNE FRANK
Published: November 2014

In [15], Shiu proved that ifaandqare arbitrary coprime integers, then there exist arbitrarily long strings of consecutive primes which are all congruent toamoduloq. We generalize Shiu's theorem to imaginary quadratic fields, where we prove the existence of “bubbles” containing arbitrarily many primes which are all, up to units, congruent toamoduloq.
A new Bayesian RAIM for Multiple Faults Detection and Exclusion in GNSS
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Gui Qingming
Published: November 2014

A new Bayesian approach for multiple satellite faults detection and exclusion is proposed by introducing a classification variable to each satellite observation. If we treat this classification variable as random and assume a prior distribution for it, then a rule for satellite fault detection and exclusion based on the posterior probabilities of the classification variables is constructed under the framework of Bayesian hypothesis testing. Secondly, the Gibbs sampler is introduced to compute the posterior probabilities of the classification variables. Then the implementation for a Bayesian Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring (RAIM) algorithm is designed with the Gibbs sampler. Finally, different schemes are designed to evaluate the performance of the new Bayesian RAIM algorithm in the case of multiple faults. We compare the method in this paper with the Range Consensus (RANCO) method. Experiments illustrate that the proposed algorithm in this paper is capable of detecting and eliminating multiple satellite faults, and the probability of correctly detecting faults is high.
ON THE NOTION OF PERMANENT AND TEMPORARY CAUSES: THE LEGACY OF RICARDO
Authors: Marcuzzo Maria Cristina
Published: November 2014

This paper considers the distinction made by David Ricardo between “permanent” and “temporary” causes, which he sometimes refers to also as “stable” and “accidental” causes (seeThe Works and Correspondence of David Ricardo [hereinafter Works]I: 86, 88, 92; VI: 154), to derive implications useful to distinguish his approach from subsequent developments of the notions of short-period and long-period equilibrium. In particular, I trace the change of focus in the concept of “permanent” forces brought about by Alfred Marshall—from whose insights Alfred Kahn and John Maynard Keynes drew inspiration for their short-period analysis—which paved the way to fundamental changes in the method and theory.

It is argued that Ricardo’s distinction maintains an heuristic value, in particular vis-à-vis the distinction between short and long period, which is part of the common language in standard economics.
Autophagy and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Leveque Lucie , Le Texier Laetitia , Lineburg Katie E , Hill Geoffrey R , MacDonald Kelli PA
Published: November 2014

Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) represents the only curative therapy for the majority of bone marrow‐derived cancers. Unfortunately, HSCT can result in serious complications such as graft‐versus‐host disease, graft failure and infection. In the last decade, there have been major advances in the understanding of the role of autophagy in many diseases and cellular processes. Recent findings have demonstrated a crucial role for autophagy in haematopoietic stem cell survival and function, antigen presentation, T‐cell differentiation and response to cytokine stimulation. Given the critical requirement for each of these processes in HSCT and subsequent complications, it is surprising that the contribution of autophagy to HSCT per se is relatively unexplored. In addition, the increasing use of autophagy‐modulating drugs in the clinic further highlights the need to understand the role of autophagy in allogeneic HSCT. This review will cover established and implicated roles of autophagy in HSCT, suggesting this pathway as an important therapeutic target for improving transplant outcomes.
Directly suspended droplet microextraction coupled with electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry for the speciation of chromium(iii)/chromium(vi)
Authors: Wen Shengping , Zhu Xiashi , Wu Xiaoyun , Qin Xingxiu
Published: November 2014

Directly suspended droplet microextraction coupled to electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry was sensitive and effective for the speciation of Cr(iii) and Cr(vi).
A label-free and sensitive fluorescent method for the detection of uracil-DNA glycosylase activity
Authors: Tao Jing , Song Panshu , Sato Yusuke , Nishizawa Seiichi , Teramae Norio , Tong Aijun , Xiang Yu
Published: November 2014

A label-free fluorescent method has been developed for sensitive detection of uracil-DNA glycosylase activity as well as UDG inhibitors.
Palladium/norbornene chemistry: an unexpected route to methanocarbazole derivatives via three Csp3–Csp2/Csp3–N/Csp2–N bond formations in a single synthetic sequence
Authors: Jafarpour Farnaz , Jalalimanesh Nafiseh , Teimouri Mahdieh , Shamsianpour Mitra
Published: November 2014

A simple route to obtain fused indolinesviaa palladium-catalyzed norbornene-mediated Heck reaction/C–H activation/double amination cascade is described.
Expanding the chemical diversity of lasso peptide MccJ25 with genetically encoded noncanonical amino acids
Authors: Piscotta Frank J. , Tharp Jeffery M. , Liu Wenshe R. , Link A. James
Published: November 2014

Non-canonical amino acids have been introduced to the lasso peptide microcin J25.
UV absorption probing of the conformer-dependent reactivity of a Criegee intermediate CH3CHOO
Authors: Sheps Leonid , Scully Ashley M. , Au Kendrew
Published: November 2014

Transient absorption probing of a Criegee intermediate acetaldehyde oxide reveals the UV spectra of the two possible conformers, syn- and anti-CH3CHOO, and enables direct measurements of conformer-dependent reactivity.
Interaction of a dinuclear fluorescent Cd(ii) complex of calix[4]arene conjugate with phosphates and its applicability in cell imaging
Authors: Sreenivasu Mummidivarapu V. V. , Hinge Vijaya Kumar , Rao Chebrolu Pulla
Published: November 2014

A structurally characterized dinuclear fluorescent Cd(ii) complex of calix[4]arene exhibits selective quenching only in the presence of phosphates among the twenty anions studied, and the quenching is highest in the case of H2PO4−.
CO tolerance of Pt and PtSn intermetallic electrocatalysts on synthetically modified reduced graphene oxide supports
Authors: Sims Christopher M. , Ponce Audaldo A. , Gaskell Karen J. , Eichhorn Bryan W.
Published: November 2014

Electrochemical studies demonstrated the ability to modify the catalytic activities of graphene supported Pt and PtSn nanoparticle electrocatalysts by altering the nature of the metal-support interactions.
Dispersion of titanate nanotubes for nanomedicine: comparison of PEI and PEG nanohybrids
Authors: Papa Anne-Laure , Boudon Julien , Bellat Vanessa , Loiseau Alexis , Bisht Harender , Sallem Fadoua , Chassagnon Rémi , Bérard Véronique , Millot Nadine
Published: November 2014

Titanate nanotubes represent a carrier of interest for drug, imaging agent or DNA delivery because of their (i) morphology, (ii) high specific surface area and (iii) tuneable surface, functionalized by PEG or PEI herein.
Remote control of SMM behaviour via DTE ligands
Authors: Cosquer Goulven , Breedlove Brian K. , Yamashita Masahiro
Published: November 2014

Herein the use of DTE ligands to remotely control the magnetic properties of single-molecule magnets is discussed.
Photocatalytic oxidation of organic compounds in a hybrid system composed of a molecular catalyst and visible light-absorbing semiconductor
Authors: Zhou Xu , Li Fei , Li Xiaona , Li Hua , Wang Yong , Sun Licheng
Published: November 2014

Photocatalytic oxidation of organic compounds was carried out in water using a molecular catalyst and semiconductor photosensitizer.
The Paal–Knorr reaction revisited. A catalyst and solvent-free synthesis of underivatized and N-substituted pyrroles
Authors: Cho Hyejin , Madden Richard , Nisanci Bilal , Török Béla
Published: November 2014

A catalyst and solvent-free room temperature synthesis of pyrroles is described.
Nitrogenated graphene and carbon nanomaterials by carbonization of polyfurfuryl alcohol in the presence of urea and dicyandiamide
Authors: Beckert M. , Menzel M. , Tölle F. J. , Bruchmann B. , Mülhaupt R.
Published: November 2014

Nitrogenated multilayer graphene is prepared from renewable feedstocks in a cost-efficient route to meet the emerging demand for graphene-based materials.
Novel β-carboline–quinazolinone hybrid as an inhibitor of Leishmania donovani trypanothione reductase: Synthesis, molecular docking and bioevaluation
Authors: Chauhan Shikha S. , Pandey Shashi , Shivahare Rahul , Ramalingam Karthik , Krishna Shagun , Vishwakarma Preeti , Siddiqi M. I. , Gupta Suman , Goyal Neena , Chauhan Prem M. S.
Published: November 2014

Novel β-carboline–quinazolinone hybrids are able to inhibit Leishmania donovani TR (LdTR). Molecular docking studies to investigate possible binding sites were performed.
Antibiofouling polymer interfaces: poly(ethylene glycol) and other promising candidates
Authors: Lowe Sean , O'Brien-Simpson Neil M. , Connal Luke A.
Published: November 2014

This review highlights antibiofouling polymer interfaces with emphasis on the latest developments using poly(ethylene glycol) and the design new polymeric structures.
Mechanistic insight into active chlorine species mediated electrochemical degradation of recalcitrant phenolic polymers
Authors: Sundarapandiyan S. , Renitha T. Shiny , Sridevi J. , Chandrasekaran B. , Saravanan P. , Raju G. Bhaskar
Published: November 2014

Degradation of recalcitrant phenolic syntan by electro-oxidation was investigated. The kinetics of mineralization of phenolic syntan was followed both in terms of TOC and COD measurements.
Copper inks formed using short carbon chain organic Cu-precursors
Authors: Yang Wen-dong , Liu Chun-yan , Zhang Zhi-ying , Liu Yun , Nie Shi-dong
Published: November 2014

Two kinds of copper ink were prepared using the short carbon chain organic Cu precursors formed during the preparation of the inks. The usual issues of low metallic loading and bad conductivity from long carbon chain Cu precursors were avoided.
Designing superhydrophobic surfaces with SAM modification on hierarchical ZIF-8/polymer hybrid membranes for efficient bioalcohol pervaporation
Authors: Li Jie , Wang Naixin , Yan Hao , Ji Shulan , Zhang Guojun
Published: November 2014

Inspired by the superhydrophobic surface of lotus leafs, ZIF-8/PDMS membranes with micro- and nanoscaled structures were modified by SAMs. The as-prepared hierarchical hybrid membranes exhibited excellent performance for bioalcohol pervaporation.
Peptide arrays for detecting naphthenic acids in oil sands process affected water
Authors: Kaur Kamaljit , Bhattacharjee Subir , Pillai Rajesh G. , Ahmed Sahar , Azmi Sarfuddin
Published: November 2014

Peptide arrays as sensors for naphthenic acids (NAs) detection in contaminated water samples.
Folate-mediated and doxorubicin-conjugated poly(ε-caprolactone)-g-chondroitin sulfate copolymers for enhanced intracellular drug delivery
Authors: Liu Yu-Sheng , Chen Hsuan-Ying , Yeh Jay-An , Wang Li-Fang
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study was to conjugate an anticancer drug, doxorubicin (DOX) and a folate targeting moiety, folic acid (FA), to self-assembled polycaprolactone (PCL)-graft-chondroitin sulfate (CS) copolymers for enhanced chemotherapy.
Localization and shaping of surface acoustic waves using PDMS posts: application for particle filtering and washing
Authors: Rambach Richard W. , Skowronek Viktor , Franke Thomas
Published: November 2014

This paper demonstrates a technique for controlling position and effective area of a surface acoustic wave (SAW) in a PDMS microchannel and for shaping SSAWs independently of the interdigitated transducer.
Fabrication of conducting polymer/noble metal composite nanorings and their enhanced catalytic properties
Authors: Yang Liu , Zhang Zhen , Nie Guangdi , Wang Ce , Lu Xiaofeng
Published: November 2014

We have described a soft-template method that allows the one-pot fabrication of ring-like conducting polymer/noble metal nanocomposites.
Fabrication of salt–hydrogel marbles and hollow-shell microcapsules by an aerosol gelation technique
Authors: Rutkevičius Marius , Mehl Georg H. , Petkov Jordan T. , Stoyanov Simeon D. , Paunov Vesselin N.
Published: November 2014

We discovered a way to make hydrogel marbles with hydrophilic particles by rolling gelled aerosol droplets in a bed of salt microcrystals which after sieving and drying of the hydrogel cores yielded hollow-shell salt microcapsules.
Alkylsilane-functionalized perylenediimide derivatives with differential gas sensing properties
Authors: Huang Yongwei , Zhang Weiguang , Zhai Haiyan , Li Chunli
Published: November 2014

It is shown that the sensing performance of perylene sensors can be modulated by alkylsilane chains on the bay regions.
A technique for determining the signs of sensitivities of steady states in chemical reaction networks
Authors: Sontag Eduardo D.
Published: November 2014

This paper studies the direction of change of steady states to parameter perturbations in chemical reaction networks, and, in particular, to changes in conserved quantities. Theoretical considerations lead to the formulation of a computational procedure that provides a set of possible signs of such sensitivities. The procedure is purely algebraic and combinatorial, only using information on stoichiometry, and is independent of the values of kinetic constants. Three examples of important intracellular signal transduction models are worked out as an illustration. In these examples, the set of signs found is minimal, but there is no general guarantee that the set found will always be minimal in other examples. The paper also briefly discusses the relationship of the sign problem to the question of uniqueness of steady states in stoichiometry classes.
Imaging Techniques for the Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and the Evaluation of Response to Treatment
Authors: Barr Daniel C. , Wald Christoph , Hussain Hero K.
Published: November 2014

Imaging plays a critical role in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In the USA, non-invasive imaging based diagnosis of HCC has largely replaced biopsy because of the high specificity and positive predictive value of imaging features for HCC. Because of the important role of imaging and the need to promote standardization of the management of HCC, several imaging-based algorithms for the diagnosis of HCC in at-risk patients have been developed.

Imaging also plays a vital role in the assessment of HCC response to locoregional therapies (LRT) such as ablative and endovascular therapies. Standard imaging response criteria of solid tumors that rely solely on change in tumor size for determination of therapeutic success are not applicable to HCC undergoing LRT. Therefore, several systems have been developed over the years to objectively evaluate HCC response to LRT.

In this review, we will describe major and ancillary imaging features of HCC, how these features are incorporated into the various imaging based algorithms, discuss the differences between algorithms, and address the emerging role of new imaging techniques and contrast agents in the diagnosis of HCC. We will also discuss the importance of assessment of HCC response to LRT, describe patterns of imaging response to the various therapies including newer volumetric and functional response measures, and examine and compare proposed response criteria of HCC to LRT.
Systemic Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: The Issue of Treatment Stage Migration and Registration of Progression Using the BCLC-Refined RECIST
Authors: Reig Maria , Darnell Anna , Forner Alejandro , Rimola Jordi , Ayuso Carmen , Bruix Jordi
Published: November 2014

Recent advancements have improved the management of patients with liver cancer. Results of studies have informed how to stage and decide the optimal treatment option for each patient with an adequate balance between risks and benefits. The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging and treatment strategy has been widely endorsed for this purpose. This is not a rigid system: One of the key aspects in the management of patients is the optimal timing for systemic treatment initiation and for declaring tumor progression and/or treatment failure. Some patients at intermediate or even early stage may be considered for systemic therapy as options of higher priority may have failed or may not be feasible. Sorafenib is the sole systemic agent that has shown efficacy in phase 3 trials. Other agents (sunitinib, brivanib, linifanib, everolimus, ramucirumab) have failed in terms of safety and/or survival benefit. Optimal sorafenib administration and adequate adherence of the patients are crucial requirements to obtain the benefits of the drug. Because development of adverse events has been shown to correlate with better outcome, careful dose adjustments should be in place while avoiding unnecessary treatment interruption. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that progression at imaging may not translate in poor prognosis and that treatment beyond progression may be considered if there is no option for a second-line research trial.

In this review, the authors examine all of the controversial aspects that affect treatment initiation and maintenance, how response to treatment should be evaluated, and define the needs that are faced by current research.
Cholangiocarcinoma: Molecular Pathways and Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Ilyas Sumera I , Borad Mitesh J. , Patel Tushar , Gores Gregory J.
Published: November 2014

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is an aggressive biliary tract malignancy with limited treatment options and low survival rates. Currently, there are no curative medical therapies for CCA. Recent advances have enhanced our understanding of the genetic basis of this disease, and elucidated therapeutically relevant targets. Therapeutic efforts in development are directed at several key pathways due to genetic aberrations including receptor tyrosine kinase pathways, mutant IDH enzymes, the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway, and chromatin remodeling networks. A highly desmoplastic, hypovascular stroma is characteristic of CCAs and recent work has highlighted the importance of targeting this pathway via stromal myofibroblast depletion. Future efforts should concentrate on combination therapies with action against the cancer cell and the surrounding tumor stroma. As the mutational landscape of CCA is being illuminated, molecular profiling of patient tumors will enable identification of specific mutations and the opportunity to offer directed, personalized treatment options.
Histological Changes in Nontumoral Liver Secondary to Radioembolization of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Yttrium 90-impregnated Microspheres: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Schwartz Myron , Kim Edward , Mabel Ko Huaibin , Ward Stephen C. , Fiel M. Isabel , Thung Swan N. , Dhingra Sadhna
Published: November 2014

Transarterial radioembolization (TARE) with yttrium-90 is a minimally invasive locoregional therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and involves selective delivery of glass or resin microspheres impregnated with radioactive yttrium-90 into small arteries preferentially supplying the tumor for tumoricidal effect thus sparing the nontumoral liver, or into lobar artery to induce atrophy and contralateral hypertrophy. Clinically, post-TARE a small proportion of cases develop radioembolization-induced liver disease. Histological changes of TARE on nontumoral liver parenchyma have not been well characterized. Herein, we report two cases of liver resections for HCC post-TARE, and describe the histological changes in nontumoral liver parenchyma.
Periodic subsystem density-functional theory
Authors: Genova Alessandro , Ceresoli Davide , Pavanello Michele
Published: November 2014

By partitioning the electron density into subsystem contributions, the Frozen Density Embedding (FDE) formulation of subsystem Density Functional Theory (DFT) has recently emerged as a powerful tool for reducing the computational scaling of Kohn–Sham DFT. To date, however, FDE has been employed to molecular systems only. Periodic systems, such as metals, semiconductors, and other crystalline solids have been outside the applicability of FDE, mostly because of the lack of a periodic FDE implementation. To fill this gap, in this work we aim at extending FDE to treat subsystems of molecular and periodic character. This goal is achieved by a dual approach. On one side, the development of a theoretical framework for periodic subsystem DFT. On the other, the realization of the method into a parallel computer code. We find that periodic FDE is capable of reproducing total electron densities and (to a lesser extent) also interaction energies of molecular systems weakly interacting with metallic surfaces. In the pilot calculations considered, we find that FDE fails in those cases where there is appreciable density overlap between the subsystems. Conversely, we find FDE to be in semiquantitative agreement with Kohn–Sham DFT when the inter-subsystem density overlap is low. We also conclude that to make FDE a suitable method for describing molecular adsorption at surfaces, kinetic energy density functionals that go beyond the GGA level must be employed.
Direct experimental determination of spectral densities of molecular complexes
Authors: Pachón Leonardo A. , Brumer Paul
Published: November 2014

Determining the spectral density of a molecular system immersed in a proteomic scaffold and in contact to a solvent is a fundamental challenge in the coarse-grained description of, e.g., electron and energy transfer dynamics. Once the spectral density is characterized, all the time scales are captured and no artificial separation between fast and slow processes need to be invoked. Based on the fluorescence Stokes shift function, we utilize a simple and robust strategy to extract the spectral density of a number of molecular complexes from available experimental data. Specifically, we show that experimental data for dye molecules in several solvents, amino acid proteins in water, and some photochemical systems (e.g., rhodopsin and green fluorescence proteins), are well described by a three-parameter family of sub-Ohmic spectral densities that are characterized by a fast initial Gaussian-like decay followed by a slow algebraic-like decay rate at long times.
Nanostructured surface enhanced Raman scattering sensor platform with integrated waveguide core
Authors: Pearce S. J. , Pollard M. E. , Oo S. Z. , Chen R. , Charlton M. D. B.
Published: November 2014

We present a planar waveguide based sensor capable of simultaneous surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)/surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensing methodologies. The sensor consists of a nanostructured area etched into a low loss planar waveguide fabricated from silicon oxynitride. The selective deposition of the 25 nm thick gold film on the nanostructured features was applied to create the SERS/SPR active sites. In this work, we adapt the SPR approach, coupling light propagating along the slab waveguide to the nano-textured area from underneath. The shapes of the nanostructures, thickness, and morphology of the gold coating are chosen to be suitable for SERS and SPR. Effects of geometric parameters associated with the nanostructured features such as diameters, length, and pitch were investigated. Detection of Benzyl Mercaptan was accomplished using a 785 nm laser in a SERS configuration excited from the underlying waveguide core. The detection of the analyte was confirmed by normal incident SERS measurements using an InVia Raman spectrometer. The surface enhanced Raman scattering signal from the 25 nm thick Au coated nanostructures provided a maximum intensity signal of 104. Using the same device in the SPR sensing arrangement provided a wavelength shift of 25 nm and an average signal to noise ratio of 10 dB to Benzyl Mercaptan. The fabricated sensor can easily be fabricated using nano imprinting into cheap polymer substrates and would provide disposable real-world remote sensing capabilities.
Exchange bias in polycrystalline magnetite films made by ion-beam assisted deposition
Authors: Kaur Maninder , Jiang Weilin , Qiang You , Burks Edward C. , Liu Kai , Namavar Fereydoon , McCloy John S.
Published: November 2014

Iron oxide films were produced using ion-beam-assisted deposition, and Raman spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction indicate single-phase magnetite. However, incorporation of significant fractions of argon in the films from ion bombardment is evident from chemical analysis, and Fe/O ratios are lower than expected from pure magnetite, suggesting greater than normal disorder. Low temperature magnetometry and first-order reversal curve measurements show strong exchange bias, which likely arises from defects at grain boundaries, possibly amorphous, creating frustrated spins. Since these samples contain grains ∼6 nm, a large fraction of the material consists of grain boundaries, where spins are highly disordered and reverse independently with external field.
Twinning effect on photoluminescence spectra of ZnSe nanowires
Authors: Xu Jing , Wang Chunrui , Wu Binhe , Xu Xiaofeng , Chen Xiaoshuang , Oh Hongseok , Baek Hyeonjun , Yi Gyu-Chul
Published: November 2014

Bandgap engineering in a single material along the axial length of nanowires may be realized by arranging periodic twinning, whose twin plane is vertical to the axial length of nanowires. In this paper, we report the effect of twin on photoluminescence of ZnSe nanowires, which refers to the bandgap of it. The exciton-related emission peaks of transverse twinning ZnSe nanowires manifest a 10-meV-blue-shift in comparison with those of longitudinal twinning ZnSe nanowires. The blue-shift is attributed to quantum confinement effect, which is influenced severely by the proportion of wurtzite ZnSe layers in ZnSe nanowires.
Fabrication and characterization of an undoped GaAs/AlGaAs quantum dot device
Authors: Li Hai-Ou , Cao Gang , Xiao Ming , You Jie , Wei Da , Tu Tao , Guo Guang-Can , Jiang Hong-Wen , Guo Guo-Ping
Published: November 2014

We demonstrate the development of a double quantum dot with an integrated charge sensor fabricated in undoped GaAs/AlGaAs heterostructures using a double top-gated design. Based on the evaluation of the integrated charge sensor, the double quantum dot can be tuned to a few-electron region. Additionally, the inter-dot coupling of the double quantum dot can be tuned to a large extent according to the voltage on the middle gate. The quantum dot is shown to be tunable from a single dot to a well-isolated double dot. To assess the stability of such design, the potential fluctuation induced by 1/f noise was measured. Based on the findings herein, the quantum dot design developed in the undoped GaAs/AlGaAs semiconductor shows potential for the future exploitation of nano-devices.
Finite-size scaling law of the Néel temperature in hematite nanostructures
Authors: Li Le , Li Fa-gen , Wang Jun , Zhao Guo-meng
Published: November 2014

We report high-temperature magnetic properties of single-crystalline hematite (α-Fe2O3) nanostructures with different shapes. Magnetic measurements under a high vacuum (<9.5 × 10−6 Torr) up to 920 K were used to characterize thermal stability of the nanostructures. The onset temperature of the α-Fe2O3 to Fe3O4 phase transformation and the transformed fraction were found to depend strongly on the shape of the nanostructure. The data demonstrate that the phase transformation mainly occurs at the (001) surfaces. The high thermal stability of the nanoring and nanotube samples allows us to accurately measure their Néel temperatures. The Néel temperatures of the nanoring and nanotube samples were found to decrease with decreasing the mean wall-thickness of the nanoring/nanotube assembly. The data confirm the two-dimensional finite-size scaling law for the Néel temperature.
Structure, bonding, and passivation of single carbon-related oxide hole traps near 4H-SiC/SiO2 interfaces
Authors: Ettisserry D. P. , Goldsman N. , Akturk A. , Lelis A. J.
Published: November 2014

Single carbon interstitial in silicon dioxide, existing in carboxyl configuration, is shown to act as a border hole trap near 4H-SiC/SiO2 interface. Using density functional theory-based formation energy considerations, it is found to switch charge state between +2 and neutral as the 4H-SiC Fermi level sweeps its charge transition level located 1.4 eV above 4H-SiC valence band edge. Thus, carboxyl defect is predicted to be a potential candidate for threshold voltage instability in 4H-SiC MOSFETs. Post oxidation annealing of the interface with nitric oxide is shown to remove carboxyl defects. However, treating the defect in H2 creates a hole trap level at 1.1 eV above 4H-SiC valence band edge similar to the original carboxyl defect. The stability of carboxyl and H2 treated carboxyl defects in their doubly positive state is explained on the basis of their structural and bonding transformations during hole capture. These include puckering and back-bonding of silicon with lattice oxygen as in the well-known oxygen vacancy (E′ center) hole traps and an increase in the bond order between carboxyl carbon and oxygen.
Morphology and magnetic flux distribution in superparamagnetic, single-crystalline Fe3O4 nanoparticle rings
Authors: Takeno Yumu , Murakami Yasukazu , Sato Takeshi , Tanigaki Toshiaki , Park Hyun Soon , Shindo Daisuke , Ferguson R. Matthew , Krishnan Kannan M.
Published: November 2014

This study reports on the correlation between crystal orientation and magnetic flux distribution of Fe3O4 nanoparticles in the form of self-assembled rings. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy demonstrated that the nanoparticles were single-crystalline, highly monodispersed, (25 nm average diameter), and showed no appreciable lattice imperfections such as twins or stacking faults. Electron holography studies of these superparamagnetic nanoparticle rings indicated significant fluctuations in the magnetic flux lines, consistent with variations in the magnetocrystalline anisotropy of the nanoparticles. The observations provide useful information for a deeper understanding of the micromagnetics of ultrasmall nanoparticles, where the magnetic dipolar interaction competes with the magnetic anisotropy.
Effect of exciton oscillator strength on upconversion photoluminescence in GaAs/AlAs multiple quantum wells
Authors: Kojima Osamu , Okumura Shouhei , Kita Takashi , Akahane Kouichi
Published: November 2014

We report upconversion photoluminescence (UCPL) in GaAs/AlAs multiple quantum wells. UCPL from the AlAs barrier is caused by the resonant excitation of the excitons in the GaAs well. When the quantum well has sufficient miniband width, UCPL is hardly observed because of the small exciton oscillator strength. The excitation-energy and excitation-density dependences of UCPL intensity show the exciton resonant profile and a linear increase, respectively. These results demonstrate that the observed UCPL caused by the saturated two-step excitation process requires a large number of excitons.
Healthcare-associated infections in Australia: time for national surveillance
Authors: Russo Philip L. , Cheng Allen C. , Richards Michael , Graves Nicholas , Hall Lisa
Published: November 2014

Objective
Healthcare-associated infection (HAI) surveillance programs are critical for infection prevention. Australia does not have a comprehensive national HAI surveillance program. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of established international and Australian statewide HAI surveillance programs and recommend a pathway for the development of a national HAI surveillance program in Australia.

Methods
This study examined existing HAI surveillance programs through a literature review, a review of HAI surveillance program documentation, such as websites, surveillance manuals and data reports and direct contact with program representatives.

Results
Evidence from international programs demonstrates national HAI surveillance reduces the incidence of HAIs. However, the current status of HAI surveillance activity in Australian states is disparate, variation between programs is not well understood, and the quality of data currently used to compose national HAI rates is uncertain.

Conclusions
There is a need to develop a well-structured, evidence-based national HAI program in Australia to meet the increasing demand for validated reliable national HAI data. Such a program could be leveraged off the work of existing Australian and international programs.

What is known about the topic?
There is a large volume of literature demonstrating the effectiveness of national HAI surveillance programs in reducing the incidence of HAIs. Although some of the larger states of Australia have individual programs, a formalised national program does not exist. A well structured national HAI program in Australia would improve the understanding of the epidemiology of HAIs in Australia and provide high quality data for performance monitoring and ensuring that HAI prevention interventions are targeted appropriately.

What does this paper add?
This paper reviews well established international HAI surveillance programs and highlights the benefits and limitations of these programs, and identifies the gaps that currently exist in Australia. The paper then maps out a pathway towards the development of a national program.

What are the implications for practitioners?
This paper will act as a guide for future research and policy activities required for the establishment of a national HAI surveillance program in Australia.
Co-payments for health care: what is their real cost?
Authors: Laba Tracey-Lea , Usherwood Tim , Leeder Stephen , Yusuf Farhat , Gillespie James , Perkovic Vlado , Wilson Andrew , Jan Stephen , Essue Beverley
Published: November 2014

Based on the premise that current trends in healthcare spending are unsustainable, the Australian Government has proposed in the recent Budget the introduction of a compulsory $7 co-payment to visit a General Practitioner (GP), alongside increased medication copayments. This paper is based on a recent submission to the Senate Inquiry into the impact of out-of-pocket costs in Australia. It is based on a growing body of evidence highlighting the substantial economic burden faced by individuals and families as a result of out-of-pocket costs for health care and their flow-on effects on healthcare access, outcomes and long-term healthcare costs. It is argued that a compulsory minimum co-payment for GP consultations will exacerbate these burdens and significantly undermine the tenets of universal access in Medicare. Alternative recommendations are provided that may help harness unsustainable health spending while promoting an equitable and fair health system.
Hydrothermal Syntheses, Crystal Structures, and Luminescent Properties of Two MnII Coordination Polymers: From Two-Fold Interpenetrated pcu Topological Net to Polycatenated 2D+2D→3D Framework
Authors: Liu Wenlong , Wu Mengqiang , Wang Xueying , Wang Wei , Liu Dayu , Wang Bing
Published: November 2014

Using a hydrothermal synthesis, the self-assembly of MnII ions and 1,4-bis(1-imidazol-yl)-2,5-dimethyl benzene with two dicarboxylate ligands, 2-nitrobenzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid (2-H2ata) and 5-methylbenzene-1,3-dicarboxylic acid (5-CH3-H2ip) constructed two interesting coordination polymers: [Mn(2-ata)(bimb)]n (1) and {[Mn(5-CH3-ip)(bimb)1.5]·2H2O}n (2), where bimb refers to 1,4-bis(1-imidazol-yl)-2,5-dimethyl benzene. Their structures were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, and infrared spectroscopy. Complex 1 exhibits a 2-fold interpenetrated pcu net. Complex 2 shows an unusual polycatenated 2D+2D→3D framework. In addition, the solid-state photoluminescent properties of 1 and 2 were investigated at room temperature.
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of a Series of Ag/ZnO Nanocomposites and Evaluation of Their Photocatalytic Activities under Multi-Mode Photodegradation
Authors: Li Li , Huang Xiandan , Gao Yu , Zhang Wenzhi , Zhang Xiuli , Chen Xi
Published: November 2014

A series of Ag/ZnO nanocomposites were prepared under microwave irradiation of different powers (100, 200, and 300 W). The crystal structure, morphology, and surface physicochemical properties of the as-synthesized samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and nitrogen adsorption–desorption analyses. Compared with the Ag/ZnO prepared by conventional sedimentation process, the crystal structures of Ag and ZnO did not exhibit any transformation after microwave irradiation; however, slight increases or decreases were observed in their absorption spectra and the specific surface areas. Moreover, the morphologies of all Ag/ZnO samples were changed dramatically by microwave irradiation, showing morphologies such as octagonal nano-pyramidal and multi-angled nano-pyramidal. The multi-mode photocatalytic degradation studies showed that the photocatalytic activities of the Ag/ZnO nanocomposites prepared under microwave irradiation of different powers were enhanced to different extents and were much higher than that of P25, ZnO, and Ag/ZnO prepared in the absence of microwave irradiation.
Investigation of the Rotational Isomerism of Quinapril and Quinaprilat by UPLC–DAD and Elucidation of the Conformational Equilibrium by NMR
Authors: Dendeni Maha , Cimetiere Nicolas , Soutrel Isabelle , Guegan Jean Paul , Ben Hamida Najib , Amrane Abdeltif
Published: November 2014

Quinapril and quinaprilat are two angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) characterized by a peak broadening and splitting when they were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). This phenomenon is due to the existence of the two isomers cis and trans around the amide band. In order to confirm the existence of the two conformers and allow identification of the predominant form, NMR studies of quinapril, involving 1H, 13C, 1H-1HCOSY, Impact-HMBC, JMOD, HSQC, and ROESY have been conducted in this work. The analyses allowed us to identify the predominant form of quinapril; the conformer trans is the predominant form (75 %).
In addition, this study highlights the important benefits of UPLC to separate quinapril and quinaprilat isomers due to its high resolving power.
The effect of various operating conditions on the retention peak, namely, splitting and band broadening of quinaprilat and quinapril, has been qualitatively examined in this study. Several practical experimental conditions have been tested, allowing both the elution of the two ACEIs as single peaks, while keeping at the same time an acceptable separation. The effect of various factors on the conformational s-cis–s-trans equilibrium of quinapril and quinaprilat, namely, the composition of the mobile phase, column temperature, flow rate, pH, and type and amount of organic modifier was investigated by UPLC–DAD (diode array detector) with a BEH C18 column (100 mm, 2.1 mm internal diameter × 1.7 µm particle diameter). Several deconvolution models were used to model overlapped peaks and to determine resolution.
Results obtained showed that a mobile phase consisting of ammonium buffer (10 mM; pH 8) and acetonitrile allows the separation of the quinapril and quinaprilat conformers. Maximum resolution was obtained for a composition of mobile phase (55/45) and (65/35) (ammonium buffer/acetonitrile, v/v) for quinapril and quinaprilat, respectively at 45°C and flow rates of 0.4 and 0.5 mL min–1.
Square-Wave Voltammetric Determination of Nanomolar Levels of Linuron in Environmental Water Samples Using a Glassy Carbon Electrode Modified with Platinum Nanoparticles within a Dihexadecyl Phosphate Film
Authors: Marreto Paola D. , Trench Aline B. , Vicentini Fernando C. , Figueiredo-Filho Luiz C. S. , Medeiros Roberta A. , Pereira Ernesto. C. , Fatibello-Filho Orlando
Published: November 2014

A new sensitive method for linuron determination using a glassy carbon electrode modified with platinum nanoparticles within a dihexadecyl phosphate film (PtNPs-DHP/GCE) and square-wave voltammetry was proposed. The PtNPs-DHP/GCE was characterised by scanning electron microscopy and the diameter of the Pt nanoparticles was between 13 and 34 nm. The electrochemical behaviour of linuron was studied using cyclic voltammetry and an irreversible anodic peak was obtained at a potential of 1.2 V in 0.1 mol L–1 phosphate buffer (pH 3.0) solution. The analytical curve, obtained by square-wave voltammetry after accumulation, was linear in the linuron concentration range from 1.0 to 74.0 nmol L–1, with a detection limit of 0.61 nmol L–1. This sensitive analytical method was successfully applied for linuron determination in environmental water samples with results that showed good agreement with those obtained using a comparative HPLC method.
Novel Tri-Cholesteryl Derivatives-Based Low Molecular Mass Organic Gelators with Multi-Stimuli Responsive Properties
Authors: Xue Min , Yu Chunmeng , Wang Gang , Yu Hang , Fang Yu
Published: November 2014

Two novel tri-cholesteryl derivatives 1 and 2 have been designed and prepared. Gelation tests in 30 liquids revealed that 1 is a more efficient gelator than 2. Interestingly, the gel of 1/cyclohexane shows a reversible sol–gel phase transition in response to a variety of disparate stimuli such as temperature, stress, and HCl gas. In particular, a fully reversible thixotropic property was observed, which has been rarely reported before. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and 1H NMR measurements revealed that hydrogen bonding is an important driving force for the formation of the gel networks. The network structures of 1 and 2 in their cyclohexane gels were studied by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses, and possible packing models were proposed accordingly. The findings demonstrated in the present work suggest that there is a big potential for developing tri-cholesteryl derivatives into extraordinary low molecular mass gelators.
Preparation of Metal-Free Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Via Direct Electrochemical Exfoliation of Graphite in Ammonium Nitrate
Authors: Gondosiswanto Richard , Lu Xunyu , Zhao Chuan
Published: November 2014

Nitrogen-doped graphene (N-graphene) nanosheets have been synthesized via electrochemical intercalation and exfoliation of graphite rods in ammonium nitrate aqueous solutions. This method produces N-graphene free from possible metal contaminations that can be utilized as efficient electrocatalysts towards oxygen reduction reactions.
A Simple Conversion of Creatinine to Creatol via Creatinine Chloroamine
Authors: Ienaga Kazuharu , Toya Yoshiaki , Nakajima Kiyohiko , Tachikawa Mariko
Published: November 2014

Creatinine (2-amino-1,5-dihydro-l-methylimidazol-4-one) (1a) was converted in a simple way to creatol (2-amino-1,5-dihydro-5-hydroxy-l-methylimidazol-4-one) (1b) via creatinine chloramine (2-N-chloroamino-1,5-dihydro-l-methylimidazol-4-one) (3a), without using protecting groups. The creatinine chloroamine exists in the 2-N-chloroamino form (3a) in aqueous solution, but in the solid state, X-ray crystal analysis shows that it has the 2-N-chloroimino structure (2-N-chloroimino-1,5-dihydro-1-methylimidazol-4-one) (4a). Related imidazolones have also been prepared and are discussed.
A Chemoenzymatic Route to the (+)-Form of the Amaryllidaceae Alkaloid Narseronine
Authors: Yang Shuxin , Banwell Martin G. , Willis Anthony C. , Ward Jas S.
Published: November 2014

The enzymatically derived and enantiopure cis-1,2-dihydrocatechol 1 has been converted, over 14 one-pot operations, into the (+)-form of the alkaloid narseronine (2). The present study, which complements earlier work that established a route from metabolite 1 to enantiomer (–)-2, involves an N-bromosuccinimide/tri-n-butyltin hydride-mediated cyclisation reaction to construct the unsaturated B-ring lactone of the target compound.
Calcium-mediated histone modifications regulate alternative splicing in cardiomyocytes
Authors: Sharma Alok , Nguyen Hieu , Geng Cuiyu , Hinman Melissa N. , Luo Guangbin , Lou Hua
Published: November 2014

Significance

Calcium is an important intracellular second messenger that regulates many biological processes. Many extracellular environmental cues lead to cellular calcium-level changes, which impact on the output of gene expression. In cardiomyocytes, calcium is known to control gene expression at the level of transcription, whereas its role in regulating alternative splicing has not been explored. Our studies demonstrate that in these cells a network of alternatively spliced exons exists, which responds to the altered calcium levels by changing their splicing patterns. Our studies further elucidate an epigenetic regulatory mechanism, triggered by calcium signaling pathways, that leads to histone hyperacetylation along gene bodies, which increases the transcriptional elongation rate of RNA polymerase II and impacts alternative splicing.
Asymmetric hindwing foldings in rove beetles
Authors: Saito Kazuya , Yamamoto Shuhei , Maruyama Munetoshi , Okabe Yoji
Published: November 2014

Significance

Rove beetles are known to fold their wings in the most complicated and sophisticated ways that have right–left asymmetric patterns. This asymmetric folding can confer both high deployment capability and high storage efficiency, and therefore has a great deal of potential for engineering applications. However, the detailed folding mechanisms have been unclear because of the difficulty of observing of the folding processes. This study used a high-speed camera to observe the wing folding movements of rove beetles. The results show that these characteristic asymmetrical patterns emerge as a result of simultaneous folding of overlapped wings. The specific crease patterns of respective wings and detailed folding motions in each folding sequence are also described here.