bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prenatal features of isolated subependymal pseudocysts associated with adverse pregnancy outcome
Authors: Esteban H. , Blondiaux E. , Audureau E. , Sileo C. , Moutard M. L. , Gelot A. , Jouannic J. M. , Ducou le Pointe H. , Garel C.
Published: February 2015

Objectives

To identify at prenatal ultrasound (US) the features of apparently isolated subependymal pseudocysts (SEPC) that may indicate underlying pathology and should lead to further investigations.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of cases with SEPC detected on prenatal US and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Those with apparently isolated SEPC at US were classified into two groups as follows: Group 1 (n = 29): normal prenatal US and MRI (except for SEPC) and normal outcome; Group 2 (n = 12): normal prenatal cerebral US (except for SEPC) and abnormal prenatal cerebral MRI with or without abnormal outcome. A third group (n = 9) included cases with abnormal prenatal US and MRI. The latter cases with obvious cerebral abnormalities at US were excluded from the statistical analysis as they do not represent a diagnostic dilemma for clinicians. Groups 1 and 2 were analyzed, comparing them with respect to their SEPC characteristics (size, number, location in relation to the caudothalamic notch and the ventricular horns and morphology) and extracerebral abnormalities.

Results

The mean ± SD SEPC great axis was longer in Group 2 (11.67 ± 5.82 mm) than it was in Group 1 (8.00 ± 5.64 mm) (P = 0.021), suggesting an optimal cut‐off for size of SEPC of ≥ 9 mm (sensitivity = 75%, specificity = 62%) to maximize sensitivity for predicting pathological outcome. SEPC adjacent to the temporal horns and SEPC located posterior to the caudothalamic notch were observed more frequently in Group 2, indicating their association with poor outcome (P = 0.003 and P = 0.003, respectively). Atypical morphology and extracerebral abnormalities were observed more frequently in Group 2 (P = 0.013 and P = 0.044, respectively). There was no statistically significant difference between groups for either number or location of cysts along the inferior wall or adjacent to the lateral wall of the frontal horns (P = 0.591 and P = 0.156, respectively).

Conclusion

When apparently isolated SEPC are observed at prenatal US, further investigations should be performed under the following circumstances: (1) SEPC great axis ≥ 9 mm; (2) SEPC adjacent to the occipital and temporal horns; (3) SEPC located posterior to the caudothalamic notch; (4) SEPC with atypical morphology. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Syntheses and Structures of Two Novel Interdigitated Metal‐Quinolone Complexes: [Cu2(cfH)2(bptc)(H2O)]·4H2O and [Zn2(levofH)2(odpa)]·5.5H2O
Authors: Zhang Jin‐Ling , Yang Juan , Wang Xin , Zhang Hua‐Yi , Chi Xiao‐Lin , Chen Yu , Yang Qi , Xiao Dong‐Rong
Published: February 2015

Two novel interdigitated metal‐quinolone complexes, namely [Cu2(cfH)2(bptc)(H2O)]·4H2O (1) and [Zn2(levofH)2(odpa)]·5.5H2O (2) (bptc = 3,3′,4,4′‐benzophenonetetracarboxylate, cfH = ciprofloxacin, odpa = 4,4′‐oxydiphthalate, levofH = levofloxacin) were synthesized hydrothermally and characterized by elemental analyses, IR spectra, UV/Vis spectra, TG analyses, powder X‐ray diffraction, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Moreover, solid‐state photoluminescence property of compound 2 was also investigated at room temperature. Compound 1 exhibits a novel interdigitated architecture, which is built from 1D chains with side arms. The structure of compound 2 consists of 1D chains with dangling levofloxacin ligands protruding from both sides of the chain, and these chains are interdigitated with each other to generate a interdigitated framework.
Relations of Wolbachia Infection with Phylogeography of Philaenus spumarius (Hemiptera: Aphrophoridae) Populations Within and Beyond the Carpathian Contact Zone
Authors: Lis Agata , Maryańska-Nadachowska Anna , Kajtoch Łukasz
Published: February 2015

Wolbachia is the most widespread intracellular α-proteobacteria maternally inherited endosymbiont of insects and nematodes. These bacteria are associated with a number of different reproductive phenotypes of their hosts. Relatively few studies have dealt with distribution of infections across populations and with the influence of these bacteria on host genetic diversification and speciation. The aims of this study are to determine the distribution and rate of infection and to characterize the Wolbachia strains associated with Philaenus spumarius spittlebug (Hemiptera) by using multilocus sequencing typing (MLST) analysis and host phylogeography. The results showed that infection rate was significantly different between members of both main mitochondrial phylogenetic lineages of P. spumarius. We detected much higher infection rates of Wolbachia in P. spumarius populations from the north-east clade than the south-west clade. Moreover, the frequency of these infections varied within and outside the contact zone known from the Carpathians. Given the reproductive alterations which are often associated with this endosymbiont, Wolbachia probably maintain genetic differentiation of its hosts in its contact zone in the Carpathians. This is one of the first studies demonstrating the presence of Wolbachia across a large part of the range of insect species, including the contact zone. The spread of Wolbachia in P. spumarius populations can potentially cause speciation by compromising the potential reproductive barrier between infected and uninfected populations. We discuss possible implications of Wolbachia infection inducing cytoplasmic incompatibility in the population dynamics of this spittlebug but confirm that more studies are also required.
El poder de las palabras de los capellanes. El impacto en los colaboradores de la gestión de la espiritualidad laboral
Authors: Portales Luis
Published: February 2015

Una forma de promover la espiritualidad en el área de trabajo son los capellanes corporativos. El objetivo de esta investigación fue probar la dependencia entre la percepción del colaborador sobre su estado espiritual, entre otros, y el acompañamiento del capellán. Se utilizó una metodología mixta donde, a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas, se identificaron las dimensiones sobre las cuales la labor del capellán tendría incidencia y se realizó un análisis de regresión lineal a una muestra de 848 colaboradores la empresa Tyson de México para comprobar dicha incidencia. Los resultados muestran que los capellanes inciden de forma significativa en una mejor percepción por parte de los trabajadores sobre sus condiciones de vida en el ámbito espiritual, psicológico, organizacional y familiar.
Selections before elections: Double standards in implementing election registration procedures in Russia?
Authors: Bækken Håvard
Published: February 2015

For a considerable part of the political opposition in Russia, elections have been something to be watched from the sidelines. While opposition candidates are formally blocked for legal-administrative reasons, they have repeatedly claimed that registration refusals are politically motivated and that election committees apply the law differently depending on the candidates’ political affiliation. By analyzing the perceptions of double standards as well as actual enforcement practice and structural incentives, this article identifies the core mechanics of this quasi-legal mechanism of political pre-election filtering in Russian elections.
Unsteady dynamics of rapid perching manoeuvres
Authors: Polet Delyle T. , Rival David E. , Weymouth Gabriel D.
Published: February 2015

A perching bird is able to rapidly decelerate while maintaining lift and control, but the underlying aerodynamic mechanism is poorly understood. In this work we perform a study on a simultaneously decelerating and pitching aerofoil section to increase our understanding of the unsteady aerodynamics of perching. We first explore the problem analytically, developing expressions for the added-mass and circulatory forces arising from boundary-layer separation on a flat-plate aerofoil. Next, we study the model problem through a detailed series of experiments at$\mathit{Re}=22\,000$and two-dimensional simulations at$\mathit{Re}=2000$. Simulated vorticity fields agree with particle image velocimetry measurements, showing the same wake features and vorticity magnitudes. Peak lift and drag forces during rapid perching are measured to be more than 10 times the quasi-steady values. The majority of these forces can be attributed to added-mass energy transfer between the fluid and aerofoil, and to energy lost to the fluid by flow separation at the leading and trailing edges. Thus, despite the large angles of attack and decreasing flow velocity, this simple pitch-up manoeuvre provides a means through which a perching bird can maintain high lift and drag simultaneously while slowing to a controlled stop.
EXTREMAL PERIMETERS OF QUADRANGLES IN THE PONCELET PORISM
Authors: CIEŚLAK WALDEMAR , MOZGAWA WITOLD
Published: February 2015

Extremal problems for quadrangles circuminscribed in a circular annulus with the Poncelet porism property are considered. Quadrangles with the maximal and the minimal perimeters are determined. Two conjectures end the paper.
Classification of Symmetric Special Biserial Algebras With At Most One Non-Uniserial Indecomposable Projective
Authors: Snashall Nicole , Taillefer Rachel
Published: February 2015

We consider a natural generalization of symmetric Nakayama algebras, namely, symmetric special biserial algebras with at most one non-uniserial indecomposable projective module. We describe the basic algebras explicitly by quiver and relations, then classify them up to derived equivalence and up to stable equivalence of Morita type. This includes the weakly symmetric algebras of Euclidean type n, as studied by Bocian et al., as well as some algebras of dihedral type.
The link between mental health-related discrimination and suicidality: service user perspectives
Authors: Farrelly S. , Jeffery D. , Rüsch N. , Williams P. , Thornicroft G. , Clement S.
Published: February 2015

Background

Suicide is a major global public health issue. Mental illness is a risk factor for suicide, but as many individuals with a diagnosed mental health problem do not experience suicidal ideation or attempt suicide, other individual and societal factors must be considered. Mental illness-related discrimination is one potential risk factor.

Method

Using mixed methods, the influence of discrimination on suicidality amongst 194 individuals diagnosed with depression, bipolar or schizophrenia spectrum disorders was investigated. Qualitative interviews with a sub-sample of 58 individuals who reported a link between experience of discrimination and suicidality were analysed using framework analysis. Quantitative methods were used to examine the model derived from qualitative analyses.

Results

Results indicate that the experience of discrimination led 38% of the overall sample of 194 participants, to suicidal feelings and 20% reported that it contributed to making a suicide attempt. The qualitative model derived from interviews with a sub-sample of 58 participants suggested that the experience of discrimination is experienced as a stressor that exceeds coping resources, leading to a negative self-image and a perception of decreased supportive networks/social structure. The anticipation of further negative events and treatment, and the perception of a lack of supportive networks led individuals in this study to feelings of hopelessness and suicidality. Quantitative analyses provided support for the model.

Conclusions

These data suggest that both psychological therapies aimed at improving coping skills and population-level anti-stigma interventions that reduce the occurrence of discrimination may provide some protection against suicide amongst individuals with mental health problems.
Nonsoluble length of finite groups with commutators of small order
Authors: CONTRERAS–ROJAS Y. , SHUMYATSKY PAVEL
Published: February 2015

Let p be a prime. Every finite group G has a normal series each of whose quotients either is p-soluble or is a direct product of nonabelian simple groups of orders divisible by p. The non-p-soluble length λp(G) is defined as the minimal number of non-p-soluble quotients in a series of this kind.

We deal with the question whether, for a given prime p and a given proper group variety , there is a bound for the non-p-soluble length λp of finite groups whose Sylow p-subgroups belong to . Let the word w be a multilinear commutator. In this paper we answer the question in the affirmative in the case where p is odd and the variety is the one of groups satisfying the law we ≡ 1.
AN EPITOME OF GALEN'SON THE ELEMENTSASCRIBED TO ḤUNAYN IBN ISḤĀQ
Authors: Bos Gerrit , Langermann Y. Tzvi
Published: February 2015

Galen'sOn the Elements according to Hippocratesis an important source for physical doctrines circulating in late antiquity. The variety of atomistic doctrines that Galen brings into the discussion, as well as his arguments aimed at refuting them, were closely studied by the early kalām atomists. Of particular interest are the summaries of this text, which seem to have been written many centuries after Galen; some of them are products of early Islamicate culture. In this paper, we present an edition, translation, and study of a hitherto unknown summary, extent in a unique manuscript where it is attributed to Ḥunayn ibn Isḥāq. Like the other summaries, it presents a doxography of physical doctrines, not always repeating precisely what Galen says, but rather reflecting the discourse of its period.
A univalent formalization of the p-adic numbers
Authors: PELAYO ÁLVARO , VOEVODSKY VLADIMIR , WARREN MICHAEL A.
Published: February 2015

The goal of this paper is to report on a formalization of the p-adic numbers in the setting of the second author's univalent foundations program. This formalization, which has been verified in the Coq proof assistant, provides an approach to the p-adic numbers in constructive algebra and analysis.
Experiences of Enhanced Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Bulimia Nervosa
Authors: Onslow Louise , Woodward Debbie , Hoefkens Toni , Waddington Louise
Published: February 2015

Background:Recent quantitative studies provide support for an “enhanced” transdiagnostic approach of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT-E) for eating disorders; however it is not yet known how recipients of CBT-E experience therapy.Aims:The current study used a qualitative approach to explore service users’ experiences of CBT-E.Method: Individuals with a diagnosis of bulimia nervosa and who had completed CBT-E from one service in Wales were invited to participate. Semi-structured interviews were completed with eight individuals and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA).Results: Participants valued both specific and non-specific elements of CBT-E. Therapist specialism in eating disorders was considered to enhance therapist empathy. The most helpful aspects specific to CBT-E were gaining insight into maintenance cycles and experiential learning. The most challenging aspects of CBT-E were changing behaviours and cognitions “in the moment” and in the longer-term.Conclusions: The implication of therapist specialism and empathy is further discussed, as well as the difficulty for CBT-E in changing service users’ long-standing core beliefs.
Utilizing higher moments to detect time-varying target in radar echo with non-stationary background
Authors: Gui Renzhou
Published: February 2015

Detecting time-varying target in non-stationary background is difficult and attractive problem. Time-varying movement exists widely in radar and communication systems. The non-linear processing with higher moments is discussed in the situation. Firstly the signal model of time-varying target with fix acceleration is analyzed. Then the radar echoes from synthetic aperture radar (SAR) are processed with higher moments. It not only restrains Gaussian noise automatically, but also suppresses non-stationary noise. Time-varying targets are different from the non-stationary background clutters. Moreover, the influences of the shadows about time-varying targets are reduced in the algorithm of higher moments. The proposal mentioned above utilizes higher moments to avoid analyzing the complex electromagnetic wave propagation and scatter theory. The differences of detection probability are compared between the chip with time-varying target and the clutter chip. The performances among different number order moments are compared by processing lots of actual SAR data added non-stationary noise. Lastly, the suitable number order moments are suggested by comparing the results from processing the actual radar echoes.
DSM-5, psychiatric epidemiology and the false positives problem
Authors: Wakefield J. C.
Published: February 2015

The revision effort leading to the publication of the fifth edition of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) was flawed in process, goals and outcome. The revision process suffered from lack of an adequate public record of the rationale for changes, thus shortchanging future scholarship. The goals, such as dimensionalising diagnosis, incorporating biomarkers and separating impairment from diagnosis, were ill-considered and mostly abandoned. However, DSM-5's greatest problem, and the target of the most vigorous and sustained criticism, was its failure to take seriously the false positives problem. By expanding diagnosis beyond plausible boundaries in ways inconsistent with DSM-5's own definition of disorder, DSM-5 threatened the validity of psychiatric research, including especially psychiatric epidemiology. I present four examples: increasing the symptom options while decreasing the diagnostic threshold for substance use disorder, elimination of the bereavement exclusion from major depression, allowing verbal arguments as evidence of intermittent explosive disorder and expanding attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder to adults before addressing its manifest false positives problems.
The 1979 Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution: Assessing its Effectiveness as a Multilateral Environmental Regime after 35 Years
Authors: Byrne Adam
Published: February 2015

There is no definitive approach to assessing the effectiveness of international environmental regimes. In order to explore the regime established by the 1979 Geneva Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution this article broadly integrates the approach to effectiveness taken by Peter H. Sand inThe Effectiveness of International Environmental Agreements,and Daniel Bodansky inThe Art and Craft of International Environmental Law. The article finds that compliance, institutional, and normative effectiveness can be evaluated relatively confidently. An effectiveness assessment of the long-range transboundary air pollution (LRTAP) regime indicates that, on the whole, it has helped states to reach agreement on contentious issues and achieve results in air pollution reduction. However, it faces significant challenges with regard to participation, implementation procedures, empowerment of domestic stakeholders, and funding. The article provides an in-depth and up-to-date look at the LRTAP regime, including the most recent amendments and its relationship with European Union and international law.
Microbial carbon metabolism associated with electrogenic sulphur oxidation in coastal sediments
Authors: Vasquez-Cardenas Diana , van de Vossenberg Jack , Polerecky Lubos , Malkin Sairah Y , Schauer Regina , Hidalgo-Martinez Silvia , Confurius Veronique , Middelburg Jack J , Meysman Filip J R , Boschker Henricus T S
Published: February 2015

Recently, a novel electrogenic type of sulphur oxidation was documented in marine sediments, whereby filamentous cable bacteria (Desulfobulbaceae) are mediating electron transport over cm-scale distances. These cable bacteria are capable of developing an extensive network within days, implying a highly efficient carbon acquisition strategy. Presently, the carbon metabolism of cable bacteria is unknown, and hence we adopted a multidisciplinary approach to study the carbon substrate utilization of both cable bacteria and associated microbial community in sediment incubations. Fluorescence in situ hybridization showed rapid downward growth of cable bacteria, concomitant with high rates of electrogenic sulphur oxidation, as quantified by microelectrode profiling. We studied heterotrophy and autotrophy by following 13C-propionate and -bicarbonate incorporation into bacterial fatty acids. This biomarker analysis showed that propionate uptake was limited to fatty acid signatures typical for the genus Desulfobulbus. The nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry analysis confirmed heterotrophic rather than autotrophic growth of cable bacteria. Still, high bicarbonate uptake was observed in concert with the development of cable bacteria. Clone libraries of 16S complementary DNA showed numerous sequences associated to chemoautotrophic sulphur-oxidizing Epsilon- and Gammaproteobacteria, whereas 13C-bicarbonate biomarker labelling suggested that these sulphur-oxidizing bacteria were active far below the oxygen penetration. A targeted manipulation experiment demonstrated that chemoautotrophic carbon fixation was tightly linked to the heterotrophic activity of the cable bacteria down to cm depth. Overall, the results suggest that electrogenic sulphur oxidation is performed by a microbial consortium, consisting of chemoorganotrophic cable bacteria and chemolithoautotrophic Epsilon- and Gammaproteobacteria. The metabolic linkage between these two groups is presently unknown and needs further study.
Methane oxidation coupled to oxygenic photosynthesis in anoxic waters
Authors: Milucka Jana , Kirf Mathias , Lu Lu , Krupke Andreas , Lam Phyllis , Littmann Sten , Kuypers Marcel M M , Schubert Carsten J
Published: February 2015

Freshwater lakes represent large methane sources that, in contrast to the Ocean, significantly contribute to non-anthropogenic methane emissions to the atmosphere. Particularly mixed lakes are major methane emitters, while permanently and seasonally stratified lakes with anoxic bottom waters are often characterized by strongly reduced methane emissions. The causes for this reduced methane flux from anoxic lake waters are not fully understood. Here we identified the microorganisms and processes responsible for the near complete consumption of methane in the anoxic waters of a permanently stratified lake, Lago di Cadagno. Interestingly, known anaerobic methanotrophs could not be detected in these waters. Instead, we found abundant gamma-proteobacterial aerobic methane-oxidizing bacteria active in the anoxic waters. In vitro incubations revealed that, among all the tested potential electron acceptors, only the addition of oxygen enhanced the rates of methane oxidation. An equally pronounced stimulation was also observed when the anoxic water samples were incubated in the light. Our combined results from molecular, biogeochemical and single-cell analyses indicate that methane removal at the anoxic chemocline of Lago di Cadagno is due to true aerobic oxidation of methane fuelled by in situ oxygen production by photosynthetic algae. A similar mechanism could be active in seasonally stratified lakes and marine basins such as the Black Sea, where light penetrates to the anoxic chemocline. Given the widespread occurrence of seasonally stratified anoxic lakes, aerobic methane oxidation coupled to oxygenic photosynthesis might have an important but so far neglected role in methane emissions from lakes.
Continuously tunable electronic structure of transition metal dichalcogenides superlattices
Authors: Zhao Yong-Hong , Yang Feng , Wang Jian , Guo Hong , Ji Wei
Published: February 2015

Two dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides have very exciting properties for optoelectronic applications. In this work we theoretically investigate and predict that superlattices comprised of MoS2 and WSe2 multilayers possess continuously tunable electronic structure with direct bandgaps. The tunability is controlled by the thickness ratio of MoS2 versus WSe2 of the superlattice. When this ratio goes from 1:2 to 5:1, the dominant K-K direct bandgap is continuously tuned from 0.14 eV to 0.5 eV. The gap stays direct against −0.6% to 2% in-layer strain and up to −4.3% normal-layer compressive strain. The valance and conduction bands are spatially separated. These robust properties suggest that MoS2 and WSe2 multilayer superlattice should be a promising material for infrared optoelectronics.
Topological incommensurate magnetization plateaus in quasi-periodic quantum spin chains
Authors: Hu Hai-Ping , Cheng Chen , Luo Hong-Gang , Chen Shu
Published: February 2015

Uncovering topologically nontrivial states in nature is an intriguing and important issue in recent years. While most studies are based on the topological band insulators, the topological state in strongly correlated low-dimensional systems has not been extensively explored due to the failure of direct explanation from the topological band insulator theory on such systems and the origin of the topological property is unclear. Here we report the theoretical discovery of strongly correlated topological states in quasi-periodic Heisenberg spin chain systems corresponding to a series of incommensurate magnetization plateaus under the presence of the magnetic field, which are uniquely determined by the quasi-periodic structure of exchange couplings. The topological features of plateau states are demonstrated by the existence of non-trivial spin-flip edge excitations, which can be well characterized by nonzero topological invariants defined in a two-dimensional parameter space. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the topological invariant of the plateau state can be read out from a generalized Streda formula and the spin-flip excitation spectrum exhibits a similar structure of the Hofstadter's butterfly spectrum for the two-dimensional quantum Hall system on a lattice.
Enhancing robustness of coupled networks under targeted recoveries
Authors: Gong Maoguo , Ma Lijia , Cai Qing , Jiao Licheng
Published: February 2015

Coupled networks are extremely fragile because a node failure of a network would trigger a cascade of failures on the entire system. Existing studies mainly focused on the cascading failures and the robustness of coupled networks when the networks suffer from attacks. In reality, it is necessary to recover the damaged networks and there are cascading failures in recovery processes. In this study, firstly, we analyze the cascading failures of coupled networks during recoveries. Then, a recovery robustness index is presented for evaluating the resilience of coupled networks to cascading failures in the recovery processes. Finally, we propose a technique aiming at protecting several influential nodes for enhancing robustness of coupled networks under the recoveries and adopt six strategies based on the potential knowledge of network centrality to find the influential nodes. Experiments on three coupling networks demonstrate that with a small number of influential nodes protected, the robustness of coupled networks under the recoveries can be greatly enhanced.
Measuring the Refractive Index of Highly Crystalline Monolayer MoS2 with High Confidence
Authors: Zhang Hui , Ma Yaoguang , Wan Yi , Rong Xin , Xie Ziang , Wang Wei , Dai Lun
Published: February 2015

Monolayer molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) has attracted much attention, due to its attractive properties, such as two-dimensional properties, direct bandgap, valley-selective circular dichroism and valley Hall effect. However, some of its fundamental physical parameters, e.g. refractive index, have not been studied in detail because of measurement difficulties. In this work, we have synthesized highly crystalline monolayer MoS2 on SiO2/Si substrates via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method and devised a method to measure their optical contrast spectra. Using these contrast spectra, we extracted the complex refractive index spectrum of monolayer MoS2 in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 750 nm. We have analyzed the pronounced difference between the obtained complex refractive index spectrum and that of bulk MoS2. The method presented here is effective for two-dimensional materials of small size. Furthermore, we have calculated the color contour plots of the contrast as a function of both SiO2 thickness and incident light wavelength for monolayer MoS2 using the obtained refractive index spectrum. These plots are useful for both fundamental study and device application.
Graphene-based active slow surface plasmon polaritons
Authors: Lu Hua , Zeng Chao , Zhang Qiming , Liu Xueming , Hossain Md Muntasir , Reineck Philipp , Gu Min
Published: February 2015

Finding new ways to control and slow down the group velocity of light in media remains a major challenge in the field of optics. For the design of plasmonic slow light structures, graphene represents an attractive alternative to metals due to its strong field confinement, comparably low ohmic loss and versatile tunability. Here we propose a novel nanostructure consisting of a monolayer graphene on a silicon based graded grating structure. An external gate voltage is applied to graphene and silicon, which are separated by a spacer layer of silica. Theoretical and numerical results demonstrate that the structure exhibits an ultra-high slowdown factor above 450 for the propagation of surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) excited in graphene, which also enables the spatially resolved trapping of light. Slowdown and trapping occur in the mid-infrared wavelength region within a bandwidth of ~2.1 μm and on a length scale less than 1/6 of the operating wavelength. The slowdown factor can be precisely tuned simply by adjusting the external gate voltage, offering a dynamic pathway for the release of trapped SPPs at room temperature. The presented results will enable the development of highly tunable optoelectronic devices such as plasmonic switches and buffers.
Topological Metal of NaBi with Ultralow Lattice Thermal Conductivity and Electron-phonon Superconductivity
Authors: Li Ronghan , Cheng Xiyue , Xie Qing , Sun Yan , Li Dianzhong , Li Yiyi , Chen Xing-Qiu
Published: February 2015

By means of first-principles and ab initio tight-binding calculations, we found that the compound of NaBi is a three-dimensional non-trivial topological metal. Its topological feature can be confirmed by the presence of band inversion, the derived effective Z2 invariant and the non-trivial surface states with the presence of Dirac cones. Interestingly, our calculations further demonstrated that NaBi exhibits the uniquely combined properties between the electron-phonon coupling superconductivity in nice agreement with recent experimental measurements and the obviously anisotropic but extremely low thermal conductivity. The spin-orbit coupling effects greatly affect those properties. NaBi may provide a rich platform to study the relationship among metal, topology, superconductivity and thermal conductivity.
Complex dynamics of a dc glow discharge tube: Experimental modeling and stability diagrams
Authors: Pugliese Eugenio , Meucci Riccardo , Euzzor Stefano , Freire Joana G. , Gallas Jason A. C.
Published: February 2015

We report a detailed experimental study of the complex behavior of a dc low-pressure plasma discharge tube of the type commonly used in commercial illuminated signs, in a microfluidic chip recently proposed for visible analog computing and other practical devices. Our experiments reveal a clear quasiperiodicity route to chaos, the two competing frequencies being the relaxation frequency and the plasma eigenfrequency. Based on an experimental volt-ampere characterization of the discharge, we propose a macroscopic model of the current flowing in the plasma. The model, governed by four autonomous ordinary differential equations, is used to compute stability diagrams for periodic oscillations of arbitrary period in the control parameter space of the discharge. Such diagrams show self-pulsations to emerge remarkably organized into intricate mosaics of stability phases with extended regions of multistability (overlap). Specific mosaics are predicted for the four dynamical variables of the discharge. Their experimental observation is an open challenge.
Robust magnetic moments on the basal plane of the graphene sheet effectively induced by OH groups
Authors: Tang Tao , Tang Nujiang , Zheng Yongping , Wan Xiangang , Liu Yuan , Liu Fuchi , Xu Qinghua , Du Youwei
Published: February 2015

Inducing robust magnetic moments on the basal plane of the graphene sheet is very difficult and is one of the greatest challenges in the study of physical chemistry of graphene materials. Theoretical studies predicted that introduction of a kind of sp3-type defects formed by OH groups is an effective pathway to achieve this goal [Boukhvalov, D. W. & Katsnelson, M. I. ACS Nano 5, 2440–2446 (2011)]. Here we demonstrate that OH groups can efficiently induce robust magnetic moments on the basal plane of the graphene sheet. We show that the inducing efficiency can reach as high as 217 μB per 1000 OH groups. More interestingly, the magnetic moments are robust and can survive even at 900°C. Our findings highlight the importance of OH group as an effective sp3-type candidate for inducing robust magnetic moments on the basal plane of the graphene sheet.
A neuro-inspired model-based closed-loop neuroprosthesis for the substitution of a cerebellar learning function in anesthetized rats
Authors: Hogri Roni , Bamford Simeon A. , Taub Aryeh H. , Magal Ari , Giudice Paolo Del , Mintz Matti
Published: February 2015

Neuroprostheses could potentially recover functions lost due to neural damage. Typical neuroprostheses connect an intact brain with the external environment, thus replacing damaged sensory or motor pathways. Recently, closed-loop neuroprostheses, bidirectionally interfaced with the brain, have begun to emerge, offering an opportunity to substitute malfunctioning brain structures. In this proof-of-concept study, we demonstrate a neuro-inspired model-based approach to neuroprostheses. A VLSI chip was designed to implement essential cerebellar synaptic plasticity rules and was interfaced with cerebellar input and output nuclei in real time, thus reproducing cerebellum-dependent learning in anesthetized rats. Such a model-based approach does not require prior system identification, allowing for de novo experience-based learning in the brain-chip hybrid, with potential clinical advantages and limitations when compared to existing parametric “black box” models.
S100A4 promotes pancreatic cancer progression through a dual signaling pathway mediated by Src and focal adhesion kinase
Authors: Che Pulin , Yang Youfeng , Han Xiaosi , Hu Meng , Sellers Jeffery C. , Londono-Joshi Angelina I. , Cai Guo-Qiang , Buchsbaum Donald J. , Christein John D. , Tang Qinjiu , Chen Dongquan , Li Qianjun , Grizzle William E. , Lu Yin Ying , Ding Qiang
Published: February 2015

S100A4 expression is associated with poor clinical outcomes of patients with pancreatic cancer. The effects of loss or gain of S100A4 were examined in pancreatic cancer cell lines. S100A4 downregulation remarkably reduces cell migration and invasion, inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in pancreatic tumor cells. S100A4 downregulation results in significant cell growth inhibition and apoptosis in response to TGF-β1, supporting a non-canonical role of S100A4 in pancreatic cancer. The role of S100A4 in tumor progression was studied by using an orthotopic human pancreatic cancer xenograft mouse model. Tumor mass is remarkably decreased in animals injected with S100A4-deficient pancreatic tumor cells. P27Kip1 expression and cleaved caspase-3 are increased, while cyclin E expression is decreased, in S100A4-deficient pancreatic tumors in vivo. S100A4-deficient tumors have lower expression of vascular endothelial growth factor, suggesting reduced angiogenesis. Biochemical assays revealed that S100A4 activates Src and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling events and inhibition of both kinases is required to maximally block the tumorigenic potential of pancreatic cancer cells. These findings support that S100A4 plays an important role in pancreatic cancer progression in vivo and S100A4 promotes tumorigenic phenotypes of pancreatic cancer cells through the Src-FAK mediated dual signaling pathway.
Simultaneous bile duct and portal vein ligation induces faster atrophy/hypertrophy complex than portal vein ligation: role of bile acids
Authors: Ren Weizheng , Chen Geng , Wang Xiaofeng , Zhang Aiqun , Li Chonghui , Lv Wenping , Pan Ke , Dong Jia-hong
Published: February 2015

Portal vein ligation (PVL) induces atrophy/hypertrophy complex (AHC). We hypothesised that simultaneous bile duct and portal vein ligation (BPL) might induce proper bile acid (BA) retention to enhance AHC by activating BA-mediated FXR signalling in the intact liver and promoting apoptosis in the ligated liver. We established rat models of 90% BPL and 90% PVL and found that BPL was well-tolerated and significantly accelerated AHC. The enhanced BA retention in the intact liver promoted hepatocyte proliferation by promoting the activation of FXR signalling, while that in the ligated liver intensified caspase3-mediated apoptosis. Decreasing the BA pools in the rats that underwent BPL could compromise these effects, whereas increasing the bile acid pools of rats that underwent PVL could induce similar effects. Second-stage resection of posterior-caudate-lobe-spearing hepatectomy was performed 5 days after BPL (B-Hx), PVL (V-Hx) or sham (S-SHx), as well as whole-caudate-lobe-spearing hepatectomy 5 days after sham (S-Hx). The B-Hx group had the most favourable survival rate (93.3%, the S-SHx group 0%, the S-Hx group 26.7%, the V-Hx group 56.7%, P < 0.01) and the most sustained regeneration. We conclude that BPL is a safe and effective method and the acceleration of AHC was bile acid-dependent.
Revealing the favorable dissociation pathway of type II kinase inhibitors via enhanced sampling simulations and two-end-state calculations
Authors: Sun Huiyong , Tian Sheng , Zhou Shunye , Li Youyong , Li Dan , Xu Lei , Shen Mingyun , Pan Peichen , Hou Tingjun
Published: February 2015

How does a type II inhibitor bind to/unbind from a kinase target is still a confusing question because the small molecule occupies both the ATP pocket and the allosteric pocket of the kinase binding site. Here, by using enhanced sampling simulations (umbrella sampling, US) and two-end-state free energy calculations (MM/GSBA), we systemically studied the dissociation processes of two distinct small molecules escaping from the binding pocket of p38 MAP kinase through the allosteric channel and the ATP channel. The results show that the unbinding pathways along the allosteric channel have much lower PMF depths than those along the ATP channel, suggesting that the allosteric channel is more favorable for the dissociations of the two inhibitors and thereby supporting the general understanding that the largest channel of a target is usually the entry/exit pathway for the binding/dissociation of small molecules. Interestingly, the MM/GBSA approach yielded similar PMF profiles compared with those based on US, a much time consuming approach, indicating that for a general study, such as detecting the important transition state of a ligand binding/unbinding process, MM/GBSA may be a feasible choice.
Label-free and highly sensitive electrochemiluminescence biosensing using quantum dots/carbon nanotubes in ionic liquid
Authors: Tu Wenwen , Fang Xuelin , Lou Jing , Dai Zhihui
Published: February 2015

A universal and label-free electrochemiluminescence biosensing platform with high sensitivity was developed based on quantum dots/carbon nanotubes in ionic liquid.
Rapid detection of sugar alcohol precursors and corresponding nitrate ester explosives using direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry
Authors: Sisco Edward , Forbes Thomas P.
Published: February 2015

This work highlights the rapid detection of nitrate ester explosives and their sugar alcohol precursors by direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry (DART-MS) using an off-axis geometry.
Redox-responsive self-assembled chain-shattering polymeric therapeutics
Authors: Cai Kaimin , Yen Jonathan , Yin Qian , Liu Yang , Song Ziyuan , Lezmi Stéphane , Zhang Yanfeng , Yang Xujuan , Helferich William G. , Cheng Jianjun
Published: February 2015

A trigger responsive polymeric therapeutics with defined composition, controlled formulation and release profile, and excellent therapeutic response.
Using nickel manganese oxide catalysts for efficient water oxidation
Authors: Menezes Prashanth W. , Indra Arindam , Levy Ophir , Kailasam Kamalakannan , Gutkin Vitaly , Pfrommer Johannes , Driess Matthias
Published: February 2015

Here we explore the nickel manganese oxide system for efficient water oxidation and their structure–activity relationships.
Atmospherically relevant core–shell aerosol studied using optical trapping and Mie scattering
Authors: Jones S. H. , King M. D. , Ward A. D.
Published: February 2015

Solid core–liquid shell aerosols have been trapped in a counter-propagating optical trap confirming potential core–shell morphology in the atmosphere.
Targeting G-quadruplex structures with extrinsic fluorogenic dyes: promising fluorescence sensors
Authors: Bhasikuttan Achikanath C. , Mohanty Jyotirmayee
Published: February 2015

This article provides a brief account of the recent reports on the fluorescence properties of some of the fluorogenic dyes towards G-quadruplex DNAs, which have been turned into promising bio-analytical methods.
Structural and electronic modification of MoS2 nanosheets using S-doped carbon for efficient electrocatalysis of the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Naresh Kumar Thangavel , Chandrasekaran Naveen , Lakshminarasimha Phani Kanala
Published: February 2015

In situ generated S-doped carbon is sandwiched between MoS2 nano-sheets during pyrolysis of Mo(vi)–PDA complex in the presence of elemental sulfur, enriching MoS2 with edge planes and enhancing charge density and electronic conductivity. Phase transformed MoS2[@S-CPDA] electrocatalyzes HER with η = 160 mV@10 mA cm−2.
C–H functionalization of terminal alkynes towards stereospecific synthesis of (E) or (Z) 2-methylthio-1,4-ene-diones
Authors: Devari Shekaraiah , Kumar Arvind , Deshidi Ramesh , Shah Bhahwal Ali
Published: February 2015

An efficient metal free self-sorting tandem protocol for stereospecific synthesis of (E) or (Z) 2-methylthio-1,4-ene-diones has been developed.
Oxygen nonstoichiometry, the defect equilibrium model and thermodynamic quantities of the Ruddlesden–Popper oxide Sr3Fe2O7−δ
Authors: Ling Yihan , Wang Fang , Budiman Riyan Achmad , Nakamura Takashi , Amezawa Koji
Published: February 2015

Oxygen nonstoichiometry of the Ruddlesden–Popper oxide Sr3Fe2O7−δwas measured at intermediate temperatures (773–1073 K) by coulometric titration and high temperature gravimetry.
Tuning electronic and magnetic properties of GaN nanosheets by surface modifications and nanosheet thickness
Authors: Xiao Meixia , Yao Tingzhen , Ao Zhimin , Wei Peng , Wang Danghui , Song Haiyang
Published: February 2015

(a and b) Atomic and band structures of 2-F-GaN NS, and (c) electronic and magnetic properties of different GaN NSs.
The melt–recrystallization behavior of highly oriented α-iPP fibers embedded in a HIPS matrix
Authors: Ye Liwei , Li Huihui , Qiu Zhaobin , Yan Shouke
Published: February 2015

The melt–recrystallization behavior of α-iPP fibers embedded in an amorphous HIPS matrix has been studied by means of optical microscopy.
Solution processed single-emission layer white polymer light-emitting diodes with high color quality and high performance from a poly(N-vinyl)carbazole host
Authors: Ye Shang-Hui , Hu Tian-Qing , Zhou Zhou , Yang Min , Quan Mei-Han , Mei Qun-Bo , Zhai Bang-Cheng , Jia Zhen-Hong , Lai Wen-Yong , Huang Wei
Published: February 2015

High color quality white phosphorescent OLEDs were fabricated using a simple solution processing method comprising red/green/blue/orange iridium complex.
Enantiotopic discrimination in the NMR spectrum of prochiral solutes in chiral liquid crystals
Authors: Lesot Philippe , Aroulanda Christie , Zimmermann Herbert , Luz Zeev
Published: February 2015

Theory and applications to stereo- and bio-chemistry of the discrimination of enantiotopic elements observed in the NMR spectra of prochiral solutes dissolved in chiral liquid crystals are comprehensively discussed.
Phonon and Raman scattering of two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides from monolayer, multilayer to bulk material
Authors: Zhang Xin , Qiao Xiao-Fen , Shi Wei , Wu Jiang-Bin , Jiang De-Sheng , Tan Ping-Heng
Published: February 2015

This review focuses on the basic properties and potential applications of Raman spectroscopy of two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides from monolayer, multilayer to bulk materials.
A unified survey of Si–H and H–H bond activation catalysed by electron-deficient boranes
Authors: Oestreich Martin , Hermeke Julia , Mohr Jens
Published: February 2015

This review summarises synthetic methodology emerging from the heterolytic splitting of Si–H and H–H bonds mediated by boron Lewis acids.
Syntheses, structures, and properties of a series of novel high-nuclear 3d–4f clusters with mixed amino acids as ligands: {Ln6Cu24}(Ln = Gd, Tb, Pr and Sm)
Authors: Shen Chao-Jun , Hu Sheng-Min , Sheng Tian-Lu , Xue Zhen-Zhen , Wu Xin-Tao
Published: February 2015

The first examples of high-nuclear 3d–4f heterometallic clusters {Ln6Cu24}(Ln = Gd, Tb, Pr and Sm) with mixed amino acid ligands are reported.
Recent progress and perspective in solution-processed Interfacial materials for efficient and stable polymer and organometal perovskite solar cells
Authors: Chueh Chu-Chen , Li Chang-Zhi , Jen Alex K.-Y.
Published: February 2015

The latest developments in solution-processed interfacial layers for polymer and hybrid perovskite solar cells are comprehensively reviewed in this article.
A contact active bactericidal stainless steel via a sustainable process utilizing electrodeposition and covalent attachment in water
Authors: Khaskin Eugene , Fadida Tania , Kroupitski Yulia , Shemesh Moshe , Cristaldi Domenico A. , Gulino Antonino , Poverenov Elena
Published: February 2015

A contact active bactericidal stainless steel synthesised in water utilizing phenol electrodeposition is effective against Gram negative and positive bacteria.
Structure-dependent tautomerization induced catalyst-free autocatalyzed N-alkylation of heteroaryl amines with alcohols
Authors: Li Shuangyan , Li Xiaohui , Li Qiang , Yuan Qiaochao , Shi Xinkang , Xu Qing
Published: February 2015

Catalyst-free autocatalyzedN-alkylation of heteroarylamines with alcohols is achieved by tautomerization-induced ready generation of carbonyl intermediates from alcoholsviaTM-free MPV–O reaction.
Minimising12C3+interference on4He+measurements in a noble gas mass spectrometer
Authors: Schwanethal James
Published: February 2015

New insights into interferences on helium isotope measurements, using a noble gas mass spectrometer, as a function of ion source trap current and filament voltage.
High resolution continuum source atomic absorption spectrometry and solid phase extraction for the simultaneous separation/preconcentration and sequential monitoring of Sb, Bi, Sn and Hg in low concentrations
Authors: López Guerrero M. M. , Siles Cordero M. T. , Vereda Alonso E. , Pavón J. M. Cano , García de Torres A.
Published: February 2015

The multielement determination of Sb, Bi, Sn and Hg by the FI-SPE-CVG-CS-ETAAS system is rapid, sensitive, selective, automatic and green.
Fabrication of 3D high aspect ratio PDMS microfluidic networks with a hybrid stamp
Authors: Kung Yu-Chun , Huang Kuo-Wei , Fan Yu-Jui , Chiou Pei-Yu
Published: February 2015

We report a novel methodology for fabricating large-area, multilayer, thin-film, high aspect ratio, 3D microfluidic structures with through-layer vias and open channels that can be bonded between hard substrates.