bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Foraging in subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae): how do Heterotermes tenuis and Coptotermes gestroi behave when they locate equivalent food resources?
Authors: Lima J.T. , Costa-Leonardo A.M.
Published: April 2014

A previous research suggests that when subterranean termites locate equivalent food they consume the initial food resource. However, little is known about the movement of foragers among these food sources. For this reason, this study analyzed the feeding behavior of Heterotermes tenuis and Coptotermes gestroi in the presence of equivalent foods. The experimental arenas were composed of a release chamber connected to food chambers. The consumption of each wood block and percentage of the foraging individuals recruited for the food chambers were observed in relation to the total survival rate. The results showed that in the multiple-choice tests, wood block consumptions and the recruitment of individuals did not differ between replicates of each termite species. However, in different tests of tenacity, the chambers with the first food presented higher feeding rates by both H. tenuis and C. gestroi and resulted in a higher recruitment of workers and soldiers. In these conditions, it may be concluded that foragers of either species do not concentrate their efforts on the consumption of only one food resource when they are able to reach multiple cellulosic sources simultaneously. Additionally, the data concerning tenacity tests suggest that there is a chronologic priority of consumption in relation to the discovery of available food sources. Knowledge about the foraging biology of subterranean termites is important for future studies of their feeding behavior, and it is indispensable for improving control strategies.
Le député québécois en circonscription : évolution, rôle et réalités
Authors: Montigny Eric , Morency Rébecca
Published: April 2014

Cet article présente l'évolution du rôle et du travail en circonscription de députés évoluant au sein d'un système de type Westminster. En se basant sur le cas québécois, il repose sur des données recueillies auprès d'élus de l'Assemblée nationale et de la Chambre des communes et sur une mise à jour de données datant de plus de 40 ans. En plus de constater des distinctions selon le genre quant à la conception de leur rôle ainsi qu'un écart perceptuel quant aux attentes de la population, les députés accordent toujours priorité à leur rôle de représentant, mais seraient moins porteurs d'idées personnelles. La nature des activités de circonscription varie également selon le profil du député. Un niveau de collaboration élevé est constaté entre eux, de même qu'une évolution quant à la nature des dossiers traités.
Dead or alive? Comparing costs and benefits of lethal and non-lethal human–wildlife conflict mitigation on livestock farms
Authors: McManus J. S. , Dickman A. J. , Gaynor D. , Smuts B. H. , Macdonald D. W.
Published: April 2014

Livestock depredation has implications for conservation and agronomy; it can be costly for farmers and can prompt retaliatory killing of carnivores. Lethal control measures are readily available and are reportedly perceived to be cheaper, more practical and more effective than non-lethal methods. However, the costs and efficacy of lethal vs non-lethal approaches have rarely been compared formally. We conducted a 3-year study on 11 South African livestock farms, examining costs and benefits of lethal and non-lethal conflict mitigation methods. Farmers used existing lethal control in the first year and switched to guardian animals (dogsCanis familiarisand alpacasLama pacos) or livestock protection collars for the following 2 years. During the first year the mean cost of livestock protection was USD 3.30 per head of stock and the mean cost of depredation was USD 20.11 per head of stock. In the first year of non-lethal control the combined implementation and running costs were similar to those of lethal control (USD 3.08 per head). However, the mean cost of depredation decreased by 69.3%, to USD 6.52 per head. In the second year of non-lethal control the running costs (USD 0.43 per head) were significantly lower than in previous years and depredation costs decreased further, to USD 5.49 per head. Our results suggest that non-lethal methods of human–wildlife conflict mitigation can reduce depredation and can be economically advantageous compared to lethal methods of predator control.
The expression of virulence for a mixed-mode transmitted parasite in a diapausing host
Authors: SHEIKH-JABBARI ELHAM , HALL MATTHEW D. , BEN-AMI FRIDA , EBERT DIETER
Published: April 2014

Many parasites survive harsh periods together with their hosts. Without the possibility of horizontal transmission during host diapause, parasite persistence depends entirely on host survival. We therefore hypothesize that a parasite should be avirulent during its host's diapausing stage. In contrast, the parasite may express higher virulence, i.e. parasite-induced fitness reduction of the host, during host life stages with good opportunities for horizontal transmission. Here we study the effects of a vertically and horizontally transmitted microsporidium parasite, Hamiltosporidium tvaerminnensis, on the quantity and survival of resting eggs of its host Daphnia magna. We find that the parasite did not affect egg volume, hatching success and time to hatching of the Daphnia's resting eggs, although it did strongly reduce the number of resting eggs produced by infected females, revealing high virulence during the non-diapause phase of the host's life cycle. These results also explain another aspect of this system – namely the strong decline in natural population prevalence across diapause. This decline is not caused by mortality in infected resting stages, as was previously hypothesized, but because infected female hosts produce lower rates of resting eggs. Together, these results help explain the epidemiological dynamics of a microsporidian disease and highlight the adaptive nature of life stage-dependent parasite virulence.
Sodium content of bread from bakeries and traditional markets in Maputo, Mozambique
Authors: Silva Vânia , Padrão Patrícia , Novela Célia , Damasceno Albertino , Pinho Olívia , Moreira Pedro , Lunet Nuno
Published: April 2014

Objective

The Na content of bread is one of the most common targets of initiatives to reduce Na intake worldwide. Assessing the Na content of staple foods is of major relevance in Mozambique, given the high burden of hypertension in this setting. We aimed to estimate the Na content of white bread available in different bakeries and markets in Maputo.

Design

A cross-sectional study of the Na content of white bread available for sale at twenty-five bakeries and markets in Mozambique. Flame photometry was used to quantify the Na content of the bread. The percentage of samples meeting manufacturer Na targets from South Africa and six countries from other regions, selected as benchmarks, was computed.

Setting

Maputo, Mozambique.

Subjects

Three loaves of white bread from each selected bakery/market.

Results

The mean Na content of bread was 450·3 mg/100 g (range: 254·9–638·3 mg/100 g), with no significant differences between bakeries and traditional markets. Most samples (88 %) did not meet the regulation in South Africa (≤380 mg/100 g). When considering the targets from other countries (range: ≤360–550 mg/100 g), the prevalence of non-compliance varied between 8 % and 92 %. There were no significant differences in the price of bread with Na content below and above the targets.

Conclusions

The content of Na in bread varies widely in Mozambique, reaching high values in a high proportion of the bakeries and markets in Maputo. Measures to regulate the Na content in bread may contribute to a reduction in Na intake and improved health at the population level.
SMALL DOUBLING IN ORDERED GROUPS
Authors: FREIMAN GREGORY , HERZOG MARCEL , LONGOBARDI PATRIZIA , MAJ MERCEDE
Published: April 2014

We prove that if $\def \xmlpi #1{}\def \mathsfbi #1{\boldsymbol {\mathsf {#1}}}\let \le =\leqslant \let \leq =\leqslant \let \ge =\geqslant \let \geq =\geqslant \def \Pr {\mathit {Pr}}\def \Fr {\mathit {Fr}}\def \Rey {\mathit {Re}}S$ is a finite subset of an ordered group that generates a nonabelian ordered group, then $|S^2|\geq 3|S|-2$. This generalizes a classical result from the theory of set addition.
Acceptance and valued living as critical appraisal and coping strengths for caregivers dealing with terminal illness and bereavement
Authors: Davis Esther L , Deane Frank P. , Lyons Geoffrey C.B.
Published: April 2014

Objective:

Informal caregivers of palliative care patients play an essential role in the coordination of care for patients during their final phases of life. However, undertaking a caregiving role can have enduring psychological consequences for caregivers and interfere with functioning. Studies have investigated a variety of factors associated with individual differences in caregiver psychosocial outcomes, but little is known about their relative impact, and there is a need for guiding models to support research in this area.

Method:

A review of the literature was conducted on factors influencing the psychological distress and grief of caregivers. Drawing from acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and Stroebe and colleagues' integrative risk factor framework, we developed a process model to describe individual differences in caregiver psychological distress and grief.

Results:

The model presents caregiver psychological distress and grief as functions of death attitudes and communication about death and dying, mediated by acceptance and valued living from an ACT perspective. An outline of the empirical and theoretical underpinnings for each component in the model is provided.

Significant of results:

The presented model is an inherently strengths-based model that is concordant with acceptance- and values- (ACT) based interventions to facilitate coping in caregivers.
Serotonin 2A Receptor Agonist Binding in the Human Brain with [11C]Cimbi-36
Authors: Ettrup Anders , da Cunha-Bang Sophie , McMahon Brenda , Lehel Szabolcs , Dyssegaard Agnete , Skibsted Anine W , Jørgensen Louise M , Hansen Martin , Baandrup Anders O , Bache Søren , Svarer Claus , Kristensen Jesper L , Gillings Nie , Madsen Jacob , Knudsen Gitte M
Published: April 2014

[ 11 C]Cimbi-36 was recently developed as a selective serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptor agonist radioligand for positron emission tomography (PET) brain imaging. Such an agonist PET radioligand may provide a novel, and more functional, measure of the serotonergic system and agonist binding is more likely than antagonist binding to reflect 5-HT levels in vivo. Here, we show data from a first-in-human clinical trial with [ 11 C]Cimbi-36. In 29 healthy volunteers, we found high brain uptake and distribution according to 5-HT2A receptors with [ 11 C]Cimbi-36 PET. The two-tissue compartment model using arterial input measurements provided the most optimal quantification of cerebral [ 11 C]Cimbi-36 binding. Reference tissue modeling was feasible as it induced a negative but predictable bias in [ 11 C]Cimbi-36 PET outcome measures. In five subjects, pretreatment with the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist ketanserin before a second PET scan significantly decreased [ 11 C]Cimbi-36 binding in all cortical regions with no effects in cerebellum. These results confirm that [ 11 C]Cimbi-36 binding is selective for 5-HT2A receptors in the cerebral cortex and that cerebellum is an appropriate reference tissue for quantification of 5-HT2A receptors in the human brain. Thus, we here describe [ 11 C]Cimbi-36 as the first agonist PET radioligand to successfully image and quantify 5-HT2A receptors in the human brain.
Early Small Vessel Disease Affects Frontoparietal and Cerebellar Hubs in Close Correlation with Clinical Symptoms—A Resting-State fMRI Study
Authors: Schaefer Alexander , Quinque Eva M , Kipping Judy A , Arélin Katrin , Roggenhofer Elisabeth , Frisch Stefan , Villringer Arno , Mueller Karsten , Schroeter Matthias L
Published: April 2014

Cerebral small vessel disease, mainly characterized by white matter lesions and lacunes, has a high clinical impact as it leads to vascular dementia. Recent studies have shown that this disease impairs frontoparietal networks. Here, we apply resting-state magnetic resonance imaging and data-driven whole-brain imaging analysis methods (eigenvector centrality) to investigate changes of the functional connectome in early small vessel disease. We show reduced connectivity in frontoparietal networks, whereas connectivity increases in the cerebellum. These functional changes are closely related to white matter lesions and typical neuropsychological deficits associated with small vessel disease.
The Impact of Ly6Clow Monocytes after Cerebral Hypoxia-Ischemia in Adult Mice
Authors: Michaud Jean-Philippe , Pimentel-Coelho Pedro Moreno , Tremblay Yannick , Rivest Serge
Published: April 2014

After an ischemic stroke, mononuclear phagocytic cells such as microglia, macrophages, and monocytes migrate to the lesion site and coordinate an immune response. Monocytes, which are recruited from the bloodstream after ischemic brain injury, can be categorized into two subsets in mice: inflammatory and patrolling monocytes. Although inflammatory monocytes (Ly6Chi) seem to have a protective role in stroke progression, the impact of patrolling monocytes (Ly6Clow) is unknown. To address the role of Ly6Clow monocytes in stroke, we generated bone marrow chimeric mice in which their hematopoietic system was replaced by Nr4a1−/− cells, allowing the complete and permanent ablation of Ly6Clow monocytes without affecting the Ly6Chi subset. We then subjected adult mice to cerebral hypoxia-ischemia using the Levine/Vannucci model. Functional outcomes after stroke such as body weight change, neurologic score, motor functions and spatial learning were not affected. Moreover, depletion in Ly6Clow monocytes did not change significantly the total infarct size, cell loss, atrophy, the number, or the activation state of microglia/macrophages at the lesion site. These data suggest that Ly6Clow patrolling monocytes are redundant in the progression and recovery of ischemic stroke.
Spectral interferometric microscopy reveals absorption by individual optical nanoantennas from extinction phase
Authors: Gennaro Sylvain D. , Sonnefraud Yannick , Verellen Niels , Van Dorpe Pol , Moshchalkov Victor V. , Maier Stefan A. , Oulton Rupert F.
Published: April 2014

Optical antennas transform light from freely propagating waves into highly localized excitations that interact strongly with matter. Unlike their radio frequency counterparts, optical antennas are nanoscopic and high frequency, making amplitude and phase measurements challenging and leaving some information hidden. Here we report a novel spectral interferometric microscopy technique to expose the amplitude and phase response of individual optical antennas across an octave of the visible to near-infrared spectrum. Although it is a far-field technique, we show that knowledge of the extinction phase allows quantitative estimation of nanoantenna absorption, which is a near-field quantity. To verify our method we characterize gold ring-disk dimers exhibiting Fano interference. Our results reveal that Fano interference only cancels a bright mode’s scattering, leaving residual extinction dominated by absorption. Spectral interference microscopy has the potential for real-time and single-shot phase and amplitude investigations of isolated quantum and classical antennas with applications across the physical and life sciences.
Multiscale Design of Cell‐Type–Specific Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Models for Personalized Medicine: Application to Temozolomide in Brain Tumors
Authors: Ballesta A , Zhou Q , Zhang X , Lv H , Gallo JM
Published: April 2014

Optimizing anticancer therapeutics needs to account for variable drug responses in heterogeneous cell populations within the tumor as well as in organs of toxicity. To address cell heterogeneity, we propose a multiscale modeling approach—from in vitro to preclinical and clinical studies—to develop cell‐type–specific pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic (PK‐PD) models. A physiologically based mechanistic modeling approach integrating data from aqueous solutions, U87 glioma cells, mice, and cancer patients was utilized to characterize the brain disposition of temozolomide (TMZ), the cornerstone of chemotherapy against glioblastoma multiforme. The final model represented intracellular normal brain and brain tumor compartments in which TMZ pH‐dependent conversion to the DNA‐alkylating species leads to the formation of DNA adducts that serve as an entry point for a PD model. This multiscale protocol can be extended to account for TMZ PK‐PD in different cell populations, thus providing a critical tool to personalize TMZ‐based chemotherapy on a cell‐type–specific basis.

CPT Pharmacometrics Syst. Pharmacol. (2014) 3, e112; doi:10.1038/psp.2014.9; published online 30 April 2014
Characterization of limes (Citrus aurantifolia) grown in Bhutan and Indonesia using high-throughput sequencing
Authors: Penjor Tshering , Mimura Takashi , Matsumoto Ryoji , Yamamoto Masashi , Nagano Yukio
Published: April 2014

Lime [Citrus aurantifolia (Cristm.) Swingle] is a Citrus species that is a popular ingredient in many cuisines. Some citrus plants are known to originate in the area ranging from northeastern India to southwestern China. In the current study, we characterized and compared limes grown in Bhutan (n = 5 accessions) and Indonesia (n = 3 accessions). The limes were separated into two groups based on their morphology. Restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RAD-seq) separated the eight accessions into two clusters. One cluster contained four accessions from Bhutan, whereas the other cluster contained one accession from Bhutan and the three accessions from Indonesia. This genetic classification supported the morphological classification of limes. The analysis suggests that the properties associated with asexual reproduction and somatic homologous recombination, have contributed to the genetic diversification of limes.
Coherent destruction of tunneling in chaotic microcavities via three-state anti-crossings
Authors: Song Qinghai , Gu Zhiyuan , Liu Shuai , Xiao Shumin
Published: April 2014

Coherent destruction of tunneling (CDT) has been one seminal result of quantum dynamics control. Traditionally, CDT is understood as destructive interference between two intermediate transition paths near the level crossing. CDT near the level anti-crossings, especially the “locking”, has not been thoroughly explored so far. Taking chaotic microcavity as an example, here we study the inhibition of the tunneling via the strong couplings of three resonances. While the tunneling rate is only slightly affected by each strong coupling between two modes, the destructive interference between two strong couplings can dramatically improve the inhibition of the tunneling. A “locking” point, where dynamical tunneling is completely suppressed, has even been observed. We believe our finding will shed light on researches on micro- & nano-photonics.
Single-step separation scheme and high-precision isotopic ratios analysis of Sr–Nd–Hf in silicate materials
Authors: Li Chao-Feng , Guo Jing-Hui , Yang Yue-Heng , Chu Zhu-Yin , Wang Xuan-Ce
Published: April 2014

One-step separation route based on AG50W-X12 cation-exchange resin and LN Spec extraction chromatographic material for purification of Sr–Nd–Hf from geological samples followed by TIMS and MC-ICP-MS.
Dissecting active ingredients of Chinese medicine by content-weighted ingredient–target network
Authors: Wang Linli , Li Zheng , Shao Qing , Li Xiang , Ai Ni , Zhao Xiaoping , Fan Xiaohui
Published: April 2014

A novel approach integrating network pharmacology analysis with ingredient content and ingredient–target relationships to identify active ingredients of Chinese medicine.
Tripodal molecules for the promotion of phosphoester hydrolysis
Authors: Hiscock Jennifer R. , Sambrook Mark R. , Cranwell Philippa B. , Watts Pat , Vincent Jack C. , Xuereb David J. , Wells Neil J. , Raja Robert , Gale Philip A.
Published: April 2014

A series of low molecular weight tripodal amide/histidine-containing compounds have been synthesised and shown to increase the rate of bis-(p-nitrophenyl) phosphate (BNPP) and soman (GD) breakdown in buffered aqueous solution.
Silylium ion-promoted dehydrogenative cyclization: synthesis of silicon-containing compounds derived from alkynes
Authors: Arii Hidekazu , Kurihara Takashi , Mochida Kunio , Kawashima Takayuki
Published: April 2014

A silylium ion bearing an aromatic group interacts with alkynes to afford the corresponding 1,2-dihydro-2-silanaphthalene derivatives via intramolecular electrophilic aromatic substitution.
Template-free synthesis of mesoporous polymers
Authors: Sang Xinxin , Peng Li , Zhang Jianling , Han Buxing , Xue Zhimin , Liu Chengcheng , Yang Guanying
Published: April 2014

Mesoporous polyacrylamides with tunable porosities were synthesized in 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborates ([Cnmim][BF4], n = 4, 6, 8, 10).
Post-functionalization of graphitic carbon nitrides by grafting organic molecules: toward C–H bond oxidation using atmospheric oxygen
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Li Haoran , Wang Yong
Published: April 2014

We present a feasible approach in the post-modification of carbon nitrides for the selective oxidation of 3,5,5-trimethylcyclohex-3-en-1-one.
Hexamethylcyclopentadiene: time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy and ab initio multiple spawning simulations
Authors: Wolf T. J. A. , Kuhlman T. S. , Schalk O. , Martínez T. J. , Møller K. B. , Stolow A. , Unterreiner A.-N.
Published: April 2014

Time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy and ab initio multiple spawning dynamical simulations of hexamethylcyclopentadiene reveal wavepacket evolution in a distinct degree of freedom.
Optical trapping and Raman spectroscopy of solid particles
Authors: Rkiouak L. , Tang M. J. , Camp J. C. J. , McGregor J. , Watson I. M. , Cox R. A. , Kalberer M. , Ward A. D. , Pope F. D.
Published: April 2014

Stable levitation and spectroscopic interrogation of solid particles is achieved, over extended time periods, using a new optical trap design.
Transition metal doping of Mg2FeH6– a DFT insight into synthesis and electronic structure
Authors: Batalović Katarina , Radaković Jana , Belošević-Čavor Jelena , Koteski Vasil
Published: April 2014

An insight into formation and stability of Mg2Fe3/4M1/4H6(M = Mn, Fe, Co, Ni) reveals how doping destabilizes Mg2FeH6and reduces the band gap.
Chemically-bound xenon in fibrous silica
Authors: Kalinowski Jaroslaw , Räsänen Markku , Gerber R. Benny
Published: April 2014

High-level quantum chemical calculations reported here predict the existence and remarkable stability, of chemically-bound xenon atoms in fibrous silica.
Partially fluorinated oxo-alkoxide tungsten(vi) complexes as precursors for deposition of WOx nanomaterials
Authors: Bonsu Richard O. , Kim Hankook , O'Donohue Christopher , Korotkov Roman Y. , McClain K. Randall , Abboud Khalil A. , Ellsworth Ashley A. , Walker Amy V. , Anderson Timothy J. , McElwee-White Lisa
Published: April 2014

Volatile partially fluorinated tungsten(vi) oxo-alkoxides yield tungsten oxide nanorods upon chemical vapour deposition.
Heterobimetallic catechol-phosphine complexes with palladium and a group-13 element: structural flexibility and dynamics
Authors: Bauer G. , Nieger M. , Gudat D.
Published: April 2014

Condensation of a catechol phosphine Pd complex [Pd(catphosH)2] with group-13 element acetylacetonates yields complexes [M(L)n(catphos)2Pd] or [M{(catphos)2Pd}2]H (M = Al, Ga, In) whose relative stability is controlled by the size of the group-13 element. 1H NMR studies give insight into the proton mobility in a Pd2In complex.
A shortcut to wide-ranging biological actions of dietary polyphenols: modulation of the nitrate–nitrite–nitric oxide pathway in the gut
Authors: Rocha Bárbara S. , Nunes Carla , Pereira Cassilda , Barbosa Rui M. , Laranjinha João
Published: April 2014

Dietary polyphenols are complex, natural compounds with recognized health benefits.
Basic mechanisms of signal enhancement in ns double-pulse laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy in a gas environment
Authors: Tognoni Elisabetta , Cristoforetti Gabriele
Published: April 2014

Classifying ns double-pulse LIBS measurements according to the irradiation mode facilitates the interpretation of the mechanisms underlying intensity enhancement.
Iron oxide superparamagnetic nanoparticles conjugated with a conformationally blocked α-Tn antigen mimetic for macrophage activation
Authors: Manuelli Massimo , Fallarini Silvia , Lombardi Grazia , Sangregorio Claudio , Nativi Cristina , Richichi Barbara
Published: April 2014

Among new therapies to fight tumors, immunotherapy is still one of the most promising and intriguing.
Decrease in thermal conductivity in polymeric P3HT nanowires by size-reduction induced by crystal orientation: new approaches towards thermal transport engineering of organic materials
Authors: Rojo Miguel Muñoz , Martín Jaime , Grauby Stéphane , Borca-Tasciuc Theodorian , Dilhaire Stefan , Martin-Gonzalez Marisol
Published: April 2014

Thermal conductivity reduction is observed in P3HT nanowires inside porous alumina, upon size confinement due to a change in crystal orientation.
Controlling enzymatic activity and kinetics in swollen mesophases by physical nano-confinement
Authors: Sun Wenjie , Vallooran Jijo J. , Zabara Alexandru , Mezzenga Raffaele
Published: April 2014

Bicontinuous lipid cubic mesophases are widely investigated as hosting matrices for functional enzymes to build biosensors and bio-devices due to their unique structural characteristics.
CuI catalyzed sulfonylation of organozinc reagents with sulfonyl halides
Authors: Fu Ying , Zhu Wenbo , Zhao Xingling , Hügel Helmut , Wu Zhouqiang , Su Yuhu , Du Zhengyin , Huang Danfeng , Hu Yulai
Published: April 2014

A general and efficient CuI/TMEDA catalyzed nucleophilic addition of functionalized organozinc reagents to organic sulfonyl chlorides has been developed for both aromatic and aliphatic sulfone synthesis.
A novel fuel cell membrane with high efficiency
Authors: Paradesi Deivanayagam , Samanta Debasis , Mandal Asit Baran , Jaisankar Sellamuthu Nagappan
Published: April 2014

A novel polymer containing an azo based ionic diol has been successfully fabricated as an electrolyte membrane to yield a good fuel cell performance in the whole range of current density.
The importance of various anchoring groups attached on porphyrins as potential dyes for DSSC applications
Authors: Ladomenou K. , Kitsopoulos T. N. , Sharma G. D. , Coutsolelos A. G.
Published: April 2014

The influence of different anchoring groups in the efficiency of porphyrin dye sensitized solar cells.
Far-infrared optical constants of ZnO and ZnO/Ag nanostructures
Authors: Zamiri Reza , Rebelo Avito , Zamiri Golriz , Adnani Atena , Kuashal Ajay , Belsley Michael Scott , Ferreira J. M. F.
Published: April 2014

We report on the synthesis of ZnO nanoplates and ZnO nanoplate/Ag nanoparticle heterostructures via a simple and cost effective wet chemical precipitation method.
Non-thermal plasma-treated gold catalyst for CO oxidation
Authors: Xu Huiyuan , Luo Jingjie , Chu Wei
Published: April 2014

Plasma under oxygen atmosphere is available for promoting the microporosity, redox properties, and the catalytic performance of gold nanoparticles.
Synthesis of ultrafine amorphous PtP nanoparticles and the effect of PtP crystallinity on methanol oxidation
Authors: Ma Yanjiao , Wang Hui , Li Hao , Key Julian , Ji Shan , Wang Rongfang
Published: April 2014

Ultrafine amorphous PtP nanoparticles supported on carbon black were prepared. Comparison of electrocatalytic performance of the samples with different levels of crystallinity showed ultrafine amorphous PtP nanoparticles have high catalytic activity for methanol oxidation due to their small particle size and amorphous structure.
Accelerating preclinical PET-screening: reductive amination with [11C]methoxybenzaldehydes
Authors: Herth Matthias M. , Leth-Petersen Sebastian , Lehel Szabolcs , Hansen Martin , Knudsen Gitte M. , Gillings Nic , Madsen Jacob , Kristensen Jesper L.
Published: April 2014

We report, herein, a simple and efficient labelling strategy for multiple PET tracer preparation using a common intermediate, which has the potential to accelerate preclinical PET radiotracer screening.
Quantitative investigations of thermal and photoinduced J- and H-aggregation of hydrophobic spirooxazines in binary solvent through UV/vis spectroscopy
Authors: Metelitsa A. V. , Coudret C. , Micheau J. C. , Voloshin N. A.
Published: April 2014

Photo- and chemo-stimulable architectures.
The art of the possible: computational design of the 1D and 2D materials based on the tetraoxa[8]circulene monomer
Authors: Baryshnikov G. V. , Minaev B. F. , Karaush N. N. , Minaeva V. A.
Published: April 2014

Single-wall nanotube based on tetraoxa[8]circulene monomer.
Dissipative particle dynamics and experimental study of alkane-based nanoencapsulated phase change material for thermal energy storage
Authors: Rao Zhonghao , Huo Yutao , Liu Xinjian
Published: April 2014

The nanoencapsulated phase change materials (PCM) for thermal energy storage have received much attention recently.
Crystalline Li3V6O16 rods as high-capacity anode materials for aqueous rechargeable lithium batteries (ARLB)
Authors: Nair Vivek Sahadevan , Sreejith Sivaramapanicker , Borah Parijat , Hartung Steffen , Bucher Nicolas , Zhao Yanli , Madhavi Srinivasan
Published: April 2014

Crystalline Li3V6O16 rods were prepared and used as anode materials for aqueous rechargeable lithium ion batteries (ARLBs).
Bubbles and foams in microfluidics
Authors: Huerre Axel , Miralles Vincent , Jullien Marie-Caroline
Published: April 2014

Bubbles and foams in microfluidics: a review on generation, geometry, dynamics and potential applications.
The effect of electronic structure changes in NaInO2and NaIn0.9Fe0.1O2on the photoreduction of methylene blue
Authors: Lekse Jonathan W. , Haycock Barry J. , Lewis James P. , Kauffman Douglas R. , Matranga Christopher
Published: April 2014

Substitution into delafossite oxides is one promising method for the generation of improved catalysts for photochemical reactions such as the degradation of dyes and organic pollutants.
Facile template-free synthesis of 3D porous MnO/C microspheres with controllable pore size for high-performance lithium-ion battery anodes
Authors: Su Kai , Wang Chao , Nie Honggang , Guan Yan , Liu Feng , Chen Jitao
Published: April 2014

3D porous MnO/C anode materials with controllable pore size are synthesized for effectively optimizing the electrochemical performance.
Mesoporous carbon/silicon composite anodes with enhanced performance for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Xu Yunhua , Zhu Yujie , Wang Chunsheng
Published: April 2014

A mesoporous C/Si composite was synthesized using an in situ polymerization method via a scalable organic–organic self-assembly process. Significant improvements in the cycling stability and rate capability were demonstrated for the mesoporous C/Si composite.
Innovative high performing metal organic framework (MOF)-laden nanocomposite polymer electrolytes for all-solid-state lithium batteries
Authors: Gerbaldi Claudio , Nair Jijeesh R. , Kulandainathan M. Anbu , Kumar R. Senthil , Ferrara Chiara , Mustarelli Piercarlo , Stephan Arul Manuel
Published: April 2014

Al-based metal organic framework (MOF): a novel nanofiller for polymer electrolytes with outstanding moderate temperature ionic conductivity and long-term cycling stability.
Improving Clinical Services: Be Aware of Fuzzy Connections Between Principles and Strategies
Authors: Gillam Sandra Laing , Gillam Ronald B.
Published: April 2014

Purpose

This article is a response to Alan Kamhi's treatise on improving clinical practices for children with language and learning disorders by focusing on what is known about learning (see Kamhi, 2014, article in this issue).

Method

Descriptive methods are used to discuss general learning principles and the fact that they do not always translate readily into effective language intervention practices. The authors give examples of 2 instances in which popular intervention strategies should have worked but did not. The authors also summarize what they learned about their own approach to contextualized language intervention for teaching priority goals related to narration and the Common Core State Standards (CCSS; National Governors Association Center for Best Practices, & Council of Chief State School Officers, 2010).

Conclusion

Even theoretically sound, well-intentioned, and carefully implemented interventions can result in equivocal outcomes. When they do, careful attention to the evidence and willingness to rethink strategy often serves to right the course.
Prologue: Improving Clinical Practice From the Inside Out
Authors: Hoffman LaVae
Published: April 2014

Purpose

This prologue introduces a clinical forum entitled “Reflections on Improving Clinical Practice” and orients the reader to the scope of articles included within it.

Method

The purpose of the clinical forum is described, its lead article is introduced, and brief summaries of the 7 response articles are provided.

Conclusions

The commentaries in this clinical forum draw on scientific evidence and assert that current intervention services for children and adolescents who have language and learning disorders could be improved. Authors describe rationales for doing so and provide practical suggestions that could promote better intervention outcomes.
Precoding design for interference suppression in multi‐cell multi‐user networks
Authors: Liu Heng , Ding Zhiguo , Fan Pingzhi , Hao Li
Published: April 2014

This study focuses on the design of downlink transmission protocols in multi‐cell multi‐user mobile networks, where co‐channel interference has been recognised as a challenging issue particularly for the users close to the boundary of cells. The key idea of this study is to jointly apply interference alignment (IA) and pre‐cancellation to the addressed scenario, where the former technique can effectively increase the overall system throughput and the latter can significantly boost the diversity gains and reception reliability. To ensure the diversity gains can be achieved with zero‐forcing IA, a precoder optimisation scheme is proposed based on the well‐known iterative interference leakage minimisation scheme. Both analytic and numerical results have been developed to show the capacity and diversity gains obtained by using the proposed scheme. Besides, the computational complexity of the proposed scheme and the effects of imperfect channel state information on the performance are studied as well.
Designing non‐contiguous orthogonal frequency division multiplexing transceiver based on wavelet transform and removable cyclic prefix for spectrum sharing in cognitive radio systems
Authors: Shahbaztabar Damoon , Farrokhi Hamid
Published: April 2014

Non‐contiguous orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (NC‐OFDM) technique has been proposed in cognitive radio literature in which the Fourier transform is used to provide orthogonality between subcarriers and a cyclic prefix (CP) with temporal length greater than channel delay spread is added to each NC‐OFDM symbol to mitigate intersymbol interference. Using CP, however, degrades spectrum efficiency since it does not carry useful information. Besides, in traditional NC‐OFDM‐based cognitive radio systems, CP is an effective source of interference with adjacent primary users. To cope with these issues, a cognitive radio system based on wavelet transform and NC‐OFDM is proposed. Wavelets have appropriate localisation, limited length and orthogonality both in time and frequency domains. Analysis of signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) show that the SNR gain increases when the number of nullified subcarriers assigned to the secondary users is increased. Also, simulation results of the proposed scheme indicate that the nullifying process improves the system performance in terms of bit error rate. To select the optimum wavelet filter order, the effect of filter order in orthogonal wavelet families is also investigated. Simulation results show that a wavelet transform with a lower filter order should be used.
Finite‐time stability of quantum systems with impulses
Authors: Yang Wei , Sun Jitao
Published: April 2014

In this study, the authors investigate finite‐time stability (FTS) and FTS at one target state (FTST) of quantum systems with impulses which are governed by the Schrödinger equation. New results for the mentioned quantum systems with impulses in the form of sufficient conditions of FTS and FTST are proposed. One numerical simulation is presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the obtained theoretical results.
Analytical calculation of magnetic field and electromagnetic performance of flux reversal machines
Authors: Yang Yubo , Wang Xiuhe , Zhang Zongsheng
Published: April 2014

A subdomain model is developed for the computation of the no‐load and load magnetic field distribution in flux reversal machines. In the proposed model, the Laplace's and Poisson's equations are built in the subdomains, including semi‐closed stator slot, rotor slot, air gap and permanent magnets. Based on the general solutions and the boundary conditions between the adjacent subdomains, the magnetic field in all subdomains can be obtained. According to the field solution, the electromagnetic performance, such as the flux linkage, back‐EMF, cogging torque and electromagnetic torque are calculated. The calculated results by finite element analysis and experiment results are given to verify the analytical model.
Optimum design of a wide band six‐port power divider with selectable power division ratios by the method of least squares
Authors: Oraizi Homayoon , Moghanni Morteza
Published: April 2014

An effective design procedure is devised for the optimum design of a versatile and useful six‐port planar microstrip power divider. An equivalent circuit is developed for the divider, which is composed of line sections and asymmetrical T‐junctions. The method of least squares is applied to the equivalent circuit of the divider for its optimum design. This power divider is capable of providing various power division ratios for different combinations of the output ports ( e.g. three or two outputs) for the same fixed design configuration. The power divider may then be fine tuned by the full‐wave softwares to obtain an optimum design for the divider. The method of least squares may also be used to design power dividers with arbitrary power division ratios at their output ports. A two section six‐port divider is fabricated and measured in the S‐band (with centre frequency 3 GHz). It has achieved an insertion loss of 0.5 dB, relative bandwidth of 45% (for the four‐port application) and 54% (for the three‐port application) and isolation among the output ports better than 15 dB.
Coupled inductor filter with frequency notching characteristics for grid interface
Authors: Tsang Kai Ming , Chan Wai‐Lok
Published: April 2014

A novel design of a power grid interface using a coupled inductor filter with a frequency notching characteristic is presented in this paper. Traditional grid‐tie power converters are connected to the supply grid via an L filter, an LC filter or an LCL filter, respectively, to reduce the harmonics caused by the switching. The efficiency of the grid interface can be improved by reducing the switching frequency and the size of the filtering inductor. To reduce the size of the filtering inductor and retaining the similar attenuation characteristics for the switching ripples, a coupled inductor filter is used to replace the conventional filter. To illustrate the capability of the proposed approach, the design of a coupled inductor notch filter to attenuate the switching ripples is provided. A simple controller has also been derived for the grid interface to act as an active power filter such that a power factor correction and a harmonics reduction can both be achieved. The proposed coupled inductor filter could be applied to any applications requiring a power grid interface. The experimental results are included to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed filter.
Method to improve trade‐off performance for split‐gate power U‐shape metal‐oxide semiconductor field‐effect transistor with compound trench dielectrics
Authors: Ying Wang , Hao Lan , Zheng Dou , Haifan Hu
Published: April 2014

A split‐gate power U‐shape metal‐oxide semiconductor field‐effect transistor (MOSFET) with compound trench dielectrics (CTDSG UMOSFET) is proposed. The dielectric layer of CTDSG UMOS is divided into two layers, employing different K values dielectrics for each one. A new electric field peak is generated in drift region. So, a higher breakdown voltage (BV) for devices and a higher doping in the drift region, lower specific on‐resistance (RSP) can be realised. This work provides theoretical and simulation analyses of CTDSG UMOS device. Compared to split‐gate RESURF stepped oxide (SG RSO) UMOS, the BV2/RSP of CTDSG UMOS with w = 0.8 μm, L = 6.0 μm and tOX = 0.5 μm is increased by 73% when relative permittivity ε1 = 7.5, 92% when ε1 = 9 and 100% when ε1 = 12. RSP decreases with the increasing of relative permittivity ε1 adopted, when ε1 is less than a certain value.
Mütterliche Risiken bei Schwangerschaft mit Fetalchirurgie von TTTS und fetalen Fehlbildungen
Authors: Arabin B.
Published: April 2014

Die Weiterentwicklung pränataler Diagnostik, der anästhesiologischen Methoden für Schwangere und Fet sowie spezieller Instrumente haben in den vergangenen Jahren dazu geführt, dass fetalchirurgische Maßnahmen an einer zunehmenden Zahl spezieller Zentren angewandt werden, um fetale Patienten zu behandeln und dabei nicht nur das Überleben der Kinder, sondern auch deren Lebensqualität zu sichern.

Für Entscheidungen in der Schwangerschaft muss jedoch auch berücksichtigt werden, welchen Risiken die Mütter während und nach diesen Eingriffen ausgesetzt sind. Dabei können sich Auswirkungen des plazentaren oder fetalen Krankheitsbildes mit den Folgen der Operationen überlagern. Eine fetalchirurgische Operation kann sogar mütterliche Risiken reduzieren. In diesem Artikel werden die bisher bekannten mütterlichen Kurz- und Langzeit-Risiken bei einer Anzahl plazentarer und fetaler Erkrankungen und deren Therapie beleuchtet. Durch interdisziplinäre Teambesprechungen sollten gemeinsam mit den Eltern die oft differenzierten Abwägungen der fetalen, neonatalen und mütterlichen Konsequenzen diskutiert und hierdurch Entscheidungsprozesse unterstützt werden.
Measurement uncertainty relations
Authors: Busch Paul , Lahti Pekka , Werner Reinhard F.
Published: April 2014

Measurement uncertainty relations are quantitative bounds on the errors in an approximate joint measurement of two observables. They can be seen as a generalization of the error/disturbance tradeoff first discussed heuristically by Heisenberg. Here we prove such relations for the case of two canonically conjugate observables like position and momentum, and establish a close connection with the more familiar preparation uncertainty relations constraining the sharpness of the distributions of the two observables in the same state. Both sets of relations are generalized to means of order α rather than the usual quadratic means, and we show that the optimal constants are the same for preparation and for measurement uncertainty. The constants are determined numerically and compared with some bounds in the literature. In both cases, the near-saturation of the inequalities entails that the state (resp. observable) is uniformly close to a minimizing one.
Note: Computational estimation of sparkgap inductance in nitrogen medium
Authors: Mitra S. , Singh Sandeep , Kumar Ranjeet , Sharma Archana , Mittal K. C.
Published: April 2014

In this Note, attempt has been made to analytically derive the inductance of a sparkgap arc channel using fundamental circuit theory, heat transfer theory, and gas plasma equations. Simulation of a picosecond phenomenon of arc channel formation is attempted using coupled codes. Arc channel is assumed to be cylindrical and modeled as finite number of small coaxial cylinders filled with gas plasma. Conductivity of each gas plasma cylinder is found by its temperature. Current distribution in the cylinders is calculated using circuit theory and change in the current distribution with time is simulated. Over all inductance of the arc channel is computed for the current density distribution. Simulation is done for fast sub-nanosecond rising pulse. Experiments are conducted to measure the arc channel inductance and validate the same with the value found using computation.
Efficient terahertz-wave generation and its ultrafast optical modulation in charge ordered organic ferroelectrics
Authors: Itoh Hirotake , Itoh Keisuke , Goto Kazuki , Yamamoto Kaoru , Yakushi Kyuya , Iwai Shinichiro
Published: April 2014

Efficient terahertz (THz) wave generation in strongly correlated organic compounds α-(ET)2I3 and α′-(ET)2IBr2 (ET:bis(ethylenedithio)-tetrathiafulvalene) was demonstrated. The spontaneous polarization induced by charge ordering or electronic ferroelectricity was revealed to trigger the THz-wave generation via optical rectification; the estimated 2nd-order nonlinear optical susceptibility for α-(ET)2I3 is over 70 times larger than that for prototypical THz-source ZnTe. Ultrafast (<1 ps) and sensitive (∼40%) photoresponse of the THz wave was observed for α-(ET)2I3, which is attributable to photoinduced quenching of the polarization accompanied by insulator(ferroelectric)-to-metal transition. Modulation of the THz wave was observed for α′-(ET)2IBr2 upon the poling procedure, indicating the alignment of polar domains.
Morphological stability during solidification of silicon incorporating metallic impurities
Authors: Warrender Jeffrey M. , Mathews Jay , Recht Daniel , Smith Matthew , Gradečak Silvija , Aziz Michael J.
Published: April 2014

We study the stability of a planar solidification front during pulsed laser melting-induced rapid solidification of silicon containing high concentrations of ion-implanted metallic impurities. We calculate the critical impurity concentration for destabilizing plane-front solidification, and introduce the “amplification coefficient,” which is an empirical parameter describing the degree of amplification that must occur between the time the planar liquid-solid interface first becomes unstable, and the time of formation of morphological features of interface breakdown that is later observed in the microstructure. By connecting our calculations to experimental observations from the literature, we determine this parameter for Au, Co, Cr, Fe, Ga, In, and Zn in (100) Si and Ti in (111) Si, and find that it increases with impurity diffusive speed vD approximately as vD0.56. We present an approximate but simple method of estimating the maximum impurity concentration that may be incorporated in a surface layer of a given thickness without the appearance of cellular breakdown.
Undulations from amplified low frequency surface waves
Authors: Coutant Antonin , Parentani Renaud
Published: April 2014

We study the linear scattering of gravity waves in longitudinal inhomogeneous stationary flows. When the flow becomes supercritical, it is known that counterflow propagating shallow waves are blocked and converted into deep waves. Here we show that in the zero-frequency limit, the reflected waves are amplified in such a way that the free surface develops an undulation, i.e., a zero-frequency wave of large amplitude with nodes located at specific places. This amplification involves negative energy waves and implies that flat surfaces are unstable against incoming perturbations of arbitrary small amplitude. The relation between this instability and black hole radiation (the Hawking effect) is established.