bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermo-reversible self-healing in a fluorous crosslinked copolymer
Authors: Padhan Anil K. , Mandal Debaprasad
Published: May 2018

Self-healing in a fluorous copolymer material enhances its safety index and extends its working lifetime.
NiCo2O4/MnO2 core/shell arrays as a binder-free catalytic cathode for high-performance lithium–oxygen cells
Authors: Tang Cong , Mao Yangjun , Xie Jian , Chen Zhen , Tu Jian , Cao Gaoshao , Zhao Xinbing
Published: May 2018

Li–O2 cells with the porous core–shell MnO2@NiCo2O4 array-type catalytic cathode exhibit a long cycle life.
Ni3[Fe(CN)6]2 nanocubes boost the catalytic activity of Pt for electrochemical hydrogen evolution
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Liu Pei , Sun Yanfang , Zhan Tianrong , Liu Qingyun , Tang Lin , Guo Jinxue , Xia Yongyao
Published: May 2018

Hybrid electrocatalyst of ultrafine Pt particles anchored on a Ni3[Fe(CN)6]2 nanocube with low Pt loading of 4.0% is designed for HERs, and superior catalytic activity is obtained in both acidic and alkaline media because the Ni species remarkably facilitates the reaction kinetics of water dissociation and thus improves HER activity.
High-performance NiO/g-C3N4 composites for visible-light-driven photocatalytic overall water splitting
Authors: Fu Yijun , Liu Chang'an , Zhu Cheng , Wang Huibo , Dou Yujiang , Shi Weilong , Shao Mingwang , Huang Hui , Liu Yang , Kang Zhenhui
Published: May 2018

NiO/g-C3N4 as a photocatalyst achieves efficient visible-light-driven overall water splitting without a sacrificial agent.
CsAg2Sb2I9 solar cells
Authors: Fang Zhimin , Wang Shizhe , Yang Shangfeng , Ding Liming
Published: May 2018

A perovskite material CsAg2Sb2I9 was developed via room-temperature solution processing. Its solar cells gave a PCE of 0.99%.
Three-component reaction to synthesize E-vinyl silyl anti-1,2-diols via sequential [1,4]-O-to-O/[1,4]-C-to-O silyl migrations
Authors: Pu Qiang , Tang Xiaoxiao , Gao Lu , Song Zhenlei
Published: May 2018

A three-component reaction of geminal bis(silyl) allyl silyl ether, aldehyde and electrophile has been developed to synthesize trisubstituted E-vinyl silyl anti-1,2-diols. The approach features a sequential [1,4]-O-to-O/[1,4]-C-to-O silyl migrations process.
A facile method for the synthesis of trifluoromethylthio-/chloro-homoallylic alcohols from methylenecyclopropanes
Authors: Chen Mintao , Wei Yin , Shi Min
Published: May 2018

Trifluoromethylthiolated/chloro-homoallylic alcohols have been directly accessed by the reaction of (PhSO2)2NSCF3/Cl with methylenecyclopropanes (MCPs) in DMF in moderate to good yields.
Halogen-free guanidinium-based perovskite solar cell with enhanced stability
Authors: Chandra Deb Nath Narayan , Yoo Kicheon , Lee Jae-Joon
Published: May 2018

A new halogen-free and stable perovskite, GAPb(SCN)3, was prepared from the guanidinium cation (GA+) and pseudohalogen (SCN−), for the fabrication of stable solar cells.
Effects of template molecules on the structures and luminescence intensities of a series of porous Tb-MOFs based on the 2-nitroterephthalate ligand
Authors: Ren Yi-Xia , Zhao Xiao-Long , Wang Zhi-Xiang , Pan Yong , Li Hui-Ping , Wang Fei-Yan , Zhu Shao-Feng , Shao Chen-Hui
Published: May 2018

Four porous Tb-MOFs based on 2-nitroterephthalate are described, in whose pores water (1) or co-ligands (2–4) exist in the pores as templates. The emissions could be related to the characteristic peaks of Tb(iii) ions, and their intensities are affected and adjusted by templates.
Production of Ti–Fe alloys via molten oxide electrolysis at a liquid iron cathode
Authors: Jiao Handong , Tian Donghua , Tu Jiguo , Jiao Shuqiang
Published: May 2018

This work studies the direct electrochemical preparation of Ti–Fe alloys through molten oxide electrolysis (MOE) at a liquid iron cathode.
Preparation and characterization of near-stoichiometric silicon carbon fibres
Authors: Gan Yuanfeng , Wang Xiaozhou , Wang Jun , Wang Hao
Published: May 2018

Near-stoichiometric SiC fibres (CVC-S fibres) were successfully prepared by pyrolysing chemical-vapour-cured polycarbosilane fibres under hydrogen and subsequent heat treatment in inert atmosphere at 1500 °C.
Monascuspigment rubropunctatin derivative FZU-H reduces Aβ(1-42)-induced neurotoxicity in Neuro-2A cells
Authors: Zheng Yunquan , Pan Qisheng , Mo Liuda , Zhang Wenyi , Duan Yunjian , Chen Chengqun , Chen Haijun , Guo Yanghao , Shi Xianai , Yang Jianmin
Published: May 2018

Monascuspigment rubropunctatin derivative FZU-H shows promising neuroprotective effects for AD.
1,3,5-Triphenylbenzene: a versatile photoluminescent chemo-sensor platform and supramolecular building block
Authors: Vishnoi Pratap , Kaleeswaran Dhananjayan , Murugavel Ramaswamy
Published: May 2018

Rich and diverse chemistry of 1,3,5-triphenylbenzene is discussed with emphasis on fluorescence based chemo-sensors, apart from a discussion on its use in building a number of supramolecular assemblies and fluorescent covalent-organic-frameworks.
Oxygen deficient Pr6O11 nanorod supported palladium nanoparticles: highly active nanocatalysts for styrene and 4-nitrophenol hydrogenation reactions
Authors: Jiang Nan , Zhou Xiao , Jiang Yi-Fan , Zhao Zhi-Wei , Ma Liu-Bo , Shen Cong-Cong , Liu Ya-Nan , Yuan Cheng-Zong , Sahar Shafaq , Xu An-Wu
Published: May 2018

Oxygen-deficient Pd/Pr6O11 nanocatalysts with strong metal-support interaction exhibit highly efficient styrene and 4-NP hydrogenation reactions performance.
Dilute acid catalyzed fractionation and sugar production from bamboo shoot shell in γ-valerolactone/water medium
Authors: Qing Qing , Gao Xiaohang , Wang Pengbo , Guo Qi , Xu Zhong , Wang Liqun
Published: May 2018

A non-enzymatic method is reported for the production of fermentable sugars from lignocellulose with a high total sugar recovery.
Weak magnetic field enhances the activation of peroxymonosulfate by ZnO@Fe3O4
Authors: Zhao Haodi , Zhang Jing , Ye Qian , Xu Hao , Zhou Guanyu , Wang Meijing , Deng Wanning
Published: May 2018

The effect of weak magnetic field (WFM) on Acid Orange 7 (AO7) removal by ZnO@Fe3O4/peroxymonosulphate (PMS) was investigated. And a possible reaction mechanism was derived.
Enantioselective radical process for synthesis of chiral indolines by metalloradical alkylation of diverse C(sp3)–H bonds
Authors: Wen Xin , Wang Yong , Zhang X. Peter
Published: May 2018

A new C–C bond formation strategy based on enantioselective radical alkylation of C(sp3)–H bondsviaCo(ii)-based metalloradical catalysis has been demonstrated for stereoselective synthesis of chiral indolines.
Reagent-dictated site selectivity in intermolecular aliphatic C–H functionalizations using nitrogen-centered radicals
Authors: Carestia Anthony M. , Ravelli Davide , Alexanian Erik J.
Published: May 2018

Intermolecular aliphatic C–H functionalizations using nitrogen-centered radicals with reagent-dictated site selectivities are described, including reactions targeting primary C–H bonds across a range of simple and complex substrates.
Sustainable one step process for making carbon-free TiO2 anodes and sodium-ion battery electrochemistry
Authors: Chadha Tandeep S. , Dutta Prasit Kumar , Raliya Ramesh , Mitra Sagar , Biswas Pratim
Published: May 2018

The ultra durable monolithic dendritic anatase TiO2 provides a mechanistic inner-view via a rotational moiré pattern, resulting in 99.55% coulombic efficiency with only 41 mV polarization loss at the 1000th cycle, while retaining the columnar morphology.
Enhanced stability and optoelectronic properties of MAPbI3 films by a cationic surface-active agent for perovskite solar cells
Authors: Zhao He , Wang Shirong , Sun Mengna , Zhang Fei , Li Xianggao , Xiao Yin
Published: May 2018

Passivation and hydrophobic effects can significantly enhance the stability and optoelectronic properties of MAPbI3 films.
Cadmium sulfide-based nanomaterials for photocatalytic hydrogen production
Authors: Yuan Yong-Jun , Chen Daqin , Yu Zhen-Tao , Zou Zhi-Gang
Published: May 2018

Recent developments in cadmium sulphide-based photocatalysts including heterojunctions, solid solutions and quantum dots for photocatalytic H2 production are reviewed.
Microporous carbon from fullerene impregnated porous aromatic frameworks for improving the desalination performance of thin film composite forward osmosis membranes
Authors: Wu Xing , Shaibani Mahdokht , Smith Stefan J. D. , Konstas Kristina , Hill Matthew R. , Wang Huanting , Zhang Kaisong , Xie Zongli
Published: May 2018

Novel TFN-FO membranes with improved water flux have been synthesized by adding C60@PAF900 into the organic phase of interfacial polymerization.
Entropy-stabilized metal oxide solid solutions as CO oxidation catalysts with high-temperature stability
Authors: Chen Hao , Fu Jie , Zhang Pengfei , Peng Honggen , Abney Carter W. , Jie Kecheng , Liu Xiaoming , Chi Miaofang , Dai Sheng
Published: May 2018

This work reports a new strategy toward the design of a new class of supported catalysts with intrinsic high-temperature stabilities through entropy maximization.
An overall water-splitting polyoxometalate catalyst for the electromicrobial conversion of CO2 in neutral water
Authors: Wang Meng , Zhong Wei , Zhang Shuangshuang , Liu Rongji , Xing Jianmin , Zhang Guangjin
Published: May 2018

Polyoxometalate-based integrated electro-microbial system for the conversion of CO2 into biomass with high efficiency.
Two-step synthesis of Sillén–Aurivillius type oxychlorides to enhance their photocatalytic activity for visible-light-induced water splitting
Authors: Nakada Akinobu , Saeki Akinori , Higashi Masanobu , Kageyama Hiroshi , Abe Ryu
Published: May 2018

A two-step synthesis through a polymerized-complex reaction remarkably improved the photocatalytic activity of Sillén–Aurivillius type oxychlorides for Z-scheme water splitting.
Highly sensitive fluorescence quantification of intracellular telomerase activity by repeat G-rich DNA enhanced silver nanoclusters
Authors: Huang Shan , Yao Huiqin , Wang Wenjing , Zhang Jian-Rong , Zhu Jun-Jie
Published: May 2018

As an important biomarker for early cancer diagnosis and a valuable therapeutic target, the detection and monitoring of telomerase activity has attracted extensive attention.
To improve the efficiency of thermally activated delayed fluorescence OLEDs by controlling the horizontal orientation through optimizing stereoscopic and linear structures of indolocarbazole isomers
Authors: Xiang Songpo , Lv Xialei , Sun Shuaiqiang , Zhang Qing , Huang Zhi , Guo Runda , Gu Honggang , Liu Shiyuan , Wang Lei
Published: May 2018

By optimizing linear and stereoscopic structure of emitter to obtain preferential horizontal orientation, a high EQE green device of 30.0% based on IndCzpTr-2 was realized.
Millimeter-sized PbI2 flakes and Pb5S2I6 nanowires for flexible photodetectors
Authors: Sun Lin , Wang Chunrui , Xu Liu , Wang Jiale , Chen Xiaoshuang , Yi Gyu-Chul
Published: May 2018

Large-scale layer-structured PbI2 flakes & Pb5S2I6 nanowires for flexible photodetection.
Trap distribution tailoring guided design of super-long-persistent phosphor Ba2SiO4:Eu2+,Ho3+ and photostimulable luminescence for optical information storage
Authors: Wang Chuanlong , Jin Yahong , Lv Yang , Ju Guifang , Liu Dong , Chen Li , Li Zhenzhang , Hu Yihua
Published: May 2018

A super-long-persistent phosphor Ba2SiO4:Eu2+,Ho3+ and photostimulable luminescence for optical information storage.
Identification of a Wells–Dawson polyoxometalate-based AP-2γ inhibitor with pro-apoptotic activity
Authors: Hu Jiamiao , Tan Si Kee , Lim Michelle Gek Liang , Chang Shie Hong , Cui Guimei , Liu Shanshan , Narasimhan Kamesh , New Siu Yee , Wang Xuecong , Chen Congling , Chakravarty Harapriya , Kolatkar Prasanna R. , Tam Kin Yip , Lu Qian , Su Xiaodi , Jauch Ralf , Cheung Edwin
Published: May 2018

AP-2 gamma (AP-2γ) is a transcription factor that plays pivotal roles in breast cancer biology. To search for small molecule inhibitors of AP-2γ, we performed a high-throughput fluorescence anisotropy screen and identified a polyoxometalate compound with Wells–Dawson structure K6[P2Mo18O62] (Dawson-POM) that blocks the DNA-binding activity of AP-2γ. We showed that this blocking activity is due to the direct binding of Dawson-POM to AP-2γ. We also provided evidence to show that Dawson-POM decreases AP-2γ-dependent transcription similar to silencing the gene. Finally, we demonstrated that Dawson-POM contains anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in breast cancer cells. In summary, we identified the first small molecule inhibitor of AP-2γ and showed Dawson-POM-mediated inhibition of AP-2γ as a potential avenue for cancer therapy.
Comparing the asteroseismic properties of pulsating pre-extremely low mass white dwarf and δ Scuti stars
Authors: Sánchez Arias Julieta P. , Romero Alejandra D. , Córsico Alejandro H. , Pelisoli Ingrid , Antoci Victoria , Kepler S. O. , Althaus Leandro G. , Corti Mariela A.
Published: May 2018

Context. Pulsating extremely low-mass pre-white dwarf stars (pre-ELMV), with masses between ~0.15 M⊙ and ~0.30 M⊙, constitute a new class of variable stars showing g- and possibly p-mode pulsations with periods between 320 and 6000 s (frequencies between 14.4 and 270 c/d), driven by the κ mechanism operating in the second He ionization zone. On the other hand, main sequence δ Scuti stars, with masses between 1.2 and 2.5 M⊙, pulsate in low-order g and p modes with periods in the range [700–28 800] s (frequencies in the range [3–123] c/d), driven by the κ mechanism operating in the He II ionization zone and the turbulent pressure acting in the HI ionization layer. Interestingly enough, the instability strips of pre-ELM white dwarf and δ Scuti stars nearly overlap in the Teff vs. log g diagram, leading to a degeneracy when spectroscopy is the only tool to classify the stars and pulsation periods only are considered.

Aims. Pre-ELM white dwarf and δ Scuti stars are in very different stages of evolution and therefore their internal structure is very distinct. This is mirrored in their pulsational behavior, thus employing asteroseismology should allow us to distinguish between these groups of stars despite their similar atmospheric parameters.

Methods. We have employed adiabatic and non-adiabatic pulsation spectra for models of pre-ELM white dwarfs and δ Scuti stars, and compare their pulsation periods, period spacings, and rates of period change.

Results. Unsurprisingly, we found substantial differences in the period spacing of δ Scuti and pre-ELM white dwarf models. Even when the same period range is observed in both classes of pulsating stars, the modes have distinctive signature in the period spacing and period difference values. For instance, the mean period difference of p-modes of consecutive radial orders for δ Scuti model are at least four times longer than the mean period spacing for the pre-ELM white dwarf model in the period range [2000–4600] s (frequency range [18.78–43.6] c/d). In addition, the rate of period change is two orders of magnitudes larger for the pre-ELM white dwarfs compared to δ Scuti stars. In addition, we also report the discovery of a new variable star, SDSSJ075738.94+144827.50, located in the region of the Teff versus log g diagram where these two kind of stars coexist.

Conclusions.The characteristic spacing between modes of consecutive radial orders (p as well as g modes) and the large differences found in the rates of period change for δ Scuti and pre-ELM white dwarf stars suggest that asteroseismology can be employed to discriminate between these two groups of variable stars. Furthermore, we found that SDSSJ075738.94+144827.50 exhibits a period difference between p modes characteristic of a δ Sct star, assuming consecutive radial order for the observed periods.
Dust cleansing of star-forming gas
Authors: Gustafsson Bengt
Published: May 2018

Aims. We explore the possibility that solar chemical composition, as well as the similar composition of the rich open cluster M 67, have been affected by dust cleansing of the presolar or precluster cloud due to the radiative forces from bright early-type stars in its neighbourhood.

Methods. We estimate possible cleansing effects using semi-analytical methods, which are essentially based on momentum conservation.

Results. Our calculations indicate that the amounts of cleansed neutral gas are limited to a relatively thin shell surrounding the H II region around the early-type stars.

Conclusions. It seems possible that the proposed mechanism acting in individual giant molecular clouds may produce significant abundance effects for masses corresponding to single stars or small groups of stars. The effects of cleansing are, however, severely constrained by the thinness of the cleansed shell of gas and by turbulence in the cloud. This is why the mechanism can hardly be important in cleansing masses corresponding to rich clusters, such as the mass of the original M 67.
The spin of the second-born black hole in coalescing binary black holes
Authors: Qin Y. , Fragos T. , Meynet G. , Andrews J. , Sørensen M. , Song H. F.
Published: May 2018

Context. Various binary black hole formation channels have been proposed since the first gravitational event GW150914 was discovered by the Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (AdLIGO). The immediate progenitor of the binary black hole is a close binary system composed of a black hole and a helium star, which can be the outcome of the classical isolated binary evolution through the common envelope, or alternatively of the massive close evolution through chemically homogeneous channel.

Aims. We study the spin angular momentum evolution of the helium star in order to constrain the spin of the second-born black hole. This work focuses on the common envelope formation channel, however, some of our conclusions are also relevant for the chemically homogeneous evolution channel.

Methods. We perform detailed stellar structure and binary evolution calculations that take into account, mass-loss, internal differential rotation, and tidal interactions between the helium star and the black hole companion, where we also calculate the strength of the tidal interactions from first principles based on the structure of the helium stars. We systematically explore the parameter space of initial binary properties, including initial black hole and helium star masses, initial rotation of the helium star as well as metallicity.

Results. We argue that the natal spin of the first-born black hole through the common envelope scenario is negligible (≲0.1), and therefore the second-born black hole’s spin dominates the measured effective spin, χeff, from gravitational wave events of double black hole mergers. We find that tides can be only important when orbital periods are shorter than 2 days. Upon core collapse, the helium star produces a black hole (the second-born black hole in the system) with a spin that can span the entire range from zero to maximally spinning. We show that the bimodal distribution of the spin of the second-born black hole obtained in recent papers is mainly due to oversimplifying assumptions. We find an anti-correlation between the merging timescale of the two black holes, Tmerger, and the effective spin χeff. Finally, we provide new prescriptions for the tidal coefficient E2 for both H-rich and the He-rich stars.

Conclusions. To understand the spin of the second-born black hole, careful treatment of both tides and stellar winds is needed. We predict that, with future improvements to AdLIGO’s sensitivity, the sample of merging binary black hole systems will show an overdensity of sources with positive but small χeff originating from lower-mass black hole mergers born at low redshift.
Gesundheitsökonomische deskriptive Analyse der häuslichen Intensivversorgung beatmeter Patienten
Authors: Lehmann Yvonne , Ostermann Julia , Reinhold Thomas , Ewers Michael
Published: May 2018

Einleitung Langzeitbeatmete Patienten werden hierzulande überwiegend häuslich intensivpflegerisch versorgt. Über Art und Umfang der Ressourcennutzung für die Versorgung dieser kleinen, heterogenen, jedoch insgesamt wachsenden Patientengruppe und die damit verbundenen Kosten ist wenig bekannt.

Methodik Im Rahmen einer Teilstudie des Versorgungsforschungsprojekts SHAPE wurde eine deskriptive Kostenanalyse aus gesellschaftlicher Perspektive für 29 Patienten durchgeführt. Erfasst und analysiert wurden direkte und indirekte Kosten für die häusliche Intensivversorgung retrospektiv über 3 Monate. Grundlage bildeten standardisiert schriftlich erfasste Selbstauskünfte von Patienten und Angehörigen sowie Informationen aus der Befragung von Pflegedienstmitarbeitern und aus Pflegedokumentationen.

Ergebnisse Die mittleren Gesamtkosten für die häusliche Intensivversorgung, einschließlich ggf. von Krankenhausaufenthalten, über 3 Monate betrugen pro Patient 61 194 € (95% KI 53 884–68 504). Der Großteil der Kosten stand in unmittelbarem Zusammenhang mit ambulanten medizinischen und pflegerischen Leistungen, die auf Grundlage von SGB V und SGB XI gewährt wurden. Den größten Einzelposten bildeten Leistungen der häuslichen Krankenpflege gem. § 37(2) SGB V (65%). Ein Anteil von etwa 13% an den Gesamtkosten entfiel auf indirekte Kosten.

Schlussfolgerungen Die häusliche Intensivversorgung beatmeter Patienten ist ressourcen- und kostenintensiv, erfährt aber noch selten Aufmerksamkeit – auch in gesundheitsökonomischer Hinsicht. Im Interesse einer wirksamen und wirtschaftlichen Gestaltung und Steuerung der Langzeitversorgung dieser speziellen Nutzergruppe werden weitere valide Informationen und Transparenz über die Kostenstrukturen benötigt.
Effects of a 20-Min Nap Post Normal and Jet Lag Conditions on P300 Components in Athletes
Authors: Petit Elisabeth , Bourdin Hubert , Tio Grégory , Yenil Omer , Haffen Emmanuel , Mougin Fabienne
Published: May 2018

Post-lunch sleepiness belongs to biological rhythms. Athletes take a nap to counteract afternoon circadian nadir, in prevision of disturbed sleep. This study examined the effects of brief post-lunch nap on vigilance in young and healthy athletes. The P300 components, physiological and cognitive performances were assessed either after nap or rest, following a night of normal sleep (NSC) or simulated jet lag condition (5-h advance-JLC). P300 wave is the positive deflection at about 300 ms in response to a rare stimulus, representing higher information processing. P300 amplitude reflects the amount of attention allocated whereas P300 latency reflects time spent on stimulus classification. P300 amplitude was significantly increased (Fz:11.14±3.0vs9.05±3.2 µV; p<0.05) and P300 latency was shorter (Pz:327.16±18.0vs344.90±17.0 ms; p<0.01) after nap in NSC. These changes were accompanied by lower subjective sleepiness (19.7±9.6vs27.5±16.5; p<0.05) and decrease in mean reaction times (MRT: divided attention, 645.1±74.2vs698±80.4 ms; p<0.05). In contrast, in JLC, only P300 amplitudes (Fz:10.30±3.1vs7.54±3.3 µV; p<0.01 and Cz: 11.48±3.1vs9.77±3.6 µV; p<0.05) increased but P300 latencies or MRT did not improve. These results indicated improvements in speed of stimulus evaluation time. Napping positively impacts on cognitive processing, especially when subjects are on normal sleep schedules. A nap should be planned for athletes whose performance requires speedy and accurate decisions.
Pharmacokinetics of Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate and its Primary Metabolites during Pregnancy
Authors: Boggess Kim , Baker Jeffrey , Murtha Amy , Peaceman Alan , Shah Dinesh , Siegfried Sylvia , Birch Robert
Published: May 2018

Objective To measure pharmacokinetics of hydroxyprogesterone caproate (OHPC) and its major metabolites throughout pregnancy.

Study Design Thirty women were prescribed OHPC for recurrent preterm birth prevention. Three cohorts of subjects had blood drawn for 7 consecutive days at one of three times: cohort 1 (n = 6) after the first dose (weeks 16–20), cohort 2 (n = 8) between weeks 24 and 28, and cohort 3 (n = 16) between weeks 32 and 36. We measured serum trough levels after week 1 in cohort 1 or after two consecutive weekly doses in cohorts 2 and 3. In 10 subjects, we estimated OHPC terminal half-life at 28 days after their last dose.

Results In cohorts 1, 2, and 3, the areas under curve (ng × h/mL) for OHPC were 571.4 ± 195.2, 1,269.6 ± 285.0, and 1,268.0 ± 511.6, respectively. Maximum OHPC levels (ng/mL) were 5.0 ± 1.5, 12.5 ± 3.9, and 12.3 ± 4.9, respectively. The areas under the curve for mono-hydroxylated metabolites were 208.5 ± 92.4, 157.1 ± 64.6, and 211.2 ± 113.1, and maximum concentrations were 1.9 ± 0.7, 1.5 ± 0.7, and 1.8 ± 1.0, respectively. Di-hydroxylated metabolite levels were significantly lower than mono-hydroxylated metabolites. Estimated terminal half-life of OHPC was 16.3 ± 3.6 days and 19.7 ± 6.2 days for the mono-hydroxylated metabolites.

Conclusion After the first injection, OHPC maximum serum level was approximately half steady-state level. Measurable metabolites of unknown activity were detected.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery: Development, Technique, and Applications in Cutaneous Malignancies
Authors: Chen Eillen , Srivastava Divya , Nijhawan Rajiv
Published: May 2018

Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is a specialized technique for treating skin malignancies that offers the highest cure rate by allowing histological evaluation of the entire peripheral and deep margins. MMS also maximally preserves as much uninvolved, normal adjacent tissue as possible, allowing for the best cosmetic and functional outcomes. When used for appropriate indications, this technique is also more cost-effective than other treatment modalities. In this article, the authors will discuss the development of MMS, the steps involved in this procedure, and the indications for this technique. They will also review the use of MMS for basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma in situ, and some less common skin malignancies.
Scalp and Forehead Reconstruction
Authors: Sokoya Mofiyinfolu , Inman Jared , Ducic Yadranko
Published: May 2018

Reconstructing the scalp and forehead is a challenging endeavor frequently undertaken by facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons. There are many anatomical factors to be considered in this area, including multiple neurovascular structure present that should be identified and preserved. Hair morphology and physiology should be considered, and trichophytic techniques should be incorporated into incision planning and closure. The reconstructive ladder must be used when considering options in reconstructing scalps and forehead defects. This article reviews reconstructive options including secondary intention, primary closure, skin grafting, allografts, tissue expanders, and local, regional, and free tissue transfers, among others in the surgical management of forehead and scalp defects. The reconstructive surgeon should be familiar with these techniques and be able to use them when indicated, based on the size, shape, and location of defects.
Approach to Reconstruction of Nasal Defects
Authors: Başağaoğlu Berkay , Ali Kausar , Hollier Pierce , Maricevich Renata
Published: May 2018

The nose is the most central and anterior projecting facial feature. Therefore, the presence of a defect is easily noticeable to the untrained eye. Return of the defect to the original form is an achievable end goal of reconstruction, necessitating appropriate reformation of three-dimensional geometry, proper establishment of symmetry, and excellent color and texture match to the adjacent structures. Regarding its physiological importance, disruption of the normal function may cause respiratory obstruction and contribute to patient distress. To achieve successful repair, preoperative preparation must consider the location, the layers involved, and the size of the defect. Prompt and well-organized repair minimizes the occurrence of progressive necrosis and severe late-stage deformity. Here the authors provide a framework to approach various nasal defects and provide a review of the novel ideologies and techniques. The workhorse of nasal repair, the forehead flap, is discussed independently due to the breadth of innovation.
Liver Failure and Conjugated Hyperbilirubinemia in a Preterm Neonate: Role of Early IVIG and Exchange Transfusion
Authors: Nair Jayasree , Kumar Vasantha
Published: May 2018

Neonatal liver failure (NLF) is a rare diagnosis but carries with it significant risks of mortality and morbidity. Common etiologies for NLF include metabolic causes, gestational alloimmune liver disease (GALD or neonatal hemochromatosis), and viral infections. We report a case of liver failure in a premature infant with abnormal iron profile within 48 hours of birth. Lack of accepted guidelines for the initial management of severe jaundice with a high direct component in the first week after birth made treatment challenging. The infant underwent intensive phototherapy along with four exchange transfusions (ET) and two courses of intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG). The clinical goals were to keep total bilirubin values ≤ 20 mg/dL in this premature neonate and to minimize the risk of bilirubin-induced neurologic dysfunction and decompensated liver failure. Abnormal iron studies and later magnetic resonance imaging were suggestive of GALD. Liver functions improved over time with normal neurodevelopmental assessment at 3 years of age. To conclude, in infants with NLF soon after birth, earlier consideration of IVIG/ET in the first few days may be beneficial. Larger multicenter data analyses are required to formulate treatment guidelines and indications for phototherapy, ET, and IVIG in sick neonates with NLF.
Symmetric functions and wavefunctions of XXZ-type six-vertex models and elliptic Felderhof models by Izergin–Korepin analysis
Authors: Motegi Kohei
Published: May 2018

We present a method to analyze the wavefunctions of six-vertex models by extending the Izergin–Korepin analysis originally developed for domain wall boundary partition functions. First, we apply the method to the case of the basic wavefunctions of the XXZ-type six-vertex model. By giving the Izergin–Korepin characterization of the wavefunctions, we show that these wavefunctions can be expressed as multiparameter deformations of the quantum group deformed Grothendieck polynomials. As a second example, we show that the Izergin–Korepin analysis is effective for analysis of the wavefunctions for a triangular boundary and present the explicit forms of the symmetric functions representing these wavefunctions. As a third example, we apply the method to the elliptic Felderhof model which is a face-type version and an elliptic extension of the trigonometric Felderhof model. We show that the wavefunctions can be expressed as one-parameter deformations of an elliptic analog of the Vandermonde determinant and elliptic symmetric functions.
Energy principle for excitations in plasmas with counterstreaming electron flows
Authors: Kumar Atul , Shukla Chandrasekhar , Das Amita , Kaw Predhiman
Published: May 2018

A relativistic electron beam propagating through plasma induces a return electron current in the system. Such a system of interpenetrating forward and return electron current is susceptible to a host of instabilities. The physics of such instabilities underlies the conversion of the flow kinetic energy to the electromagnetic field energy. Keeping this in view, an energy principle analysis has been enunciated in this paper. Such analyses have been widely utilized earlier in the context of conducting fluids described by MHD model [I. B. Bernstein et al., Proceedings of the Royal Society of London A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences 244(1236), 17–40 (1958)]. Lately, such an approach has been employed for the electrostatic two stream instability for the electron beam plasma system [C. N. Lashmore-Davies, Physics of Plasmas 14(9), 092101 (2007)]. In contrast, it has been shown here that even purely growing mode like Weibel/current filamentation instability for the electron beam plasma system is amenable to such a treatment. The treatment provides an understanding of the energetics associated with the growing mode. The growth rate expression has also been obtained from it. Furthermore, it has been conclusively demonstrated in this paper that for identical values of S4=∑αn0αv0α2/n0γ0α, the growth rate is higher when the counterstreaming beams are symmetric (i.e. S3 = ∑αn0αv0α/n0γ0α = 0) compared to the case when the two beams are asymmetric (i.e. when S3 is finite). Here, v0α, n0α and γ0α are the equilibrium velocity, electron density and the relativistic factor for the electron species ‘α’ respectively and n0 = ∑αn0α is the total electron density. Particle - In - Cell simulations have been employed to show that the saturated amplitude of the field energy is also higher in the symmetric case.
Selective plane illumination microscopy (SPIM) with time-domain fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) for volumetric measurement of cleared mouse brain samples
Authors: Funane Tsukasa , Hou Steven S. , Zoltowska Katarzyna Marta , van Veluw Susanne J. , Berezovska Oksana , Kumar Anand T. N. , Bacskai Brian J.
Published: May 2018

We have developed an imaging technique which combines selective plane illumination microscopy with time-domain fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (SPIM-FLIM) for three-dimensional volumetric imaging of cleared mouse brains with micro- to mesoscopic resolution. The main features of the microscope include a wavelength-adjustable pulsed laser source (Ti:sapphire) (near-infrared) laser, a BiBO frequency-doubling photonic crystal, a liquid chamber, an electrically focus-tunable lens, a cuvette based sample holder, and an air (dry) objective lens. The performance of the system was evaluated with a lifetime reference dye and micro-bead phantom measurements. Intensity and lifetime maps of three-dimensional human embryonic kidney (HEK) cell culture samples and cleared mouse brain samples expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) (donor only) and green and red fluorescent protein [positive Förster (fluorescence) resonance energy transfer] were acquired. The results show that the SPIM-FLIM system can be used for sample sizes ranging from single cells to whole mouse organs and can serve as a powerful tool for medical and biological research.
Doping with Nb enhances the photoresponsivity of WSe2 thin sheets
Authors: Lin Der-Yuh , Jheng Jhih-Jhong , Ko Tsung-Shine , Hsu Hung-Pin , Lin Chia-Feng
Published: May 2018

In this study, we used chemical vapor transport to grow undoped and niobium (Nb)-doped tungsten diselenide (WSe2) thin sheets and then investigated the structural and photoelectronic characteristics of both samples. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the presence of Nb atoms in the Nb-doped WSe2 sample. Hall effect measurements of the transport behavior of the carriers in the undoped and Nb-doped WSe2 indicated that the Nb-doped WSe2 was of p-type and had a higher carrier concentration and lower mobility than the undoped WSe2. The current density–voltage characteristics indicated that doping with Nb led to a decrease in resistance. Photoconductivity measurements revealed that the responsivity of the Nb-doped WSe2 was an order of magnitude greater than that of the undoped WSe2. Thus, doping Nb atoms into WSe2 not only provides effective carriers but also enhances the photoresponsivity significantly. Accordingly, doping WSe2 with Nb atoms would appear to be useful for the fabrication of highly sensitive photodetectors.
Electronegative plasma diagnostic by laser photo-detachment combined with negatively biased Langmuir probe
Authors: Oudini N. , Sirse N. , Taccogna F. , Ellingboe A. R. , Bendib A.
Published: May 2018

We propose a new technique for diagnosing negative ion properties using Langmuir probe assisted pulsed laser photo-detachment. While the classical technique uses a laser pulse to convert negative ions into electron-atom pairs and a positively biased Langmuir probe tracking the change of electron saturation current, the proposed method uses a negatively biased Langmuir probe to track the temporal evolution of positive ion current. The negative bias aims to avoid the parasitic electron current inherent to probe tip surface ablation. In this work, we show through analytical and numerical approaches that, by knowing electron temperature and performing photo-detachment at two different laser wavelengths, it is possible to deduce plasma electronegativity (ratio of negative ion to electron densities) α, and anisothermicity (ratio of electron to negative ion temperatures) γ−. We present an analytical model that links the change in the collected positive ion current to plasma electronegativity and anisothermicity. Particle-In-Cell simulation is used as a numerical experiment covering a wide range of α and γ− to test the new analysis technique. The new technique is sensitive to α in the range 0.5 < α < 10 and yields γ− for large α, where negative ion flux affects the probe sheath behavior, typically α > 1.
Effect of molecular conformations on the electronic transport in oxygen-substituted alkanethiol molecular junctions
Authors: Wang Minglang , Wang Hao , Zhang Guangping , Wang Yongfeng , Sanvito Stefano , Hou Shimin
Published: May 2018

The relationship between the molecular structure and the electronic transport properties of molecular junctions based on thiol-terminated oligoethers, which are obtained by replacing every third methylene unit in the corresponding alkanethiols with an oxygen atom, is investigated by employing the non-equilibrium Green’s function formalism combined with density functional theory. Our calculations show that the low-bias conductance depends strongly on the conformation of the oligoethers in the junction. Specifically, in the cases of trans-extended conformation, the oxygen-dominated transmission peaks are very sharp and well below the Fermi energy, EF, thus hardly affect the transmission around EF; the Au–S interface hybrid states couple with σ-bonds in the molecular backbone forming the conduction channel at EF, resulting in a conductance decay against the molecular length close to that for alkanethiols. By contrast, for junctions with oligoethers in helical conformations, some π-type oxygen orbitals coupling with the Au–S interface hybrid states contribute to the transmission around EF. The molecule-electrode electronic coupling is also enhanced at the non-thiol side due to the specific spatial orientation introduced by the twist of the molecular backbone. This leads to a much smaller conductance decay constant. Our findings highlight the important role of the molecular conformation of oligoethers in their electronic transport properties and are also helpful for the design of molecular wires with heteroatom-substituted alkanethiols.
Determination of thicknesses and temperatures of crystalline silicon wafers from optical measurements in the far infrared region
Authors: Franta Daniel , Franta Pavel , Vohánka Jiří , Čermák Martin , Ohlídal Ivan
Published: May 2018

Optical measurements of transmittance in the far infrared region performed on crystalline silicon wafers exhibit partially coherent interference effects appropriate for the determination of thicknesses of the wafers. The knowledge of accurate spectral and temperature dependencies of the optical constants of crystalline silicon in this spectral region is crucial for the determination of its thickness and vice versa. The recently published temperature dependent dispersion model of crystalline silicon is suitable for this purpose. Because the linear thermal expansion of crystalline silicon is known, the temperatures of the wafers can be determined with high precision from the evolution of the interference patterns at elevated temperatures.
An implementation of the maximum-caliber principle by replica-averaged time-resolved restrained simulations
Authors: Capelli Riccardo , Tiana Guido , Camilloni Carlo
Published: May 2018

Inferential methods can be used to integrate experimental informations and molecular simulations. The maximum entropy principle provides a framework for using equilibrium experimental data, and it has been shown that replica-averaged simulations, restrained using a static potential, are a practical and powerful implementation of such a principle. Here we show that replica-averaged simulations restrained using a time-dependent potential are equivalent to the principle of maximum caliber, the dynamic version of the principle of maximum entropy, and thus may allow us to integrate time-resolved data in molecular dynamics simulations. We provide an analytical proof of the equivalence as well as a computational validation making use of simple models and synthetic data. Some limitations and possible solutions are also discussed.
Radiation-damage-induced transitions in zircon: Percolation theory applied to hardness and elastic moduli as a function of density
Authors: Beirau Tobias , Nix William D. , Ewing Rodney C. , Pöllmann Herbert , Salje Ekhard K. H.
Published: May 2018

Two in literature predicted percolation transitions in radiation-damaged zircon (ZrSiO4) were observed experimentally by measurement of the indentation hardness as a function of density and their correlation with the elastic moduli. Percolations occur near 30% and 70% amorphous fractions, where hardness deviates from its linear correlation with the elastic modulus (E), the shear modulus (G) and the bulk modulus (K). The first percolation point pc1 generates a cusp in the hardness versus density evolution, while the second percolation point is seen as a change of slope.
The uniformity study of non-oxide thin film at device level using electron energy loss spectroscopy
Authors: Li Zhi-Peng , Zheng Yuankai , Li Shaoping , Wang Haifeng
Published: May 2018

Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) has been widely used as a chemical analysis technique to characterize materials chemical properties, such as element valence states, atoms/ions bonding environment. This study provides a new method to characterize physical properties (i.e., film uniformity, grain orientations) of non-oxide thin films in the magnetic device by using EELS microanalysis on scanning transmission electron microscope. This method is based on analyzing white line ratio of spectra and related extended energy loss fine structures so as to correlate it with thin film uniformity. This new approach can provide an effective and sensitive method to monitor/characterize thin film quality (i.e., uniformity) at atomic level for thin film development, which is especially useful for examining ultra-thin films (i.e., several nanometers) or embedded films in devices for industry applications. More importantly, this technique enables development of quantitative characterization of thin film uniformity and it would be a remarkably useful technique for examining various types of devices for industrial applications.
Predicting scattering scanning near-field optical microscopy of mass-produced plasmonic devices
Authors: Otto Lauren M. , Burgos Stanley P. , Staffaroni Matteo , Ren Shen , Süzer Özgün , Stipe Barry C. , Ashby Paul D. , Hammack Aeron T.
Published: May 2018

Scattering scanning near-field optical microscopy enables optical imaging and characterization of plasmonic devices with nanometer-scale resolution well below the diffraction limit. This technique enables developers to probe and understand the waveguide-coupled plasmonic antenna in as-fabricated heat-assisted magnetic recording heads. In order to validate and predict results and to extract information from experimental measurements that is physically comparable to simulations, a model was developed to translate the simulated electric field into expected near-field measurements using physical parameters specific to scattering scanning near-field optical microscopy physics. The methods used in this paper prove that scattering scanning near-field optical microscopy can be used to determine critical sub-diffraction-limited dimensions of optical field confinement, which is a crucial metrology requirement for the future of nano-optics, semiconductor photonic devices, and biological sensing where the near-field character of light is fundamental to device operation.
Potassium starvation affects biomass partitioning and sink–source responses in three sweet potato genotypes with contrasting potassium-use efficiency
Authors: Wang Jidong , Zhu Guopeng , Dong Yue , Zhang Hui , Rengel Zed , Ai Yuchun , Zhang Yongchun
Published: May 2018

Rooted single leaves of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) produce and translocate photosynthates, thus representing an ideal model for characterising the source–sink relationships and responses to various environments. A hydroponics culture study was conducted with rooted single leaves of sweet potato to determine intraspecific variation in growth, biomass partitioning, and associated physiological changes in response to variable potassium (K) supply among genotypes Ji22 (low K-use efficiency), Nan88 (high K-uptake efficiency) and Xu28 (high K-use efficiency). Potassium deficiency suppressed biomass accumulation in blades, petioles and roots in all three genotypes. Root length of diameters <0.25 mm and 0.25–0.5 mm was significantly less for K-deficient than K-sufficient roots of all genotypes, but the difference was proportionally greater in the K-inefficient genotype Ji22 than the other two genotypes. Potassium deficiency also severely inhibited net photosynthesis of blades in Nan88 and Ji22, as well reducing photosynthate translocation, increasing starch, hexose and sucrose concentrations, and decreasing K concentration in blades. The genotypes varied in photosynthesis-related responses to the K deficiency. Xu28 had greater blade K concentration and net photosynthesis as well as stable maximum quantum yield of photosystem II (FV/FM, with FV = FM – F0) under K deficiency, possibly because of a better source–sink balance and more efficient translocation of photosynthates to roots and K to blade compared with genotypes Ji22 and Nan88. Impaired phloem loading during K deficiency was associated with a decline in photosynthetic rate and decreased carbohydrate supply from blades, resulting in restricted root growth.
Declining spring usage of core habitat by endangered fish-eating killer whales reflects decreased availability of their primary prey
Authors: Shields Monika W. , Lindell Jimmie , Woodruff Julie
Published: May 2018

The salmon-eating Southern Resident killer whales (Orcinus orca) of the north-eastern Pacific Ocean are listed as endangered both in the United States and Canada. Their critical habitat has been defined as the region of the inland waters of Washington State and British Columbia known as the Salish Sea, where they have traditionally spent much of their time from spring through fall. Using reports from experienced observers to sightings networks, we tracked the daily presence of the Southern Residents in these waters from 1 April to 30 June from 1994 through 2016. We found that the escapement estimates of spring Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) on the Fraser River in British Columbia were a significant predictor of the cumulative presence/absence of the whales throughout the spring season. There was also a difference in both whale presence and salmon abundance before and after 2005, suggesting that the crash in Chinook salmon numbers has fallen below threshold where it is worthwhile for the whales to spend as much time in the Salish Sea. The use of the Salish Sea by the Southern Residents has declined in the spring months as they are either foraging for Chinook salmon elsewhere or are shifting to another prey species. In order to continue providing necessary protections to this endangered species, critical habitat designations must be re-evaluated as this population of killer whales shifts its range in response to prey availability.