bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel p–n heterojunction BiOI/CeO2 photocatalyst for wider spectrum visible-light photocatalytic degradation of refractory pollutants
Authors: Wen Xiao-Ju , Niu Cheng-Gang , Zhang Lei , Zeng Guang-Ming
Published: March 2017

A novel BiOI/CeO2 photocatalyst with high photocatalytic performance was successfully synthesized via a facile in situ precipitation method. The enhanced photocatalytic performance is ascribed to the formation of a p–n junction, which promotes carrier separation.
A mixed-valence metallogrid [CoIII2CoII2] with an unusual electronic structure and single-ion-magnet characterization
Authors: Huang Wei , Pan Feifei , Wang Zhenxing , Bai Yan , Feng Xuejun , Gu Jiande , Ouyang Zhong-Wen , Wu Dayu
Published: March 2017

Magnetically isolated weakly coordinated cobalt(ii) ions with an unusual electronic structure in a mixed-valence metallogrid show field-induced slow magnetization relaxation.
In-MOFs based on amide functionalised flexible linkers
Authors: Haddad J. , Whitehead G. F. S. , Katsoulidis A. P. , Rosseinsky M. J.
Published: March 2017

Two new amide functionalised metal–organic frameworks, In(OH)CSA and In(OH)PDG, were synthesized using two flexible linkers, N-(4-carboxyphenyl)succinamic acid (CSA) and N,N′-(1,4-phenylenedicarbonyl)diglycine (PDG), respectively. Both structures consist of corner-sharing {InO4(OH)2} octahedra in the form of trans indium hydroxide chains, which are interconnected by the dicarboxylate linkers to form stacked 2-dimensional layers. The different symmetries and configurations of the flexible and rigid features on the linkers results in different supramolecular interactions dominating between linkers, resulting in different shaped pores and functional group orientation. In(OH)CSA lacks hydrogen bonding between linkers, which results in close packing between the layers and very small solvent accessible pores running perpendicular to the plane of the layers. In(OH)PDG exhibits strong intra- and interlayer hydrogen bonding, which prevents the layers from close packing and results in larger cylindrical pores running parallel to the indium hydroxide chains, producing a total accessible volume of 25% of the unit cell volume.
Discovery of novel trimethoxy-ring BRD4 bromodomain inhibitors: AlphaScreen assay, crystallography and cell-based assay
Authors: Chen Zhifeng , Zhang Hao , Liu Shien , Xie Yiqian , Jiang Hao , Lu Wenchao , Xu Heng , Yue Liyan , Zhang Yuanyuan , Ding Hong , Zheng Mingyue , Yu Kunqian , Chen Kaixian , Jiang Hualiang , Luo Cheng
Published: March 2017

A novel category of BRD4 bromodomain inhibitors was discovered through AlphaScreen assay, and the binding mode was revealed by a crystallographic method.
Current status of electron transport layers in perovskite solar cells: materials and properties
Authors: Mahmood Khalid , Sarwar Saad , Mehran Muhammad Taqi
Published: March 2017

Methyl ammonium lead halide-based hybrid perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have been intensively studied in recent years because of their high efficiency and low processing costs.
Investigations on the mechanism, kinetics and isotherms of ammonium and humic acid co-adsorption at low temperature by 4A-molecular sieves modified from attapulgite
Authors: Sun Nan , Shi Wenxin , Ma Lixin , Yu Shuili
Published: March 2017

Attapulgite (ATP) is a type of natural magnesium aluminum silicate mineral and has been applied as an adsorbent to remove organic pollutants and heavy metals in aqueous solution.
Effect of fluorination on n-type conjugated polymers for all-polymer solar cells
Authors: Li Xiangzhi , Liu Xiaoyuan , Sun Po , Feng Yaomiao , Shan Haiquan , Wu Xia , Xu Jiaju , Huang Chun , Chen Zhi-Kuan , Xu Zong-Xiang
Published: March 2017

Incorporation of a different number of fluorine atoms on the donor portion of naphthalene diimide (NDI) based donor–acceptor conjugated polymers significantly affected the solar cell's power conversion efficiency from 0.67% to 2.50%.
Synthesis of nanocomposites of polypyrrole/carbon nanotubes/silver nano particles and their application in water disinfection
Authors: Salam Mohamed Abdel , Obaid Abdullah Y. , El-Shishtawy Reda M. , Mohamed Saleh A.
Published: March 2017

Contamination of drinking or irrigation water with pathogenic bacteria, such asEscherichia coli(E. coli) andStaphylococcus aureus(S. aureus), is a major global health problem.
Hydrothermally prepared nanosized and mesoporous Ce0.4Zr0.6O2 solid solutions with shape dependence in photocatalysis for the degradation of methylene blue
Authors: Tian Wei , Yin Jun , Wei Lingfei , Shen Quanhao , Bibi Rehana , Liu Ming , Yang Bin , Li Naixu , Zhou Jiancheng
Published: March 2017

The shape dependence of photocatalysis is confirmed.
Enhanced photoresponse of ZnO quantum dot-decorated MoS2 thin films
Authors: Nazir Ghazanfar , Khan M. Farooq , Akhtar Imtisal , Akbar Kamran , Gautam Praveen , Noh Hwayong , Seo Yongho , Chun Seung-Hyun , Eom Jonghwa
Published: March 2017

This paper reports on high photo responsivity (Rλ ∼ 1913 AW−1) of MoS2 photodetector by decorating a thin layer of ZnO quantum dots on MoS2.
Expanding analytical tools for characterizing ultrasmall silica-based nanoparticles
Authors: Yoo B. , Ma K. , Wiesner U. , Bradbury M.
Published: March 2017

C′ dots are fluorescent inorganic–organic hybrid nanoparticles synthesized in water comprised of a silica core with a covalently embedded near infrared dye, and a polyethylene glycol (PEG) outer layer.
A miniaturised 3D printed polypropylene reactor for online reaction analysis by mass spectrometry
Authors: Scotti Gianmario , Nilsson Sofia M. E. , Haapala Markus , Pöhö Päivi , Boije af Gennäs Gustav , Yli-Kauhaluoma Jari , Kotiaho Tapio
Published: March 2017

The first miniaturised 3D printed polypropylene reactor with an integrated nanoelectrospray ionisation capillary and a stir bar for mass spectrometric online reaction monitoring.
Advances in heart failure: a review of biomarkers, emerging pharmacological therapies, durable mechanical support and telemonitoring
Authors: Moayedi Yasbanoo , Ross Heather J.
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of diagnosis, prognosis and management of heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Specifically, this review is divided into three sections. The first section will address biomarkers. The discovery of biomarkers has allowed further understanding of the pathophysiology of HF and provides insight into potential therapeutic targets. This review will focus on novel applications of natriuretic peptides (NPs) in clinical trials. Next, emerging biomarkers of HF, such as ST2, galectin-3 and copeptin, will be discussed. The second section aims to highlight HF therapies, including novel drugs and durable devices. The last section will review home haemodynamic monitoring and mobile health. We aim to provide context for the understanding of novel diagnostic and therapeutic advances in HF that are still in phase II or III trials, and have yet to become widely available.
Optimal VM placement for traffic scalability using Markov chain in cloud data centre networks
Authors: Ma Teng , Wu Jiangxing , Hu Yuxiang , Huang Wanwei
Published: March 2017

In cloud data centre networks, virtual machine (VM) placement can be investigated to tackle traffic scalability issue. In this Letter, by taking advantage of data centre network architecture, the authors formulate the traffic scalability issue as a combinatorial optimisation model of online VM placement with multi‐dimensional resource constraints. By leveraging Markov approximation technique, the optimum is efficiently obtained. Performance evaluation demonstrates that the proposed method achieves significant traffic scalability improvement over two common heuristics.
Simple non‐coherent detection scheme for IEEE 802.15.4 BPSK receivers
Authors: Zhang Gaoyuan , Wang Dan , Song Liang , Wu Honghai , Xie Ping , Ji Baofeng , Wen Hong
Published: March 2017

A novel, non‐coherent bit‐level detection scheme is proposed to compensate for the frequency offset efficiently in IEEE 802.15.4 binary phase shift keying (BPSK) receivers. In the proposed scheme, the frequency‐offset estimation process only requires comparison, division, and addition operations. The proposed scheme first creates a suitable estimation‐region division, thus the mathematical approximation tan−1(x) ≈ x is efficiently utilised to simplify the conventional optimal estimation. The frequency offset and signal‐to‐noise ratio conditions do not need a priori knowledge. Simulations demonstrate that the proposed scheme is as reliable as the conventional optimal algorithm, but with a significant reduction of complexity.
Compact dual‐mode dual‐band bandpass filter with inside–outside–reversed dual‐ring topology
Authors: Gao Shan‐Shan , Sun Sheng , Li Jia‐Lin , Yan Tao
Published: March 2017

A compact dual‐mode dual‐band bandpass filter is proposed based on the inside–outside–reversed dual‐ring topology. Different from the traditional design, the total size of the filter is limited by the second passband with shorter wavelength at higher frequency, instead of the first passband with longer wavelength at lower frequency. By loading four square patches in the inner ring, the degenerate modes of the inner ring move down and form the first passband, whereas the second passband is constructed by the outer ring. By utilising the coplanar‐waveguide feeding at ground plane, a prototype of the dual‐band filter with two operating frequencies at 0.92 and 1.47 GHz is designed and verified experimentally.
sampled‐data fuzzy control for non‐linear parabolic distributed parameter systems with control inputs missing
Authors: Wang Zi‐Peng , Wu Huai‐Ning
Published: March 2017

In this study, an sampled‐data fuzzy control problem is considered for non‐linear parabolic partial differential equation (PPDE) systems with control inputs missing. It is assumed that the actuator to the plant is set to zero if the control inputs missing which occurs in a random way satisfies a Bernoulli distribution. With the aid of the modal decomposition technique, a non‐linear ordinary differential equation (ODE) system is initially obtained to represent the dominant dynamics of the PPDE system. Subsequently, a Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy model is utilised to accurately describe the resulting non‐linear ODE system. Then, using a novel time‐dependent functional and the stochastic analysis technique, an sampled‐data fuzzy controller with the stochastic missing data via linear matrix inequalities is proposed to stabilise exponentially the non‐linear PPDE system in the mean square sense and achieve an performance for the derived non‐linear ODE system. Finally, an example on a temperature cooling fin is given to verify the proposed design strategy.
Integrated fault estimation and non‐fragile fault‐tolerant control design for uncertain Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy systems with actuator fault and sensor fault
Authors: Li Xiaohang , Lu Dunke , Zeng Guohui , Liu Jin , Zhang Wei
Published: March 2017

This study proposes an integrated design of robust fault estimation and non‐fragile fault‐tolerant control for a class of Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy systems subjected to disturbances, actuator fault and sensor fault. A fuzzy adaptive observer is developed to achieve simultaneous estimations of actuator fault and sensor fault, based on which a new non‐fragile output feedback fault‐tolerant controller is constructed to compensate for the effects of the disturbances and faults. Moreover, the proposed fault‐tolerant controller proves non‐fragile, since it offers the ability to suppress the control gain perturbations. Simulation results are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Matrix approach to trajectory control of higher‐order k ‐valued logical control networks
Authors: Zhao Guodong , Fu Shihua
Published: March 2017

This study investigates the trajectory controllability of higher‐order k ‐valued logical control networks, and presents a number of new results. First, the higher‐order k ‐valued logical control networks are considered as the mappings from the space of input trajectories to the space of output trajectories, based on which the continuity and surjectivity of higher‐order k ‐valued logical control networks are analysed via the theory of symbolic dynamics. Second, as the concept for trajectory controllability of higher‐order k ‐valued logical control networks is defined, an equivalent test criterion is presented for the trajectory controllability via the semi‐tensor product method. Moreover, an effective method is proposed to find the control sequence for the trajectory controllability. Finally, an illustrative example is worked out to support the obtained new results.
Distributed algorithm for dynamic economic power dispatch with energy storage in smart grids
Authors: Xing Hao , Lin Zhiyun , Fu Minyue , F. Hobbs Benjamin
Published: March 2017

The dynamic economic dispatch problem with energy storage in a smart grid scenario is studied, which aims at minimising the aggregate generation costs over multiple periods on condition that the time‐varying demand is met, while physical constraints on generation and storage as well as system spinning reserve requirement are satisfied. In our model, energy storage devices are incorporated for not only inter‐temporal energy arbitrage to reduce total generation cost, but also providing spinning reserve to share generators' burden. To solve this problem, we assume that the communication networks are strongly connected directed graphs and propose a fully distributed algorithm based on the ‘consensus‐like’ iterative algorithm and the alternating direction method of multipliers. Our algorithm is distributed in the sense that no leader or master nodes are needed, while all the nodes conduct local computation and communicate merely with their neighbours. Numerical simulation is included to show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Myriad non‐linearity for GNSS robust signal processing
Authors: Borio Daniele
Published: March 2017

The robustness of standard correlation‐based Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signal processing can be significantly improved by pre‐processing the input samples with a zero‐memory non‐linearity (ZMNL). A paradigm for the design of ZMNLs is provided by the M‐estimator framework where heavy‐tailed probability density functions (pdfs) are used to model the impairments affecting the input samples. The myriad non‐linearity, obtained considering a Cauchy pdf, is analysed for the acquisition and tracking of GNSS signals in the presence of pulsed interference. The impact of the myriad non‐linearity is theoretically characterised and Monte Carlo simulations are used to support theoretical findings. Finally, real GNSS signals collected in the presence of jamming are processed: the myriad non‐linearity provides a significant performance improvement with respect to standard GNSS signal processing which is unable to acquire and track the samples affected by interference.
RSS‐based indoor localisation using MDCF
Authors: Gui Linqing , Yang Mengxia , Fang Peng , Yang Shuai
Published: March 2017

As a low‐cost distance measurement method, received signal strength (RSS) is often used for indoor wireless sensor localisation. However, RSS values can be easily influenced by multi‐path fading, noise and other environmental parameters. This decreases the accuracy and stability of estimated distance. To improve localisation accuracy, this study proposes a multiplicative distance‐correction factor (MDCF) to counteract the inaccuracy of estimated distance. In the same indoor environment, the product of this CF and estimated distance is regarded as a good approximation of real distance between unknown node and an anchor node. Then, two location estimated methods based on MDCF (MDCF‐grid and MDCF‐particle swarm optimisation) are proposed. The experimental results confirm that the proposed location estimation methods can significantly improve localisation accuracy without extra hardware in practical indoor scenarios.
State space model‐based trust evaluation over wireless sensor networks: an iterative particle filter approach
Authors: Liu Bin , Cheng Shi
Published: March 2017

In this study, the authors propose a state space modelling approach for trust evaluation in wireless sensor networks. In their state space trust model (SSTM), each sensor node is associated with a trust metric, which measures to what extent the data transmitted from this node would better be trusted by the server node. Given the SSTM, they translate the trust evaluation problem to be a non‐linear state filtering problem. To estimate the state based on the SSTM, a component‐wise iterative state inference procedure is proposed to work in tandem with the particle filter (PF), and thus the resulting algorithm is termed as iterative PF (IPF). The computational complexity of the IPF algorithm is theoretically linearly related with the dimension of the state. This property is desirable especially for high‐dimensional trust evaluation and state filtering problems. The performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated by both simulations and real data analysis.
First Stereoselective Synthesis of (6R,7R,8S)-8-Chlorogoniodiol
Authors: Sharada Ambati , Rao Kundeti , Yadav Jhillu , Rao Tadikamalla , Nagaiah Kommu
Published: March 2017

A stereoselective synthesis of (6R,7R,8S)-8-chlorogoniodiol has been achieved in a linear sequence of 12 steps and 19.8% overall yield from cinnamyl alcohol. The key steps include Sharpless asymmetric epoxidation, regioselective ring opening of epoxide, indium-mediated Barbier allylation, and Still–Gennari olefination.
Naso- or Orbitocutaneous Fistulas after Free Flap Reconstruction of Orbital Exenteration Defects: Retrospective Study, Systematic Review, and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gill Kurren , Hsu David , Nyquist Gurston , Krein Howard , Bilyk Jurij , Murchison Anna , Evans James , Heffelfinger Ryan , Curry Joseph , Tassone Patrick
Published: March 2017

Objective Naso- or orbitocutaneous fistula (NOF) is a challenging complication of orbital exenteration, and it often requires surgical repair. We sought to identify the incidence and risk factors for NOF after orbital exenteration.

Study Design Retrospective chart review, systematic review, meta-analysis.

Setting Tertiary care center.

Participants Patients undergoing free flap reconstruction following orbital exenteration. Records were reviewed for clinicopathologic data, operative details, and outcomes.

Main Outcome Measures Univariate analysis was used to assess risk factors for incidence of postoperative NOF. PubMed and Cochrane databases were searched for published reports on NOF after orbital exenteration. Rates of fistula and odds ratios for predictive factors were compared in a meta-analysis.

Results Total 7 of 77 patients (9.1%) developed NOF; fistula formation was associated with ethmoid sinus involvement (p < 0.05) and minor wound break down (p < 0.05). On meta-analysis, pooled rates of fistula formation were 5.8% for free flap patients and 12.5% for patients receiving no reconstruction.

Conclusion Immediate postoperative wound complications and medial orbital wall resection increased the risk for NOF. On review and meta-analysis, reconstruction of orbital exenteration defects decreased the risk for fistula formation, but published series did not demonstrate a significant decrease in risk with free flaps compared with other methods of reconstruction.
Persistierende Kreislaufinstabilität bei klinisch instabilem Becken trotz Anlage einer Beckenschlinge
Authors: Kaske S. , Maegele M.
Published: March 2017

Ungefähr 8% aller Patienten mit Polytrauma weisen neben anderen Verletzungen eine Beckenfraktur auf. Insbesondere instabile Beckenringfrakturen sind ein unabhängiger Risikofaktor für Morbidität und Mortalität. Aufgrund venöser Sickerblutungen aus dem präsakralen Plexus (80%) sowie arteriellen Blutungen (10 – 20%) kann es zu einem kreislaufrelevanten Blutverlust in das kleine Becken kommen. Im Rahmen der präklinischen Versorgung gilt es daher, instabile Beckenringfrakturen frühstmöglich zu erkennen und das Becken mechanisch zu komprimieren mit dem Ziel, den Blutverlust zu minimieren und den Kreislauf zu stabilisieren. In der vorliegenden Kasuistik wird die Versorgung eines Traumapatienten mit klinisch instabilem Becken und persistierender Kreislaufinstabilität trotz Anlage einer Beckenschlinge geschildert. Neben der Rationale für eine mechanische Beckenkompression bei klinisch instabilem Becken wird auf eine mögliche Ursache für die persistierende Kreislaufinstabilität hingewiesen.
Surface Lifshits tails for random quantum Hamiltonians
Authors: Kirsch Werner , Raikov Georgi
Published: March 2017

We consider Schrödinger operators on L2(ℝd)⊗L2(ℝℓ) of the form Hω=H⊥⊗I∥+I⊥⊗H∥+Vω, where H⊥ and H∥ are Schrödinger operators on L2(ℝd) and L2(ℝℓ), respectively, and Vω(x,y):=∑ξ∈ℤdλξ(ω)v(x−ξ,y),x∈ℝd,y∈ℝℓ is a random “surface potential.” We investigate the behavior of the integrated density of surface states of Hω near the bottom of the spectrum and near internal band edges. The main result of the current paper is that, under suitable assumptions, the behavior of the integrated density of surface states of Hω can be read off from the integrated density of states of a reduced Hamiltonian H⊥+Wω where Wω is a quantum mechanical average of Vω with respect to y∈ℝℓ. We are particularly interested in cases when H⊥ is a magnetic Schrödinger operator, but we also recover some of the results from Kirsch and Warzel [J. Funct. Anal. 230, 222–250 (2006)] for non-magnetic H⊥.
Research on a novel axial-flux magnetic-field-modulated brushless double-rotor machine with low axial force and high efficiency
Authors: Tong Chengde , Song Zhiyi , Bai Jingang , Liu Jiaqi , Zheng Ping
Published: March 2017

The axial-flux magnetic-field-modulated brushless double-rotor machine (MFM-BDRM) is a possible alternative as a power-split device for hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). However, the existence of large axial force may lead to assembly problems and rich inner air-gap harmonics could result in high PM loss and low efficiency. This paper proposes a novel axial-flux MFM-BDRM with improved PM rotor structure. 2-D analytical method to predict the magnetic-field distribution of the proposed MFM-BDRM is developed and the design procedure of the proposed machine is illustrated. The impact of key geometrical parameters on axial force and torque is investigated. To evaluate the advantage of the proposed machine, a comparison is made with a conventional one with respect to electromagnetic performances. Results show that the proposed machine is effective in reducing PM eddy loss and axial force by 60% and 35%, respectively.
Emergence of spontaneous symmetry breaking in dissipative lattice systems
Authors: Wilming Henrik , Kastoryano Michael J. , Werner Albert H. , Eisert Jens
Published: March 2017

A cornerstone of the theory of phase transitions is the observation that many-body systems exhibiting a spontaneous symmetry breaking in the thermodynamic limit generally show extensive fluctuations of an order parameter in large but finite systems. In this work, we introduce the dynamical analog of such a theory. Specifically, we consider local dissipative dynamics preparing an equilibrium steady-state of quantum spins on a lattice exhibiting a discrete or continuous symmetry but with extensive fluctuations in a local order parameter. We show that for all such processes, there exist asymptotically stationary symmetry-breaking states, i.e., states that become stationary in the thermodynamic limit and give a finite value to the order parameter. We give results both for discrete and continuous symmetries and explicitly show how to construct the symmetry-breaking states. Our results show in a simple way that, in large systems, local dissipative dynamics satisfying detailed balance cannot uniquely and efficiently prepare states with extensive fluctuations with respect to local operators. We discuss the implications of our results for quantum simulators and dissipative state preparation.
Gauged twistor spinors and symmetry operators
Authors: Ertem Ümit
Published: March 2017

We consider gauged twistor spinors which are supersymmetry generators of supersymmetric and superconformal field theories in curved backgrounds. We show that the spinor bilinears of gauged twistor spinors satisfy the gauged conformal Killing-Yano equation. We prove that the symmetry operators of the gauged twistor spinor equation can be constructed from ordinary conformal Killing-Yano forms in constant curvature backgrounds. This provides a way to obtain gauged twistor spinors from ordinary twistor spinors.
Effect of the reflectional symmetry on the coherent hole transport across DNA hairpins
Authors: Zarea Mehdi , Berlin Yuri , Ratner Mark A.
Published: March 2017

The coherent hole transfer in three types of DNA hairpins containing strands with adenine (A) and guanine (G) nucleobases has been studied. The investigated hairpins involve An+1GGAn, AnGAGAn, or (AG)2nA strands that connect the hole donor and hole acceptor located on opposite ends of hairpins. The positive charge transfer from the photo-excited donor to the acceptor is shown to be slower for An+1GGAn in comparison with AnGAGAn and (AG)2nA sequences. We have revealed that this is due to the reflectional symmetry of the last two sequences with respect to the axis passing through the middle base. As has been demonstrated, the symmetry of the sequence structure manifests itself in the reflectional symmetry of the energy eigenstates. In addition, it has been shown that (AG)2nA is the only symmetric sequence with a zero energy state in the middle of the LUMO tight-binding energy band. Based on our theoretical findings, we predict that the hairpin with this sequence should have the fastest coherent hole transfer rate among the class of base sequences studied.
Estimation of the spontaneous magnetization and the universal curve in MnCo1−xNbxGe alloys with long-range interactions
Authors: Si Xiaodong , Zhou Keyi , Zhang Rui , Liu Yongsheng , Qi Jing
Published: March 2017

We report on the critical behavior, spontaneous magnetization, and universal curve of MnCo1−xNbxGe alloys. Results demonstrate that the replacement of Co by Nb produces a decrease in the Curie temperature, TC, from 259.3 K to 240.3 K. Critical exponents obtained by the modified Arrott plot technique, Kouvel-Fisher method, and critical isothermal analysis are close to the theoretical prediction of the mean-field model values, revealing the characteristic of long-range ferromagnetic interactions. The values of spontaneous magnetization Msp estimated from |ΔSM| vs. M2 plots are in good agreement with the classical extrapolation from the Arrott curves, proving the validity and usefulness of this approach to estimate the Msp. Moreover, the experimental magnetic entropy changes measured for different fields collapse onto a universal curve, confirming the universal behavior of the magnetocaloric effect in this system.
Containing intense laser light in circular cavity with magnetic trap door
Authors: Yang X. H. , Yu W. , Yu M. Y. , Xu H. , Ma Y. Y. , Sheng Z. M. , Zhuo H. B. , Ge Z. Y. , Shao F. Q.
Published: March 2017

It is shown by particle-in-cell simulation that intense circularly polarized (CP) laser light can be contained in the cavity of a solid-density circular Al-plasma shell for hundreds of light-wave periods before it is dissipated by laser-plasma interaction. A right-hand CP laser pulse can propagate with almost no reflection and attenuation into the cavity through a highly magnetized overdense H-plasma slab filling the entrance hole. The entrapped laser light is then multiply reflected at the inner surfaces of the slab and shell plasmas, slowly losing energy to the latter. Compared to that of the incident laser, the frequency is only slightly broadened and the wave vector slightly modified by the appearance of weak nearly isotropic and homogeneous fluctuations.
Note: Self-biased voltage to suppress secondary electrons by a ZnO varistor in a compact pulsed neutron generator
Authors: Yang Z. , Li X. , Li J. , Long J. D. , Lan C. H. , Wang T. , Dong P. , He J. L.
Published: March 2017

A large amount of back streaming electrons will bring about a part of current drain on power supply, cause sparking or high-voltage breakdowns, and affect the neutron yield and waveform for a compact sealed-tube pulsed neutron generator. A novel idea which uses a ZnO varistor to provide a constant self-biased voltage to suppress the secondary electrons is introduced. The I-V curve for the ZnO varistor was measured in the experiment. The effects of suppressing the secondary electrons were investigated using a ZnO varistor, linear resistors, and an independent power supply, respectively. The results show that the secondary electrons are suppressed effectively by the compact ZnO varistor, while not increasing the size and the component of the device. It is a promising design for compact sealed-tube neutron generators.
Charcoal reflectance suggests heating duration and fuel moisture affected burn severity in four Alaskan tundra wildfires
Authors: Hudspith Victoria A. , Belcher Claire M. , Barnes Jennifer , Dash Carolyn B. , Kelly Ryan , Hu Feng Sheng
Published: March 2017

Wildfires are anticipated to increase in frequency and extent in the Arctic tundra. In the unprecedented 2010 fire season, 37 tundra fires burned 435 km2 of the Noatak National Preserve, Alaska. We sampled sixteen soil monoliths from four of these burned areas, which based on microsite burn severity assessments ranged from scorched to moderate–high. Surface charcoals were later studied using reflectance microscopy, as charcoal reflectance may semiquantitatively indicate the duration of heating experienced by a given fuel. Here, the combination of high fuel moisture contents and rapid consumption of fine tussock fuels likely resulted in short fire residence times across the four burned areas, giving an overall low median charcoal reflectance for the entire assemblage (0.82%Romedian). The low charcoal reflectances of the ground fuels provide further evidence for limited heat transference to the organic soil (bryophytes, 0.57 ± 0.17%Romedian; duff and litter, 0.83 ± 0.33%Romedian). The range of observed microsite burn severities is therefore likely attributable to localised variations in above- and ground fuel moisture contents resulting in heterogeneously burned fuels. Consequently, charcoal reflectance is able to provide additional information about current fire behaviour that may improve our understanding of tussock–shrub tundra fires in the future.
Influence of parameters on Al/Ti-DLC/DLC selective absorber film
Authors: Yu Xiang , Yang Zi-jiang , Cai Sheng-ting , Yang Zhong-zhou , Ren Yi
Published: March 2017

This work explores the effects of target current and argon gas flow on structural and optical properties of Al/Ti-DLC/DLC selective absorber films used in solar-thermal conversion processes. The transmittance of DLC (diamond-like carbon) anti-reflection layer is affected by the sp2-C/sp3-C ratio in it. An increase in C-target current and argon gas flow is seen to induce an initial increase followed by a subsequent decrease in film transmittance. The absorptivity of Ti-DLC (titanium-containing) layer is affected by the sp2-C/sp3-C ratio. An increase in Ti-target current induces a gradual decrease in the content of sp3-C bonds in absorbing layer. A further increase in Ti-target current results in decreased absorption. It is concluded that in the Ti-DLC layer, (i) TiC grains can change absorbing layer temperature and C–C bond structure, thereby gradually increasing the ratio of sp2-C/sp3-C and (ii) TiC grains also absorb transmitted light or scatter reflected light, inducing enhanced absorption in Ti-DLC layer.
Do animacy effects persist in memory for context?
Authors: Gelin Margaux , Bonin Patrick , Méot Alain , Bugaiska Aurélia
Published: March 2017

The adaptive view of human memory assumes that animates (e.g, rabbit) are remembered better than inanimates (e.g. glass) because animates are ultimately more important for fitness than inanimates. Previous studies provided evidence for this view by showing that animates were recalled or recognized better than inanimates, but they did not assess memory for contextual details (e.g., where animates vs inanimates occurred). In this study, we tested recollection of spatial information (Study 1) and temporal information (Study 2) associated with animate versus inanimate words. The findings showed that the two types of contextual information were remembered better when they were related to animates than to inanimates. These findings provide further evidence for an ultimate explanation of animacy effects.
Predation and Prey Selectivity by Nonnative Catfish on Migrating Alosines in an Atlantic Slope Estuary
Authors: Schmitt Joseph D. , Hallerman Eric M. , Bunch Aaron , Moran Zach , Emmel Jason A. , Orth Donald J.
Published: March 2017

Native to the central USA, the Blue Catfish Ictalurus furcatus and the Flathead Catfish Pylodictis olivaris have been widely introduced into many Atlantic slope rivers and are now found in several drainages of the Chesapeake Bay. Fisheries managers are concerned that these large, long-lived catfish species may be contributing to observed declines in anadromous species, such as the American Shad Alosa sapidissima, Blueback Herring A. aestivalis, and Alewife A. pseudoharengus, all of which once comprised major U.S. fisheries. We assessed spatiotemporal variability and selectivity in the diets of Blue Catfish and Flathead Catfish during the spawning migration of these alosines. Catfish stomachs were collected during March–May in nontidal freshwater, tidal freshwater, oligohaline, and mesohaline portions of the James River. Diet contents were extracted from 2,495 catfish, 69.86% of which had prey items present in their foreguts (N = 1,743). We used DNA barcoding to identify degraded fish prey; nearly 30 taxa that would have otherwise gone undetected were identified in this manner. Blue Catfish had broad, omnivorous diets, whereas Flathead Catfish fed solely on other fish. Alosines were found in 4.46% of Blue Catfish stomachs and 16.67% of Flathead Catfish stomachs. Flathead Catfish selectively preyed on American Shad and, to a lesser degree, river herring. Alosines were consumed more frequently in nontidal freshwater areas, particularly in the high-gradient reach between Bosher Dam and the 14th Street Bridge, and predation on alosines peaked in April. Our results suggest that Flathead Catfish are likely to have a greater per capita impact on depleted alosines. Furthermore, dams and other obstacles to fish movement may increase alosines’ vulnerability to predation by large catfish.
Dual recognition of chromatin and microtubules by INCENP is important for mitotic progression
Authors: Wheelock Michael S. , Wynne David J. , Tseng Boo Shan , Funabiki Hironori
Published: March 2017

The chromosomal passenger complex (CPC), composed of inner centromere protein (INCENP), Survivin, Borealin, and the kinase Aurora B, contributes to the activation of the mitotic checkpoint. The regulation of CPC function remains unclear. Here, we reveal that in addition to Survivin and Borealin, the single α-helix (SAH) domain of INCENP supports CPC localization to chromatin and the mitotic checkpoint. The INCENP SAH domain also mediates INCENP’s microtubule binding, which is negatively regulated by Cyclin-dependent kinase–mediated phosphorylation of segments flanking the SAH domain. The microtubule-binding capacity of the SAH domain is important for mitotic arrest in conditions of suppressed microtubule dynamics, and the duration of mitotic arrest dictates the probability, but not the timing, of cell death. Although independent targeting of INCENP to microtubules or the kinetochore/centromere promotes the mitotic checkpoint, it is insufficient for a robust mitotic arrest. Altogether, our results demonstrate that dual recognition of chromatin and microtubules by CPC is important for checkpoint maintenance and determination of cell fate in mitosis.
The nocturnal zonation of decapods in the subtidal zone within the reef seascape—abiotic factors defining habitats
Authors: Giraldes Bruno Welter , Coelho Filho Petrônio Alves , Smyth David M. , Coelho Petrônio Alves
Published: March 2017

The relationship between populations of marine organisms and physicochemical gradients directly influence distributions of species within associated seascapes. This study examines the impact that exposure to sunlight and substrate type has on the distribution of decapods in a tropical coastal reef environment. The study was performed at night when the species are at their most active using a visual census methodology to observe the natural nocturnal behaviour. The research revealed the existence of three distinct habitats housing specific decapod assemblages within tropical hard substrate environments; the External-Reef habitat which accommodates colonial benthic host decapods; the Crevicular-Reef habitat which accommodates the reef-stygofauna; and the Interface habitat between the reef and soft substrate which is habituated by transient decapod species. The findings extend the previous zonation patterns for decapods to the subtidal zone using physical parameters as the rationale defining allocation. The study collated and reviewed documented taxonomic and ecological evidence which supports this division of decapods into similar reef seascapes worldwide. It further proposes that this format of subtidal zonation may be applicable on a global scale to species which inhabit a comparable ecological niche within tropical zones.
Diving into the oocyte pool
Authors: Kristensen Stine G. , Pors Susanne E. , Andersen Claus Y.
Published: March 2017

Purpose of review

The ovarian reserve comprises an enormous surplus of follicles. Despite this, some women produce insufficient numbers of oocytes by conventional fertility treatments. However, recent technical accomplishments may transform assisted reproductive technology (ART) in such a way that oocytes are not necessarily the limiting factor. In this review, we present possible new strategies for enhancing the quantity of mature oocytes, and current views on autologous oocytes as potential sources of mitochondria to lift performance of compromised oocytes.

Recent findings

New discoveries of the signaling pathways activating dormant follicles and breakthroughs in techniques for autologous transfer of mitochondria have opened new doors to unexploited sources of oocytes and attractive ways of revitalizing oocytes. Extended numbers of mature oocytes may be obtained by in-vitro activation of dormant follicles in cortical biopsies or in-vitro maturation of immature oocytes during the natural or stimulated cycle, and used directly for fertility treatment or as a source of autologous mitochondria.

New approaches utilizing the abundant resources of immature oocytes combined with techniques for revitalizing deficient oocytes may transform ART, and potentially enhance both quantity and quality of fertilizable oocytes; hereby augmenting the pregnancy potential of women with poor reproductive performance.
BMP-7 Preserves Surface Integrity of Degradable-ceramic Cranioplasty in a Göttingen Minipig Model
Authors: Roldán J. Camilo , Schulz Peter , Klünter Tim , Deisinger Ulrike , Diez Claudius , Waiss Waltraud , Kirschneck Christian , Reichert Torsten E. , Detsch Rainer
Published: March 2017

Background:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the integrity of a craniotomy grafted site in a minipig model using different highly porous calcium phosphate ceramic scaffolds either loaded or nonloaded with bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7).

Methods:

Four craniotomies with a diameter of 15 mm (critical-size defect) were grafted with different highly porous (92–94 vol%) calcium phosphate ceramics [hydroxyapatite (HA), tricalcium phosphate (TCP), and biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP; a mixture of HA and TCP)] in 10 Göttingen minipigs: (a) group I (n = 5): HA versus BCP; (b) group II (n = 5): TCP versus BCP. One scaffold of each composition was supplied with 250 μg of BMP-7. In vivo computed tomography scan and fluorochrome bone labeling were performed. Specimens were evaluated 14 weeks after surgery by environmental scanning electron microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, and Giemsa staining histology.

Results:

BMP-7 significantly enhanced bone formation in TCP (P = 0.047). Slightly enhanced bone formation was observed in BCP (P = 0.059) but not in HA implants. BMP-7 enhanced ceramic degradation in TCP (P = 0.05) and BCP (P = 0.05) implants but not in HA implants. Surface integrity of grafted site was observed in all BMP-7-loaded implants after successful creeping substitution by the newly formed bone. In 9 of 10 HA implants without BMP-7, partial collapse of the implant site was observed. All TCP implants without BMP-7 collapsed. Fluorescent labeling showed bone formation at week 1 in BMP-7-stimulated implants.

Conclusions:

BMP-7 supports bone formation, ceramic degradation, implant integration, and surface integrity of the grafted site.
Directly Measured Physical Function in Cardiac Rehabilitation
Authors: Rengo Jason L. , Savage Patrick D. , Shaw Joan C. , Ades Philip A.
Published: March 2017

PURPOSE:

The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) is a strong predictor for risk of physical disability in older adults. Roughly half of individuals participating in phase II cardiac rehabilitation (CR) are 65 years or older, many presenting with low aerobic capacities and may be at increased risk for physical disability.

METHODS:

The cohort consisted of 196 consecutive patients (136 men), aged 65 years or older, entering CR who were prospectively evaluated by the SPPB. Data were also obtained for age, self-reported physical function (Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 questionnaire), and peak aerobic capacity. Measures were repeated upon completion of CR for those individuals who completed the program.

RESULTS:

The average age of patients was 74 ± 0.5 years. At baseline, total SPPB score was 9.7 ± 0.2 (out of 12). Followup data were obtained on 133 (68%) patients, with a mean improvement of 0.8 ± 0.1 (P < .0001), which was not clinically significant (≥1 point). Focusing on patients with a low baseline SPPB score, 72 subjects scored ≤9 (7.1 ± 0.2), with 45 completing exit measures. Improvements were found in gait speed (0.5 ± 0.1, P < .0001), chair-stand (1.0 ± 0.1, P < .0001), and total SPPB (1.6 ± 0.3, P < .0001) in this more disabled group. Measures of

JOURNAL/jcprh/04.03/01273116-201705000-00003/3FSM1/v/2023-09-11T232158Z/r/image-gif

o
2peak were significantly reduced in the low SPPB group (13.5 ± 0.4 vs 17.5 ± 0.4 mL/kg/min, P < .0001). Measured

JOURNAL/jcprh/04.03/01273116-201705000-00003/3FSM1/v/2023-09-11T232158Z/r/image-gif

o
2peak (R
2 = 26%, P < .0001) and self-reported physical function score (R
2 = 5%, P = .02) were the only multivariate predictors of baseline SPPB.

CONCLUSION:

For patients who enter CR with low SPPB scores (37%), significant improvements in physical function were noted, largely explained by improved walking speed and leg strength (chair-stand).
Implementation and Outcomes of a Community-Based Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program in Rural Appalachia
Authors: Doyle Daniel , Tommarello Chaffee , Broce Mike , Emmett Mary , Pollard Cecil
Published: March 2017

Purpose:

To report on the implementation and clinical outcomes of a community-based pulmonary rehabilitation program in rural Appalachia.

Methods:

Three rural health centers and a large referral hospital worked together to establish pulmonary rehabilitation services based on AACVPR guidelines. Each site hired at least 1 respiratory therapist. To measure clinical outcomes, a retrospective medical record study compared pre- and post-program values for the modified Medical Research Council dyspnea level, 6-minute walk test (6MWT), negative inspiratory force (NIF), respiratory disease knowledge, St George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), BODE index (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea and exercise capacity), and smoking status. The percentages of persons completing the program and participating in maintenance exercise after the program were recorded.

Results:

During the first 20 months of the program, 195 unduplicated persons with qualifying chronic lung diseases started the program. Of these, 111 (57%) completed the program. Mean improvements for all 6 measures were highly significant (P < .001) and compared favorably with published results from hospital-based programs: dyspnea level, −1.2; 6MWT, +259 ft; NIF, +11.3 cm H2O; knowledge test, +1.9; SGRQ, −6.2; BODE index, −1.1. Of the 23 smokers, 5 quit by the end of the program.

Conclusions:

Community-based pulmonary rehabilitation in rural health centers is feasible and achieves clinical outcomes similar to programs in large hospitals and academic centers. Furthermore, the addition of respiratory therapists to these primary care teams provides important collateral benefits for the evidence-based care of patients with chronic lung diseases.
When peers count: The effects on integrated type II diabetes care of communication within general practitioner-only subgroups in interprofessional primary care teams
Authors: Compagni Amelia , Armeni Patrizio , Tasselli Stefano
Published: March 2017

Background:

Primary care teams (hereafter referred to as primary care units [PCUs]) composed of general practitioners (GPs), nurses, and specialist doctors have recently been established in the Italian context, with the main aim of improving integrated care for chronic diseases.

Purposes:

The aim of the study was to assess whether the increased professional diversity of PCUs has resulted in an improvement in the integrated care of type II diabetes and to identify a potential mechanism mediating this effect.

Methodology/Approach:

We analyzed 213 PCUs, comparing their performance in integrated type II diabetes care at two time points. Using social categorization theory and a fixed effects regression analysis, we tested a mediation model in which the frequency of communication among GPs in the PCUs, that is, within-subgroup communication, mediates the relationship between PCU professional diversity and team performance in diabetes care.

Findings:

We show that when the professional diversity of the PCUs increases, integrated care of type II diabetes improves and better meets the standards of optimal care. Within-GP subgroup communication works as a mediating mechanism that translates the PCU professional diversity into better team performance. The mediation effect, however, is curvilinear. Beyond certain levels, within-subgroup communication can hamper PCUs’ capacity to work collaboratively in integrated type II diabetes care.

Practice Implications:

The article suggests that, when creating interprofessional primary care teams, managers might be able to steer teams toward a better performance by encouraging communication among peers of the same profession.