bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of temperature on the phenology ofChilo partellus(Swinhoe) (Lepidoptera, Crambidae); simulation and visualization of the potential future distribution ofC. partellusin Africa under warmer temperatures through the development of life-table parameters
Authors: Khadioli N. , Tonnang Z.E.H. , Muchugu E. , Ong'amo G. , Achia T. , Kipchirchir I. , Kroschel J. , Le Ru B.
Published: September 2014

Maize (Zea mays) is a major staple food in Africa. However, maize production is severely reduced by damage caused by feeding lepidopteran pests. In East and Southern Africa,Chilo partellusis one of the most damaging cereal stem borers mainly found in the warmer lowland areas. In this study, it was hypothesized that the future distribution and abundance ofC. partellusmay be affected greatly by the current global warming. The temperature-dependent population growth potential ofC. partelluswas studied on artificial diet under laboratory conditions at six constant temperatures (15, 18, 20, 25, 28, 30, 32 and 35 °C), relative humidity of 75±5% and a photoperiod of L12:L12 h. Several non-linear models were fitted to the data to model development time, mortality and reproduction of the insect species. Cohort updating algorithm and rate summation approach were stochastically used for simulating age and stage structure populations and generate life-table parameters. For spatial analysis of the pest risk, three generic risk indices (index of establishment, generation number and activity index) were visualized in the geographical information system component of the advanced Insect Life Cycle modeling (ILCYM) software. To predict the future distribution ofC. partelluswe used the climate change scenario A1B obtained from WorldClim and CCAFS databases. The maps were compared with available data on the current distribution ofC. partellusin Kenya. The results show that the development times of the different stages decreased with increasing temperatures ranging from 18 to 35 °C; at the extreme temperatures, 15 and 38 °C, no egg could hatch and no larvae completed development. The study concludes thatC. partellusmay potentially expands its range into higher altitude areas, highland tropics and moist transitional regions, with the highest maize potential where the species has not been recorded yet. This has serious implication in terms of food security since these areas produce approximately 80% of the total maize in East Africa.
Does HMGB1 predict occult neck lymph node metastasis in early tongue carcinoma? A case–control study of 26 patients
Authors: Hanakawa H , Orita Y , Sato Y , Takeuchi M , Takao S , Ohno K , Kohno T , Iwaki N , Marunaka H , Tamamura R , Nishibori M , Nagatsuka H , Nishizaki K , Yoshino T
Published: September 2014

Objective:

This study examined whether the occurrence of late neck metastasis in early tongue squamous cell carcinoma can be predicted by evaluating HMGB1 (high mobility group box 1) expression in the primary lesion.

Methods:

A case–control study was conducted. The cases comprised 10 patients with late neck metastasis. The controls consisted of 16 patients without recurrence. All were examined immunohistochemically for HMGB1 protein expression. The odds ratio for late neck metastasis in relation to HMGB1 was estimated.

Results:

Results for HMGB1 were dichotomised into positive staining scores (score, 5–7) and negative scores (0–4). Six cases (60 per cent) and four controls (25 per cent) were HMGB1-positive. Although no significant result was seen, compared with HMGB1-negative patients the odds ratio for late neck metastasis in HMGB1-positive patients was 3.8 (95 per cent confidence interval, 0.6–26.5) after adjusting for other factors.

Conclusion:

In the present study, immunohistochemical study of HMGB1 in early tongue squamous cell carcinoma did not appear to be very useful for predicting occult neck metastasis. Further study is necessary to clarify the relationship between HMGB1 expression and late neck metastasis in early tongue squamous cell carcinoma.
Can't sing? Won't sing? Aotearoa/New Zealand ‘tone-deaf’ early childhood teachers’ musical beliefs
Authors: Swain Nicola , Bodkin-Allen Sally
Published: September 2014

Singing is an important part of teaching for early childhood teachers. However, some teachers find this difficult and may even identify themselves as ‘tone-deaf’. We invited a group of early childhood teachers who self-identified as ‘tone-deaf’ to participate in a study to investigate their beliefs and behaviours about singing and musicality. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected from 40 participants via a questionnaire. Results indicate that these teachers considered themselves to be unmusical and revealed negative feelings towards singing. They showed a general self-consciousness about their singing. These beliefs had been formed through various interactions with friends, family and in schools. While the teachers still participated in singing activities in the centres in which they worked, their participation was marred by feeling self-conscious when singing and they often altered their singing behaviour.
The role of phonological structure and experience in bilingual children's nonword repetition performance
Authors: GIBSON TODD A. , SUMMERS CONNIE , PEÑA ELIZABETH D. , BEDORE LISA M. , GILLAM RONALD B. , BOHMAN THOMAS M.
Published: September 2014

The current study examined the influence of phonological structure and language experience on the nonword repetition performance of bilingual children. Twenty-six Spanish-dominant and 26 English-dominant Spanish–English bilingual five-year-old children were matched on current exposure to the dominant language and year of first exposure to English. Participants repeated non-wordlike nonwords in English and Spanish. The Spanish-dominant group performed better than the English-dominant group for both Spanish and English nonwords. In addition, there was a main effect for test language, where Spanish nonwords were produced more accurately than English nonwords overall. The Spanish-dominant group advantage for nonwords is interpreted as emerging from the extra practice the dominant Spanish speakers had producing multisyllabic words.
Hemiplegie und Zerebralparese – multidisziplinäre Behandlung der spastischen oberen Extremität
Authors: Haefeli Mathias , Calcagni Maurizio
Published: September 2014

Spastische Hemiplegie und Zerebralparese führen häufig zu typischen Deformitäten an der oberen Extremität. Muskel- und Gelenkkontrakturen können schmerzhaft und ästhetisch störend sein und die Funktion, Pflege und Hygiene einschränken. In den ersten Wochen nach einem zerebralen Ereignis ist das genaue Ausmass der neurologischen Schädigung nicht abschätzbar. In dieser Phase sollte mit konservativen Massnahmen der Entwicklung von Kontrakturen entgegengewirkt werden. Erst nach der spontanen neurologischen Erholung sollten chirurgische Massnahmen in Betracht gezogen werden. Bei der Wahl chirurgischer Verfahren müssen neben morphologischen Veränderungen auch Faktoren wie verbliebene Willkürmotorik, Sensibilität und kognitive Fähigkeiten berücksichtigt werden. Dies gelingt am besten in einem multidisziplinären Setting mit Neurologen, Rehabilitationsmedizinern, Therapeuten und Chirurgen. Nur so kann gewährleistet werden, dass der Betroffene von einem chirurgischen Eingriff profitiert.
[11C]Befloxatone Distribution is well Correlated to Monoamine Oxidase a Protein Levels in the Human Brain
Authors: Zanotti-Fregonara Paolo , Bottlaender Michel
Published: September 2014

[11C]befloxatone is a positron emission tomography radioligand to image monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) in the brain, which has been used in preclinical studies and in clinical protocols. However, a recent study found that [11C]befloxatone binding potential (k3/k4) has a poor correlation with MAO-A protein levels measured in the human brain. We here show that this poor correlation only depends on the choice of the parameter when performing kinetic modeling. In particular, the total volume of distribution of [11C]befloxatone shows a tight correlation with both protein and mRNA levels of MAO-A in the human brain.
Computational Study of In-Plane Phonon Transport in Si Thin Films
Authors: Wang Xinjiang , Huang Baoling
Published: September 2014

We have systematically investigated the in-plane thermal transport in Si thin films using an approach based on the first-principles calculations and lattice dynamics. The effects of phonon mode depletion induced by the phonon confinement and the corresponding variation in interphonon scattering, which may be important for the thermal conductivities of ultra-thin films but are often neglected in precedent studies, are considered in this study. The in-plane thermal conductivities of Si thin films with different thicknesses have been predicted over a temperature range from 80 K to 800 K and excellent agreements with experimental results are found. The validities of adopting the bulk phonon properties and gray approximation of surface specularity in thin film studies have been clarified. It is found that in ultra-thin films, while the phonon depletion will reduce the thermal conductivity of Si thin films, its effect is largely offset by the reduction in the interphonon scattering rate. The contributions of different phonon modes to the thermal transport and isotope effects in Si films with different thicknesses under various temperatures are also analyzed.
Sensitive and rapid biosensor for the determination of rhamnose based on the catalytic effect of the oxidation of calcein by H2O2
Authors: Liu Jia-Ming , Liu Zhen-bo , Huang Qitong , Lin Xiaofeng
Published: September 2014

We report a new catalytic biosensor for the detection of rhamnose (Rha) based on combining the high sensitivity of a fluorescence method with the high selectivity of a catalytic reaction.
O2adsorption dependent photoluminescence emission from metal oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Gheisi Amir R. , Neygandhi Chris , Sternig Andreas K. , Carrasco Esther , Marbach Hubertus , Thomele Daniel , Diwald Oliver
Published: September 2014

Optical properties of metal oxide nanoparticles are subject to synthesis related defects and adsorbates.
Linearly polarized emission from self-assembled microstructures of mesogenic polythiophenes
Authors: Ananthakrishnan Soundaram Jeevarathinam , Wadgaonkar Prakash P. , Somanathan Narayanasastri
Published: September 2014

Polarized electroluminescence from ordered mesogenic polythiophenes.
An advanced Ag-based photocatalyst Ag2Ta4O11 with outstanding activity, durability and universality for removing organic dyes
Authors: Dong Hongjun , Sun Jingxue , Chen Gang , Li Chunmei , Hu Yidong , Lv Chade
Published: September 2014

An advanced Ag-based photocatalyst Ag2Ta4O11 exhibits improved photocatalytic activity compared with Ta2O5 and the universality for degrading several organic dyes. Importantly, it has outstanding durability and reusability.
Adsorption properties of nitrogen dioxide on hybrid carbon and boron-nitride nanotubes
Authors: Liu Haining , Turner C. Heath
Published: September 2014

Hybrid CNT–BNNT materials are predicted to have enhanced NO2 adsorption, which leads to large shifts in band gap, indicating potential sensing applications.
A novel method of monitoring the sulfidation of hydrotreating catalysts: the conversion of carbonyl sulfide
Authors: Le Guludec Erwan , Oliviero Laetitia , Gilson Jean Pierre , Maugé Françoise , Rebeilleau Michaël , De Grandi Valentina , van Donk Sander
Published: September 2014

The conversion of COS during the sulfidation of HDS catalysts allows one to determine the temperature range of formation of CoMoS sites.
The strength of actinide–element bonds from the quantum theory of atoms-in-molecules
Authors: Huang Qian-Rui , Kingham Jennifer R. , Kaltsoyannis Nikolas
Published: September 2014

Excellent correlation is found between standard QTAIM metrics and An–N bond lengths, and with N–N bond lengths and vibrational frequencies, but much poorer correlations exist with An–N and An–O interaction energies. Superior correlations are found between interaction energies and the change in the QTAIM charge on compound formation.
Oxygen control with microfluidics
Authors: Brennan Martin D. , Rexius-Hall Megan L. , Elgass Laura Jane , Eddington David T.
Published: September 2014

Cellular function and behavior are affected by the partial pressure of O2, or oxygen tension, in the microenvironment.
Facile synthesis of mesoporous cobalt oxide rugby balls for electrochemical energy storage
Authors: Hao Yuting , Wang Huanwen , Hu Zhonghua , Gan Lihua , Xu Zijie
Published: September 2014

Mesoporous Co3O4 rugby balls for the asymmetric supercapacitor manifest high energy/power density and no decay after 10 000 cycles.
Conjugation-induced fluorescence labelling of mesoporous silica nanoparticles for the sensitive and selective detection of copper ions in aqueous solution
Authors: Cui Jingjing , Wang Shangfeng , Huang Kai , Li Yongsheng , Zhao Wenru , Shi Jianlin , Gu Jinlou
Published: September 2014

A newly developed fluorescent “on–off” chemosensor presents high selectivity towards Cu2+ with detection limit as low as 0.28 μM.
A new route through the layered hydroxide form for the synthesis of GdVO4 dispersible in polar solvents
Authors: Jeong Heejin , Lee Byung-Il , Byeon Song-Ho
Published: September 2014

A new strategy is described for the synthesis and the size control of REVO4 (RE = rare earth) nanoparticles in aqueous solutions at room temperature. In particular, Eu-doped layered gadolinium hydroxychloride was explored as a representative precursor to react with meta-vanadate (VO3−).
Adhesion switch on a gecko-foot inspired smart nanocupule surface
Authors: Song Wenlong
Published: September 2014

A gecko-foot inspired smart nanocupule film composed of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) and polystyrene was prepared by an AAO template covering method. The reversibility of both wettability and adhesion of the prepared film allowed us to construct a smart device for water droplet selection in bioanalysis applications.
Probing planar defects in nanoparticle superlattices by 3D small-angle electron diffraction tomography and real space imaging
Authors: Mayence Arnaud , Wang Dong , Salazar-Alvarez German , Oleynikov Peter , Bergström Lennart
Published: September 2014

Planar defects in Pd nanoparticle superlattices were revealed by a combination of real and reciprocal space transmission electron microscopy techniques. 3D electron diffraction tomography was extended to characterize mesoscale imperfections.
Ultrasonication assisted preparation of carbonaceous nanoparticles modified polyurethane foam with good conductivity and high oil absorption properties
Authors: Shi Hengchong , Shi Dean , Yin Ligang , Yang Zhihua , Luan Shifang , Gao Jiefeng , Zha Junwei , Yin Jinghua , Li Robert K. Y.
Published: September 2014

A compressible, conductive, oil absorptive PU foam was facilely fabricated by ultrasonication induced carbonaceous nanoparticles onto flexible PU foam.
Fostering the properties of Zr0.8Sn0.2TiO4 (ZST) ceramics via freeze granulation without sintering additives
Authors: Olhero S. M. , Kaushal Ajay , Ferreira J. M. F.
Published: September 2014

Freeze granulation fosters the properties of Zr0.8Sn0.2TiO4 ceramics with maximum density in the complete absence of sintering additives.
Fabrication and evaluation of nanofibrous membranes with photo-induced chemical and biological decontamination functions
Authors: Zhu Jing , Sun Gang
Published: September 2014

Hydrophilic nanofibrous membranes with photo-induced self-cleaning functionality were successfully prepared. Under UVA irradiation, these membranes are able to generate reactive oxygen species, attributing to the observed photo-induced chemical and biological decontamination functions.
Bipolar π-conjugation interrupted host polymers by metal-free superacid-catalyzed polymerization for single-layer electrophosphorescent diodes
Authors: Chen Bing , Xiao Zhanhai , Li Yanhu , Yu Lei , Yang Wei , Feng Jiwen
Published: September 2014

Novel bipolar host polymers with a π-conjugation interrupted polymer backbone are synthesized and show a high triplet energy of 2.79 eV.
Influence of the carbon nanofiller surface curvature on the initiation of crystallization in thermoplastic polymers
Authors: Falkovich S. G. , Larin S. V. , Lyulin A. V. , Yudin V. E. , Kenny J. M. , Lyulin S. V.
Published: September 2014

The segments of crystallizable polyimide tend to lay parallel to the graphene nanofiller surface and this tendency is stronger than for carbon nanotubes.
Tuning the electron transport properties of boron-nitride nanoribbons with electron and hole doping
Authors: Song L. L. , Zheng X. H. , Hao H. , Lan J. , Wang X. L. , Zeng Z.
Published: September 2014

C chain doped BN nanoribbons can be either metallic or semiconducting, depending on how the C chains are located.
Temperature-controlled giant thermal magnetoresistance behaviors in doped zigzag-edged silicene nanoribbons
Authors: Yang X. F. , Zhang X. , Hong X. K. , Liu Y. S. , Feng J. F. , Wang X. F. , Zhang C. W.
Published: September 2014

Based on the nonequilibrium Green's function (NEGF) method combined with density functional theory (DFT), we investigate the spin-dependent thermoelectric transport properties of zigzag-edged silicene nanoribbons (ZSiNRs) doped by an Al–P bonded pair at different edge positions.
Wrinkled reduced graphene oxide nanosheets for highly sensitive and easy recoverable NH3 gas detector
Authors: Zhang Su , Zhang Di , Sysoev Vitaly I. , Sedelnikova Olga V. , Asanov Igor P. , Katkov Mikhail V. , Song Huaihe , Okotrub Alexander V. , Bulusheva Lyubov G. , Chen Xiaohong
Published: September 2014

Highly wrinkled reduced graphene oxide nanosheets were prepared by chemical exfoliation of ball-milled graphite powder. This material showed high sensitivity and simple recovery ability for NH3 gas detection.
Preservation of carotenes in the deacidification of crude palm oil
Authors: Pirola C. , Galli F. , Comazzi A. , Manenti F. , Bianchi C. L.
Published: September 2014

Carotenoids in CPO can be preserved during the deacidification processes performed under mild conditions.
Flows of living polymer fluids
Authors: Fardin Marc-Antoine , Lerouge Sandra
Published: September 2014

We highlight the recent progress on flows of living polymer fluids, from their microscopic structure to their macroscopic hydrodynamics.
Hepatic serum- and glucocorticoid-regulated protein kinase 1 (SGK1) regulates insulin sensitivity in mice via extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2)
Authors: Liu Hao , Yu Junjie , Xia Tingting , Xiao Yuzhong , Zhang Qian , Liu Bin , Guo Yajie , Deng Jiali , Deng Yalan , Chen Shanghai , Naray-Fejes-Toth Aniko , Fejes-Toth Geza , Guo Feifan
Published: September 2014

Insulin resistance is a major hallmark of metabolic syndromes, including Type 2 diabetes. Although numerous functions of SGK1 (serum- and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1) have been identified, a direct effect of SGK1 on insulin sensitivity has not been previously reported. In the present study, we generated liver-specific SGK1-knockout mice and found that these mice developed glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. We also found that insulin signalling is enhanced or impaired in Hep1-6 cells infected with adenoviruses expressing SGK1 (Ad-SGK1) or shRNA directed against the coding region of SGK1 (Ad-shSGK1) respectively. In addition, we determined that SGK1 inhibits ERK1/2 (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2) activity in liver and Ad-shERK1/2-mediated inhibition of ERK1/2 reverses the attenuated insulin sensitivity in Ad-shSGK1 mice. Finally, we found that SGK1 functions are compromised under insulin-resistant conditions and overexpression of SGK1 by Ad-SGK1 significantly ameliorates insulin resistance in both glucosamine-treated HepG2 cells and livers of db/db mice, a genetic model of insulin resistance.
Angiotensin-(1–7) decreases skeletal muscle atrophy induced by angiotensin II through a Mas receptor-dependent mechanism
Authors: Cisternas Franco , Morales María Gabriela , Meneses Carla , Simon Felipe , Brandan Enrique , Abrigo Johanna , Vazquez Yaneisi , Cabello-Verrugio Claudio
Published: September 2014

Skeletal muscle atrophy is a pathological condition characterized by the loss of strength and muscle mass, an increase in myosin heavy chain (MHC) degradation and increase in the expression of two muscle-specific ubiquitin ligases: atrogin-1 and MuRF-1. Angiotensin II (AngII) induces muscle atrophy. Angiotensin-(1–7) [Ang-(1–7)], through its receptor Mas, produces the opposite effects than AngII. We assessed the effects of Ang-(1–7) on the skeletal muscle atrophy induced by AngII. Our results show that Ang-(1–7), through Mas, prevents the effects induced by AngII in muscle gastrocnemius: the decrease in the fibre diameter, muscle strength and MHC levels and the increase in atrogin-1 and MuRF-1. Ang-(1–7) also induces AKT phosphorylation. In addition, our analysis in vitro using C2C12 myotubes shows that Ang-(1–7), through a mechanism dependent on Mas, prevents the decrease in the levels of MHC and the increase in the expression of the atrogin-1 and MuRF-1, both induced by AngII. Ang-(1–7) induces AKT phosphorylation in myotubes; additionally, we demonstrated that the inhibition of AKT with MK-2206 decreases the anti-atrophic effects of Ang-(1–7). Thus, we demonstrate for the first time that Ang-(1–7) counteracts the skeletal muscle atrophy induced by AngII through a mechanism dependent on the Mas receptor, which involves AKT activity. Our study indicates that Ang-(1–7) is novel molecule with a potential therapeutical use to improve muscle wasting associated, at least, with pathologies that present high levels of AngII.
Square monopole antenna for microwave imaging, design and characterisation
Authors: Ahadi Mojtaba , Isa Maryam Binti Mohd , Saripan M. Iqbal Bin , Hasan Wan Zuha Wan
Published: September 2014

A novel ultra‐wideband (UWB) antenna is presented which has UWB characteristics in a medium same as breast. To optimise the antenna for its best operation, effect of variation in different parts of the antenna is analysed and presented. The antenna's characteristics are presented in simulation and experimental measurements. The results of the authors’ study show that the antenna has excellent performance across 4 to more than 9 GHz.
Maximum directivity of arbitrary dipole arrays
Authors: Shamonina Ekaterina , Solymar Laszlo
Published: September 2014

A fully analytical form, more general than any reported previously, for the optimum current distribution and maximum directivity of an arbitrary array consisting of dipoles parallel with each other, is derived. For an array configuration consisting of several hundred elements, a calculation takes a fraction of a second making many‐element superdirective arrays candidates for adaptive antenna applications. Examples for two‐dimensional (2D) and 3D arrays are given and some earlier superconductive arrays are revisited. It is also shown in further examples that superconductivity is not incompatible with moderate values of the quality factor.
Directional modulation far‐field pattern separation synthesis approach
Authors: Ding Yuan , Fusco Vincent F.
Published: September 2014

In this study, a far‐field power pattern separation approach is proposed for the synthesis of directional modulation (DM) transmitter arrays. Separation into information patterns and interference patterns is enabled by far‐field pattern null steering. Compared with other DM synthesis methods, for example, bit error rate‐driven DM optimisation and orthogonal vector injection, the approach developed in this study facilitates manipulation of artificial interference spatial distributions. With such capability more interference power can be projected into those spatial directions most vulnerable to eavesdropping, that is, the information side lobes. In such a fashion, information leaked through radiation side lobes can be effectively mitigated in a transmitter power efficient manner. Furthermore, for the first time, the authors demonstrate how multi‐beam DM transmitters can be synthesised via this approach.
Compact printed two dipole array antenna with a high front‐back ratio for ultra‐high‐frequency radio‐frequency identification handheld reader applications
Authors: Liu Qi , Zhang Shuai , He Sailing
Published: September 2014

A printed two‐dipole array antenna with a high front‐back ratio is proposed for ultra‐high‐frequency (UHF) radio‐frequency identification handheld readers. The proposed antenna is a parasitic dual‐element array with the ends of both elements folded back towards each other for additional coupling. The antenna features a compact size of 89 mm × 87 mm and works properly with satisfactory gain and total efficiency in the wide UHF band of 860–960 MHz. Furthermore, the front‐to‐back ratio of 15–26.8 dB, the peak gain of 3.7–4.4 dBi and the total efficiency of more than 80% in the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) band make the proposed antenna attain high performance in the FCC band.
Design, fabrication and characterisation of scaled and stacked layers planar metamaterial absorber
Authors: Soheilifar Mohammad Reza , Sadeghzadeh Ramazan Ali
Published: September 2014

In this study, various forms of design, simulation and measurements of a new type of metamaterial absorber (MA) is investigated at X band. In the first step, an ultra‐thin absorber is considered with absorptivity of 99% at frequency 9.88 GHz. The thickness of the structure is only 1/120 of the radiation wavelength. In the second step, a multi‐layered structure is designed by stacking several layers of the design on top of one another. For the three‐layered structure, two absorption peaks appear at 10.17 GHz of 98% and 10.89 GHz of 99%, respectively. In the third step, resonant frequencies are placed near each other by exploiting the scaling property of the MAs. Unit cells with three scaled elements have the absorption peaks at three resonant frequencies of 9.26, 9.6 and 10.10 GHz with the absorptions of 100, 95 and 84%, respectively. Finally, scaled and stacked structures are combined. The absorption spectra of the three‐layered scaling structure have four resonant frequencies at 9.32, 9.76, 10.35 and 11.21 GHz with the absorptivities of 99, 100, 97 and 83%, respectively, with a total full width at half maximum‐bandwidth of 2260 MHz. Results of the recursive method and the simulations are in good agreement with those of the measurements.
Generic signal synchronisation algorithm for passive global navigation satellite system‐based synthetic aperture radar
Authors: Zeng Zhangfan
Published: September 2014

This study presents the methods and results of a new signal synchronisation algorithm for passive imaging by means of space–surface bistatic synthetic aperture radar with global navigation satellite system transmitters. The operating principles of the algorithm are described analytically. The results of the experimental testing with algorithms are presented and discussed. The performance of synchronisation results are calibrated by image inspection compared with theoretical counterparts. It is experimentally shown that the algorithm can handle data acquired both from GPS, GLONASS and Galileo with sufficient level of accuracy.
Optimal design of polymer‐based microneedle for improved collection of whole blood from human fingers
Authors: Le Thanh Hoa , Le The Hai , Nguyen Vy , Tran‐Minh Nhut , Wang Kaiying , Karlsen Frank
Published: September 2014

A highly applicable theoretical model and a simple, inexpensive mould‐based method is introduced to design and fabricate the pyramid‐shaped SU‐8 microneedle. The main purpose is to be able to extract blood at point‐of‐care sites from up to 80% of typical nurse‐home patients with a disorder of blood circulation in fingers and toes (Raynaud's phenomenon). Geometry optimisation was conducted based on the study of fracture force, which can be accurately predicted by the proposed theoretical model. The accuracy of the proposed theoretical model was confirmed by the finite element study and practical measurement. For practical verification, measurement of fracture force was conducted on fabricated SU‐8 microneedles, including a 1470 µm‐tall pyramid‐shaped microneedle and a 1515 µm‐tall traditional‐shaped microneedle. The measurement results confirmed the improved strength of the proposed pyramid‐shaped microneedle, especially of the pyramidal tips, which can exhibit significantly higher applied force with 2.82 N compared with the 0.51 N bevel tip. Practical tests of skin penetrability on human fingers showed that the microneedles fabricated with the proposed geometry may be sharp and strong enough to safely puncture human skin and long enough to reach the blood vessels.
Microresonant accelerometer composed of silicon substrate and quartz double‐ended tuning fork with temperature isolator
Authors: Li Cun , Zhao Yulong , Cheng Rongjun , Yu Zhongliang
Published: September 2014

A microresonant accelerometer which consists of silicon substrate and a quartz double‐ended tuning fork (DETF) is described. A temperature isolator structure on the silicon substrate is designed to decrease the influence of thermal stress on the DETF's tines. Two stiff ends of the quartz DETF are mounted on the proof mass and temperature isolator, respectively. When acceleration is applied, the proof mass will move, inducing the variation of axial stress on the DETF's tines. The resonance frequency of the DETF's tines will change corresponding to the stress, so acceleration can be measured. The DETF is excited by the inherent piezoelectric property of quartz based on the anti‐phase in‐plane bending model. Both the silicon substrate and the DETF are fabricated by micromachining. The sensor is analysed by finite‐element simulation. According to the simulation, the temperature isolator decreases thermal stress by 30.2%. Experimental results show that the resonance frequency of the sensor is 35.2563 kHz and the sensitivity is 8.55 Hz/g, which is in good agreement with analytical calculation.
Converging cylindrical shocks in ideal magnetohydrodynamics
Authors: Pullin D. I. , Mostert W. , Wheatley V. , Samtaney R.
Published: September 2014

We consider a cylindrically symmetrical shock converging onto an axis within the framework of ideal, compressible-gas non-dissipative magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). In cylindrical polar co-ordinates we restrict attention to either constant axial magnetic field or to the azimuthal but singular magnetic field produced by a line current on the axis. Under the constraint of zero normal magnetic field and zero tangential fluid speed at the shock, a set of restricted shock-jump conditions are obtained as functions of the shock Mach number, defined as the ratio of the local shock speed to the unique magnetohydrodynamic wave speed ahead of the shock, and also of a parameter measuring the local strength of the magnetic field. For the line current case, two approaches are explored and the results compared in detail. The first is geometrical shock-dynamics where the restricted shock-jump conditions are applied directly to the equation on the characteristic entering the shock from behind. This gives an ordinary-differential equation for the shock Mach number as a function of radius which is integrated numerically to provide profiles of the shock implosion. Also, analytic, asymptotic results are obtained for the shock trajectory at small radius. The second approach is direct numerical solution of the radially symmetric MHD equations using a shock-capturing method. For the axial magnetic field case the shock implosion is of the Guderley power-law type with exponent that is not affected by the presence of a finite magnetic field. For the axial current case, however, the presence of a tangential magnetic field ahead of the shock with strength inversely proportional to radius introduces a length scale \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$R=\sqrt{\mu _0/p_0}\,I/(2\,\pi )$\end{document}R=μ0/p0I/(2π) where I is the current, μ0 is the permeability, and p0 is the pressure ahead of the shock. For shocks initiated at r ≫ R, shock convergence is first accompanied by shock strengthening as for the strictly gas-dynamic implosion. The diverging magnetic field then slows the shock Mach number growth producing a maximum followed by monotonic reduction towards magnetosonic conditions, even as the shock accelerates toward the axis. A parameter space of initial shock Mach number at a given radius is explored and the implications of the present results for inertial confinement fusion are discussed.
Positron impact excitations of hydrogen atom embedded in weakly coupled plasmas: Formation of Rydberg atoms
Authors: Rej Pramit , Ghoshal Arijit
Published: September 2014

Formation of Rydberg atoms due to 1s→nlm excitations of hydrogen, for arbitrary n, l, m, by positron impact in weakly coupled plasma has been investigated using a distorted-wave theory in the momentum space. The interactions among the charged particles in the plasma have been represented by Debye-Huckel potentials. Making use of a simple variationally determined wave function for the hydrogen atom, it has been possible to obtain the distorted-wave scattering amplitude in a closed analytical form. A detailed study has been made on the effects of plasma screening on the differential and total cross sections in the energy range 20–300 eV of incident positron. For the unscreened case, our results agree nicely with some of the most accurate results available in the literature. To the best of our knowledge, such a study on the differential and total cross sections for 1s→nlm inelastic positron-hydrogen collisions for arbitrary n, l, m in weakly coupled plasmas is the first reported in the literature.
Intertwiners of $U^{\prime }_q\bigl (\widehat{sl}(2)\bigr )$Uq′sl̂(2)-representations and the vector-valued big q-Jacobi transform
Authors: Gade R. M.
Published: September 2014

Linear operators R are introduced on tensor products of evaluation modules of \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$U^{\prime }_q\bigl (\widehat{sl}(2)\bigr )$\end{document}Uq′sl̂(2) obtained from the complementary and strange series representations. The operators R satisfy the intertwining condition on finite linear combinations of the canonical basis elements of the tensor products. Infinite sums associated with the action of R on six pairs of tensor products are evaluated. For two pairs, the sums are related to the vector-valued big q-Jacobi transform of the matrix elements defining the operator R. In one case, the sums specify the action of R on the irreducible representations present in the decomposition of the underlying indivisible sum of \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$U_q\bigl (sl(2)\bigr )$\end{document}Uqsl(2)-tensor products. In both cases, bilinear summation formulae for the matrix elements of R provide a generalization of the unitarity property. Corresponding results are given for the remaining pairs.
Persistence properties and unique continuation for a generalized Camassa-Holm equation
Authors: Himonas A. Alexandrou , Thompson Ryan C.
Published: September 2014

In this paper, persistence properties of solutions are investigated for a generalized Camassa-Holm equation (g-kbCH) having (k+1)-degree nonlinearities and containing as its integrable members the Camassa-Holm, the Degasperis-Procesi, and the Novikov equations. The persistence properties will imply that strong solutions of the g-kbCH equation will decay at infinity in the spatial variable provided that the initial data does. Furthermore, it is shown that the equation exhibits unique continuation for appropriate values of the parameters b and k. Finally, existence of global solutions is established when b = k+1.
Control of resonant frequency by currents in graphene: Effect of Dirac field on deflection
Authors: Soodchomshom Bumned
Published: September 2014

To construct Lagrangian based on plate theory and tight-binding model, deflection-field coupling to Dirac fermions in graphene can be investigated. As have been known, deflection-induced strain may cause an effect on motion of electron, like a pseudo gauge field. In the work, we will investigate the effect of the Dirac field on the motion of the deflection-field in graphene derived from Lagrangian density. Due to the interaction of the deflection- and Dirac-fields, the current-induced surface-tension up to about 4×10−3 N/m in graphene membrane is predicted. This result may lead to controllable resonant frequency by currents in graphene. The high resonant frequency is found to be perfectly linearly controlled by both charge and valley currents. Our work reveals the potential of graphene for application of nano-electro-mechanical device and the physics of interaction of electron and deflection-filed in graphene system is investigated.
Synthesis of MoS2 nano-petal forest supported on carbon nanotubes for enhanced field emission performance
Authors: Murawala Aditya P. , Loh Tamie A. J. , Chua Daniel H. C.
Published: September 2014

We report the fabrication of a three-dimensional forest of highly crystalline two-dimensional (2D) molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nano-petals encapsulating vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (CNT) in a core-shell configuration. Growth was conducted via magnetron sputtering at room temperature and it was found that the nano-petal morphology was formed only when a critical threshold in sputter deposition time was reached. Below this threshold, an amorphous tubular structure composed of mainly molybdenum oxides dominates instead. The presence of the MoS2 nano-petals was shown to impart photoluminescence to the CNTs, in addition to significantly enhancing their electron emission properties, where the turn-on field was lowered from 2.50 Vμm−1 for pristine CNTs to 0.80 Vμm−1 for MoS2-CNT heterostructures fabricated at 30 min sputter deposition time. Photoluminescence was detected at wavelengths of approximately 684 nm and 615 nm, with the band at 684 nm gradually blue-shifting as sputter time was increased. These results demonstrate that it is possible to synthesize 2D MoS2 layers without the need for chemical routes and high growth temperatures.
Development of a methodology for wind energy estimation and wind park design
Authors: Abbes Mohamed , Belhadj Jamel
Published: September 2014

This study presents a thorough methodology for wind park design and micro-siting. It encompasses all aspects of wind project development and prefeasibility analysis. This approach uses the long-term wind data taken from on site measurements. Collected data are analyzed statistically. Then, wind resources are estimated and a choice of the best fitted wind turbines is performed. An optimal layout for wind turbines is proposed using the Windstation and 3DEM software. The main contribution of this paper is to evaluate the amount of accuracy given by this methodology in terms of predicting the future annual energy production of wind projects. To achieve this objective, the methodology was applied to a specific site which already contains an installed wind park. The test case wind farm is located in the north-east of Tunisia. The evaluation is performed by comparing the estimated energy production with real-time operation database of the wind park. Finally, the paper discusses the prospects of wind farm upgrading in order to make better use of the local wind resource.
Tailoring the magnetostructural transition and magnetocaloric properties around room temperature: In-doped Ni-Mn-Ga alloys
Authors: Zhang Linfang , Wang Jingmin , Hua Hui , Jiang Chengbao , Xu Huibin
Published: September 2014

Some off-stoichiometric Ni-Mn-Ga alloys undergo a coupled magnetostructural transition from ferromagnetic martensite to paramagnetic austenite, giving rise to the large magnetocaloric effect. However, the magnetostructural transitions of Ni-Mn-Ga alloys generally take place at temperatures higher than room temperature. Here, we report that by the partial substitution of In for Ga, the paramagnetic austenite phase is well stabilized, and the magnetostructural transition can be tailored around room temperature. Sizable magnetic entropy change and adiabatic temperature change were induced by magnetic field change in the vicinity of the magnetostructural transition of the In-doped Ni-Mn-Ga alloys.
Suppression of starch synthesis in rice stems splays tiller angle due to gravitropic insensitivity but does not affect yield
Authors: Okamura Masaki , Hirose Tatsuro , Hashida Yoichi , Ohsugi Ryu , Aoki Naohiro
Published: September 2014

In rice (Oryza sativa L.), tiller angle – defined as the angle between the main culm and its side tillers – is one of the important factors involved in light use efficiency. To clarify the relationship between tiller angle, gravitropism and stem-starch accumulation, we investigated the shoot gravitropic response of a low stem-starch rice mutant which lacks a large subunit of ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (AGP), called OsAGPL1 and exhibits relatively spread tiller angle. The insensitive gravitropic response exhibited by the mutant led us to the conclusion that insensitivity of gravitropism caused by stem-starch reduction splayed the tiller angle. Furthermore, since another AGP gene called OsAGPL3 was expressed at considerable levels in graviresponding sites, we generated a double mutant lacking both OsAGPL1 and OsAGPL3. The double mutant exhibited still lower stem-starch content, less sensitive gravitropic response and greater tiller angle spread than the single mutants. This indicated that the expansion of the tiller angle caused by the reduction in starch level was intense according to the extent of the reduction. We found there were no significant differences between the double mutant and wild-type plants in terms of dry matter production. These results provided new insight into the importance of stem-starch accumulation and ideal plant architecture.
Sequential switching of binding partners on PCNA during in vitro Okazaki fragment maturation
Authors: Dovrat Daniel , Stodola Joseph L. , Burgers Peter M. J. , Aharoni Amir
Published: September 2014

Significance

Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is a homotrimeric DNA sliding clamp that coordinates multiple DNA replication and repair processes by orchestrating the activity of various essential proteins. PCNA can bind up to three partners simultaneously, but despite extensive research, the functional significance of PCNA's trimeric structure remains unclear. We developed a novel approach for the generation of PCNA heterotrimers that contain both wild-type and mutant monomers. Using these heterotrimers, we show that PCNA can efficiently coordinate the activities of the three enzymes involved in Okazaki fragment maturation without binding them simultaneously. In contrast to the previously suggested “toolbelt” model for PCNA function, our results demonstrate sequential binding and release of partners on the PCNA trimer during complex biological processes.
Understanding the frustration arising from the competition between function, misfolding, and aggregation in a globular protein
Authors: Gianni Stefano , Camilloni Carlo , Giri Rajanish , Toto Angelo , Bonetti Daniela , Morrone Angela , Sormanni Pietro , Brunori Maurizio , Vendruscolo Michele
Published: September 2014

Significance

The amino acid sequence of a protein encodes a wide range of different properties, including function, folding, and avoidance of aggregation. The resulting requirements on the sequence may be in conflict with each other, thus creating the possibility of misfolding and dysfunction. To investigate possible mechanisms whereby such unwanted outcomes can be prevented, we study the folding process of frataxin, a protein whose aberrant folding is associated with Friedreich’s ataxia. Our results indicate that the regions prone to misfolding are highly protected against aggregation along the folding pathway of this protein.
Onecut1 and Onecut2 redundantly regulate early retinal cell fates during development
Authors: Sapkota Darshan , Chintala Hemabindu , Wu Fuguo , Fliesler Steven J. , Hu Zihua , Mu Xiuqian
Published: September 2014

Significance

We show that the onecut transcription factors, Onecut1 and Onecut2, redundantly regulate the formation of all four early-born retinal cell types, namely horizontal cells, ganglion cells, cones, and amacrine cells, and prevent precocious formation of the late retinal cell type, rods. Expression profiling suggests these two factors regulate a shared set of downstream genes to maintain competence for the early retinal cell types and to regulate generation of various subtypes of retinal ganglion cells. This study lays the foundation for further examination of how onecut factors regulate cell differentiation in the retina, as well as in the central nervous system in general.
Landscape and flux reveal a new global view and physical quantification of mammalian cell cycle
Authors: Li Chunhe , Wang Jin
Published: September 2014

Significance

Understanding the mechanisms of the cell cycle remains challenging. The cell cycle is regulated by the underlying gene regulatory networks. We uncovered the underlying Mexican hat landscape of a mammalian cell cycle network. Three local basins of attraction along the cell cycle loop emerge, corresponding to three distinct cell cycle states: the G1, S/G2, and M phases. Two barriers along the loop characterize G1 and S/G2 checkpoints, respectively, of the cell cycle, which provide a physical explanation for cell cycle checkpoint mechanisms. The cell cycle is determined by two driving forces: curl flux and potential barriers. We uncovered the key gene regulations determining the progression of cell cycle, which can be used to guide the design of new anticancer tactics.
Calcium entry into stereocilia drives adaptation of the mechanoelectrical transducer current of mammalian cochlear hair cells
Authors: Corns Laura F. , Johnson Stuart L. , Kros Corné J. , Marcotti Walter
Published: September 2014

Significance

In the inner ear, the sensory receptor cells (hair cells) signal reception of sound. They do so by converting mechanical input, due to sound waves moving the hair bundles on these cells, into electrical current through ion channels situated at the tips of the bundles. To keep the receptors operating at their maximum sensitivity, the current declines rapidly, a process known as adaptation. In nonmammalian vertebrates, Ca
2+
ions entering the mechanosensitive ion channels drive adaptation, but it has been questioned whether this mechanism applies to mammals. We show that adaptation in mammalian cochlear hair cells is, as in other vertebrates, driven by Ca
2+
entry, demonstrating the importance of this process as a fundamental mechanism in vertebrate hair cells.
Selection of the lamprey VLRC antigen receptor repertoire
Authors: Holland Stephen J. , Gao Mingming , Hirano Masayuki , Iyer Lakshminarayan M. , Luo Ming , Schorpp Michael , Cooper Max D. , Aravind L. , Mariuzza Roy A. , Boehm Thomas
Published: September 2014

Significance

The alternative adaptive immune system of jawless vertebrates is based on three types of variable lymphocyte receptors (VLRs) that are differentially expressed by distinct B- and T-like lymphocyte lineages. Like the antibodies and T-cell receptors of jawed vertebrates, the highly variable VLR antigen receptors are generated by combinatorial assembly. However, it is not known whether VLRs are subjected to selection to mitigate the detrimental effects of self-reactivity. Here, we identify signatures for selection of the VLRC receptors that are expressed by one of the T-cell lineages of lamprey; selection concerns the length of the receptor molecules and their N-terminal sequence diversity. These findings pave the way to identifying the mechanistic basis of selection.
Reply to critics
Authors: James Aaron
Published: September 2014

This discussion responds to important questions raised about my theory of fairness in the global economy by Christian Barry, Charles Beitz, A.J. Julius and Kristi Olson. I further elaborate how moral argument can be ‘internal’ to a social practice, how my proposed principles of fairness depend on international practice, how I can admit several relevant conceptions of ‘harm’ and why my account does not depend on a problematic conception of societal ‘endowments’.