bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved Li storage performance in SnO2 nanocrystals by a synergetic doping
Authors: Wan Ning , Lu Xia , Wang Yuesheng , Zhang Weifeng , Bai Ying , Hu Yong-Sheng , Dai Sheng
Published: January 2016

Tin dioxide (SnO2) is a widely investigated lithium (Li) storage material because of its easy preparation, two-step storage mechanism and high specific capacity for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). In this contribution, a phase-pure cobalt-doped SnO2 (Co/SnO2) and a cobalt and nitrogen co-doped SnO2 (Co-N/SnO2) nanocrystals are prepared to explore their Li storage behaviors. It is found that the morphology, specific surface area and electrochemical properties could be largely modulated in the doped and co-doped SnO2 nanocrystals. Gavalnostatic cycling results indicate that the Co-N/SnO2 electrode delivers a specific capacity as high as 716 mAh g−1 after 50 cycles and the same outstanding rate performance can be observed in subsequent cycles due to the ionic/electronic conductivity enhancement by co-doping effect. Further, microstructure observation indicates the existence of intermediate phase of Li3N with high ionic conductivity upon cycling, which probably accounts for the improvements of Co-N/SnO2 electrodes. The method of synergetic doping into SnO2 with Co and N, with which the electrochemical performances is enhanced remarkably, undoubtedly, will have an important influence on the material itself and community of LIBs as well.
Direct phosphonation of quinoxalin-2(1H)-ones under transition-metal-free conditions
Authors: Gao Ming , Li Yi , Xie Lijuan , Chauvin Remi , Cui Xiuling
Published: January 2016

A direct C–H bond phosphonation of quinoxalin-2(1H)-ones with H-phosphonates, H-phosphinates or H-phosphine oxides has been developed.
Water-soluble sulfonated hyperbranched poly(arylene oxindole) catalysts as functional biomimics of cellulases
Authors: Yu Feng , Smet Mario , Dehaen Wim , Sels Bert F.
Published: January 2016

A new polymer acid catalyst, sulfonated hyperbranched poly(arylene oxindole), 5-OH–SHPAO, was prepared for selective cellulose hydrolysis.
Photoorganocatalysed and visible light photoredox catalysed trifluoromethylation of olefins and (hetero)aromatics in batch and continuous flow
Authors: Lefebvre Quentin , Hoffmann Norbert , Rueping Magnus
Published: January 2016

Trifluoromethylation of olefins and (hetero)aromatics with sodium triflinate as CF3source and readily accessible benzophenone derivatives as photosensitisers has been developed in batch and flow.
High temperature oxidation of iron–iron oxide core–shell nanowires composed of iron nanoparticles
Authors: Krajewski M. , Brzozka K. , Lin W. S. , Lin H. M. , Tokarczyk M. , Borysiuk J. , Kowalski G. , Wasik D.
Published: January 2016

The thermal oxidation of iron nanowires causes their breakdown due to void coalescence and formation of α-Fe2O3microparticles and microrods.
EPR detection and characterisation of a paramagnetic Mo(iii) dihydride intermediate involved in electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Prior Christopher , Webster Lee R. , Ibrahim Saad K. , Wright Joseph A. , Alghamdi Ali F. , Oganesyan Vasily S. , Pickett Christopher J.
Published: January 2016

EPR spectroscopy and theoretical data show that the slow heterogeneous electron-transfer kinetics associated with the reduction of an 18-electron Mo(iv) acetato dihydride are a consequence of an η2–η1 rearrangement of the carboxylate ligand which gives a unique paramagnetic 17-electron Mo(iii) dihydride.
Hierarchical heterostructures based on prickly Ni nanowires/Cu2O nanoparticles with enhanced photocatalytic activity
Authors: Li Xiaolin , Ma Yujie , Yang Zhi , Xu Shusheng , Wei Liangming , Huang Da , Wang Tao , Hu Nantao , Zhang Yafei
Published: January 2016

Metal-semiconductor-based photocatalysts show high efficiencies and catalytic activities in the photocatalysis process.
Energy efficient transfer of carbon dioxide from flue gases to microalgal systems
Authors: Zheng Qi , Martin Gregory J. O. , Kentish Sandra E.
Published: January 2016

Transfer of CO2 directly from a capture solvent to microalgae via hollow fibre membranes, reduces energy demand and increases production.
Bio-inspired noble metal-free nanomaterials approaching platinum performances for H2 evolution and uptake
Authors: Huan Tran N. , Jane Reuben T. , Benayad Anass , Guetaz Laure , Tran Phong D. , Artero Vincent
Published: January 2016

3D structuring of the electrode boosts the performances of molecular-engineered nanomaterials based on bio-inspired nickel-diphosphine catalysts operating at the thermodynamic equilibrium in PEMFC relevant conditions.
Distribution of selenium in zebrafish larvae after exposure to organic and inorganic selenium forms
Authors: Dolgova N. V. , Hackett M. J. , MacDonald T. C. , Nehzati S. , James A. K. , Krone P. H. , George G. N. , Pickering I. J.
Published: January 2016

Selenium is found to be highly concentrated in zebrafish pigment (melanin) containing tissues especially for the organic selenium treatments, with lower concentrations in eye lens, yolk sac and heart.
Electrosynthesis and electrochemical capacitive behavior of a new nitrogen PEDOT analogue-based polymer electrode
Authors: Feng Zilan , Mo Daize , Zhou Weiqiang , Zhou Qianjie , Xu Jingkun , Lu Baoyang , Zhen Shijie , Wang Zhipeng , Ma Xiumei
Published: January 2016

As a supercapacitor electrode, a new nitrogen PEDOT analogue (PMDTO) exhibited some outstanding electrochemical performances but still suffered some drawbacks.
Coordination chemistry of mixed M(benzene)(cyclopendadienyl) sandwich complexes: electronic properties and bonding analysis
Authors: Zendaoui Saber-Mustapha , Zouchoune Bachir
Published: January 2016

Various coordination modes are adopted by the benzene and the cyclopentadienyl ring depending on the electron count of the iron metal and the spin state of the complex.
An NBD-based two-in-one Cu2+/Ni2+ chemosensor with differential charge transfer processes
Authors: Rani Richa , Paul Kamaldeep , Luxami Vijay
Published: January 2016

A new multifunctional NBD-based probe for differential sensing of Cu2+/Ni2+ ions through visible color changes in semi-aqueous systems.
New pyridazine-based binuclear nickel(ii), copper(ii) and zinc(ii) complexes as prospective anticancer agents
Authors: Rafi Ummer Muhammed , Mahendiran Dharmasivam , Haleel Azees Khan , Nankar Rakesh Pandeet , Doble Mukesh , Rahiman Aziz Kalilur
Published: January 2016

The complexes containing diethylamino substituents exhibit promising cytotoxicity against the estrogen receptor (ER) negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line.
Mesoporous MEL, BEA, and FAU zeolite crystals obtained by in situ formation of carbon template over metal nanoparticles
Authors: Abildstrøm Jacob Oskar , Ali Zahra Nasrudin , Mentzel Uffe Vie , Mielby Jerrik , Kegnæs Søren , Kegnæs Marina
Published: January 2016

Highly crystalline zeolites with intracrystalline mesopores are synthesized through a straightforward and feasible templating method.
Heterogeneous catalysis of water oxidation supported by a novel metallamacrocycle
Authors: Yu Wei-Bin , He Qing-Ya , Shi Hua-Tian , Wei Xianwen
Published: January 2016

Metallamacrocycles1and2were constructed, and1was further explored as a precatalyst for water oxidation, giving a good efficiency.
Synthesis of enantiomerically pure bis(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolanylmethyl)chalcogenides and dichalcogenides
Authors: Borges Elton L. , Peglow Thiago J. , Silva Márcio S. , Jacoby Caroline G. , Schneider Paulo H. , Lenardão Eder J. , Jacob Raquel G. , Perin Gelson
Published: January 2016

Enantiomerically pure bis-1,3-dioxolanylmethyl chalcogenides and dichalcogenides (S, Se and Te) were prepared from chalcogenides and chiral solketal tosylates.
Fabrication of poly-crystalline Si-based Mie resonators via amorphous Si on SiO2dewetting
Authors: Naffouti Meher , David Thomas , Benkouider Abdelmalek , Favre Luc , Ronda Antoine , Berbezier Isabelle , Bidault Sebastien , Bonod Nicolas , Abbarchi Marco
Published: January 2016

High-quality Si-based polycrystalline Mie resonators are fabricated on arbitrary silica substratesviasolid-state dewetting.
How soft is a single protein? The stress–strain curve of antibody pentamers with 5 pN and 50 pm resolutions
Authors: Perrino Alma P. , Garcia Ricardo
Published: January 2016

A hybrid dynamic force microscopy method to measure the softness of a single protein is reported. The method enables to determine the stress–strain curve with force and deformation resolutions, respectively, of 5 pN and 50 pm.
Organic–inorganic polyimides with double decker silsesquioxane in the main chains
Authors: Liu Ning , Wei Kun , Wang Lei , Zheng Sixun
Published: January 2016

In this contribution, we report the synthesis of organic–inorganic polyimides with double decker silsesquioxane in the main chains with a novel and well-defined POSS diamine.
pH-Sensitive nanogates based on poly(l-histidine) for controlled drug release from mesoporous silica nanoparticles
Authors: Bilalis Panayiotis , Tziveleka Leto-A. , Varlas Spyridon , Iatrou Hermis
Published: January 2016

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) bearing poly(l-histidine)-grafted nanogates were prepared by surface-initiated ROP. The obtained polypeptide-functionalized MSNs were used as smart pH-responsive nanocarriers for controlled drug release applications.
Synthesis and in-depth characterization of reactive, uniform, crosslinked microparticles based on free radical copolymerization of 4-vinylbenzyl azide
Authors: Albuszis Marco , Roth Peter J. , Exnowitz Franziska , Wong Doris Locsin , Pauer Werner , Moritz Hans-Ulrich
Published: January 2016

A direct seed-swelling copolymerization formulation affords well-defined azide-functional porous or hollow microparticles amenable to click-modification.
Thermo- and pH-responsive poly(ionic liquid) membranes
Authors: Chen Fei , Guo Jiangna , Xu Dan , Yan Feng
Published: January 2016

Thermo- and pH-responsive poly(ionic liquid) membranes with tunable shape and transparency were synthesized.
Facile fabrication of glycopolymer-based iron oxide nanoparticles and their applications in the carbohydrate–lectin interaction and targeted cell imaging
Authors: Shao Chen , Li Xueming , Pei Zhichao , Liu Dongdong , Wang Lin , Dong Hai , Pei Yuxin
Published: January 2016

A novel method for facile fabrication of glycopolymer-based iron oxide nanoparticles (GIONs) is developed.
Imparting Brønsted acidity into a zeolitic imidazole framework
Authors: Williams Kia , Meng Le , Lee Sinhye , Lux Lacey , Gao Wenyang , Ma Shengqian
Published: January 2016

The impartment of Brønsted acidity into a zeolitic imidazole framework, ZIF-90 has been achieved via post-synthetically oxidizing the aldehyde group into carboxylate group.
In situ and facile synthesis of silver nanoparticles on baby wipes and their applications in catalysis and SERS
Authors: Baruah Bharat
Published: January 2016

Silver nanoparticles were immobilized on fibers to create composite materials. The composites are shown to be efficient heterogeneous catalyst with very good recyclability. These composite materials are also proven to be good SERS substrates.
Facile size-controllable synthesis of single crystalline β-MnO2nanorods under varying acidic strengths
Authors: Kumar Niraj , Dineshkumar P. , Rameshbabu R. , Sen Arijit
Published: January 2016

A simple one-pot hydrothermal synthesis of single crystalline β-MnO2nanorods with diameters in the range of 10–40 nm is reported.
AlN-based film buck acoustic resonator operated in shear mode for detection of carcinoembryonic antigens
Authors: Zheng Dan , Xiong Juan , Guo Peng , Wang Shengfu , Gu Haoshuang
Published: January 2016

A film buck acoustic resonator (FBAR) operated in shear mode was fabricated and integrated with a microchannel for detection of the carcinoembryonic antigens (CEA).
Chemically integrated hierarchical hybrid zinc cobaltate/reduced graphene oxide microspheres as an enhanced lithium-ion battery anode
Authors: Chen Chang , Liu Borui , Ru Qiang , Ma Shaomeng , Hu Shejun , Hou Xianhua
Published: January 2016

ZnCo2O4/rGO hybrid composites synthesized by an alcoholization process, together with hierarchical microsphere zinc cobalt oxides (ZCO) embedded in the graphene sheets, can display superior rate capability and enhanced cyclic stability during cycling.
Nanosized graphane (C1H1.14)n by hydrogenation of carbon nanofibers by Birch reduction method
Authors: Bouša Daniel , Luxa Jan , Sedmidubský David , Huber Štěpán , Jankovský Ondřej , Pumera Martin , Sofer Zdeněk
Published: January 2016

Fully hydrogenated graphane nanostructures were prepared from graphite nanofibers by Birch reduction reaction.
Low temperature grown ZnO:Ga films with predominant c-axis orientation in wurtzite structure demonstrating high conductance, transmittance and photoluminescence
Authors: Das Debajyoti , Mondal Praloy
Published: January 2016

Highly conducting and optically transparent ZnO:Ga films with dominant c-axis orientated (I<002>/I<101> ∼ 40) wurtzite structure grown at 50 °C and 50 W RF power in magnetron sputtering exhibit allowed Raman active A1 (LO) mode and intense UV-luminescence.
Multicompartment micelles based on hierarchical co-assembly of PCL-b-PEG and PCL-b-P4VP diblock copolymers
Authors: Liu Xue , Hou Yu , Tang Xiuping , Wu Qiuhua , Wu Chenglin , Yi Jie , Zhang Guolin
Published: January 2016

Multicompartment micelles with various morphologies were preparedviadirected stepwise self-assembly using pre-assembled subunits, which were first constructed through the co-assembly of two amphiphilic diblock copolymer: PCL-b-PEG and PCL-b-P4VP.
Water-soluble amino(ethanesulfonate) and [bis(ethanesulfonate)] anthracenes as fluorescent photoinduced electron transfer (PET) pH indicators and Fe3+chemosensors
Authors: Cardona Maria A. , Mallia Carl J. , Baisch Ulrich , Magri David C.
Published: January 2016

Two novel anthracene-based chemosensors appended with amino(ethanesulfonate) groups function as fluorescent PETturn-onprobes for protons andturn-offprobes for ferric ions in water.
Platinum nanocatalysts on metal oxide based supports for low temperature fuel cell applications
Authors: Elezovic N. R. , Radmilovic V. R. , Krstajic N. V.
Published: January 2016

In this manuscript a survey of the contemporary research related to platinum nanocatalysts on metal oxide based supports for low temperature fuel cell applications is presented.
Solution chemistry-based nano-structuring of copper dendrites for efficient use in catalysis and superhydrophobic surfaces
Authors: Bakthavatsalam Rangarajan , Ghosh Subrata , Biswas Ratul Kumar , Saxena Aayushi , Raja Alagar , Thotiyl Musthafa Ottakam , Wadhai Sandip , Banpurkar Arun G. , Kundu Janardan
Published: January 2016

Solution chemistry-based nano-structuring of Cu dendrites is exploited to enhance their efficiency in applications of catalysis and superhydrophobicity.
Mechanistic insights into the activation process in electrocatalytic ethanol oxidation by phosphomolybdic acid-stabilised palladium(0) nanoparticles (PdNPs@PMo12)
Authors: Khadempir Sara , Ahmadpour Ali , Hamed Mosavian Mohammad Taghi , Ashraf Narges , Bamoharram Fatemeh F. , Fernández-Pacheco Rodrigo , de la Fuente Jesús M. , Mitchell Scott G.
Published: January 2016

A Keggin type polyoxometalate (POM), phosphomolybdic acid (PMo12), has been employed to encapsulate and stabilise pseudo-spherical Pd(0) nanoparticles (PdNPs).
Developing biomedical nano-grained β-type titanium alloys using high pressure torsion for improved cell adherence
Authors: Yilmazer Hakan , Şen Mustafa , Niinomi Mitsuo , Nakai Masaaki , Huihong Liu , Cho Ken , Todaka Yoshikazu , Shiku Hitoshi , Matsue Tomokazu
Published: January 2016

Proper surface characteristics for a titanium implant are crucial for the formation of different cellular protrusions known as filopodia and lamellipodia, both of which have a significant impact on cell attachment, spreading, and proliferation.
Oxygen reduction reaction on cobalt–(n)pyrrole clusters from DFT studies
Authors: Chen Xin
Published: January 2016

The oxygen reduction reaction catalyzed by cobalt–(n)pyrrole (n = 2–10) clusters was investigated by DFT method.
Highly efficient conversion of carbohydrates into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural using the bi-functional CrPO4 catalyst
Authors: Xu Siquan , Yan Xiaopei , Bu Quan , Xia Haian
Published: January 2016

The highly efficient synthesis of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) from carbohydrates was achieved using the inexpensive and bi-functional CrPO4 catalyst in a biphasic system.
Synthesis, characterization, and thermo-mechanical properties of poly(acrylonitrile-co-2,3-dimethyl-1,3-butadiene-co-itaconic acid) as carbon fibre polymer precursors
Authors: Krishnan G. Santhana , Thomas P. , Murali N.
Published: January 2016

Graphical abstract shows a novel carbon fibre polymer precursor with improved thermal characteristics.
Band modification of graphene by using slow Cs+ ions
Authors: Sung Sijin , Lee Sang-Hoon , Lee Paengro , Kim Jingul , Park Heemin , Ryu Mintae , Kim Namdong , Hwang Choongyu , Jhi Seung-Hoon , Chung Jinwook
Published: January 2016

We report new wide band gap engineering for graphene using slow Cs+ ions, which allows both fine-tuning and on–off switching capability of the band gap in a range suitable for most applications sustaining the nature of Dirac fermions.
Adsorption of phosphate on surface of magnetic reed: characteristics, kinetic, isotherm, desorption, competitive and mechanistic studies
Authors: Wang Tiantian , Xu Xing , Ren Zhongfei , Gao Baoyu , Wang Hantao
Published: January 2016

A magnetic biocomposite was prepared by Fe3O4in situ co-precipitation and amine functionalization processes by using virgin reed as starting material.
Modulating hierarchical self-assembly behavior of a peptide amphiphile/nonionic surfactant mixed system
Authors: Zhang Han , Yu Menghong , Song Aixin , Song Yawen , Xin Xia , Shen Jinglin , Yuan Shiling
Published: January 2016

The self-assembly behavior of a nonionic surfactant (n-dodecyl tetraethylene monoether, C12E4) and a peptide amphiphile (PA, C16-GK-3) mixed system was investigated using a combination of microscopic, scattering and spectroscopic techniques.
MOF–polymer enhanced compatibility: post-annealed zeolite imidazolate framework membranes inside polyimide hollow fibers
Authors: Cacho-Bailo Fernando , Caro Guillermo , Etxeberría-Benavides Miren , Karvan Oğuz , Téllez Carlos , Coronas Joaquín
Published: January 2016

Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks and polyimide supports improved their affinity during thermal annealing and therefore the separation performance of the membrane.
Improving KNbO3 photocatalytic activity under visible light
Authors: Modak Brindaban , Ghosh Swapan K.
Published: January 2016

An efficient strategy for improving KNbO3 photocatalytic activity under visible light is presented using N and W as dopant pair, which reduces the band gap mainly by elevation of the valence band maxima.
Pot economy and one-pot synthesis
Authors: Hayashi Yujiro
Published: January 2016

This review describes the importance and usefulness of pot-economy and one-pot reactions in current synthetic organic chemistry.
A molecular theory of nematic–nematic phase transitions in mesogenic dimers
Authors: Vanakaras Alexandros G. , Photinos Demetri J.
Published: January 2016

Explicit molecular theory shows the second nematic phase of symmetric dimers to have a tightly twisted polar ordering of the transverse molecular axis.
Carbodiimides: new materials applied as anode electrodes for sodium and lithium ion batteries
Authors: Eguía-Barrio A. , Castillo-Martínez E. , Liu X. , Dronskowski R. , Armand M. , Rojo T.
Published: January 2016

Carbodiimides for batteries: the family of transition-metal carbodiimides MNCN (M = Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, Co, and Ni) are shown to be new electrochemically active materials through displacement reactions both for lithium and sodium ion batteries.
Effect of side chain length on the charge transport, morphology, and photovoltaic performance of conjugated polymers in bulk heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Duan Chunhui , Willems Robin E. M. , van Franeker Jacobus J. , Bruijnaers Bardo J. , Wienk Martijn M. , Janssen René A. J.
Published: January 2016

The effect of side chain length on the photovoltaic properties of conjugated polymers is systematically investigated.
Organic photodiodes constructed from a single radial heterojunction microwire
Authors: Zhang Jianfeng , Xu Xinjun , Yao Chuang , Li Lidong
Published: January 2016

An organic radial heterostructure microwire constructed by Alq3and P3HT demonstrated high rectification properties and photoresponsivity as a photodiode.
Reimbursement and Telepractice
Authors: Dudding Carol
Published: January 2016

Whether in our professional or private lives, we are all aware of the system wide efforts to provide quality healthcare services while containing the costs. Telemedicine as a method of service delivery has expanded as a result of changes in reimbursement and service delivery models. The growth and sustainability of telehealth within speech-language pathology and audiology, like any other service, depends on the ability to be reimbursed for services provided. Currently, reimbursement for services delivered via telehealth is variable and depends on numerous factors. An understanding of these factors and a willingness to advocate for increased reimbursement can bolster the success of practitioners interested in the telehealth as a service delivery method.
Providing Tele ABR in Rural India
Authors: Ramkumar Vidya , Nagarajan Roopa , Kumaravelu Selvakumar , Hall James W.
Published: January 2016

This paper discusses the challenges in conducting real time diagnostic Tele-Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) testing in remote rural locations, based on our experience with testing over 100 infants and young children in a community based hearing screening program. Two methods of tele-ABR, one using satellite connectivity in a mobile tele-van and other using broadband internet connectivity in a non-government organization at the remote location is used in the program. Advantages and disadvantages related to the two methods, challenges with respect to training technicians for telepractice, training village health workers for remote assistance, and other practical and logistic considerations in conducting tele-ABR in remote site is detailed.
Large-eddy simulation of nitrogen injection at trans- and supercritical conditions
Authors: Müller Hagen , Niedermeier Christoph A. , Matheis Jan , Pfitzner Michael , Hickel Stefan
Published: January 2016

Large-eddy simulations (LESs) of cryogenic nitrogen injection into a warm environment at supercritical pressure are performed and real-gas thermodynamics models and subgrid-scale (SGS) turbulence models are evaluated. The comparison of different SGS models — the Smagorinsky model, the Vreman model, and the adaptive local deconvolution method — shows that the representation of turbulence on the resolved scales has a notable effect on the location of jet break-up, whereas the particular modeling of unresolved scales is less important for the overall mean flow field evolution. More important are the models for the fluid’s thermodynamic state. The injected fluid is either in a supercritical or in a transcritical state and undergoes a pseudo-boiling process during mixing. Such flows typically exhibit strong density gradients that delay the instability growth and can lead to a redistribution of turbulence kinetic energy from the radial to the axial flow direction. We evaluate novel volume-translation methods on the basis of the cubic Peng-Robinson equation of state in the framework of LES. At small extra computational cost, their application considerably improves the simulation results compared to the standard formulation. Furthermore, we found that the choice of inflow temperature is crucial for the reproduction of the experimental results and that heat addition within the injector can affect the mean flow field in comparison to results with an adiabatic injector.
Ultrathin multi-slit metamaterial as excellent sound absorber: Influence of micro-structure
Authors: Ren S. W. , Meng H. , Xin F. X. , Lu T. J.
Published: January 2016

An ultrathin (subwavelength) hierarchy multi-slit metamaterial with simultaneous negative effective density and negative compressibility is proposed to absorb sound over a wide frequency range. Different from conventional acoustic metamaterials having only negative real parts of acoustic parameters, the imaginary parts of effective density and compressibility are both negative for the proposed metamaterial, which result in superior viscous and thermal dissipation of sound energy. By combining the slit theory of sound absorption with the double porosity theory for porous media, a theoretical model is developed to investigate the sound absorption performance of the metamaterial. To verify the model, a finite element model is established to calculate the effective density, compressibility, and sound absorption of the metamaterial. It is theoretically and numerically confirmed that, upon introducing micro-slits into the meso-slits matrix, the multi-slit metamaterial possesses indeed negative imaginary parts of effective density and compressibility. The influence of micro-slits on the acoustical performance of the metamaterial is analyzed in the context of its specific surface area and static flow resistivity. This work shows great potential of multi-slit metamaterials in noise control applications that require both small volume and small weight of sound-absorbing materials.
Electron cyclotron resonance ion source plasma characterization by X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray imaging
Authors: Mascali David , Castro Giuseppe , Biri Sándor , Rácz Richárd , Pálinkás József , Caliri Claudia , Celona Luigi , Neri Lorenzo , Romano Francesco Paolo , Torrisi Giuseppe , Gammino Santo
Published: January 2016

An experimental campaign aiming to investigate electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) plasma X-ray emission has been recently carried out at the ECRISs—Electron Cyclotron Resonance Ion Sources laboratory of Atomki based on a collaboration between the Debrecen and Catania ECR teams. In a first series, the X-ray spectroscopy was performed through silicon drift detectors and high purity germanium detectors, characterizing the volumetric plasma emission. The on-purpose developed collimation system was suitable for direct plasma density evaluation, performed “on-line” during beam extraction and charge state distribution characterization. A campaign for correlating the plasma density and temperature with the output charge states and the beam intensity for different pumping wave frequencies, different magnetic field profiles, and single-gas/gas-mixing configurations was carried out. The results reveal a surprisingly very good agreement between warm-electron density fluctuations, output beam currents, and the calculated electromagnetic modal density of the plasma chamber. A charge-coupled device camera coupled to a small pin-hole allowing X-ray imaging was installed and numerous X-ray photos were taken in order to study the peculiarities of the ECRIS plasma structure.
Tuning resistance states by thickness control in an electroforming-free nanometallic complementary resistance random access memory
Authors: Yang Xiang , Lu Yang , Lee Jongho , Chen I-Wei
Published: January 2016

Tuning low resistance state is crucial for resistance random access memory (RRAM) that aims to achieve optimal read margin and design flexibility. By back-to-back stacking two nanometallic bipolar RRAMs with different thickness into a complementary structure, we have found that its low resistance can be reliably tuned over several orders of magnitude. Such high tunability originates from the exponential thickness dependence of the high resistance state of nanometallic RRAM, in which electron wave localization in a random network gives rise to the unique scaling behavior. The complementary nanometallic RRAM provides electroforming-free, multi-resistance-state, sub-100 ns switching capability with advantageous characteristics for memory arrays.
Frequency-reconfigurable water antenna of circular polarization
Authors: Zou Meng , Shen Zhongxiang , Pan Jin
Published: January 2016

A circularly polarized frequency-reconfigurable water antenna with high radiation efficiency is proposed based on the design concept of combining a frequency-reconfigurable radiating structure with a frequency-independent feeding structure. In this letter, a resonator made of distilled water and an Archimedean spiral slot are employed as the radiating and feeding structures, respectively. The operating frequency of the antenna can be continuously tuned over a very wide range while maintaining good impendence matching and circular polarization by changing the dimensions of the water resonator. A prototype antenna is designed, fabricated, and measured. Simulated and measured results demonstrate that the designed antenna exhibits a wide tuning frequency range from 155 MHz to 400 MHz with an average radiation efficiency of about 90% and good circular polarization.
Electron-ion collision-frequency for x-ray Thomson scattering in dense plasmas
Authors: Faussurier Gérald , Blancard Christophe
Published: January 2016

Two methods are presented to calculate the electron-ion collision-frequency in dense plasmas using an average-atom model. The first one is based on the Kubo-Greenwood approach. The second one uses the Born and Lenard-Balescu approximations. The two methods are used to calculate x-ray Thomson scattering spectra. Illustrations are shown for dense beryllium and aluminum plasmas. Comparisons with experiment are presented in the case of an x-ray Thomson scattering spectrum.
Sulfides Synthesis: Nanocatalysts in C–S Cross-Coupling Reactions
Authors: Shiri Lotfi , Ghorbani-Choghamarani Arash , Kazemi Mosstafa
Published: January 2016

The C–S cross-coupling reaction of aryl halides with thiols or sulfur sources is a key and valuable synthetic transformation in chemistry and medicine as well as in biology, and the development of novel efficient synthetic protocols for the synthesis of the corresponding products (sulfides) is highly desired. Among a wide range of catalysts used in C–S coupling reactions, metallic nanocatalysts have attracted notable interest. Herein, we summarize recent breakthroughs in the arena of metal nanocatalysts employed in C–S cross-coupling reactions with the goal of stimulating further progress in this field. This review is divided into three main sections according to the nature of the metal nanocatalysts discussed. The first section focuses on naked or purely metallic catalysts in nano-size, such as Cu, Pd, Ni, and In. The second section focuses on the role of Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles and mesoporous silica nanomaterials, such as MCM-41 and SBA-15, as catalyst supports. Finally, the third section focuses on the catalytic activities of copper ferrite nanoparticles in C–S cross-coupling reactions. Additionally, the recovery and reusability of the nanocatalyst, which are very important from commercial and economical points of view, are comprehensively discussed in this review.
Luminopsins integrate opto- and chemogenetics by using physical and biological light sources for opsin activation
Authors: Berglund Ken , Clissold Kara , Li Haofang E. , Wen Lei , Park Sung Young , Gleixner Jan , Klein Marguerita E. , Lu Dongye , Barter Joseph W. , Rossi Mark A. , Augustine George J. , Yin Henry H. , Hochgeschwender Ute
Published: January 2016

Significance

Although conventional optogenetics utilizing microbial photosensitive channels or pumps to control activity of neurons has enabled great progress in neuroscience, reliance on delivery of light by optic fibers implanted into the brain imposes certain logistical burdens and thus limits application of optogenetics. To expand their utility, we fused optogenetic probes with luciferase that emits biological light in the presence of a substrate and showed that the activity of neurons in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo could be controlled by biological light in addition to physical light. Such fusion proteins, termed luminopsins, could prove invaluable for experimental and clinical neuroscience.
Highly efficient delivery of functional cargoes by the synergistic effect of GAG binding motifs and cell-penetrating peptides
Authors: Dixon James E. , Osman Gizem , Morris Gavin E. , Markides Hareklea , Rotherham Michael , Bayoussef Zahia , El Haj Alicia J. , Denning Chris , Shakesheff Kevin M.
Published: January 2016

Significance

Efficient delivery of therapeutic molecules inside cells by nontransgenic approaches is key as gene editing/correction, directed differentiation, and in vivo cell modulation/tracking are translated for regenerative medicine applications. Here we describe a peptide-based system engineered to enhance the activity of cell-penetrating peptides to achieve exceptional intracellular transduction. Glycosaminoglycan-binding enhanced transduction (GET) uses peptides that interact with cell membrane heparan sulfates and promote cell-penetrating peptide-mediated endocytosis into cells. The system is not dependent on extensive positive charge and can be tailored to deliver peptides, recombinant proteins, nucleic acids, nanoparticles, and antibodies. Importantly, this approach does not affect cell proliferation and viability and can be used to deliver a plethora of functional cargoes.
Region effects influence local tree species diversity
Authors: Ricklefs Robert E. , He Fangliang
Published: January 2016

Significance

The number of species in local ecological assemblages is constrained by competition and other local interactions between populations. However, ecologists have not agreed on the degree to which the unique history and geography of continental regions also influence local species richness. Here, based on forest plots distributed throughout the world, we show that the species richness of forest trees varies among continental regions independently of local climate. In particular, forest plots in Europe and North America contain fewer species than expected from the statistical relationship of diversity to present-day local climate. Thus, the number of species co-occurring locally reflects, to a significant extent, region characteristics, including geographic and geologic history, that influence evolutionary diversification and regional extinction.
Cross-talk among flesh-eatingAeromonas hydrophilastrains in mixed infection leading to necrotizing fasciitis
Authors: Ponnusamy Duraisamy , Kozlova Elena V. , Sha Jian , Erova Tatiana E. , Azar Sasha R. , Fitts Eric C. , Kirtley Michelle L. , Tiner Bethany L. , Andersson Jourdan A. , Grim Christopher J. , Isom Richard P. , Hasan Nur A. , Colwell Rita R. , Chopra Ashok K.
Published: January 2016

Significance

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rapidly progressing fatal skin and muscle tissue lesion. We studied a human case of NF and found that the infection was caused by multiple strains ofA. hydrophila(NF1–NF4). The latter three strains constitute a clonal group, whereas NF1 is phylogenetically distinct. We tested these strains individually in a mouse intramuscular model of infection and observed NF1 to be less virulent than NF2. However, when NF1 and NF2 were mixed, NF1 exhibited more virulence and it decreased NF2 virulence. The cross-talk between NF1 and NF2 was due to the presence of ExoA toxin in NF2, ability of NF1 and NF2 to differentially modulate innate immune mechanism(s), and direct killing of NF2 by NF1.
Dishonest conformity in peer review
Authors: Shibayama Sotaro , Baba Yasunori
Published: January 2016

Honesty in scientific publication is critical for scientific advancement, but dishonesty is commonly and increasingly observed in misconduct and other questionable practices. Focusing on dishonest conformity in peer review, in which authors unwillingly obey referees’ instructions in order to have their papers accepted even if the instructions contradict the authors’ scientific belief, the current study aims to investigate the determinants of dishonesty. Drawing on survey data of Japanese life scientists, this study shows that the conflict between authors and referees in peer review is common. A majority of scientists follow referees’ instructions rather than refute them. The results suggest that conformity occurs more frequently (1) in biology than in medicine and agriculture, (2) when authors are in strong scientific competition, (3) if authors are associate professors rather than full professors, (4) if authors have no foreign research experience, and (5) in low-impact journals rather than in medium-impact journals.
Sildenafil in Heart Failure with Reactive Pulmonary Hypertension (Sildenafil HF) Clinical Trial (Rationale and Design)
Authors: Guglin Maya , Rajagopalan Navin , Anaya Paul , Charnigo Richard
Published: January 2016

In this article, we present the rationale and design of the Sildenafil HF trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02304705). We will randomize patients with heart failure and reactive pulmonary hypertension (pulmonary capillary wedge pressure > 15 mmHg, pulmonary vascular resistance > 3 Wood units) into two groups: the treatment group receiving sildenafil 20 mg 3 times a day and a matching placebo group. The duration of intervention will be 3 months. The primary outcome is 6‐minute walk distance. Key features of this trial include (1) that reactive pulmonary hypertension is an inclusion criterion, (2) that patients will be enrolled regardless of left ventricular ejection fraction, and (3) that clinical stability in the 3 months preceding enrollment is not required.
Homogeneous minimal polynomials with prescribed interpolation conditions
Authors: Białas-Cież Leokadia , Calvi Jean-Paul
Published: January 2016

Given a compact setEEinCN+1\mathbb {C}^{N+1}, we consider the problem of finding a homogeneous polynomial of degreeddonCN+1\mathbb {C}^{N+1}which deviates the least from zero onEEwith respect to the uniform norm among all those satisfying interpolation conditions of the formp(a)=f(a)p(a)=f(a)whereaabelongs to a given finite subset ofCN+1\mathbb {C}^{N+1}andffis any function on such set. We show that this formalism enables one to recover several types of minimal polynomials previously studied and to prove a general invariance property of such minimal polynomials under polynomial mappings.
Evaluation of Forecasting Models for Fusarium Head Blight of Wheat Under Growing Conditions of Quebec, Canada
Authors: Giroux M.-E. , Bourgeois G. , Dion Y. , Rioux S. , Pageau D. , Zoghlami S. , Parent C. , Vachon E. , Vanasse A.
Published: January 2016

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a fungal disease of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) causing frequent economic losses to farmers under growing conditions of Eastern Canada. To assess risks associated with this disease and guide fungicide use decisions, many researchers from numerous countries have developed weather-based forecasting models. This work aims at evaluating which model produces the most accurate predictions of disease infection or deoxynivalenol (DON) content under climatic conditions occurring in Quebec. Spring wheat was grown during two seasons and winter wheat during one season at four experimental sites located in Quebec. Nine selected models for evaluation produced predictions of DON content (Canada and Italy), disease incidence (Argentina and Italy), and probability of epidemics (United States). Data from plots without fungicide (52 samples) were used to test the models listed above. Reliability of the selected forecasting models was evaluated with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. DON content (≥1 ppm) was the best crop damage indicator to differentiate epidemic (cases) and nonepidemic (controls) situations. Two American and the Argentinean forecasting models were more reliable than the others when the thresholds recommended in the literature were adjusted using the results for the ROC curve analyses. Those models are a good starting point for the implementation of an FHB forecasting system adapted to wheat production in Quebec.
Leuconostoc spp. Associated with Root Rot in Sugar Beet and Their Interaction with Rhizoctonia solani
Authors: Strausbaugh Carl A.
Published: January 2016

Rhizoctonia root and crown rot is an important disease problem in sugar beet caused by Rhizoctonia solani and also shown to be associated with Leuconostoc spp. Initial Leuconostoc studies were conducted with only a few isolates and the relationship of Leuconostoc with R. solani is poorly understood; therefore, a more thorough investigation was conducted. In total, 203 Leuconostoc isolates were collected from recently harvested sugar beet roots in southern Idaho and southeastern Oregon during 2010 and 2012: 88 and 85% Leuconostoc mesenteroides, 6 and 15% L. pseudomesenteroides, 2 and 0% L. kimchi, and 4 and 0% unrecognized Leuconostoc spp., respectively. Based on 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing, haplotype 11 (L. mesenteroides isolates) comprised 68 to 70% of the isolates in both years. In pathogenicity field studies with commercial sugar beet ‘B-7’, all Leuconostoc isolates caused more rot (P < 0.0001; α = 0.05) when combined with R. solani than when inoculated alone in both years. Also, 46 of the 52 combination treatments over the 2 years had significantly more rot (P < 0.0001; α = 0.05) than the fungal check. The data support the conclusion that a synergistic interaction leads to more rot when both Leuconostoc spp. and R. solani are present in sugar beet roots.
Characterizing the Pain Narratives of Parents of Youth With Chronic Pain
Authors: Noel Melanie , Beals-Erickson Sarah E. , Law Emily F. , Alberts Nicole M. , Palermo Tonya M.
Published: January 2016

Objectives:

Questionnaire-based research has shown that parents exert a powerful influence on and are profoundly influenced by living with a child with chronic pain. Examination of parents’ pain narratives through an observational lens offers an alternative approach to understanding the complexity of pediatric chronic pain; however, the narratives of parents of youth with chronic pain have been largely overlooked. The present study aimed to characterize the vulnerability-based and resilience-based aspects of the pain narratives of parents of youth with chronic pain.

Methods:

Pain narratives of 46 parents were recorded during the baseline session as part of 2 clinical trials evaluating a behavioral intervention for parents of youth with chronic pain. The narratives were coded for aspects of pain-related vulnerability and resilience.

Results:

Using exploratory cluster analysis, 2 styles of parents’ pain narratives were identified. Distress narratives were characterized by more negative affect and an exclusively unresolved orientation toward the child’s diagnosis of chronic pain, whereas resilience narratives were characterized by positive affect and a predominantly resolved orientation toward the child’s diagnosis. Preliminary support for the validity of these clusters was provided through our finding of differences between clusters in parental pain catastrophizing about child pain (helplessness).

Discussion:

Findings highlight the multidimensional nature of parents’ experience of their child’s pain problem. Clinical implications in terms of assessment and treatment are discussed.
Acute Low Back Pain
Authors: Starkweather Angela R. , Ramesh Divya , Lyon Debra E. , Siangphoe Umaporn , Deng Xioayan , Sturgill Jamie , Heineman Amy , Elswick R.K. , Dorsey Susan G. , Greenspan Joel
Published: January 2016

Objectives:

Low back pain (LBP) is the second most frequently diagnosed pain condition in the United States, and although a majority of individuals have resolution of pain during the acute period, an estimated 40% of individuals will experience persistent pain. Given the heterogenous nature of LBP, this study sought to describe and compare somatosensory and molecular (gene expression) profiles between individuals with acute LBP and healthy no-pain controls.

Methods:

Using a previously established protocol, we comprehensively assessed somatosensory parameters among 31 no-pain control participants and 31 participants with acute LBP. Samples of whole blood were drawn to examine mRNA expression of candidate genes involved in the transduction, maintenance, and modulation of pain.

Results:

The acute LBP group exhibited increased pain sensitivity to cold stimuli, mechanical stimuli, including mechanical temporal summation at both the painful back area and remote location suggesting a mechanism of enhanced central nervous system excitability. In addition, deep tissue-specific peripheral sensitization was suggested due to significant differences in pressure pain threshold of the painful back area, but not the remote body site. Several genes that were differentially expressed were significantly associated with somatosensory alterations identified in the acute LBP group.

Discussion:

Acute LBP participants showed selective pain sensitivity enhancement and differential gene expression profiles compared with pain-free controls. Further research to characterize pain-associated somatosensory changes in the context of altered mRNA expression levels may provide insight on the molecular underpinnings of maladaptive chronic pain.
Development and Validation of the Behavioral Avoidance Test—Back Pain (BAT-Back) for Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Holzapfel Sebastian , Riecke Jenny , Rief Winfried , Schneider Jessica , Glombiewski Julia A.
Published: January 2016

Objectives:

Pain-related fear and avoidance of physical activities are central elements of the fear-avoidance model of musculoskeletal pain. Pain-related fear has typically been measured by self-report instruments. In this study, we developed and validated a Behavioral Avoidance Test (BAT) for chronic low back pain (CLBP) patients with the aim of assessing pain-related avoidance behavior by direct observation.

Materials and Methods:

The BAT-Back was administered to a group of CLBP patients (N=97) and pain-free controls (N=31). Furthermore, pain, pain-related fear, disability, catastrophizing, and avoidance behavior were measured using self-report instruments. Reliability was assessed with intraclass correlation coefficient and Cronbach α. Validity was assessed by examining correlation and regression analysis.

Results:

The intraclass correlation coefficient for the BAT-Back avoidance score was r=0.76. Internal consistency was α=0.95. CLBP patients and controls differed significantly on BAT-Back avoidance scores as well as self-report measures. BAT-Back avoidance scores were significantly correlated with scores on each of the self-report measures (rs=0.27 to 0.54). They were not significantly correlated with general anxiety and depression, age, body mass index, and pain duration. The BAT-Back avoidance score was able to capture unique variance in disability after controlling for other variables (eg, pain intensity and pain-related fear).

Discussion:

Results indicate that the BAT-Back is a reliable and valid measure of pain-related avoidance behavior. It may be useful for clinicians in tailoring treatments for chronic pain as well as an outcome measure for exposure treatments.