bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LITERATURE FROM BELOW: RADICALISM AND POPULAR FICTION
Authors: Vargo Greg
Published: May 2016

InThe Poetry of Chartism(2009), Mike Sanders describes the temptation which confronts literary scholars of working-class and radical political movements to present their endeavors as “archival work [of] discovery, a bringing to light of long forgotten artefacts” (36). Such posture, though dramatic, is unwarranted in Sanders's view because a critical tradition beginning in the late nineteenth century has continued to republish, analyze, and appreciate the writing of Chartist poets. Yet, if the temptation persists (for students of radical poetry and fiction alike), it does so for reasons beyond the difficulties inherent in accessing literature printed in ephemeral newspapers by movements which suffered state persecution. New generations of scholars must “discover” the radical corpus anew because in a profound sense this corpus has not been integrated into broader literary history but has remained a separate tradition, found and lost again and again.
Universal Credit: Assumptions, Contradictions and Virtual Reality
Authors: Millar Jane , Bennett Fran
Published: May 2016

Universal Credit is a major change in the UK's social security system which will affect around eight million households by replacing six existing means-tested benefits and tax credits with a single benefit, based on income, assets and circumstances, and paid monthly. Much commentary about Universal Credit has supported the principle but raised concerns about delivery. This consensus about the principles and the focus on delivery have resulted in less attention being paid to key policy choices informing the design. This article examines two aspects of the design of Universal Credit: the aim to make Universal Credit as much ‘like work’ as possible, and the architecture of the means test. The focus here is the gap between the assumptions underlying the design of Universal Credit, on the one hand, and the research evidence about life on a low income, and in low-waged and often insecure employment, on the other. Finally, we discuss the most significant contradiction between the ‘transformational’ aim for Universal Credit, to help people achieve greater ‘independence’ from the state, and the realities of deepening and widening control of claimants’ lives.
Microstrip lowpass filter with wide stopband and sharp roll-off using modified radial stub resonator
Authors: Hayati Mohsen , Khodadoost Mehrnaz , Abbasi Hamed
Published: May 2016

In this paper, a microstrip lowpass filter with wide stopband and sharp roll-off is presented. The proposed filter consists of a modified radial stub resonator which is cascaded by four suppressing cells. To reduce the overall size, the transmission lines are folded. The cut-off frequency of the proposed filter is 1.19 GHz. The transition band is approximately 0.2 GHz from 1.19 to 1.39 GHz with corresponding attenuation levels of 3–20 dB. The stopband is from 1.39 to 19 GHz with attenuation level of <20 dB. The insertion loss and return loss in the passband from DC to 0.8 GHz are better than 0.26 and 14 dB, respectively. The proposed filter is fabricated and measured. The simulated and measured results are in good agreement.
Total and Trimester-Specific Gestational Weight Gain and Offspring Birth and Early Childhood Weight: A Prospective Cohort Study on Monozygotic Twin Mothers and Their Offspring
Authors: Scheers Andersson Elina , Silventoinen Karri , Tynelius Per , Nohr Ellen A. , Sørensen Thorkild I. A. , Rasmussen Finn
Published: May 2016

Gestational weight gain (GWG) has in numerous studies been associated with offspring birth weight (BW) and childhood weight. However, these associations might be explained by genetic confounding as offspring inherit their mother's genetic potential to gain weight. Furthermore, little is known about whether particular periods of pregnancy could influence offspring body weight differently. We therefore aimed to explore total and trimester-specific effects of GWG in monozygotic (MZ) twin mother-pairs on their offspring's BW, weight at 1 year and body mass index (BMI) at 5 and 10 years. MZ twin mothers born 1962–1975 were identified in national Swedish registers, and data on exposure and outcome variables was collected from medical records. We analyzed associations within and between twin pairs. We had complete data on the mothers’ GWG and offspring BW for 82 pairs. The results indicated that total, and possibly also second and third trimester GWG were associated with offspring BW within the twin pairs in the fully adjusted model (β = 0.08 z-score units, 95% CI: 0.001, 0.17; β = 1.32 z-score units, 95% CI: -0.29, 2.95; and β = 1.02 z-score units, 95% CI: -0.50, 2.54, respectively). Our findings, although statistically weak, suggested no associations between GWG and offspring weight or BMI during infancy or childhood. Our study suggests that total, and possibly also second and third trimester, GWG are associated with offspring BW when taking shared genetic and environmental factors within twin pairs into account. Larger family-based studies with long follow-up are needed to confirm our findings.
Increased Fetal Plasma Erythropoietin in Monochorionic Twin Pregnancies With Selective Intrauterine Growth Restriction and Abnormal Umbilical Artery Doppler
Authors: Chang Yao-Lung , Chao An-Shine , Peng Hsiu-Huei , Chang Shuenn-Dyh , Su Sheng-Yuan , Chen Kuan-Ju , Cheng Po-Jen , Wang Tzu-Hao
Published: May 2016

Hypoxia is the primary stimulus for the production of erythropoietin (EPO) in both fetal and adult life. Here, we investigated fetal plasma EPO concentrations in monochorionic (MC) twin pregnancies with selective intrauterine growth restriction (sIUGR) and abnormal umbilical artery (UA) Doppler. We diagnosed sIUGR in presence of (1) birth-weight discordance >20% and (2) either twin with a birth weight <10th percentile. An abnormal UA Doppler was defined as a persistent absent-reverse end diastolic flow (AREDF). The intertwin EPO ratio was calculated as the plasma EPO level of the smaller (or small-for-gestational-age) twin divided by the EPO concentration of the larger (or appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA)) twin. Thirty-two MC twin pairs were included. Of these, 17 pairs were normal twins (Group 1), seven pairs were twins with sIUGR without UA Doppler abnormalities (Group 2), and eight pairs were twins with sIUGR and UA Doppler abnormalities (Group 3). The highest EPO ratio was identified in Group 3 (p< .001) but no significant differences were observed between Groups 1 and 2. Fetal hemoglobin levels did not differ significantly in the three groups, and fetal EPO concentration did not correlate with gestational age at birth. We conclude that fetal plasma EPO concentrations are selectively increased in MC twin pregnancies with sIUGR and abnormal UA Doppler, possibly as a result of uncompensated hypoxia.
What Does the Pacific Arctic's New Normal Mean for Marine Life?
Authors: Sheffield Guy Lisa , Moore Sue , Stabeno Phyllis
Published: May 2016

Climate change has reconfigured Arctic ecosystems. A 5-year project focuses on the relationships among oceanographic conditions and the animals and other life-forms in this region.
Scientist Credibility Unhurt by Climate Advocacy, Study Suggests
Authors: Strelich Lily
Published: May 2016

In a social science experiment, a fictitious meteorologist who advocates climate policy stances retains credibility among test subjects.
Skin CD4+ memory T cells exhibit combined cluster-mediated retention and equilibration with the circulation
Authors: Collins Nicholas , Jiang Xiaodong , Zaid Ali , Macleod Bethany L. , Li Jane , Park Chang Ook , Haque Ashraful , Bedoui Sammy , Heath William R. , Mueller Scott N. , Kupper Thomas S. , Gebhardt Thomas , Carbone Francis R.
Published: May 2016

Although memory T cells within barrier tissues can persist as permanent residents, at least some exchange with blood. The extent to which this occurs is unclear. Here we show that memory CD4+ T cells in mouse skin are in equilibrium with the circulation at steady state. These cells are dispersed throughout the inter-follicular regions of the dermis and form clusters with antigen presenting cells around hair follicles. After infection or administration of a contact sensitizing agent, there is a sustained increase in skin CD4+ T-cell content, which is confined to the clusters, with a concomitant CCL5-dependent increase in CD4+ T-cell recruitment. Skin CCL5 is derived from CD11b+ cells and CD8+ T cells, with the elimination of the latter decreasing CD4+ T-cell numbers. These results reveal a complex pattern of tissue-retention and equilibration for CD4+ memory T cells in skin, which is altered by infection and inflammation history.
Giant photon bunching, superradiant pulse emission and excitation trapping in quantum-dot nanolasers
Authors: Jahnke Frank , Gies Christopher , Aßmann Marc , Bayer Manfred , Leymann H. A. M. , Foerster Alexander , Wiersig Jan , Schneider Christian , Kamp Martin , Höfling Sven
Published: May 2016

Light is often characterized only by its classical properties, like intensity or coherence. When looking at its quantum properties, described by photon correlations, new information about the state of the matter generating the radiation can be revealed. In particular the difference between independent and entangled emitters, which is at the heart of quantum mechanics, can be made visible in the photon statistics of the emitted light. The well-studied phenomenon of superradiance occurs when quantum–mechanical correlations between the emitters are present. Notwithstanding, superradiance was previously demonstrated only in terms of classical light properties. Here, we provide the missing link between quantum correlations of the active material and photon correlations in the emitted radiation. We use the superradiance of quantum dots in a cavity-quantum electrodynamics laser to show a direct connection between superradiant pulse emission and distinctive changes in the photon correlation function. This directly demonstrates the importance of quantum–mechanical correlations and their transfer between carriers and photons in novel optoelectronic devices.
Supramolecular metal-organic frameworks that display high homogeneous and heterogeneous photocatalytic activity for H2 production
Authors: Tian Jia , Xu Zi-Yue , Zhang Dan-Wei , Wang Hui , Xie Song-Hai , Xu Da-Wen , Ren Yuan-Hang , Wang Hao , Liu Yi , Li Zhan-Ting
Published: May 2016

Self-assembly has a unique presence when it comes to creating complicated, ordered supramolecular architectures from simple components under mild conditions. Here, we describe a self-assembly strategy for the generation of the first homogeneous supramolecular metal-organic framework (SMOF-1) in water at room temperature from a hexaarmed [Ru(bpy)3]2+-based precursor and cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]). The solution-phase periodicity of this cubic transition metal-cored supramolecular organic framework (MSOF) is confirmed by small-angle X-ray scattering and diffraction experiments, which, as supported by TEM imaging, is commensurate with the periodicity in the solid state. We further demonstrate that SMOF-1 adsorbs anionic Wells−Dawson-type polyoxometalates (WD-POMs) in a one-cage-one-guest manner to give WD-POM@SMOF-1 hybrid assemblies. Upon visible-light (500 nm) irradiation, such hybrids enable fast multi-electron injection from photosensitive [Ru(bpy)3]2+ units to redox-active WD-POM units, leading to efficient hydrogen production in aqueous media and in organic media. The demonstrated strategy opens the door for the development of new classes of liquid-phase and solid-phase ordered porous materials.
Long noncoding RNA lnc-RI is a new regulator of mitosis via targeting miRNA-210-3p to release PLK1 mRNA activity
Authors: Wang Zhi-Dong , Shen Li-Ping , Chang Cheng , Zhang Xue-Qing , Chen Zhong-Min , Li Lin , Chen Hong , Zhou Ping-Kun
Published: May 2016

Increasing evidence indicates that lncRNAs play critical roles in various biological processes, but many have not been functionally characterized. Here, we report a novel radiation-inducible lncRNA, namely lnc-RI which is essential for cell survival and appropriate mitotic progression. Our data indicated that knockdown of lnc-RI resulted in spindle abnormalities and mitotic arrest simultaneously with sharply decreased mRNA and protein expression of PLK1, a key regulator of mitosis. Our data demonstrated that PLK1 is a key downstream mediator of lnc-RI in regulating mitosis, whereby lnc-RI competitively bound to the negative PLK1 regulating miRNA, miRNA-210-p3. Taken together, we have identified lnc-RI as a new regulator of mitosis which acts by releasing PLK1 mRNA activity via competition for binding to miRNA-210-3p.
Structural and biochemical characterisation of Archaeoglobus fulgidus esterase reveals a bound CoA molecule in the vicinity of the active site
Authors: Sayer Christopher , Finnigan William , Isupov Michail N. , Levisson Mark , Kengen Servé W. M. , van der Oost John , Harmer Nicholas J. , Littlechild Jennifer A.
Published: May 2016

A new carboxyl esterase, AF-Est2, from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Archaeoglobus fulgidus has been cloned, over-expressed in Escherichia coli and biochemically and structurally characterized. The enzyme has high activity towards short- to medium-chain p-nitrophenyl carboxylic esters with optimal activity towards the valerate ester. The AF-Est2 has good solvent and pH stability and is very thermostable, showing no loss of activity after incubation for 30 min at 80 °C. The 1.4 Å resolution crystal structure of AF-Est2 reveals Coenzyme A (CoA) bound in the vicinity of the active site. Despite the presence of CoA bound to the AF-Est2 this enzyme has no CoA thioesterase activity. The pantetheine group of CoA partially obstructs the active site alcohol pocket suggesting that this ligand has a role in regulation of the enzyme activity. A comparison with closely related α/β hydrolase fold enzyme structures shows that the AF-Est2 has unique structural features that allow CoA binding. A comparison of the structure of AF-Est2 with the human carboxyl esterase 1, which has CoA thioesterase activity, reveals that CoA is bound to different parts of the core domain in these two enzymes and approaches the active site from opposite directions.
Distribution of Systemically Administered Nanoparticles Reveals a Size-Dependent Effect Immediately following Cardiac Ischaemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Lundy David J. , Chen Kun-Hung , Toh Elsie K.-W. , Hsieh Patrick C.-H.
Published: May 2016

Nanoparticles represent an attractive option for systemic delivery of therapeutic compounds to the heart following myocardial infarction. However, it is well known that physicochemical properties of nanoparticles such as size, shape and surface modifications can vastly alter the distribution and uptake of injected nanoparticles. Therefore, we aimed to provide an examination of the rapid size-dependent uptake of fluorescent PEG-modified polystyrene nanoparticles administered immediately following cardiac ischaemia-reperfusion injury in mice. By assessing the biodistribution of nanoparticles with core diameters between 20 nm and 2 μm 30 minutes after their administration, we conclude that 20–200 nm diameter nanoparticles are optimal for passive targeting of the injured left ventricle.
Arterial Remodeling in B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Knock-Out Females
Authors: Holditch Sara J. , Schreiber Claire A. , Burnett John C. , Ikeda Yasuhiro
Published: May 2016

Sexual dimorphisms are recognized in cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension, stroke, thrombosis and vasculitis. B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a guanylyl cyclase A (GC-A) agonist. The anti-hypertensive, vasodilatory, anti-fibrotic and anti-hypertrophic properties of BNP are well established in male animal models. Although circulating BNP levels are higher in women, when compared to age-matched men, the cardiovascular protective propensity of BNP in females is poorly understood. We assessed the cardiovascular consequences of BNP deletion in genetically null (Nppb−/−) female rat lines. Throughout the study, blood pressure (BP) remained uninfluenced by genotype and cardiorenal consequences of BNP knock out remained minor. Unexpectedly, approximately 60% of Nppb−/− females developed mesenteric polyarteritis-nodosa (PAN)-like vasculitis in their life span, some as early as 4 months of age. Mesenteric lesions involved intense arterial remodeling, progressive inflammation, occluded lumens and less frequently intestinal necrosis and multiple visceral arterial aneurysms. Cumulative pathologies resulted in a significant decline in survival of the Nppb−/− female. This study highlights BNP’s vasoprotective propensity, bringing to light a possible sex specific difference in the cardiovascular protection provided by BNP. Defects in the BNP/GC-A/cGMP pathway may play a role in arteriopathies in women, while GC-A agonists may provide effective therapy for arteritis.
Analysis of crystal structure of Arabidopsis MPK6 and generation of its mutants with higher activity
Authors: Wang Bo , Qin Xinghua , Wu Juan , Deng Hongying , Li Yuan , Yang Hailian , Chen Zhongzhou , Liu Guoqin , Ren Dongtao
Published: May 2016

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades, which are the highly conserved signalling modules in eukaryotic organisms, have been shown to play important roles in regulating growth, development and stress responses. The structures of various MAPKs from yeast and animal have been solved and structure-based mutants were generated for their function analyses, however, the structures of plant MAPKs remain unsolved. Here, we report the crystal structure of Arabidopsis MPK6 at a 3.0 Å resolution. Although MPK6 is topologically similar to ERK2 and p38, the structures of the glycine-rich loop, MAPK insert, substrate binding sites and L16 loop in MPK6 show notable differences from those of ERK2 and p38. Based on the structural comparison, we constructed MPK6 mutants and analyzed their kinase activity both in vitro and in planta. MPK6F364L and MPK6F368L mutants, in which Phe364 and Phe368 in the L16 loop were changed to Leu, respectively, acquired higher intrinsic kinase activity and retained the normal MAPKK activation property. The expression of MPK6 mutants with basal activity is sufficient to induce camalexin biosynthesis; however, to induce ethylene and leaf senescence, the expression of MPK6 mutants with higher activity is required. The results suggest that these mutants can be used to analyze the specific biological functions of MPK6.
Comparing reactive and memory-one strategies of direct reciprocity
Authors: Baek Seung Ki , Jeong Hyeong-Chai , Hilbe Christian , Nowak Martin A.
Published: May 2016

Direct reciprocity is a mechanism for the evolution of cooperation based on repeated interactions. When individuals meet repeatedly, they can use conditional strategies to enforce cooperative outcomes that would not be feasible in one-shot social dilemmas. Direct reciprocity requires that individuals keep track of their past interactions and find the right response. However, there are natural bounds on strategic complexity: Humans find it difficult to remember past interactions accurately, especially over long timespans. Given these limitations, it is natural to ask how complex strategies need to be for cooperation to evolve. Here, we study stochastic evolutionary game dynamics in finite populations to systematically compare the evolutionary performance of reactive strategies, which only respond to the co-player’s previous move, and memory-one strategies, which take into account the own and the co-player’s previous move. In both cases, we compare deterministic strategy and stochastic strategy spaces. For reactive strategies and small costs, we find that stochasticity benefits cooperation, because it allows for generous-tit-for-tat. For memory one strategies and small costs, we find that stochasticity does not increase the propensity for cooperation, because the deterministic rule of win-stay, lose-shift works best. For memory one strategies and large costs, however, stochasticity can augment cooperation.
Possible scenarios for occurrence of M ~ 7 interplate earthquakes prior to and following the 2011 Tohoku-Oki earthquake based on numerical simulation
Authors: Nakata Ryoko , Hori Takane , Hyodo Mamoru , Ariyoshi Keisuke
Published: May 2016

We show possible scenarios for the occurrence of M ~ 7 interplate earthquakes prior to and following the M ~ 9 earthquake along the Japan Trench, such as the 2011 Tohoku-Oki earthquake. One such M ~ 7 earthquake is so-called the Miyagi-ken-Oki earthquake, for which we conducted numerical simulations of earthquake generation cycles by using realistic three-dimensional (3D) geometry of the subducting Pacific Plate. In a number of scenarios, the time interval between the M ~ 9 earthquake and the subsequent Miyagi-ken-Oki earthquake was equal to or shorter than the average recurrence interval during the later stage of the M ~ 9 earthquake cycle. The scenarios successfully reproduced important characteristics such as the recurrence of M ~ 7 earthquakes, coseismic slip distribution, afterslip distribution, the largest foreshock, and the largest aftershock of the 2011 earthquake. Thus, these results suggest that we should prepare for future M ~ 7 earthquakes in the Miyagi-ken-Oki segment even though this segment recently experienced large coseismic slip in 2011.
Training of binocular rivalry suppression suggests stimulus-specific plasticity in monocular and binocular visual areas
Authors: Vergeer Mark , Wagemans Johan , van Ee Raymond
Published: May 2016

The plasticity of the human brain, as shown in perceptual learning, is generally reflected by improved task performance after training. Here, we show that perceptual suppression can be increased through training. In the first experiment, binocular rivalry suppression of a specific orientation was trained, leading to a relative reduction in sensitivity to the trained orientation. In a second experiment, two orthogonal orientations were suppressed in alternating training blocks, in the left and right eye, respectively. This double-training procedure lead to reduced sensitivity for the orientation that was suppression-trained in each specific eye, implying that training of feature suppression is specific for the eye in which the oriented grating was presented during training. Results of a control experiment indicate that the obtained effects are indeed due to suppression during training, instead of being merely due to the repetitive presentation of the oriented gratings. Visual plasticity is essential for a person’s visual development. The finding that plasticity can result in increased perceptual suppression reported here may prove to be significant in understanding human visual development. It emphasizes that for stable vision, not only the enhancement of relevant signals is crucial, but also the reliable and stable suppression of (task) irrelevant signals.
A self-photoprotection mechanism helps Stipa baicalensis adapt to future climate change
Authors: Song Xiliang , Zhou Guangsheng , Xu Zhenzhu , Lv Xiaomin , Wang Yuhui
Published: May 2016

We examined the photosynthetic responses of Stipa baicalensis to relative long-term exposure (42 days) to the predicted elevated temperature and water availability changes to determine the mechanisms through which the plant would acclimate to future climate change. Two thermal regimes (ambient and +4 °C) and three irrigation levels (partial, normal and excess) were used in environmental control chambers. The gas exchange parameters, light response curves and A/Ci curves were determined. The elevated temperature and partial irrigation reduced the net photosynthetic rate due to a limitation in the photosynthetic capacity instead of the intercellular CO2 concentration. Partial irrigation decreased Rubisco activation and limited RuBP regeneration. The reduction in Vcmax increased with increasing temperature. Excess irrigation offset the negative effect of drought and led to a partial recovery of the photosynthetic capacity. Although its light use efficiency was restricted, the use of light and dark respiration by Stipa baicalensis was unchanged. We concluded that nonstomatal limitation was the primary reason for photosynthesis regulation in Stipa baicalensis under relative long-term climate change conditions. Although climate change caused reductions in the light use efficiency and photosynthetic rate, a self-photoprotection mechanism in Stipa baicalensis resulted in its high ability to maintain normal live activities.
Synaptic and cellular changes induced by the schizophrenia susceptibility gene G72 are rescued by N-acetylcysteine treatment
Authors: Pósfai B , Cserép C , Hegedüs P , Szabadits E , Otte D M , Zimmer A , Watanabe M , Freund T F , Nyiri G
Published: May 2016

Genetic studies have linked the primate-specific gene locus G72 to the development of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Transgenic mice carrying the entire gene locus express G72 mRNA in dentate gyrus (DG) and entorhinal cortex, causing altered electrophysiological properties of their connections. These transgenic mice exhibit behavioral alterations related to psychiatric diseases, including cognitive deficits that can be reversed by treatment with N-acetylcysteine, which was also found to be effective in human patients. Here, we show that G72 transgenic mice have larger excitatory synapses with an increased amount of N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the molecular layer of DG, compared with wild-type littermates. Furthermore, transgenic animals have lower number of dentate granule cells with a parallel, but an even stronger decrease in the number of excitatory synapses in the molecular layer. Importantly, we also show that treatment with N-acetylcysteine can effectively normalize all these changes in transgenic animals, resulting in a state similar to wild-type mice. Our results show that G72 transcripts induce robust alterations in the glutamatergic system at the synaptic level that can be rescued with N-acetylcysteine treatment.
GR–Fe3O4NPs and PEDOT–AuNPs composite based electrochemical aptasensor for the sensitive detection of penicillin
Authors: Zhao Juan , Guo Wenjuan , Pei Meishan , Ding Feng
Published: May 2016

A novel electrochemical aptasensor for the sensitive detection of penicillin, using a penicillin aptamer as a specific recognition element and a composite film of magnetic GR–Fe3O4NPs and PEDOT–AuNPs as the platform.
Double-diffusion-based synthesis of BiVO4 mesoporous single crystals with enhanced photocatalytic activity for oxygen evolution
Authors: Wu Qiangfang , Bao Shenyuan , Tian Baozhu , Xiao Yifei , Zhang Jinlong
Published: May 2016

BiVO4 mesoporous single crystals (MSCs) were successfully prepared, for the first time, by a one-step hydrothermal method using the acidified BiVO4 precursor solution pre-impregnated silica as the template.
Pressure-induced structural and valence transition in AgO
Authors: Hou Chunju , Botana Jorge , Zhang Xu , Wang Xianlong , Miao Maosheng
Published: May 2016

AgO charge ordering at ambient pressure is inhibited at high pressure as it experiences a phase transition at ∼77 GPa. This phase transition is accompanied by an insulator-to-metal transition.
Nanoclay-based hierarchical interconnected mesoporous CNT/PPy electrode with improved specific capacitance for high performance supercapacitors
Authors: Oraon Ramesh , De Adhikari Amrita , Tiwari Santosh Kumar , Nayak Ganesh Chandra
Published: May 2016

This work highlights the preparation of a novel, cheaper and environment friendly layered silicate-based CNT/PPy electrode for supercapacitor applications.
Microwave temperature measurement in microfluidic devices
Authors: Wong David , Yesiloz Gurkan , Boybay Muhammed S. , Ren Carolyn L.
Published: May 2016

In spite of various existing thermometry methods for microfluidic applications, it remains challenging to measure the temperature of individual droplets. In this contribution, we present a microwave thermometry method that is non-intrusive and requires minimal external equipment.
Novel TiO2/Sb2S3 heterojunction with whole visible-light response for photoelectrochemical water splitting reactions
Authors: Song Yung-Tao , Lin Lu-Yin , Chen Yu-Shiang , Chen Hong-Qin , Ni Zong-De , Tu Chao-Chi , Yang Sheng-Sian
Published: May 2016

A TiO2/Sb2S3 photoanode using Sb2S3 as the visible-light absorber was developed with a photocurrent density of 0.79 mA cm−2.
Solid lipid nanoparticle enhances bioavailability of hydroxycitric acid compared to a microparticle delivery system
Authors: Ezhilarasi P. N. , Muthukumar S. P. , Anandharamakrishnan C.
Published: May 2016

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) are the most promising delivery system that improves the stability, bioavailability and controlled release of food bioactive compounds.
The influence of small amounts of linear polycaprolactone chains on the crystallization of cyclic analogue molecules
Authors: López Juan V. , Pérez-Camargo Ricardo A. , Zhang Boyu , Grayson Scott M. , Müller Alejandro J.
Published: May 2016

C-PCL/L-PCL blends show a synergistic decrease in their isothermal crystallization rates as compared to the expectation of a simple mixing law due to the threading effect of the linear on the cyclic chains.
Construction and drug delivery of a fluorescent TPE-bridged cyclodextrin/hyaluronic acid supramolecular assembly
Authors: Zhao Qian , Chen Yong , Sun Mo , Wu Xian-Jing , Liu Yu
Published: May 2016

A luminescent supramolecular assembly was constructed for drug delivery.
Hierarchical porous nitrogen doped reduced graphene oxide prepared by surface decoration–thermal treatment method as high-activity oxygen reduction reaction catalyst and high-performance supercapacitor electrodes
Authors: Jia Zhijun , Wang Baoguo , Wang Yi , Qi Tao , Liu Yahui , Wang Qian
Published: May 2016

Nitrogen doped (N-doped) porous reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is successfully obtained by a two-step method, which includes a surface finishing of graphene oxide (GO) followed by thermal treatment.
High Pt-like activity of the Ni–Mo/graphene catalyst for hydrogen evolution from hydrolysis of ammonia borane
Authors: Yao Qilu , Lu Zhang-Hui , Huang Wei , Chen Xiangshu , Zhu Jia
Published: May 2016

Ni nanocatalysts modified with a Mo dopant and a graphene support have been used as a low cost catalyst with Pt-like activity and robust durability for hydrogen evolution from the hydrolysis of ammonia borane under ambient atmosphere at room temperature.
Template-free synthesis of multiple-shell MgO/Pt hollow spheres as enhanced electrocatalysts
Authors: Wang Tao , Cui Weihao , Peng Meiling , Ouyang Shenshen , Wang Sheng
Published: May 2016

MgO/Pt multiple-shell hollow sphere was fabricated using a template-free strategy and it exhibited enhanced electrocatalytic activity and long-term stability towards the oxidation reaction of methanol.
Germanium sulfide nanosheet: a universal anode material for alkali metal ion batteries
Authors: Li Feng , Qu Yuanyuan , Zhao Mingwen
Published: May 2016

2D-GeS is a universal anode material for alkali-metal ion batteries with low diffusion barriers and high storage capacity of ions.
Highly sensitive, tunable, and durable gold nanosheet strain sensors for human motion detection
Authors: Lim Guh-Hwan , Lee Nae-Eung , Lim Byungkwon
Published: May 2016

We report highly sensitive, tunable, and durable strain sensors based on a simple structure consisting of a multilayered film of gold (Au) nanosheets as a sensing layer on a highly stretchable Ecoflex substrate.
Optical analysis of perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells
Authors: Jiang Yajie , Almansouri Ibraheem , Huang Shujuan , Young Trevor , Li Yang , Peng Yong , Hou Qicheng , Spiccia Leone , Bach Udo , Cheng Yi-Bing , Green Martin A. , Ho-Baillie Anita
Published: May 2016

A detailed optical analysis of the absorption distribution, parasitic absorption and reflection losses in various semi-transparent perovskite solar cell structures and their impact on tandem cell efficiencies is reported.
Synthesis of strontium ferrite/iron oxide exchange coupled nano-powders with improved energy product for rare earth free permanent magnet applications
Authors: Volodchenkov A. D. , Kodera Y. , Garay J. E.
Published: May 2016

We present a simple, scalable synthesis route for producing exchange coupled soft/hard magnetic composite powder that outperforms pure soft and hard phase constituents.
Leaders against all odds: Women victims of conflict in Colombia
Authors: Restrepo Elvira Maria
Published: May 2016

In the current high-profile conflict within Colombia, women account for the majority of civilian victims. It has been argued that the inclusion of women in peace-building processes may help increase the scope and sustainability of the subsequently achieved peace. However, most women victims of conflict (WVCs) achieve public visibility simply because of their suffering, not because of their potential as sources, initiators and agents of peace. In contrast, this article argues that WVCs represent a hitherto uncharted piece of the peace-building puzzle. In particular, this study explores the ways in which some WVCs are overcoming their own victimhood and emerging as leaders in peace-building, despite the significant personal risks associated with the on-going violence: who better to help heal and empower victims and reconcile society than those who have suffered trauma themselves—and risen above it? The article draws its primary evidence from extensive personal interviews, ethnographic work and data on women victims in Colombia. Against all odds, these unsung WVC leaders have proven to be powerful agents of change: capable of healing, empowering and even reconciling broader society. This article is published as part of a thematic collection on multi- and interdisciplinary perspectives on gender studies.
Climate change mitigation: a role for climate clubs?
Authors: Hovi Jon , Sprinz Detlef F , Sælen Håkon , Underdal Arild
Published: May 2016

The limited success of the UNFCCC negotiations has enticed scholars, environmentalists, and policymakers alike to propose alternative approaches to climate cooperation. This article reviews the scholarly literature concerning one such proposed alternative—climate clubs. According to the club approach, it would be promising to start with small groups of “enthusiastic” countries. These countries would outline what they are willing and able to do, conditional on what other enthusiastic countries offer and implement. Moreover, these enthusiastic countries would try to entice “reluctant” countries to join via “exclusive and contingent” measures. Focusing on the conditions for a climate club to effectively reduce global emissions, we organize our review around four main questions: first, what is a climate club’s potential for providing benefits that accrue exclusively to club members? Second, how might leadership influence a climate club’s ability to eventually become effective? Third, what insights can the formal modelling literature offer concerning the effectiveness of climate clubs? Finally, which is the empirical record of existing climate clubs? We conclude by providing several suggestions for future research.
tert-Butyldimethylsilyl Amine (TBDMS-NH2): A Mild and Green Reagent for the Protection of Benzyl Alcohols, Phenols, and Carboxylic Acids under Solvent-Free Conditions
Authors: Duczynski Jeremy A. , Fuller Rebecca , Stewart Scott G.
Published: May 2016

Herein, we present the use of the tert-butyldimethylsilyl amine (TBDMS-NH2) as a silylating reagent for phenols, benzyl alcohols, and carboxylic acids. Unlike other silyl protection reactions, this reported process with TBDMS-NH2 does not involve the formation of HCl. Importantly, we report the efficacy of this reagent in operating under solvent-free conditions and enabling short reaction times.
Infrageneric treatment of Phalaris (Canary grasses, Poaceae) based on molecular phylogenetics and floret structure
Authors: Voshell Stephanie M. , Baldini Riccardo M. , Hilu Khidir W.
Published: May 2016

Phalaris L. (Poaceae, canary grasses) is a genus of 20 species found throughout the world with endemic, cosmopolitan, invasive and forage species. A variety of features in the genus underscore its importance for the study of polyploid evolution in relation to biodiversity, ecological niche expansion or contraction, endemism, and invasiveness. A formal and comprehensive infrageneric classification for Phalaris is lacking. This study utilises molecular phylogenetics (nuclear ITS and plastid trnT–F regions), morphological features (primarily floret structure) and chromosome cytology to present the first comprehensive taxonomic classification for the genus. Two subgenera (Phalaris and Phalaroides) and five sections (Phalaris, Phalaroides, Caroliniana, Bulbophalaris, Heterachne) are established here to accommodate the 20 Phalaris species. Keys to the subgenera and sections, morphological descriptions, and a list of synonymy are provided.
Education for the Mind and the Heart? Changing Residents’ Attitudes about Addressing Unhealthy Alcohol Use
Authors: Mitchell Michael A. , Broyles Lauren M. , Pringle Janice L. , Kraemer Kevin L. , Childers Julie W. , Buranosky Raquel A. , Gordon Adam J.
Published: May 2016

Background: Screening and brief intervention counseling for unhealthy alcohol use are among the top 10 recommended clinical preventive services for US adults. Although federally funded training programs in alcohol screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) have focused on increasing physicians’ professional readiness to address drinking with their patients, programs typically focus on knowledge and skill acquisition, with less attention to attitudinal change. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of a multicomponent SBIRT training program on changes in internal medical residents’ professional readiness for working with patients with unhealthy alcohol use. Methods: Between 2011 and 2013, first-year internal medicine residents ( n = 80) at a large academic medical center participated in a 16-hour SBIRT training program, consisting of two 3-hour didactic sessions, online modules, and a half-day clinical experience, during the Ambulatory Care month of the residency training year. Residents completed a modified Alcohol and Problems Perceptions Questionnaire (AAPPQ) at the beginning and end of the residency year to assess changes in professional readiness to work with adults with unhealthy alcohol use across 6 domains: Role Adequacy, Role Legitimacy, Role Support, Motivation, Task-Specific Self-esteem, and Satisfaction. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to evaluate changes in the 6 AAPPQ subscale scores over time. Results: Residents reported significant increases in Role Adequacy (alcohol-related knowledge/skills; pre: 34 and post: 39.5; P < .0001) and Role Support (professional support; pre: 16 and post: 18; P = .005) scores. No significant differences in the remaining AAPPQ subscales were detected. Conclusions: Residents in the SBIRT training program indicated improvements in knowledge, skills, and professional role support but not in motivation, task-specific self-esteem, or satisfaction for working with patients with unhealthy alcohol use. Explicit curricular attention to these domains may be required to facilitate SBIRT skills application and sustained practice change.
A computational model to predict the immune system activation by citrus-derived vaccine adjuvants
Authors: Pappalardo Francesco , Fichera Epifanio , Paparone Nicoletta , Lombardo Alessandro , Pennisi Marzio , Russo Giulia , Leotta Marco , Pappalardo Francesco , Pedretti Alessandro , De Fiore Francesco , Motta Santo
Published: May 2016

Motivation: Vaccines represent the most effective and cost-efficient weapons against a wide range of diseases. Nowadays new generation vaccines based on subunit antigens reduce adverse effects in high risk individuals. However, vaccine antigens are often poor immunogens when administered alone. Adjuvants represent a good strategy to overcome such hurdles, indeed they are able to: enhance the immune response; allow antigens sparing; accelerate the specific immune response; and increase vaccine efficacy in vulnerable groups such as newborns, elderly or immuno-compromised people. However, due to safety concerns and adverse reactions, there are only a few adjuvants approved for use in humans. Moreover, in practice current adjuvants sometimes fail to confer adequate stimulation. Hence, there is an imperative need to develop novel adjuvants that overcome the limitations of the currently available licensed adjuvants.

Results: We developed a computational framework that provides a complete pipeline capable of predicting the best citrus-derived adjuvants for enhancing the immune system response using, as a target disease model, influenza A infection. In silico simulations suggested a good immune efficacy of specific citrus-derived adjuvant (Beta Sitosterol) that was then confirmed in vivo .

Availability: The model is available visiting the following URL: http://vaima.dmi.unict.it/AdjSim

Contact:  francesco.pappalardo@unict.it ; fp@francescopappalardo.net
Multi-environment Evaluation of Maize Inbred Lines for Resistance to Fusarium Ear Rot and Fumonisins
Authors: Rose L. J. , Mouton M. , Beukes I. , Flett B. C. , van der Vyver C. , Viljoen A.
Published: May 2016

Fusarium verticillioides causes Fusarium ear rot (FER) of maize and produces fumonisins, which affects grain quality. Host-plant resistance can reduce both FER and fumonisins in maize. In this study, 18 maize inbred lines were evaluated for resistance to F. verticillioides and fumonisin accumulation at five localities in South Africa. Additive main effects and multiplicative interaction analyses revealed significant environment × genotype interactions, with inbred lines CML 390, US 2540W, RO 424W, and VO 617y-2 consistently exhibiting low FER severity (≤5.4%), fungal target DNA (≤0.1 ng μl−1), and fumonisin levels (≤5.6 ppm). Genotype main effect and genotype × environment biplots showed that inbred lines CML 390, US 2540W, and RO 424W were most resistant to FER, fungal colonization, and fumonisin accumulation, respectively, while inbred line RO 424W was most stable in its resistance response over environments. These inbred lines also demonstrated broad adaptability by consistently exhibiting resistance to FER, fungal colonization, and fumonisins across localities. The identified lines could serve as valuable sources of resistance against F. verticillioides and its fumonisins in local breeding programs.
Teaching and learning English in a multicultural classroom: strategies and opportunities
Authors: Xerri Daniel
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the beliefs and experiences of a group of teachers endeavouring to enhance their students’ learning of English while adapting to a multicultural classroom reality.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on the results of a case study involving a number of semi-structured interviews.

Findings

The paper illustrates how the teachers and their learners adopted a number of strategies to make the most of the opportunities of learning English within a multilingual context.

Originality/value

This paper underscores the role that language-in-education policies can play in enhancing the teaching and learning of English in a multicultural classroom.
What’s sex got to do with it? The preparation of elementary male teacher candidates
Authors: Stewart Shartriya , Coombs Letoynia , Burston Betty
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper examines the experiences and outcomes of male teacher candidates in the College of Education at a large university in California.

Design/methodology/approach

This mixed methods study highlights findings from the preliminary analysis of student records as well as qualitative observation notes from their university supervisors and master teachers during their student teaching placements. Comments from student teaching assistance plans and remediation tools from the College of Education, Field Placement Office were also used. It also included the quantitative analysis of enrollment data as well as mid- and final student teaching evaluations for one semester. This multiple data triangulation process was used to illuminate the unique challenges and successes of male teacher candidates and the variables that influence their outcomes.

Findings

There were significant statistical differences (p < 0.05) between the male and female teacher candidates across each key measure used. Male teacher candidates scored lower in the areas of mathematics, assessment, planning and student engagement during instruction.

Practical implications

This study offers strategies that teachers’ trainers may use to recruit, retain and more effectively support the needs of their male elementary teacher candidates.

Originality/value

Few studies have examined both qualitative and quantitative data to determine pedagogical factors that impact male teacher candidates’ challenges and/or successes during their student teaching experiences. Moreover, few studies have explored how teacher training programs can more effectively support the needs of this population. This study is designed to fill that void.
Towards a model of the right-hand person
Authors: Mao Yina , Wang Ching-Wen , Wong Chi-Sum
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to propose a model explaining the roles of right-hand person and the factors contributing to the successful relationship between the top executive and the right-hand person.

Design/methodology/approach

– In-depth qualitative case studies are conducted. Longitudinal observations, interviews with six right-hand persons and the top executives in three organizations are conducted to test the propositions of the model.

Findings

– Results indicate that different types of congruence between the top executive and the right-hand person are required when the right-hand person is performing the roles of an implementer and joint decision maker.

Research limitations/implications

– This study extends the leadership literature by investigating the phenomenon of right-hand person of the top executive, which has seldom been studied systematically or scientifically. It provides insights and serves as a stepping stone for future research in this area. One key limitation is that it is a qualitative study with limited samples under investigation.

Practical implications

– Practical implications concerning how to build up a successful relationship between the top executive and the right-hand person can be drawn from the proposed model. Insight concerning how to collaborate between the top executive and the right-hand person can be drawn from the in-depth case analyses.

Social implications

– The phenomenon of right-hand person is not limited to business organizations. The collaboration between the key decision maker and his chief assistant should be applicable to other contexts such as non-government organizations.

Originality/value

– To the best of the knowledge, this is the first paper that investigates the right-hand person phenomenon in the literature. As the right-hand person of the top executive can have important influence on organizational performance, the study may serve as the stepping stone for further understanding of this important phenomenon.
Recovery versus risk? From managing risk to the co-production of safety and opportunity
Authors: Perkins Rachel , Repper Julie
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to propose a recovery-focused approach to risk and safety and what this might look like in practice.

Design/methodology/approach

– Review of recovery approaches and the ways in which traditional approaches to risk might hinder people in their recovery journey. Consideration of the principles of a recovery-focused approach to safety.

Findings

– A recovery-focused approach to risk based on co-produced safety plans that enable people to do the things they value as safely as possible and shared responsibility for safety. Four key principles of a recovery-focused approach to promoting safety, autonomy and opportunity are proposed.

Originality/value

– A recovery-focused approach to risk and safety is central to the development of recovery-focused practice within services. This paper outlines such an approach.