bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of unintentional extra carriers by Mn valence change for high insulating devices
Authors: Guo Daoyou , Li Peigang , Wu Zhenping , Cui Wei , Zhao Xiaolong , Lei Ming , Li Linghong , Tang Weihua
Published: April 2016

For intrinsic oxide semiconductors, oxygen vacancies served as the electron donors have long been and inevitably still are, attributed as the primary cause of conductivity, making oxide semiconductors seem hard to act as high insulating materials. Meanwhile, the presence of oxygen vacancies often leads to a persistent photoconductivity phenomenon which is not conducive to the practical use in the fast photoelectric response devices. Herein, we propose a possible way to reduce the influence of oxygen vacancies by introducing a valence change doping in the monoclinic β-Ga2O3 epitaxial thin film. The unintentional extra electrons induced by oxygen vacancies can be strongly suppressed by the change valence of the doped Mn ions from +3 to +2. The resistance for the Mn-doped Ga2O3 increases two orders of magnitude in compared with the pure Ga2O3. As a result, photodetector based on Mn-doped Ga2O3 thin films takes on a lower dark current, a higher sensitivity and a faster photoresponse time, exhibiting a promising candidate using in high performance solar-blind photodetector. The study presents that the intentional doping of Mn may provide a convenient and reliable method of obtaining high insulating thin film in oxide semiconductor for the application of specific device.
Well-tolerated Spirulina extract inhibits influenza virus replication and reduces virus-induced mortality
Authors: Chen Yi-Hsiang , Chang Gi-Kung , Kuo Shu-Ming , Huang Sheng-Yu , Hu I-Chen , Lo Yu-Lun , Shih Shin-Ru
Published: April 2016

Influenza is one of the most common human respiratory diseases, and represents a serious public health concern. However, the high mutability of influenza viruses has hampered vaccine development, and resistant strains to existing anti-viral drugs have also emerged. Novel anti-influenza therapies are urgently needed, and in this study, we describe the anti-viral properties of a Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) cold water extract. Anti-viral effects have previously been reported for extracts and specific substances derived from Spirulina, and here we show that this Spirulina cold water extract has low cellular toxicity, and is well-tolerated in animal models at one dose as high as 5,000 mg/kg, or 3,000 mg/kg/day for 14 successive days. Anti-flu efficacy studies revealed that the Spirulina extract inhibited viral plaque formation in a broad range of influenza viruses, including oseltamivir-resistant strains. Spirulina extract was found to act at an early stage of infection to reduce virus yields in cells and improve survival in influenza-infected mice, with inhibition of influenza hemagglutination identified as one of the mechanisms involved. Together, these results suggest that the cold water extract of Spirulina might serve as a safe and effective therapeutic agent to manage influenza outbreaks, and further clinical investigation may be warranted.
Mapping the Nonreciprocal Micromechanics of Individual Cells and the Surrounding Matrix Within Living Tissues
Authors: Xu Xin , Li Zhiyu , Cai Luyao , Calve Sarah , Neu Corey P.
Published: April 2016

The biomechanical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) play an important role in cell migration, gene expression and differentiation. Biomechanics measurements of ECM are usually performed on cryotomed tissue sections. However, studies on cell/matrix interplay are impossible to perform due to disruptions in cell viability and tissue architecture from freeze-thaw cycling. We developed a technique to map the stiffness of living cells and surrounding matrix by atomic force microscopy and use fluorescence microscopy to relate those properties to changes in matrix and cell structure in embryonic and adult tissues in situ. Stiffness mapping revealed significant differences between vibratomed (living) and cryotomed tissues. Isolated cells are softer than those in native matrix, suggesting that cell mechanics are profoundly influenced by their three-dimensional environment and processing state. Viable tissues treated by hyaluronidase and cytochalasin D displayed targeted disruption of matrix and cytoskeletal networks, respectively. While matrix stiffness affected cellular stiffness, changes in cell mechanics did not reciprocally influence matrix stiffness.
Bioinspired design of a polymer gel sensor for the realization of extracellular Ca2+ imaging
Authors: Ishiwari Fumitaka , Hasebe Hanako , Matsumura Satoko , Hajjaj Fatin , Horii-Hayashi Noriko , Nishi Mayumi , Someya Takao , Fukushima Takanori
Published: April 2016

Although the role of extracellular Ca2+ draws increasing attention as a messenger in intercellular communications, there is currently no tool available for imaging Ca2+ dynamics in extracellular regions. Here we report the first solid-state fluorescent Ca2+ sensor that fulfills the essential requirements for realizing extracellular Ca2+ imaging. Inspired by natural extracellular Ca2+-sensing receptors, we designed a particular type of chemically-crosslinked polyacrylic acid gel, which can undergo single-chain aggregation in the presence of Ca2+. By attaching aggregation-induced emission luminogen to the polyacrylic acid as a pendant, the conformational state of the main chain at a given Ca2+ concentration is successfully translated into fluorescence property. The Ca2+ sensor has a millimolar-order apparent dissociation constant compatible with extracellular Ca2+ concentrations and exhibits sufficient dynamic range and excellent selectivity in the presence of physiological concentrations of biologically relevant ions, thus enabling monitoring of submillimolar fluctuations of Ca2+ in flowing analytes containing millimolar Ca2+ concentrations.
MMPI-2 Profile of French Transsexuals: The Role of Sociodemographic and Clinical Factors. A cross-sectional design
Authors: Bonierbale Mireille , Baumstarck Karine , Maquigneau Aurélie , Gorin-Lazard Audrey , Boyer Laurent , Loundou Anderson , Auquier Pascal , Lançon Christophe
Published: April 2016

The assessment of co-existing psychological and psychiatric disorders is advocated in the Standards of Care for the health of transsexual people. This study aimed to determine the psychopathological characteristics of transsexuals based on a large sample of French individuals and to identify whether these characteristics differed according to the individual’s sociodemographic or clinical characteristics. The aim of this study was to determine the psychopathological characteristics of transsexuals from a large sample of French individuals and whether these differed by sociodemographic or clinical characteristics. This cross-sectional study was conducted in a French public university hospital. The inclusion criteria were 18 years or older, diagnosis of gender dysphoria, and eligibility for a standardized sex reassignment procedure. Personality characteristics were assessed using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory 2 (MMPI-2). A total of 108 individuals provided a valid MMPI-2 between January 2007 and December 2010. The final sample had a median age of 31 years and included 54 (50%) Female-to-Male individuals. In multivariate models, hormonal therapy status was significantly related to the scales of MMPI-2 (Psychasthenia and Masculinity/Femininity). Personality assessment can help a multidisciplinary gender dysphoria team detect potential psychopathological factors of vulnerability.
Antibiofilm effect enhanced by modification of 1,2,3-triazole and palladium nanoparticles on polysulfone membranes
Authors: Cheng Hong , Xie Yihui , Villalobos Luis Francisco , Song Liyan , Peinemann Klaus-Viktor , Nunes Suzana , Hong Pei-Ying
Published: April 2016

Biofouling impedes the performance of membrane bioreactors. In this study, we investigated the antifouling effects of polysulfone membranes that were modified by 1,2,3-triazole and palladium (Pd) nanoparticles. The modified membranes were evaluated for antibacterial and antifouling efficacy in a monoculture species biofilm (i.e., drip flow biofilm reactor, DFR) and mixed species biofilm experiment (i.e., aerobic membrane reactor, AeMBR). 1,2,3-triazole and Pd nanoparticles inhibited growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. The decrease in bacterial growth was observed along with a decrease in the amount of total polysaccharide within the monoculture species biofilm matrix. When the modified membranes were connected to AeMBR, the increase in transmembrane pressure was lower than that of the non-modified membranes. This was accompanied by a decrease in protein and polysaccharide concentrations within the mixed species biofilm matrix. Biomass amount in the biofilm layer was also lower in the presence of modified membranes and there was no detrimental effect on the performance of the reactor as evaluated from the nutrient removal rates. 16S rRNA analysis further attributed the delay in membrane fouling to the decrease in relative abundance of selected bacterial groups. These observations collectively point to a lower fouling occurrence achieved by the modified membranes.
Next-generation Sequencing Extends the Phenotypic Spectrum for LCA5 Mutations: Novel LCA5 Mutations in Cone Dystrophy
Authors: Chen Xue , Sheng Xunlun , Sun Xiantao , Zhang Yuxin , Jiang Chao , Li Huiping , Ding Sijia , Liu Yani , Liu Wenzhou , Li Zili , Zhao Chen
Published: April 2016

We aim to characterize the clinical features and genetic causes for two affected siblings from a Chinese family with cone dystrophy (CD). Two patients and four unaffected family members were recruited and received complete ophthalmic examinations. Genomic DNA was isolated from the peripheral blood samples from all patients. Targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) approach followed by intrafamilal cosegregation and in silico analyses were employed to determine the genetic defects. Ophthalmic evaluations finalized the clinical diagnosis of CD for the two patients in this family, both of whom presented macular atrophy with no remarkable changes in the peripheral retina. Comprehensive genetic screening approach revealed biallelic missense mutations in the Leber congenital amaurosis 5 (LCA5) gene, p.[Ala212Pro];[Tyr441Cys], as disease causative for this family. Both mutations were novel. The first substitution was predicted to eliminate a hydrogen bond and alter the tertiary structure of lebercilin, protein encoded by LCA5. We for the first time report novel biallelic LCA5 mutations in causing CD. Our study extends the phenotypic and genotypic spectrums for LCA5-associated retinopathies and better illustrates its genotype-phenotype correlations, which would help with better genetic diagnosis, prognosis and personalized treatment for CD patients.
Dynamic interaction of SARAF with STIM1 and Orai1 to modulate store-operated calcium entry
Authors: Albarran Letizia , Lopez Jose J. , Amor Nidhal Ben , Martin-Cano Francisco E. , Berna-Erro Alejandro , Smani Tarik , Salido Gines M. , Rosado Juan A.
Published: April 2016

Ca2+ influx by store-operated Ca2+ channels is a major mechanism for intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and cellular function. Here we present evidence for the dynamic interaction between the SOCE-associated regulatory factor (SARAF), STIM1 and Orai1. SARAF overexpression attenuated SOCE and the STIM1-Orai1 interaction in cells endogenously expressing STIM1 and Orai1 while RNAi-mediated SARAF silencing induced opposite effects. SARAF impaired the association between Orai1 and the Orai1-activating small fragment of STIM1 co-expressed in the STIM1-deficient NG115-401L cells. Cell treatment with thapsigargin or physiological agonists results in direct association of SARAF with Orai1. STIM1-independent interaction of SARAF with Orai1 leads to activation of this channel. In cells endogenously expressing STIM1 and Orai1, Ca2+ store depletion leads to dissociation of SARAF with STIM1 approximately 30s after treatment with thapsigargin, which paralleled the increase in SARAF-Orai1 interaction, followed by reinteraction with STIM1 and dissociation from Orai1. Co-expression of SARAF and either Orai1 or various N-terminal deletion Orai1 mutants did not alter SARAF-Orai1 interaction; however, expression of C-terminal deletion Orai1 mutants or blockade of the C-terminus of Orai1 impair the interaction with SARAF. These observations suggest that SARAF exerts an initial positive role in the activation of SOCE followed by the facilitation of SCDI of Orai1.
Binary functionalization of H:Si(111) surfaces by alkyl monolayers with different linker atoms enhances monolayer stability and packing
Authors: Arefi Hadi H. , Nolan Michael , Fagas Giorgos
Published: April 2016

Functionalization of H-terminated Si(111) with alkyl monolayers using two linker groups enhances monolayer stability and can tune the work function.
Quasiparticle and excitonic gaps of one-dimensional carbon chains
Authors: Mostaani E. , Monserrat B. , Drummond N. D. , Lambert C. J.
Published: April 2016

The charge density of a one-dimensional sp-bonded chain composed of 26 carbon atoms terminated by H with alternating single and triple bonds.
Simultaneous separation and preconcentration of phosalone and chlorpyrifos in fresh vegetables using ultrasound-assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction and high performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Majlesi Monireh , Massoudinejad Mohamadreza , Hosainzadeh Fateh , Fattahi Nazir
Published: April 2016

UA-DLLME-SFO combined with HPLC-UV is a fast and simple method for the determination of pesticides and herbicides in fresh vegetables.
Partial-surface-passivation strategy for transition-metal-based copper–gold nanocage
Authors: Liu Shoujie , Zheng Xusheng , Song Li , Liu Wei , Yao Tao , Sun Zhihu , Lin Yue , Wei Shiqiang
Published: April 2016

Cu–Au alloy nanocages are achievedviaa galvanic replacement reaction between designed partial-surface-passivated Cu nanoparticles and Au ions.
A reconstruction strategy to synthesize mesoporous SAPO molecular sieve single crystals with high MTO catalytic activity
Authors: Wang Chan , Yang Miao , Li Mingrun , Xu Shutao , Yang Yue , Tian Peng , Liu Zhongmin
Published: April 2016

A reconstruction strategy for the fast synthesis of mesoporous SAPO molecular sieve single crystals has been developed. The synthesized mesoporous SAPO-34 single crystals exhibit excellent hydrothermal stability and high catalytic activity in the MTO reaction.
Highly photoluminescent copper carbene complexes based on prompt rather than delayed fluorescence
Authors: Romanov Alexander S. , Di Dawei , Yang Le , Fernandez-Cestau Julio , Becker Ciaran R. , James Charlotte E. , Zhu Bonan , Linnolahti Mikko , Credgington Dan , Bochmann Manfred
Published: April 2016

Simple carbene complexes of copper halides give photoluminescence quantum yields of up to 96%, with sub-nanosecond emission lifetimes.
Construction of a photo-responsive supra-amphiphile based on a tetracationic cyclobis(paraquat-p-phenylene) and an azobenzene-containing guest in water
Authors: Shao Li , Hua Bin , Yang Jie , Yu Guocan
Published: April 2016

A photo-responsive supra-amphiphile was constructed based on the host–guest molecular recognition between a tetracation cyclophane cyclobis(paraquat-p-phenylene) host and an azobenzene-containing guest.
The interaction between hybrid organic–inorganic halide perovskite and selective contacts in perovskite solar cells: an infrared spectroscopy study
Authors: Idígoras J. , Todinova A. , Sánchez-Valencia J. R. , Barranco A. , Borrás A. , Anta J. A.
Published: April 2016

The interaction of hybrid organic–inorganic halide perovskite and selective contacts is crucial to get efficient, stable and hysteresis-free perovskite-based solar cells.
Amplified fluorescence emission of bolaamphiphilic perylene-azacrown ether derivatives directed towards molecular recognition events
Authors: Roy Bappaditya , Noguchi Takao , Yoshihara Daisuke , Yamamoto Tatsuhiro , Sakamoto Junji , Shinkai Seiji
Published: April 2016

A receptor-based perylene probe with donor–acceptor character is used to generate an amplified fluorescent state (I*, G1) for selective biomolecular recognition (G2).
Electronic binding energy and thermal relaxation of Li and LiNa atomic alloying clusters
Authors: Bo Maolin , Guo Yongling , Wang Yan , Liu Yonghui , Peng Cheng , Sun Chang Q. , Huang Yongli
Published: April 2016

We examined the effects of atomic hetero- and under-coordination on the relaxation of the interatomic bonding and electronic binding energy of Li and LiNa cluster alloying using a combination of the bond-order-length-strength correlation and density functional theory calculations.
Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Kekulé benzene structure
Authors: Merino Gabriel , Solà Miquel
Published: April 2016

This themed issue presents a collection of articles on ‘Electron delocalization and aromaticity: Celebrating the 150th Anniversary of the Kekulé Benzene Structure’.
Editorial of the PCCP themed issue on “Basic Mechanisms in Energy Conversion”
Authors: Ludwig Ralf , Wagner Joachim , Beller Matthias , Brückner Angelika , Kragl Udo , Kühn Oliver
Published: April 2016

This themed collection reports on recent progress in the development of technologies, methods, materials and reactions for energy conversion with a particular focus on basic mechanisms.
Microwave-assisted ionothermal synthesis of a water-stable Eu-coordination polymer: a Ba2+ ion detector and fluorescence thermometer
Authors: Wang Ze-Ping , Hu Bing , Qi Xing-Hui , Shen Nan-Nan , Huang Xiao-Ying
Published: April 2016

Presented is a water-stable Eu-coordination polymer, namely [HMIm]Eu(DHBDC)2, capable of detecting Ba2+ in aqueous solution and acting as a two-PL transition fluorescence thermometer.
Ruthenium complexes of P-stereogenic phosphines with a heterocyclic substituent
Authors: Clavero Pau , Grabulosa Arnald , Rocamora Mercè , Muller Guillermo , Font-Bardia Mercè
Published: April 2016

Optically pure P-stereogenic monophosphorus ligands containing a heterocyclic substituent have been prepared. They have been coordinated to Ru-η6-arene moieties in which the ligands act as mono- or bidentate. The complexes catalyse asymmetric transfer hydrogenation reactions with up to 70% ee.
Niobium tetrahalide complexes with neutral diphosphine ligands
Authors: Benjamin Sophie L. , Chang Yao-Pang , Hector Andrew L. , Jura Marek , Levason William , Reid Gillian , Stenning Gavin
Published: April 2016

Two series of eight coordinate tetrahaloniobium(iv) diphosphine complexes, the monomeric [NbX4(diphosphine)2] with either dodecahedral or square antiprismatic geometries, and the dimeric [Nb2X4(μ-X)4(diphosphine)2] have been characterized.
A novel blue luminescent material Na2[Co(C2O4)2(H2O)2]·6H2O: synthesis, structure, luminescence and magnetic properties
Authors: Saritha A. , Raju B. , Narsimhulu M. , Rao D. Narayana , Raghavaiah P. , Hussain K. A.
Published: April 2016

The synthesis, crystal structure and physical properties of new disodium trans-diaquabis(oxalato)cobaltate(ii)hexahydrate {Na2[Co(C2O4)2(H2O)2]·6H2O} crystals have been investigated.
Behaviour of hybrid inside/out Janus nanotubes at an oil/water interface. A route to self-assembled nanofluidics?
Authors: Picot P. , Taché O. , Malloggi F. , Coradin T. , Thill A.
Published: April 2016

Imogolites are natural aluminosilicate nanotubes that have a diameter of a few nanometers and can be several microns long. These nanotubes have different chemical groups on their internal (Si–OH) and external (Al–OH–Al) surfaces, that can be easily functionalised independently on both surfaces. Here we show that taking advantage of the particular shape and chemistry of imogolite, it is possible to prepare inside/out Janus nanotubes. Two kinds of symmetric Janus nanotubes are prepared: one with an external hydrophilic surface and an internal hydrophobic cavity (imo-CH3) and one with an external hydrophobic surface and a hydrophilic internal cavity (OPA-imo). The behaviour of such inside/out Janus nanotubes at oil/water interfaces is studied. The OPA-imo adsorbs strongly at the oil/water interface and is very efficient in stabilising water-in-oil emulsions through an arrested coalescence mechanism. Imo-CH3 also adsorbs at the oil/water interface. It stabilises oil-in-water emulsions by inducing slow oil-triggered modifications of the viscosity of the continuous phase. The possible transport of small molecules inside the imo-CH3 nanotubes is evidenced, opening up routes towards self-assembled nanofluidics.
Dual phase high-temperature membranes for CO2 separation – performance assessment in post- and pre-combustion processes
Authors: Anantharaman Rahul , Peters Thijs , Xing Wen , Fontaine Marie-Laure , Bredesen Rune
Published: April 2016

Dual phase membranes are highly CO2-selective membranes with an operating temperature above 400 °C. The focus of this work is to quantify the potential of dual phase membranes in pre- and post-combustion CO2 capture processes. The process evaluations show that the dual phase membranes integrated with an NGCC power plant for CO2 capture are not competitive with the MEA process for post-combustion capture. However, dual phase membrane concepts outperform the reference Selexol technology for pre-combustion CO2 capture in an IGCC process. The two processes evaluated in this work, post-combustion NGCC and pre-combustion IGCC, represent extremes in CO2 partial pressure fed to the separation unit. Based on the evaluations it is expected that dual phase membranes could be competitive for post-combustion capture from a pulverized coal fired power plant (PCC) and pre-combustion capture from an Integrated Reforming Cycle (IRCC).
Electrochemical reductive biomass conversion: direct conversion of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5-hexanedione (HD) via reductive ring-opening
Authors: Roylance John J. , Choi Kyoung-Shin
Published: April 2016

Direct electrochemical conversion of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5-hexanedione (HD) was achieved using water as the hydrogen source at ambient conditions.
Formic acid as a sustainable and complementary reductant: an approach to fused benzimidazoles by molecular iodine-catalyzed reductive redox cyclization of o-nitro-t-anilines
Authors: Nguyen T. B. , Ermolenko L. , Al-Mourabit A.
Published: April 2016

Molecular iodine was found to be an excellent catalyst for reductive redox cyclization ofo-nitro-t-anilines1into fused tricyclic or 1,2-disubtituted benzimidazoles2.
Atomic spectrometry update: review of advances in atomic spectrometry and related techniques
Authors: Evans E. Hywel , Pisonero Jorge , Smith Clare M. M. , Taylor Rex N.
Published: April 2016

This review covers advances in atomic spectrometric techniques, including atomic emission, absorption, fluorescence and mass spectrometry. Material on speciation and coupled techniques is not covered as this is included in a separate ASU review.
Direct subphthalocyanine conjugation to bombesin vs. indirect conjugation to its lipidic nanocarrier
Authors: Bernhard Yann , Gigot Elodie , Goncalves Victor , Moreau Mathieu , Sok Nicolas , Richard Philippe , Decréau Richard A.
Published: April 2016

Azido-liposomes give fluorophores/contrast agents with no reactive functional group available on their backbone a second chance to be (indirectly) bioconjugated (with bombesin).
Use of hydrostatic pressure for modulation of protein chemical modification and enzymatic selectivity
Authors: Makarov Alexey A. , Helmy Roy , Joyce Leo , Reibarkh Mikhail , Maust Mathew , Ren Sumei , Mergelsberg Ingrid , Welch Christopher J.
Published: April 2016

Hydrostatic pressure applied to protein chemical modification or enzymatic transamination was able to change reaction or enzymatic selectivity.
Promotion of morphology transition of di-block copolymer nano-objects via RAFT dispersion copolymerization
Authors: Zhou Jiemei , Zhang Wenjian , Hong Chunyan , Pan Caiyuan
Published: April 2016

Promotion of morphology transition of di-block copolymer nano-objects was achieved via RAFT dispersion copolymerization because of the enhancement of the mobility of the solvophobic block.
Epoxidised soybean oil–Cu/Cu2O bio-nanocomposite material: synthesis and characterization with antibacterial activity
Authors: Bhalerao Machhindra S. , Patwardhan Anand V. , Bhosale Manohar A. , Kulkarni Vaishali M. , Bhanage Bhalchandra M.
Published: April 2016

A facile approach for the synthesis of a novel epoxidised soybean oil–Cu/Cu2O (ESO–Cu/Cu2O) bio-nanocomposite materialviaultrasound irradiation with antibacterial activity was investigated.
Mark–Houwink–Sakurada coefficients determination for molar mass of silk fibroin from viscometric results. SEC-MALLS approach
Authors: Pawcenis D. , Syrek M. , Aksamit-Koperska M. A. , Łojewski T. , Łojewska J.
Published: April 2016

The results on the changes of average molar masses inBombyx morifibroin with use of size exclusion chromatography and viscometry are presented in terms of the determination of Mark–Houwink–Sakurada coefficients, which are lacking in the literature.
Design, synthesis, and characterization of a fluoro substituted novel pyrazole nucleus clubbed with 1,3,4-oxadiazole scaffolds and their biological applications
Authors: Karad Sharad C. , Purohit Vishal B. , Avalani Jemin R. , Sapariya Nirav H. , Raval Dipak K.
Published: April 2016

A novel series of compounds incorporating a fluoro substituted pyrazole nucleus clubbed with 1,3,4-oxadiazole scaffolds (7a–p) was synthesized in good yields (79–89%).
Microemulsion based synthesis of Ni/MgO catalyst for dry reforming of methane
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Daud W. M. A. Wan
Published: April 2016

The dry reforming of methane has been investigated with two sets of catalysts (pure Ni and Ni/MgO) prepared by microemulsion system.
SPIO@SiO2–Re@PEG nanoparticles as magneto-optical dual probes and sensitizers for photodynamic therapy
Authors: Galli Marco , Moschini Elisa , Dozzi Maria Vittoria , Arosio Paolo , Panigati Monica , D'Alfonso Laura , Mantecca Paride , Lascialfari Alessandro , D'Alfonso Giuseppe , Maggioni Daniela
Published: April 2016

A superparamagnetic iron oxide core and a photoluminescent rhenium complex embedded in a silica shell are the active components of a dual magneto-optical nanoprobe, also able to generate singlet oxygen upon irradiation.
Impact of double-solvent impregnation on the Ni dispersion of Ni/SBA-15 catalysts and catalytic performance for the syngas methanation reaction
Authors: Tao Miao , Xin Zhong , Meng Xin , Lv Yuhao , Bian Zhicheng
Published: April 2016

Ni/SBA-15 prepared by a double-solvent impregnation method showed excellent activity for CO methanation and catalyst sintering was the main cause of deactivation.
Determination of sparfloxacin and besifloxacin hydrochlorides using gold nanoparticles modified carbon paste electrode in micellar medium
Authors: Attia Ali K. , Badawy Amr M. , Abd-Elhamid Samr G.
Published: April 2016

Determination of sparfloxacin and besifloxacin hydrochlorides using gold nanoparticles modified carbon paste electrode in micellar medium AuCPE was used to study the electrochemical behavior of SPAR and BESI using CV and DPV in presence of SDS.
Double-stranded probe modified AuNPs for sensitive and selective detection of microRNA 30a in solution and live cell
Authors: Yao Juan , Zhang Zhang , Zhao Yingze , Jing Wanli , Zuo Guowei
Published: April 2016

In this article, we reported a double-stranded DNA probe modified gold nanoparticle used as both “nano-flares” and transfection agents to quantify miR-30a in solution and visualize in live cells.
Carbon nanodots-catalyzed free radical polymerization of water-soluble vinyl monomers
Authors: Zhu Changwei , Yan Manqing , Shi Xianyang , Fan Jiamin , Bi Hong
Published: April 2016

Carbon nanodots (T-CNDs) made from green tea can catalyze free radical polymerization of water-soluble vinyl monomers (e.g. NaSS).
Three-component access to 2-pyrrolin-5-ones and their use in target-oriented and diversity-oriented synthesis
Authors: Cores Ángel , Estévez Verónica , Villacampa Mercedes , Menéndez J. Carlos
Published: April 2016

The combination of two multicomponent reactions,i.e.a Hantzsch-type synthesis of 2-pyrrolin-5-ones and a 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition generated complex spirocyclic systems.
Shape-controlled synthesis of PtPd alloys as a low-cost and efficient counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Lee Woo-Yeol , Dao Van-Duong , Choi Ho-Suk
Published: April 2016

Dry plasma reduction is an excellent approach for easy synthesis of PtPd alloys with different sizes, shapes and distributions through simply controlling the volume ratio of the Pt and Pd precursor solution under atmospheric pressure.
Carbonyl-assisted reverse regioselective cascade annulation of 2-acetylenic ketones triggered by Ru-catalyzed C–H activation
Authors: Gollapelli Krishna Kumar , Kallepu Shivakrishna , Govindappa Nagendra , Nanubolu Jagadeesh Babu , Chegondi Rambabu
Published: April 2016

The first reverse regioselective intermolecular annulation of aryl substituted 2-acetylenic ketones with O-substituted N-hydroxybenzamides or acrylamides followed by tandem cyclization via ruthenium-catalyzed C–H activation, is reported.
Introduction of an organic acid phase changing material into metal–organic frameworks and the study of its thermal properties
Authors: Luan Yi , Yang Ming , Ma Qianqian , Qi Yue , Gao Hongyi , Wu Zhenyu , Wang Ge
Published: April 2016

A facile solution impregnation method to access a novel type of shape-stabilized PCM employing metal–organic frameworks as the matrix.
Some teletraffic issues in optical burst switching with burst segmentation
Authors: Casares‐Giner V.
Published: April 2016

Some teletraffic tools used in the evaluation of optical burst switching with burst segmentation (OBS/BS) are dealt. These analytic tools shown are in fact supported by the Molina or blocked call held model. Furthermore, some additional results are also obtained in OBS/BS when the head dropping is implemented as contention resolution scheme. In particular, it is shown that as long as the service discipline is work‐conservative, the percentage of bursts that are completely lost is independent of the service discipline and equals to the fraction of information that is cut‐off.
Relative transfer function (RTF) estimation utilising peaks in time‐domain RTF
Authors: Shin M. , Kim W. , Han D.K. , Ko H.
Published: April 2016

An effective algorithm for a more accurate estimation of relative transfer function (RTF) to improve the directional‐blind source separation‐based RTF estimation is presented. The peaks in time‐domain RTF (PTDR) as a feature of time‐domain RTF to improve the conventional algorithm are utilised. The PTDRs contain important characteristics of RTF; however, they are smoothed due to the geometric constraint in the conventional algorithm. In the proposed algorithm, the PTDRs are recovered by employing the semi‐non‐negative matrix factorisation algorithm to effectively find the PTDRs from other peaks. A series of experiments using interfere and various noises demonstrates effectiveness of the proposed RTF estimation algorithm utilising the PTDR.
Effect of Mg insertion on time‐dependent dielectric breakdown in MgO‐based magnetic tunnel junctions
Authors: Choi C.M. , Sukegawa H. , Mitani S. , Song Y.H.
Published: April 2016

The stress‐induced breakdown characteristics in magnesium oxide (MgO)‐based magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) including an inserted Mg layer 0.5 nm thick is investigated, above or below an MgO tunnel barrier. Regardless of the insertion position, the inserted layer suppressed the time‐dependent dielectric breakdown (TDDB) observed in the case of electron tunnelling into the Mg‐inserted interface. This indicates that the Mg insertion significantly suppressed trap site formation at the anode‐side barrier/electrode interface. The improvement of TDDB by the Mg insertion was confirmed through constant voltage stress experiments. Therefore, interface modification by means of inserting an ultra‐thin metallic layer is highly effective in improving the reliability of an MTJ tunnel barrier for practical applications.
Methods for recording the time profile of single ultrashort pulses of electron beams and discharge currents in real‐time mode
Authors: Tarasenko Victor F. , Rybka Dmitry V.
Published: April 2016

The collectors for measuring the time profile of a current pulse of the runaway electron beam that are generated under atmospheric pressure are described. An analysis of changes in pulse shape depending on the bandwidth of the registration path with a temporal resolution of up to 20 ps was performed. It is shown that the electron beam detected behind small‐diameter diaphragms has a complex structure, which depends on the parameters of the gas diode. There is a design of the current shunts with a temporal resolution of up to 100 ps in this study. Measurement techniques of voltage pulses with subnanosecond and nanosecond duration are briefly described.
Uplink symbol error rate analysis of multicell multiuser‐multiple‐input–multiple‐output systems with minimum mean square error receiver under pilot contamination
Authors: Cao Juan , Wang Dongming , Duan Xiaoxia , Li Jiamin , You Xiaohu
Published: April 2016

This paper considers the uplink of a multicell multiuser multiple‐input‐multiple‐output (MIMO) time‐division duplexing system, where K mobile users in the target cell send their uncoded M‐ary phase shift keying (M‐PSK) signals to the target base station (BS) equipped with a linear minimum mean square error (MMSE) receiver in the presence of receiver antenna correlations. By employing the equivalent channel model, the uplink is analysed in terms of symbol error rate (SER), giving approximated closed‐form expressions. The complicated functions of the SER can be simplified for the case where all the eigenvalues of the correlation matrix of the target BS are identical or distinct. It is proved that in the high signal to noise ratio (SNR) region, the SER is independent of the correlations between the BS antennas. And due to the existence of pilot contamination and intercell interference, the SER tends to a constant whose value is depended on the number of mobile users in each cell and the interference strength between the cells as well. Finally computer simulations are conducted to show that our approximated expressions have good performance in low SNR even for not large K.
Performance of multiple active‐spatial modulation: information theoretic criteria over correlated Rayleigh fading channels
Authors: Akuon Peter Odero , Xu Hongjun
Published: April 2016

In this study, symbol error probability of transmitted modulation signals for a single‐input–multiple‐output system is used to derive overall average bit error probability (ABEP) of multiple active‐spatial modulation (MA‐SM) system as a function of the number density of bits in error. Specifically, a theoretic method of determining the number density of bits in error in the joint detector of MA‐SM is proposed. Sample variance (SV) criterion uses the sample covariance of detector noise data, while mutual information (MI) criterion uses relative entropy derived from the Kullback–Liebler distance to compute the number density of bits in error. The choice for the better criterion is formulated as a model selection problem between the SV and the MI criteria. Analytical results for ABEP are tightly verified from simulations, which are carried out under arbitrarily correlated flat Rayleigh fading channels. Various data rates, antenna spacing and number of transmit and receive antenna configurations are tested, where it is also shown that SM is a special case of MA‐SM. Moreover, a basis spectral efficiency (BSE) formula for MA‐SM systems is proposed, which can be used to select a preferred antenna configuration without the need for simulations.
Performance analysis of L‐branch maximal ratio combining over generalised η − μ fading channels with imperfect channel estimation
Authors: Badarneh Osamah S. , Almehmadi Fares S.
Published: April 2016

In this study, the authors analyse the performance of maximal‐ratio combining in η − μ fading channels under imperfect channel estimation. More specifically, unified and novel analytical expressions for the average symbol error probability (SEP) and average channel capacity are obtained. The average SEP expression is valid for a wide range of coherent and non‐coherent modulation schemes. The system performance is analysed and discussed through some representative numerical examples. Furthermore, to validate the correctness of the authors’ derivations, the numerical results are compared with Monte‐Carlo simulation results. Both results are in excellent agreement over a wide range of average signal‐to‐noise ratio and different values of the fading parameters.
Modified digital current controller with reduced impact of transport delays
Authors: Vukosavić Slobodan Nikota , Perić Ljiljana Svetislav
Published: April 2016

In this paper, the authors discuss the means for reducing the negative effects of transport delays in digital current controllers. The signal acquisition path introduces delays due to anti‐aliasing pre‐filters and digital signal processing. The voltage actuators in digital current control systems are the pulse‐width modulated (PWM) inverters. They introduce delays caused by the nature of the PWM process and by imperfections in the gating signal chain. A modified digital current controller is devised in this study, enhanced by derivative control action and suited to reduce the effects of transport delays. The controller is aided by a dedicated gain‐setting procedure, suited to secure an improved bandwidth and robustness against the parameter changes. Analytical considerations and experimental results demonstrate the benefits of the devised solutions, which improve disturbance rejection and increase the closed‐loop bandwidth by 1.46 times. The main results are directly applicable to all stationary frame controllers, and also to PR controllers and d–q frame controllers, as they share the same basic control actions.
Force ripple and jerk minimisation in double sided linear switched reluctance motor used in elevator application
Authors: Masoudi Siamak , Feyzi Mohammad Reza , Banna Sharifian Mohammad Bagher
Published: April 2016

The linear switched reluctance motors (LSRMs) have many benefits such as simple structure, low cost, comparatively high force‐to‐mass ratio, and no need for mechanical rotary to linear motion converters. However, application of these motors is limited because of their force ripple. In this study, the LSRM is used in vertical motion and a new control strategy is proposed for reducing the force ripple. This method is based on instantaneous control of motor position, speed, phase current, and force. In order to realise the good motion quality of elevator, this study applies a speed profile based on minimum jerk model. Also, a new force distribution function is proposed that can properly distribute the total force among the phases. Using this function, phase currents can properly track the corresponding command currents and then, decrease undesirable ripples of output force considerably. The control system was implemented on a double sided four phase LSRM. Its performance is demonstrated by means of modelling and experimental results in elevator application.
Real‐time multi‐class moving target tracking and recognition
Authors: Zhang Qing‐Nian , Sun Ya‐Dong , Yang Jie , Liu Hai‐Bo
Published: April 2016

The existing tracking and recognition methods concentrate mainly on single‐class targets; however, systems for traffic management or intelligent transport often require multi‐class target tracking and recognition in real time. This study proposes an effective multi‐class moving target recognition method that is based on Gaussian mixture part‐based model, which accurately locates objects of interest and recognises their corresponding categories. The method is multi‐threaded and combines soft clustering approach with multiple mixture part based models to provide stable multi‐class target tracking and recognition in video sequences. The highlight of the method is its ability to recognise multi‐class moving targets and to count their numbers in the video sequence captured by a stationary camera with fixed focal length. Another contribution of this study is that an extended part based model is developed for object recognition in real‐world environments, which can improve the overall system performance, lower time costs, and better meet the actual demand of a video system. Experimental results show that the proposed method is viable in real‐time multi‐class moving target tracking and recognition.
Operation analysis of a phase‐shifted full‐bridge converter during the dead‐time interval
Authors: Zhao Lei , Li Haoyu , Hou Yue , Yu Yanxue
Published: April 2016

During the dead‐time interval for a phase‐shifted full‐bridge (PSFB) converter, switches can achieve zero‐voltage switching (ZVS) operation by using the energy stored in the transformer leakage inductance to discharge or charge the output capacitance of the switches. The value of dead‐time has a great effect on ZVS range so it is a key parameter that needs to be optimised during designing the converter. This study develops theoretical analysis to estimate the dead‐time as a function of load current for PSFB converter. The equivalent circuits of PSFB converter during the dead‐time interval with considering magnetising inductance are mainly analysed in this study. Compared with previous analyses, the influences of dead‐time on ZVS range and efficiency are discussed in detail. The analysis results show that the magnetising inductance of transformer can ensure ZVS over a wide range of load conditions, especially under discontinued current mode operation, without a penalty on the heavy‐load efficiency. By adjusting the dead‐time dynamically, both conduction and switching losses can be reduced. A 1 kW prototype is implemented and experimental results are consistent with the theoretical analysis.
Erst die IT, dann das Dinner
Authors: Gaede Kirsten
Published: April 2016

Der Patient im Fokus – das Motto der conhIT ist keine Floskel: Dies wird auf dem Dialog Gesundheitswesen deutlich, der begleitend zur Messe am 19. April ab 18 Uhr im Ellington Hotel in der Nähe des Berliner Kudamms stattfindet.
Wenn Ärzte Dramen schreiben
Authors: Handwerk Michael
Published: April 2016

Regisseur und Krankenhausarzt Tugˇsal Mogˇul spricht über seine Arbeit auf einer Palliativstation in Münster und die Figuren in seinen Bühnenstücken.
Ausgliedern rechnet sich nicht immer
Authors: Doelfs Guntram
Published: April 2016

Um Kosten einzusparen, gliedern Krankenhäuser gern Dienstleistungen in eigene Service-GmbHs aus. Viele Gesellschaften erreichen jedoch nicht die erhofften Einsparziele, wie eine neue Studie der Eschborner Ingenieurs- und Projektmanagementfirma Curatis zeigt. kma sprach mit Geschäftsführer Norbert Lenhard über die Gründe – und wie Kliniken es besser machen können.
Return to Play after Cervical Spine Injuries: A Consensus of Opinion
Authors: France John C. , Karsy Michael , Harrop James S. , Dailey Andrew T.
Published: April 2016

Study Design

Survey.

Objective

Sports-related spinal cord injury (SCI) represents a growing proportion of total SCIs but lacks evidence or guidelines to guide clinical decision-making on return to play (RTP). Our objective is to offer the treating physician a consensus analysis of expert opinion regarding RTP that can be incorporated with the unique factors of a case for clinical decision-making.

Methods

Ten common clinical scenarios involving neurapraxia and stenosis, atlantoaxial injury, subaxial injury, and general cervical spine injury were presented to 25 spine surgeons from level 1 trauma centers for whom spine trauma is a significant component of their practice. We evaluated responses to questions about patient RTP, level of contact, imaging required for a clinical decision, and time to return for each scenario. The chi-square test was used for statistical analysis, with p < 0.05 considered significant.

Results

Evaluation of the surgeons’ responses to these cases showed significant consensus regarding return to high-contact sports in cases of cervical cord neurapraxia without symptoms or stenosis, surgically repaired herniated disks, and nonoperatively healed C1 ring or C2 hangman's fractures. Greater variability was found in recommendations for patients showing persistent clinical symptomatology.

Conclusion

This survey suggests a consensus among surgeons for allowing patients with relatively normal imaging and resolution of symptoms to return to high-contact activities; however, patients with cervical stenosis or clinical symptoms continue to be a challenge for management. This survey may serve as a basis for future clinical trials and consensus guidelines.
A portable paper-based microfluidic platform for multiplexed electrochemical detection of human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C virus antibodies in serum
Authors: Zhao Chen , Liu Xinyu
Published: April 2016

This paper presents a portable paper-based microfluidic platform for multiplexed electrochemical detection of antibody markers of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in serum samples. To our best knowledge, this is the first paper-based electrochemical immunosensing platform, with multiplexing and telemedicine capabilities, for diagnosing HIV/HCV co-infection. The platform consists of an electrochemical microfluidic paper-based immunosensor array (E-μPIA) and a handheld multi-channel potentiostat, and is capable of performing enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays simultaneously on eight samples within 20 min (using a prepared E-μPIA). The multiplexing feature of the platform allows it to produce multiple measurement data for HIV and HCV markers from a single run, and its wireless communication module can transmit the results to a remote site for telemedicine. The unique integration of paper-based microfluidics and mobile instrumentation renders our platform portable, low-cost, user-friendly, and high-throughput.
Single-domain epitaxial silicene on diboride thin films
Authors: Fleurence A. , Gill T. G. , Friedlein R. , Sadowski J. T. , Aoyagi K. , Copel M. , Tromp R. M. , Hirjibehedin C. F. , Yamada-Takamura Y.
Published: April 2016

Epitaxial silicene, which forms spontaneously on ZrB2(0001) thin films grown on Si(111) wafers, has a periodic stripe domain structure. By adsorbing additional Si atoms on this surface, we find that the domain boundaries vanish, and a single-domain silicene sheet can be prepared without altering its buckled honeycomb structure. The amount of Si required to induce this change suggests that the domain boundaries are made of a local distortion of the silicene honeycomb lattice. The realization of a single domain sheet with structural and electronic properties close to those of the original striped state demonstrates the high structural flexibility of silicene.