bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electronic structures of intermolecular hydrogen bond contacts with solute in aqueous solution: glycine as a working prototype
Authors: Meng Lingbiao , Wu Weidong , Lin Zijing
Published: May 2016

A concise model linking the solute–water H-bonds with the orbital hybridization is developed based on the chemical nature of H-bonds and unique features of aqueous solution.
Strong dependence of fluorescence quenching on the transition metal in layered transition metal dichalcogenide nanoflakes for nucleic acid detection
Authors: Loo Adeline Huiling , Bonanni Alessandra , Pumera Martin
Published: May 2016

The performance of transition metal dichalcogenide nanoflakes, MoS2 and WS2, is evaluated for the fluorescence detection of nucleic acids.
Nanoporous gold leaf as a signal amplification agent for the detection of VOCs with a quartz crystal microbalance
Authors: Zhang Lu , Liu Yuan , Song Han , Huang Bintong , Ye Bang-Ce , Li Yingchun
Published: May 2016

In this work, a novel sensing framework coupling nanoporous gold leaf (NPGL) and sensitive materials on a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor was developed for detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
A facile one-pot synthesis of carbon nitride dots–reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites for simultaneous enhanced detecting of dopamine and uric acid
Authors: Yang Ziyin , Zheng Xiaohui , Li Zhi , Zheng Jianbin
Published: May 2016

In this study, we described the facile synthesis of carbon nitride dots–reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites (CNDs–rGO) and their application for the enhanced electrochemical determination of dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA).
The principle of conformational signaling
Authors: Tompa Peter
Published: May 2016

Specific conformations of signaling proteins can serve as “signals” in signal transduction by being recognized by receptors.
Carbon supported Au–Pd core–shell nanoparticles for hydrogen production by alcohol electroreforming
Authors: Miller H. A. , Bellini M. , Vizza F. , Hasenöhrl C. , Tilley R. D.
Published: May 2016

Monodisperse faceted icosahedral Au–Pd core–shell nanocrystals of small size (<12 nm) supported on Vulcan XC-72 (Au–Pd/C) are employed in electroreforming for the cogeneration of hydrogen and valuable chemicals.
Luminescent and magnetic materials with a high content of Eu3+-EDTA complexes
Authors: Pires G. P. , Costa I. F. , Brito H. F. , Faustino W. M. , Teotonio E. E. S.
Published: May 2016

Bifunctional optical magnetic materials with a high europium content have been prepared.
Cyclodiphosphazanes: options are endless
Authors: Balakrishna Maravanji S.
Published: May 2016

This short review describes the transition metal chemistry of cyclodiphosphazanes.
Diastereoselective synthesis of chiral aminophenolate magnesium complexes and their application in the stereoselective polymerization of rac-lactide and rac-β-butyrolactone
Authors: Wang Haobing , Guo Jianshuang , Yang Yang , Ma Haiyan
Published: May 2016

A series of magnesium silylamido complexes supported by chiral aminophenolate ligands were synthesized, and their catalytic behaviors toward the ring-opening polymerization of rac-lactide (LA) and rac-β-butyrolactone (BBL) were explored.
Effect of ligand denticity on the nitric oxide reactivity of cobalt(ii) complexes
Authors: Deka Hemanta , Ghosh Somnath , Saha Soumen , Gogoi Kuldeep , Mondal Biplab
Published: May 2016

NO reactivity of three Co(ii) complexes,1,2and3have been studied in degassed methanol solution. The complexes differ from each other in terms of denticity and flexibility of the ligand fameworks. Complex1undergoes reductive nitrosylation of the metal ion;2results in corresponding [CoIII(NO−)] complex; whereas3does not react with NO.
Chromophore-labelled, luminescent platinum complexes: syntheses, structures, and spectroscopic properties
Authors: Stacey Oliver J. , Ward Benjamin D. , Coles Simon J. , Horton Peter N. , Pope Simon J. A.
Published: May 2016

Ligands based upon 4-carboxamide-2-phenylquinoline have been functionalised with naphthyl, anthracenyl and pyrenyl chromophores. The pyrene appended Pt(ii) complex shows excited state equilibration and a long emission lifetime.
Catalytic hydroprocessing of microalgae-derived biofuels: a review
Authors: Yang Changyan , Li Rui , Cui Chang , Liu Shengpeng , Qiu Qi , Ding Yigang , Wu Yuanxin , Zhang Bo
Published: May 2016

This article reviews the state-of-the-art in the hydroprocessing of microalgae-based biofuels, catalyst development, and the effect of process parameters on hydrotreated algal fuels.
Finger-powered electrophoretic transport of discrete droplets for portable digital microfluidics
Authors: Peng Cheng , Wang Yide , Sungtaek Ju Y.
Published: May 2016

We demonstrate digital microfluidics based on finger-powered electrophoretic transport of aqueous droplets immersed in dielectric oil. The electrodes are biased by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy using an array of piezoelectric elements.
A review of digital microfluidics as portable platforms for lab-on a-chip applications
Authors: Samiei Ehsan , Tabrizian Maryam , Hoorfar Mina
Published: May 2016

This review evaluates the possibility of developing portable digital microfluidic platforms for lab-on-a-chip applications.
Biomimetic spinning of silk fibers and in situ cell encapsulation
Authors: Cheng Jie , Park DoYeun , Jun Yesl , Lee JaeSeo , Hyun Jinho , Lee Sang-Hoon
Published: May 2016

Cell-laden silk-fibroin-based hydrogel fibers are prepared by mimicking the natural Bombyx mori spinning process using a microfluidic chip.
Oligonucleotide-based label-free detection with optical microresonators: strategies and challenges
Authors: Toren Pelin , Ozgur Erol , Bayindir Mehmet
Published: May 2016

This review targets diversified oligonucleotide-based biodetection techniques, focusing on the use of microresonators of whispering gallery mode (WGM) type as optical biosensors mostly integrated with lab-on-a-chip systems.
Molecular devices based on reversible singlet oxygen binding in optical and photomedical applications
Authors: Filatov Mikhail A. , Senge Mathias O.
Published: May 2016

Latest advances in design and synthesis of molecular systems for reversible singlet oxygen binding and their applications in optical and biomedical research are discussed.
Synthesis of supramolecular polymer based on noncovalent “host–guest” inclusion complexation and its reversible self-assembly
Authors: Yang Long , Lei Ming , Zhao Min , Yang Hong , Zhang Kehu , Zhang Hong , Li Yan , Lei Zhongli
Published: May 2016

A stimuli-responsive supramolecular polymer based on noncovalent “host–guest” inclusion complexation.
N-Heterocyclic carbene-triggered transition-metal-free synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted benzofuran derivatives
Authors: Xie Yuanwei , Yu Chenxia , Que Yonglei , Li Tuanjie , Wang Yuhong , Lu Yinan , Wang Wenjing , Shen Shide , Yao Changsheng
Published: May 2016

An NHC-triggered, transition-metal-free strategy for the efficient synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted benzofuran derivatives in moderate to excellent yields from aryl or alkyl aldehydes and o-quinone methides has been developed.
Exploring the gold mine: [Au]-catalysed transformations of enynals, enynones and enynols
Authors: Siva Kumari A. Leela , Siva Reddy Alla , Swamy K. C. Kumara
Published: May 2016

This review highlights reactions of enynals, enynones and enynols using gold catalysis which often lead to cycloaddition or cyclisation products.
Enhancement of the properties of a drug by mono-deuteriation: reduction of acid-catalysed formation of a gut-motilide enol ether from 8-deuterio-erythromycin B
Authors: Bhadra Pranab K. , Hassanzadeh Abdolreza , Arsic Biljana , Allison David G. , Morris Gareth A. , Barber Jill
Published: May 2016

An efficient synthesis of 8-d-erythromycin B was achieved. A deuterium isotope effect suppresses formation of the corresponding enol ether, which may result in reduced gut-motilide effects.
Total synthesis of cyclomarins A, C and D, marine cyclic peptides with interesting anti-tuberculosis and anti-malaria activities
Authors: Barbie Philipp , Kazmaier Uli
Published: May 2016

Cyclomarins are cyclic heptapeptides containing four unusual amino acids.
Total synthesis of desoxycyclomarin C and the cyclomarazines A and B
Authors: Barbie Philipp , Kazmaier Uli
Published: May 2016

Removing the β-hydroxy group from the prenylated tryptophan moiety of cyclomarins simplifies the synthesis of these interesting natural products significantly, without having a noteworthy effect on the anti-tuberculosis activity of the cyclomarins.
A strategy for the synthesis of hydrophobic proteins and glycoproteins
Authors: Hojo Hironobu
Published: May 2016

The hydrophobic glycoprotein was successfully synthesized by the reverse polarity protection strategy combined with the O-acylisopeptide method, which will be useful for the synthesis of various hydrophobic (glyco)proteins.
Molecular diversity of the three-component reaction of α-amino acids, dialkyl acetylenedicarboxylates and N-substituted maleimides
Authors: Chen Liang , Sun Jing , Xie Ju , Yan Chao-Guo
Published: May 2016

The one-pot three-component reaction of secondary α-amino acids with dialkyl acetylenedicarboxylate andN-substituted maleimides afforded functionalized pyrrolo[3,4-a]pyrrolizines, pyrrolo[3′,4′:3,4]pyrrolo[1,2-c]thiazoles, pyrrolo[3,4-a]indolizines and octahydropyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrroles.
Combination of organotrifluoroborates with photoredox catalysis marking a new phase in organic radical chemistry
Authors: Koike Takashi , Akita Munetaka
Published: May 2016

Organotrifluoroborates can serve not only as radical precursors but also as radical acceptors by a well-designed photoredox system.
Enhanced oxygen evolution reaction of metallic nickel phosphide nanosheets by surface modification
Authors: Li Zejun , Dou Xinyu , Zhao Yingcheng , Wu Changzheng
Published: May 2016

A facile surface modification strategy on metallic Ni2P nanosheets electrocatalyst greatly enhances water oxidation activity.
Synthesis of multi-shelled MnO2 hollow microspheres via an anion-adsorption process of hydrothermal intensification
Authors: Chen Mengjie , Wang Jiangyan , Tang Hongjie , Yang Yu , Wang Bao , Zhao Huijun , Wang Dan
Published: May 2016

Multi-shelled manganese oxide hollow microspheres can be synthesized via an anion-adsorption process of hydrothermal intensification with controlled valence and shell number.
A versatile strategy for difunctionalization of carbon–carbon multiple bonds by photoredox catalysis
Authors: Koike Takashi , Akita Munetaka
Published: May 2016

Photoredox catalysis is a versatile strategy for difunctionalization of carbon–carbon multiple bonds.
Facile synthesis of ultrasmall stannic oxide nanoparticles as anode materials with superior cyclability and rate capability for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Li Rong , Wang Bingbing , Ji Shidong , Jin Ping
Published: May 2016

SnO2 nanoparticles synthesized by a simple calcination process with an excellent electrochemical performance.
Eight membered cyclic-borasiloxanes: synthesis, structural, photophysical, steric strain and DFT calculations
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Mohan , Thirumoorthy Krishnan , Bhuvanesh Nattamai S. P. , Palanisami Nallasamy
Published: May 2016

A series of eight membered cyclic borasiloxanes were synthesized and structurally characterized. The photophysical properties were investigated. HOMO–LUMO, hyperpolarizability and steric strain were computed by B3LYP/6-31+G** method.
Large scale production of graphene quantum dots through the reaction of graphene oxide with sodium hypochlorite
Authors: Zhou Xuejiao , Guo Shouwu , Zhong Peng , Xie Yong , Li Zhimin , Ma Xiaohua
Published: May 2016

A facile method to produce graphene quantum dots on a large scale was introduced with the usage of oxygen radicals under UV irradiation.
Microwave-assisted single-surfactant templating synthesis of mesoporous zeolites
Authors: Costa Maria J. F. , Marszewska Jowita , Gonçalves Alexandre A. S. , de Souza Luiz K. C. , Araujo Antonio S. , Jaroniec Mietek
Published: May 2016

A single-surfactant templating was explored for the synthesis of mesoporous zeolites under microwave irradiation, which allowed programming of temperature and time over a wide range of conditions and shortened the synthesis time.
Blue light emitting self-healable graphene quantum dot embedded hydrogels
Authors: Biswas Sagar , Rasale Dnyaneshwar B. , Das Apurba K.
Published: May 2016

Graphene quantum dot (GQD) embedded Amoc (N-anthracenemethyloxycarbonyl) amino acid based hydrogels show self-healing properties and emit blue light.
Bio-distribution and in vivo/in vitro toxicity profile of PEGylated polymer capsules encapsulating LaVO4:Tb3+nanoparticles for bioimaging applications
Authors: Dhanya C. R. , Jeyaraman Jaishree , Janeesh P. A. , Shukla Akansha , Sivakumar Sri , Abraham Annie
Published: May 2016

Lanthanide-doped nanoparticles are being explored for bioimaging applications owing to their unique optical properties.
Facile fabrication of centimeter-scale stripes with inverse-opal photonic crystals structure and analysis of formation mechanism
Authors: Ding Chen , Hu Jian-Chen , Yuan Wei , Du De-Zhuang , Yang Ya , Chen Guoqiang , Zhang Ke-Qin
Published: May 2016

A facile fabrication process for centimeter-scale colloidal photonic crystal stripe is developed through self-assembling polymer microspheres and silica colloidal nanoparticles. With the aid of sintering, porous-ordered microstructure forms.
Electric field induced insulator to metal transition in a buckled GaAs monolayer
Authors: Bahuguna Bhagwati Prasad , Saini L. K. , Tiwari Brajesh , Sharma R. O.
Published: May 2016

We investigate the electronic properties of two-dimensional buckled honeycomb GaAs in the presence of an external electric field using first principles calculations.
Tribological and mechanical properties of self-lubrication epoxy composites filled with activated carbon particles containing lubricating oil
Authors: Li Meiling , Wang Huaiyuan , Liu Dujuan , Wang Rui , Zhu Yanji
Published: May 2016

A self-lubrication composite incorporating activated carbon particles containing lubricating oil (AC-oil) was fabricated in an epoxy resin matrix.
From starch to polylactide and nano-graphene oxide: fully starch derived high performance composites
Authors: Wu Duo , Xu Huan , Hakkarainen Minna
Published: May 2016

Starch-derived nGO is an efficient compatibilizer and property enhancer for high performance PLA/starch biocomposites.
Mesoporous assembled structures of Cu2O and TiO2nanoparticles for highly efficient photocatalytic hydrogen generation from water
Authors: Tamiolakis I. , Papadas I. T. , Spyridopoulos K. C. , Armatas G. S.
Published: May 2016

Mesoporous assemblies of Cu2O/TiO2nanoparticle heterojunctions, which have a large internal surface area and narrow-sized pores, show highly efficient and robust photocatalytic hydrogen evolution from water using UV-visible light.
A 4.92% efficiency Cu2ZnSnS4 solar cell from nanoparticle ink and molecular solution
Authors: Wang Wei , Shen Honglie , Wong Lydia Helena , Su Zhenghua , Yao Hanyu , Li Yufang
Published: May 2016

Quaternary Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) thin films were prepared by a low-cost, simple and environmentally-friendly ink method.
Facile synthesis of 3-amino-5-aryl-1,2,4-oxadiazoles via PIDA-mediated intramolecular oxidative cyclization
Authors: Lu Kuan , Duan Liancheng , Xu Boxuan , Yin Weile , Wu Di , Zhao Yanfang , Gong Ping
Published: May 2016

Advantages: ambient condition and simple procedure. Additive and metal free method. Up to 25 examples and 79% yield. Wide functional groups tolerance.
Forces and physical properties of the Langmuir monolayers of TiO2 particles at air/water interfaces after collisions by a particle in water
Authors: McNamee Cathy E. , Kappl Michael
Published: May 2016

Vary diameter (D) of TiO2 particles in monolayer and measure surface pressure–area/particle isotherms and force curves.
Boron–manganese–carbon nanocomposites synthesized from CO2for electrode applications in both supercapacitors and fuel cells
Authors: Kim Yeeun , Lee Wonhee , Kim Gi Mihn , Lee Jae W.
Published: May 2016

Boron–manganese–carbon nanocomposites were synthesized from CO2for electrode materials in supercapacitor and fuel cell.
POSS-based meso-/macroporous covalent networks: supporting and stabilizing Pd for Suzuki–Miyaura reaction at room temperature
Authors: Zhang Chenjun , Leng Yan , Jiang Pingping , Lu Dan
Published: May 2016

Porous covalent organic networks synthesized by Schiff base chemistry reaction of POSS and terephthalic aldehyde could serve as both supports and stabilizers for Pd catalyst, which exhibited excellent performances for Suzuki-Miyaura reactions.
Correction: A heterometallic (Fe6Na8) cage-like silsesquioxane: synthesis, structure, spin glass behavior and high catalytic activity
Authors: Bilyachenko Alexey N. , Levitsky Mikhail M. , Yalymov Alexey I. , Korlyukov Alexander A. , Vologzhanina Anna V. , Kozlov Yuriy N. , Shul'pina Lidia S. , Nesterov Dmytro S. , Pombeiro Armando J. L. , Lamaty Frédéric , Bantreil Xavier , Fetre Amandine , Liu Diyang , Martinez Jean , Long Jérôme , Larionova Joulia , Guari Yannick , Trigub Alexander L. , Zubavichus Yan V. , Golub Igor E. , Filippov Oleg A. , Shubina Elena S. , Shul'pin Georgiy B.
Published: May 2016

Correction for ‘A heterometallic (Fe6Na8) cage-like silsesquioxane: synthesis, structure, spin glass behavior and high catalytic activity’ by Alexey N. Bilyachenko et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 48165–48180.
A covalent organic framework-based route to the in situ encapsulation of metal nanoparticles in N-rich hollow carbon spheres
Authors: Chen Liyu , Zhang Lei , Chen Zhijie , Liu Hongli , Luque Rafael , Li Yingwei
Published: May 2016

Covalent organic frameworks doped with metal cations can be used as novel precursors for the in situ encapsulation of metal NPs into N doped hollow carbon spheres. The integration of the hollow structure, N dopant and ultrafine Pd NPs gives the hybrid nanocomposites advanced catalytic performance.
Fabrication and catalytic properties of three-dimensional ordered zeolite arrays with interconnected micro-meso-macroporous structure
Authors: Wang Ning , Qian Weizhong , Wei Fei
Published: May 2016

The highly interconnected micro-meso-macroporous MFI zeolite nanorod arrays are synthesized using porous anodic alumina membranes as rigid scaffold.
Online current signal de‐noising of magnetic bearing switching power amplifier based on lifting wavelet transform
Authors: Zhang Huijuan , Fang Jiancheng , Liu Hu
Published: May 2016

Switching power amplifier is an essential component for magnetic bearing system. However, the current ripple resulted from the conduction and shutoff operation of power switch component inevitably affects the performance of active magnetic bearing. To reduce the current ripple of switching power amplifier, the characteristics of current ripple are first analysed. In response to the spectrum character of current ripple, an online lifting wavelet transform de‐noising algorithm, unlike the conventional power filter circuit, is proposed in this study. Moreover, the sliding data window and an improved threshold function are introduced to realise the feasibility of online processing and to improve the de‐noising performance, respectively. Finally, plentiful comparative experiments, taking the magnetically suspended flywheel as subject, are implemented. The results illustrate that the proposed algorithm could dramatically reduce the current ripple and that the rotor displacement jitter and the vibration force are suppressed accordingly.
Optimal design of a 1 kW switched reluctance generator for wind power systems using a genetic algorithm
Authors: Shin Hye‐Ung , Lee Kyo‐Beum
Published: May 2016

This study presents an optimal design for a 1 kW switched reluctance generator (SRG) for wind‐power applications. The design of the SRG is optimised to increase efficiency and reduce the volume of the generator compared with a basic model designed using the D2L method. To begin the optimisation, Latin hypercube sampling is employed to extract samples of the design variables for the design of experiment. The Kriging method of approximation modelling is used to interpolate the non‐linear characteristics for the optimal design. Finally, a genetic algorithm is utilised to optimise the original design model for efficiency and reduced volume. The optimal design of the SRG uses the shape parameters of the basic model. Design variables are selected to be at their maxima. The designed optimal model is compared with the basic model and prototype to verify the results.
Frequency‐reconfigurable multiple‐input–multiple‐output monopole antenna with wide‐continuous tuning range
Authors: Cao Yunfei , Cheung Sing Wai , Yuk Tung Ip
Published: May 2016

The design of a frequency‐reconfigurable (FR) multiple‐input–multiple‐output (MIMO) monopole antenna with a wide‐continuous tuning range in handheld devices is presented. The antenna consists of two symmetrical FR monopole elements and a FR defected‐ground structure (DGS). The monopole elements have two sections, sections 1 and 2, connected together using a PIN diode. Section 1 alone generates a high‐frequency band at 2.26 GHz. By turning ON the PIN diode, sections 1 and 2 will be connected together to generate a low‐frequency band at 1.93 GHz. The DGS is used to achieve high isolation between the monopole elements and reconfigurable to follow the low‐ or high‐frequency operations. Simple and novel biasing circuits employing only 3 DC wires are designed to control these diodes. The methodology of using the design in other frequency bands is proposed. Results on S‐parameters, radiation pattern, realized peak gain and envelope‐correlation coefficient (ECC) are presented. Measured results show that the antenna has a wide‐frequency tuning range from 1.88 to 2.64 GHz, covering the long‐term‐resolution (LTE) 1, 2, 23, 25, 33–37 and 39–40 bands with low mutual coupling and ECC of less than −20 dB and 0.5, respectively. The effects of the feeding cable used in measurement are studied.
Design of high‐performance hybrid branch‐line couplers for wideband and space‐limited applications
Authors: Kurgan Piotr , Koziel Slawomir
Published: May 2016

This study presents a new design method of high‐performance broadband equal‐split branch‐line couplers with compact footprints. Size reduction as well as wideband operation are achieved here by using cascaded slow‐wave cells in place of conventional transmission lines that are basic building blocks of a reference structure. The initial stage of the design process involves numerical optimisation of the reference coupler equivalent circuit model to enhance its performance and account for practical design limitations. The next stage concerns determination of a repetition factor of the recurrent slow‐wave structure that provides sufficient bandwidth and phase characteristics to be a suitable substitute for a conventional line. The subsequent steps include cell optimisation using fine electromagnetic simulations, local response surface modelling of the single cell, and surrogate‐based optimisation of the recurrent slow‐wave structure composed of cascaded cell approximation models. Additionally, minor T‐junction and proximity effects that deteriorate the performance of the compact coupler are compensated by means of surrogate‐assisted design closure. The proposed method is demonstrated by two numerical examples. The compact couplers obtained in this study illustrate the highest bandwidth‐to‐size ratio when compared against state‐of‐the‐art wideband couplers from the literature. Experimental verification of one of the examples confirms the reliability of the proposed design approach.
Fusion der BG Kliniken: „Wir können von der Lufthansa lernen“
Authors: Dorner Carola
Published: May 2016

Nachdem die BG Kliniken zu einer Holding fusioniert sind, gilt es jetzt, dem neuen Konzern Leben einzuhauchen. Beim Hauptstadtkongress wird Geschäftsführer Reinhard Nieper über die komplexe und durchaus besondere Fusion berichten. Die Fragen von kma hat er schon im Vorfeld beantwortet.
IT-Sicherheitsgesetz: Die Stunde der Wahrheit
Authors: Kucera Martin
Published: May 2016

Das IT-Sicherheitsgesetz schreibt Gesundheitseinrichtungen vor, sich selbstständig nach dem neuesten Stand der Technik vor IT-Angriffen zu schützen, eine eigene Kontaktmeldestelle einzurichten und sich alle zwei Jahre zertifizieren zu lassen. Welche Einrichtungen das sind, wird derzeit heiß diskutiert. Die entsprechende Änderungsverordnung soll bis Anfang 2017 feststehen.
Fachmesse Krankenhaus Technologie: Das schreit nach Wiederholung
Authors: Thalmayr Maria
Published: May 2016

Sämtliche Techniken und Services für das Krankenhaus kompakt an einem Ort zu präsentieren, dabei fachlichen Tiefgang zu bieten und intensiven Austausch zu ermöglichen, ist die Grundidee hinter der Fachmesse Krankenhaus Technologie. Dieses neue Messekonzept fand vom Start weg zahlreiche Befürworter. Die Fortsetzung folgt schon 2017.
Krankenhäuser in Passivhausbauweise: Von Schimmel und anderen Gerüchten
Authors: Thalmayr Maria
Published: May 2016

Dass man nicht lüften kann, gehört zu den gängigen Klischees in Bezug auf Passivhäuser. Weit verbreitet ist ferner das Gerücht, in Passivhäusern bilde sich, weil sie nicht atmen können, verstärkt Schimmel. Nichts davon trifft zu, betont Karsten Valentin. Er plant und baut derzeit in Frankfurt Höchst ein Krankenhaus in Passivhausbauweise.
Surface tension of ab initio liquid water at the water-air interface
Authors: Nagata Yuki , Ohto Tatsuhiko , Bonn Mischa , Kühne Thomas D.
Published: May 2016

We report calculations on the surface tension of the water-air interface using ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations. We investigate the influence of the cell size on surface tension of water from force field molecular dynamics simulations. We find that the calculated surface tension increases with increasing simulation cell size, thereby illustrating that a correction for finite size effects is essential for small systems that are customary in AIMD simulations. Moreover, AIMD simulations reveal that the use of a double-ζ basis set overestimates the experimentally measured surface tension due to the Pulay stress while more accurate triple and quadruple-ζ basis sets give converged results. We further demonstrate that van der Waals corrections critically affect the surface tension. AIMD simulations without the van der Waals correction substantially underestimate the surface tension while the van der Waals correction with the Grimme’s D2 technique results in a value for the surface tension that is too high. The Grimme’s D3 van der Waals correction provides a surface tension close to the experimental value. Whereas the specific choices for the van der Waals correction and basis sets critically affect the calculated surface tension, the surface tension is remarkably insensitive to the details of the exchange and correlation functionals, which highlights the impact of long-range interactions on the surface tension. Our simulated values provide important benchmarks, both for improving van der Waals corrections and AIMD simulations of aqueous interfaces.
Characterization of capture cross sections of interface states in dielectric/III-nitride heterojunction structures
Authors: Matys M. , Stoklas R. , Kuzmik J. , Adamowicz B. , Yatabe Z. , Hashizume T.
Published: May 2016

We performed, for the first time, quantitative characterization of electron capture cross sections σ of the interface states at dielectric/III-N heterojunction interfaces. We developed a new method, which is based on the photo-assisted capacitance-voltage measurements using photon energies below the semiconductor band gap. The analysis was carried out for AlGaN/GaN metal-insulator-semiconductor heterojunction (MISH) structures with Al2O3, SiO2, or SiN films as insulator deposited on the AlGaN layers with Al content (x) varying over a wide range of values. Additionally, we also investigated an Al2O3/InAlN/GaN MISH structure. Prior to insulator deposition, the AlGaN and InAlN surfaces were subjected to different treatments. We found that σ for all these structures lies in the range between 5×10−19 and 10−16 cm2. Furthermore, we revealed that σ for dielectric/AlxGa1−xN interfaces increases with increasing x. We showed that both the multiphonon-emission and cascade processes can explain the obtained results.
Effect of shock compression on optical and structural properties of Eu2O3 and Y2O3:Eu3+ powders
Authors: Kishimura Hiroaki , Hamada Sho , Aruga Atsushi , Matsumoto Hitoshi
Published: May 2016

Shock-recovery experiments on Eu2O3 and Y2O3:Eu3+ powders using a metal plate projectile accelerated by a single-stage powder-propellant gun were performed to investigate phase stability and response at high pressures and temperatures. The recovered samples were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction analysis and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The onset of the structural phase transition from the cubic (C-type) to monoclinic (B-type) phase was observed for both Eu2O3 and Y2O3:Eu3+ powders at shock pressures of 8 and 13 GPa, respectively. For Eu2O3, the amount of B-type phase increases with increasing shock pressure up to 23 GPa, whereas for Y2O3:Eu3+, a maximum was reached at 25 GPa followed by a decrease with increasing shock pressure; only the C-type phase was detected in the sample shocked at 51 GPa. The change in the amount of B-type phase indicates stability for the monoclinic phase against shock-induced heat and mechanical deformation. The large range in shock pressure for which the C-type and B-type phases coexist in Eu2O3 and Y2O3:Eu3+ indicates that the pressure-induced phase transition is too sluggish to be completed within the shock duration. The D50→7F2/5D0→7F1 intensity ratios for the shock-recovered Eu2O3 and Y2O3:Eu3+ samples were independent of the shock pressure and the amount of C-type phase in the samples. No relationship was observed between the crystal-field parameter B20 and the amount of C-type phase in both shock-recovered samples. However, with increasing B20 2, the D50→7F2/5D0→7F1 intensity ratio decreased, whereas the D50→7F0/5D0→7F1 intensity ratio increased. These results suggest that shock-induced deformation leads to enhanced J-mixing in both the Eu2 O3 and the Y2O3:Eu3+ samples.
Interband absorption strength in long-wave infrared type-II superlattices with small and large superlattice periods compared to bulk materials
Authors: Vurgaftman I. , Belenky G. , Lin Y. , Donetsky D. , Shterengas L. , Kipshidze G. , Sarney W. L. , Svensson S. P.
Published: May 2016

The absorption spectra for the antimonide-based type-II superlattices (SLs) for detection in the long-wave infrared (LWIR) are calculated and compared to the measured data for SLs and bulk materials with the same energy gap (HgCdTe and InAsSb). We include the results for the metamorphic InAsSbx/InAsSby SLs with small periods as well as the more conventional strain-balanced InAs/Ga(In)Sb and InAs/InAsSb SLs on GaSb substrates. The absorption strength in small-period metamorphic SLs is similar to the bulk materials, while the SLs with an average lattice constant matched to GaSb have significantly lower absorption. This is because the electron-hole overlap in the strain-balanced type-II LWIR SLs occurs primarily in the hole well, which constitutes a relatively small fraction of the total thickness.
Note: An improved solenoid driver valve for miniature shock tubes
Authors: Lynch P. T.
Published: May 2016

A solenoid driver valve has been built to improve the operating performance of diaphragmless shock tubes, which are used for high pressure, high temperature chemical kinetics, and fluid mechanics studies. For shock tube driver application, the most important characteristics are those of sealing, strength, and quality of the generated shock waves and repeatability of opening characteristics and therefore subsequent post-shock conditions. The main features of the new driver valve are a face o-ring sealing design of the valve, the large internal volume, and through inserts near the solenoid core: adjustable opening characteristics of the valve.
Improving thermoelectric energy harvesting efficiency by using graphene
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Kim In-Ho , Jung Hyung-Jo
Published: May 2016

This study is aimed at enhancing the efficiency of a thermoelectric (TE) energy harvesting system by using a thick graphene layer. This method is a simple yet effective way to increase the temperature gradient across a conventional TE module by accelerating heat dissipation on the cold side of the system. Aqueous dispersions of graphene were used to prepare a 112-μm thick graphene layer on the cold side of the TE system with aluminum as the substrate material. The maximum efficiency of the proposed system was improved by 25.45 %, as compared to the conventional TE system, which does not have a graphene layer. Additionally, the proposed system shows very little performance deterioration (2.87 %) in the absence of enough air flow on the cold side of the system, compared to the case of the conventional system (10.59 %). Hence, the proposed system, when coupled with the latest research on high performance TE materials, presents a groundbreaking improvement in the practical application of the TE energy harvesting systems.
NB-LRR gene family required for Rsc4-mediated resistance to Soybean mosaic virus
Authors: Li Na , Yin Jin Long , Li Cui , Wang Da Gang , Yang Yong Qing , Karthikeyan A. , Luan He Xiang , Zhi Hai Jian
Published: May 2016

Soybean mosaic virus (SMV) causes one of the most destructive viral diseases in soybean (Glycine max). The soybean cultivar Dabaima carries the Rsc4 gene for SMV resistance. The genomic region containing Rsc4 was previously localised within a 100-kb region on chromosome 14. The corresponding region contains three complete nucleotide-binding site (NB) and leucine-rich repeat (LRR) type genes and one incomplete gene that is likely non-functional. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that three candidate genes encoding NB-LRR proteins were differentially expressed in resistant and susceptible lines when the plants were inoculated with SMV strain SC4. To test the involvement of the three candidate genes in Rsc4 mediated resistance, the three genes were silenced using a Bean pod mottle virus (BPMV)-based vector construct. Silencing of three candidate genes attenuated the Rsc4-mediated resistance and induced SMV symptoms in Dabaima plants. Moreover, Rsc4 candidate genes were 78% downregulated when compared with the empty BPMV vector-treated plants. From these results, we concluded that at least one of the three candidate genes encoding NB-LRR proteins is required for Rsc4 resistance to SMV.
Remembering and forgetting: the state policy of memorializing Stalin's repression in post-Soviet Kazakhstan
Authors: Kundakbayeva Zhanat , Kassymova Didar
Published: May 2016

The general perception of Western analysts and observers is that the nation-states created as a result of the breakup of the Soviet Union all treat the memory of the dark, repressive aspects of the Stalinist regime in public spaces as a symbolic element in the creation of a new post-Soviet identity [Denison, Michael. 2009. “The Art of the Impossible: Political Symbolism, and the Creation of National Identity and Collective Memory in Post-Soviet Turkmenistan.”Europe-Asia Studies61 (7): 1167–1187]. We argue that the government of Kazakhstan employs non-nationalistic discourse in its treatment of Stalinist victims’ commemoration in a variety of forms, through the creation of modern memorial complexes at the sites of horrific Soviet activity (mass burial places, labor camps, and detention centers), purpose-built museum exhibitions, and the commemorative speeches of its president and other officials. Kazakhstan's strategy in commemorating its Soviet past is designed to highlight the inclusiveness of repression on all peoples living in its territory at that time, not just Kazakhs, thereby assisting in bringing together its multinational and multiethnic society. Thus, the official stance treats this discourse as an important symbolic source of shaping the collective memory of the nation, based on “a general civil identity without prioritizing one ethnic group over another — a national unity, founded on the recognition of a common system of values and principles for all citizens” [Shakirova, Svetlana. 2012. “Letters to Nazarbaev: Kazakhstan's Intellectuals Debate National Identity.” February 7. Accessed July 28, 2015.http://postsovietpost.stanford.edu/discussion/letters-nazarbaev-kazakhstans-intellectuals-debate-national-identity].
Jasmonoyl-l-isoleucine is required for the production of a flavonoid phytoalexin but not diterpenoid phytoalexins in ultraviolet-irradiated rice leaves
Authors: Miyamoto Koji , Enda Isami , Okada Toshiki , Sato Yumiko , Watanabe Kohei , Sakazawa Tomoko , Yumoto Emi , Shibata Kyomi , Asahina Masashi , Iino Moritoshi , Yokota Takao , Okada Kazunori , Yamane Hisakazu
Published: May 2016

Rice produces low-molecular-weight antimicrobial compounds known as phytoalexins, in response to not only pathogen attack but also abiotic stresses including ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. Rice phytoalexins are composed of diterpenoids and a flavonoid. Recent studies have indicated that endogenous jasmonyl-l-isoleucine (JA-Ile) is not necessarily required for the production of diterpenoid phytoalexins in blast-infected or CuCl2-treated rice leaves. However, JA-Ile is required for the accumulation of the flavonoid phytoalexin, sakuranetin. Here, we investigated the roles of JA-Ile in UV-induced phytoalexin production. We showed that UV-irradiation induces the biosynthesis of JA-Ile and its precursor jasmonic acid. We also showed that rice jasmonate biosynthesis mutants produced diterpenoid phytoalexins but not sakuranetin in response to UV, indicating that JA-Ile is required for the production of sakuranetin but not diterpenoid phytoalexins in UV-irradiated rice leaves.
Cryopreservation of the edible alkalophilic cyanobacterium Arthrospira platensis
Authors: Shiraishi Hideaki
Published: May 2016

Efficient cryopreservation conditions for the edible alkalophilic cyanobacterium Arthrospira (Spirulina) platensis were investigated using a model strain A. platensis NIES-39. As a result, it was found that more than 60% of cells were viable upon thawing, when they had been frozen at a cooling rate of approximately −1 °C min−1 in the presence of 10% (v/v) dimethyl sulfoxide. Further examination with other Arthrospira strains showed that many of them had strain-dependent optimal conditions for cryopreservation. For example, the best freezing conditions for A. platensis SAG 21.99 were snap-freezing in liquid nitrogen in the presence of 5% (v/v) dimethyl sulfoxide, while they were slow cooling at approximately −1 °C min−1 in the presence of 10% (v/v) methanol for A. platensis NIES-46, NIES-2308 and UTEX 1926. The variety of successful cryopreservation conditions presented in this study is useful when attempting to cryopreserve various Arthrospira strains.
Highly selective electrodeposition of sub-10 nm crystalline noble metallic nanorods inside vertically aligned multiwall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Wang Xuyang , Wang Ranran , Wu Qiang , Zhang Xiaohua , Yang Zhaohui , Guo Jun , Chen Muzi , Tang Minghua , Cheng Yajun , Chu Haibin
Published: May 2016

In this paper crystalline noble metallic nanorods including Au and Ag with sub-10 nm diameter, are encapsulated within prealigned and open-ended multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) through an electrodeposition method. As the external surface of CNTs has been insulated by the epoxy the CNT channel becomes the only path for the mass transport as well as the nanoreactor for the metal deposition. Highly crystallized Au and Ag2O nanorods parallel to the radial direction of CNTs are confirmed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy and x-ray powder diffraction spectroscopy. The Ag2O nanorods are formed by air oxidation on the Ag metals and show a single crystalline structure with (111) planes. The Au nanorods exhibit a complex crystalline structure including twin-crystal and lattice dislocation with (111) and (200) planes. These crystalline noble metallic nanostructures may have important applications for nanocatalysts for fuel cells as well as nanoelectronic and nanophotonic devices. This method is deemed to benefit the precise deposition of other crystalline nanostructures inside CNTs with a small diameter.
PU-H71, a novel Hsp90 inhibitor, as a potential cancer-specific sensitizer to carbon-ion beam therapy
Authors: Li Huizi Keiko , Matsumoto Yoshitaka , Furusawa Yoshiya , Kamada Tadashi
Published: May 2016

PU-H71, a heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) inhibitor, has yielded therapeutic efficacy in many preclinical models and is currently in clinical trials. Carbon-ion radiotherapy (CIRT) has provided successful tumor control; however, there is still room for improvement, particularly in terms of tumor-specific radiosensitization. The Hsp90 inhibitor PU-H71 has been shown to sensitize tumor cells to X-ray radiation. A murine osteosarcoma cell line (LM8) and a normal human fibroblast cell line (AG01522) were treated with PU-H71 before X-ray, 14- or 50-keV/µm carbon-ion beam (C-ion) irradiation. Cell survival and protein expression were evaluated with colony formation and western blot, respectively. Treatment with PU-H71 alone was shown to be non-toxic to both cell lines; however, PU-H71 was shown to significantly sensitize LM8 cells to not only X-ray, but also to C-ion irradiation, while only a minimal sensitizing effect was observed in AG01522 cells. PU-H71 treatment was found to suppress the protein expression levels of Rad51 and Ku70, which are associated with the homologous recombination pathway and the non-homologous end-joining pathway of double-strand break repair. The findings reported here suggest that PU-H71 could be a promising radiosensitizer for CIRT.
Free-floating planets from core accretion theory: microlensing predictions
Authors: Ma Sizheng , Mao Shude , Ida Shigeru , Zhu Wei , Lin Douglas N. C.
Published: May 2016

We calculate the microlensing event rate and typical time-scales for the free-floating planet (FFP) population that is predicted by the core accretion theory of planet formation. The event rate is found to be ∼1.8 × 10−3 of that for the stellar population. While the stellar microlensing event time-scale peaks at around 20 d, the median time-scale for FFP events (∼0.1 d) is much shorter. Our values for the event rate and the median time-scale are significantly smaller than those required to explain the Sumi et al. result, by factors of ∼13 and ∼16, respectively. The inclusion of planets at wide separations does not change the results significantly. This discrepancy may be too significant for standard versions of both the core accretion theory and the gravitational instability model to explain satisfactorily. Therefore, either a modification to the planet formation theory is required or other explanations to the excess of short-time-scale microlensing events are needed. Our predictions can be tested by ongoing microlensing experiment such as Korean Microlensing Telescope Network, and by future satellite missions such as WFIRST and Euclid.
Communicating Scientific Findings in the Courtroom
Authors: Vuille Joëlle , Egli Anthonioz Nicole M.
Published: May 2016

The number of civil and criminal trials in which there is presented at least one piece of scientific evidence—by which we mean the analysis and interpretation of physical evidence derived from the so-called hard sciences (thus excluding the fields of psychology, psychiatry, and the social and behavioral sciences)—is constantly increasing. Yet the fact finders, be they judges or juries or the attorneys arguing the cases, have limited scientific education. In this context, the way scientific experts express the results of analyses and interpretations carried out, as well as the way the members of the court understand the content of their message, is of utmost importance. Misunderstandings do happen and have dramatic consequences, as an abundant literature on wrongful convictions now well illustrates. It is thus urgent that forensic scientists learn to write more transparent statements. This requirement is also set out in a landmark report published in 2009 by the National Research Council. Following this trend, the forensic community has started developing guidelines concerning statement writing, and a structured approach to communication of expert opinion in court is now emerging. However, empirical results as to what constitutes good practice in the expression of results, and particularly the uncertainty attached to scientific results, are not abundant. Indeed, while guidelines exist, the improvement in mutual understanding is not evident. This quest for mutual understanding, in particular in the expression of evidential value, is the subject of this article. Joëlle Vuille wishes to thank the Swiss National Science Foundation for their financial support (grant PP00P1_176720).
Civic Humanism
Authors: Kallendorf Craig
Published: May 2016

Civic humanism is one of the more interesting and important concepts in Renaissance studies, in part because of its unusually long afterlife, and in part because almost everything pertaining to it is controversial. There is general agreement that it involves a commitment to the active political life under the influence of classical models, but from that point on, scholarship divides. Are its origins in the political life of Florence at the turn of the 15th century or in the political thought of the 14th century? Does civic humanism predicate a commitment to the republic as we understand the term today, or only to active political engagement in general? When did it end: In Italy, in the 16th century? In England, in the 17th century? In the ideological debates of the American revolution? Or later? Since large blocks of postwar scholarship on the Italian Renaissance are a reaction to civic humanism, either directly or indirectly, any selection from among this much material becomes at least somewhat arbitrary, but the bibliography that follows should provide a basic orientation to the major issues involved, with an emphasis on how ideas about civic humanism have evolved rather than on restatements of earlier positions.