bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Microstructures and photovoltaic performances of bismuth‐ion doped Cu(In,Ga)Se2 films prepared via sputtering process
Authors: Lu Chung‐Hsin , Lin Shin‐Hom 
Published: October 2018

AbstractBismuth‐ion doped Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells were fabricated via sputtering technique. The influence of bismuth‐ion doping on structural and photovoltaic characteristics of the fabricated CIGS films were explored in details. With doping of bismuth ions, the grain sizes of CIGS layers were enhanced appreciably due to liquid‐phase sintering with the yielded intermediate compound. The secondary ion mass spectroscopy profile results indicated that the diffusion of bismuth ions into CIGS layers promoted dissemination of gallium species from the back contacts to the surface of CIGS layers. According to Hall measurement analysis, the carrier concentration in CIGS films was enhanced significantly with the doping of bismuth ions in the prepared films. The conversion efficiency of the bismuth‐ion doped samples was increased approximately 10% in comparison with undoped samples due to the elevated gallium‐ion diffusion and grain growth. Various photovoltaic parameters including saturated current and diode factors of the prepared doped CIGS solar cells were decreased owing to the inhibition of electron‐hole recombination. This investigation demonstrated the improved photovoltaic performance and the structural characteristics of fabricated CIGS films after the doping of bismuth ions.
Effect of Mg2+and fluorine on the network and highly efficient photoluminescence of Eu3+ion in MgF2–BaO–B2O3glasses
Authors: Shinozaki Kenji , Sukenaga Sohei , Shibata Hiroyuki , Akai Tomoko 
Published: October 2018

AbstractThe glass structure and photoluminescence of new oxyfluoride glasses with the composition ofxMgF2–(66.7−2x/3)BaO–(33.3−x/3)B2O3(x = 10‐50 mol%) were investigated in this work. The structure of the glasses was investigated by magic‐angle spinningNMR,XAS, and Raman scattering spectroscopies. It was revealed that the glasses are mainly composed ofBO3units with a disconnected borate network consisting mainly of ortho‐ and pyro‐borate units, and ortho‐borate increases with the addition of MgF2. The fluorine atoms are surrounded by Mg2+and Ba2+ions. The photoluminescence of Eu3+‐doped samples were investigated. It was indicated that asymmetry of the Eu3+site increased with the addition of MgF2. The photoluminescence quantum yield (η) of the glasses are very high and increased with MgF2addition; red photoluminescence is observed withη = 82% for 10MgF2andη = 98% for 50MgF2for excitation at 393 nm.
Novel micro‐spherical Si3N4 nanowire sponges from carbon‐doped silica sol foams via reverse templating method
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Huo Wenlong , Chen Yugu , Hu Zunlan , Wang Yali , Gan Ke , Yang Jinlong 
Published: October 2018

AbstractA novel kind of nanowire sponges, namely Si3N4 nanowire‐weaving microspheres, synthesized from a simple, convenient, high‐efficient approach are proposed here. As the reverse template, three‐dimensional foam skeleton structure with uniform pores and ultrathin pore walls is constructed via the effective particle‐stabilized foam method, where the silica sol and carbon black are chosen as the raw materials, providing the sufficient space for the growth of nanowires during the carbothermal reduction reaction process. The formation mechanism of this novel sponge is studied via multiple characterization methods. Si3N4 nanowires formed microspheres possess uniform and curving morphology due to the stable environment for growing via vapor–solid mechanism, leading to the relatively high specific surface area of 86.77 m2/g. Owing to in‐situ oxidation process, micro‐spherical SiO2 nanowire sponges with similar morphology are synthesized, which present diameter in range of 20‐40 nm and specific surface area of 50.47 m2/g. This work provides insights for the design of high‐performance nanowire sponges with promising applications in the filtration, thermal insulators, and catalyst supports fields.
Good thermal stability, giant permittivity, and low dielectric loss for X9R‐type (Ag1/4Nb3/4)0.005Ti0.995O2 ceramics
Authors: Peng Hui , Liang Pengfei , Zhou Xiaobin , Peng Zhanhui , Xiang Yichen , Chao Xiaolian , Yang Zupei 
Published: October 2018

AbstractWith the intense demand of the developing microelectronics market, the study of giant permittivity dielectric materials is being promoted. However, it is difficult to obtain suitable dielectric materials for such applications, especially due to high dielectric loss at low frequencies. In this work, Ag+Nb codoped TiO2 ceramics were designed and fabricated in a conventional solid reaction by sintering at 1290‐1340°C for 5‐10 hours. The issue of how the microstructure and dielectric properties of (Ag1/4Nb3/4)0.005Ti0.995O2 ceramics are affected by the sintering conditions was discussed. By optimizing sintering conditions, a dense microstructure, a high dielectric constant (εr ≈ 9410), and a low dielectric loss (tanδ ≈ 0.037) at 1 kHz were achieved. Most importantly, the temperature coefficient value of εr at different frequencies remained stable between −14.3% and 13.7% within the temperature range from −190 to 200°C, which has potential applications in X9R capacitor.
Assessment of potential biopesticide options for managing fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in Africa
Authors: Bateman Melanie L. , Day Roger K. , Luke Belinda , Edgington Steve , Kuhlmann Ulrich , Cock Matthew J. W. 
Published: October 2018

AbstractThe fall armyworm (FAW, Spodoptera frugiperda) originates from the tropical and sub‐tropical regions of the Americas. Recently it was reported for the first time in Africa and has since spread rapidly across more than 30 countries in the continent. Chemical pesticides are being promoted and used for FAW management, but where application practices and/or the active ingredients are unsafe there is a need to make effective, low‐risk products available. Given that biopesticides such as microbials and microbial extracts, macrobials and semiochemicals are generally considered to be lower risk options for pest management, they are a promising avenue for exploration. When used in conjunction with good crop management, they can help to keep pest levels under control, reducing the need to apply other pesticides. This study provides a basis for designing interventions to make biopesticides more widely available for FAW control in Africa. It summarizes assessments of the registered pesticides and biopesticides for 30 countries, 11 in FAW's native range and 19 in Africa. The report identifies biopesticide active ingredients (AI) which are registered for use against FAW and provides an assessment of how appropriate these will be for use by smallholder farmers in Africa. For each biopesticide AI identified, detailed profiles were developed which covered the efficacy of the AI against FAW; the human health and environmental hazards associated with the AI; the agronomic sustainability of the AI; and whether or not the AI is practical for smallholder farmers to use. Using these data, a list of priority biopesticides for which follow‐up action is recommended was compiled. Fifty biopesticide AI were identified, which have been registered in one or more of the 30 countries for FAW management. Twenty‐three of these are recommended for follow‐up, for example field trials or bioassays.
Mass‐trapping trials for the control of pine processionary moth in a pine woodland recreational area
Authors: Trematerra Pasquale , Colacci Marco , Sciarretta Andrea 
Published: October 2018

AbstractThe pine processionary moth, Thaumetopoea pityocampa, causes serious defoliation to Cedrus, Pinus and Pseudotsuga trees, as well as health problems in humans, pets and farm animals due to their urticating hairs. Environmentally friendly strategies for the management of T. pityocampa include: removal of egg batches, removal of nests, trapping of migrant larvae, spraying microbial or Insect Growth Regulator (IGR) insecticides and biocontrol, as well as pheromone‐based adult trapping and mating‐disruption. In the present paper, results on innovative technology for the control of T. pityocampa infestation using pheromone mass‐trapping are reported. Two 1‐ha plots were identified in the study area (central‐south Italy), a pine woodland recreational site growing Pinus halepensis. In the experimental plot (MT‐plot), 10 G‐traps (funnel trap type) baited with (Z)‐13‐hexadecen‐11‐ynyl acetate sex pheromone component were placed for mass‐trapping of adults; the other plot was used as a control‐plot (C‐plot). The T. pityocampa population was monitored using the two central traps in the MT‐plot and two traps positioned in the C‐plot. In addition, the winter nests made by T. pityocampa larvae overwintering on pine trees were counted. After 2 years of mass‐trapping, the number of adults trapped by the monitoring pheromone traps decreased in the MT‐plot, but not in the C‐plot, whereas the number of nests decreased in both plots. Statistical results highlighted significant differences in trap catches between the two plots but not between years. In the case of nests, differences among plots were not significant before the mass‐trapping, but significant after 1‐year treatment. According to our results, the mass‐trapping technique is able to reduce T. pityocampa infestations. This pheromone method can be applied in combination with other control systems in the context of integrated pest management in recreational areas.
Identification of eggshell crack using multiple vibration sensors and correlative information analysis
Authors: Lin Hao , Xu Pei‐Ting , Sun Li , Bi Xia‐kun , Zhao Jie‐wen , Cai Jian‐rong 
Published: October 2018

AbstractTimely detection of cracks eggs is of great significance in egg production and processing. This article presents a novel method for egg crack detection using multiple vibration sensors analysis. Three accelerated vibration sensors were located on different directions of shell eggs. Signals collection was achieved by impaction of different regions of shell eggs through vibration sensors. Characteristics from each vibration sensor and their corresponding correlation information were analyzed. Distinguish index (D.I.) values were employed for evaluation of the selected effective characteristics, and then were inputted into linear discrimination analysis model. The rates for identification of cracked eggs ranged from 83.75 to 93.75% in prediction set when the vibration sensor was impacted twice on the surface of shell eggs. Based on the results, it was concluded that multiple vibration sensors analysis has significant potential for cracked eggs detection with convenient and effective way.Practical applicationsCracks on eggshell are commonly produced by mechanical stress during packing and/or transportation. Storage life would be shortened and consequently result in significant economic loss. Therefore, the timely detection of cracks on eggshell is of great significance. This article presents a novel method for egg crack detection by using multiple vibration sensors analysis, to replace the conventional multiple impacting acoustic resonance analysis. The research data presents a potential way for fast, non‐destructive and effective detection of crack in egg industry.
Diversity of antibiotic‐resistant Shiga toxin‐producing Escherichia coli serogroups in foodstuffs of animal origin in northern India
Authors: Khan Javed A. , Rathore Ram S. , Abulreesh Hussein H. , Al‐thubiani Abdullah S. , Khan Shaheen , Ahmad Iqbal 
Published: October 2018

AbstractThis study aimed to determine the diversity of antibiotic‐resistant Shiga toxin‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC) serogroups in 600 foodstuff samples of animal origin in the northern part of India. Of the 158 (26.33%) E. coli isolates that were detected in food samples the ‘O’ antigen‐based serotyping revealed the abundance of serogroups O60, O86, O154, O73, O50, O8, and O68. Overall, 45 (28.4%) E. coli isolates were potentially verotoxin producers as determined by verotoxin assay and confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), of which 42.2% of the STEC isolates originated from raw beef. Among 45 STEC isolates, 51.1% harbored vt
1 gene whereas 48.9% of the serogroups carried vt
2 gene. Chi‐squared test revealed significant difference (p = .001) in the prevalence of STEC serogroups in different foodstuffs. STEC serogroups showed higher resistance to nalidixic acid (71.7%) followed by ampicillin (66.6%). Multidrug resistance (i.e., resistance to 3 or more antimicrobial classes) was exhibited by 55.6% of STEC serogroups.Practical applicationsThis investigation demonstrated the diversity of STEC, particularly multidrug‐resistant serogroups in various foodstuffs, which is a matter of serious concern from a public health stand point. Foodstuffs of animal origin available for human consumption in the city of Bareilly, may pose significant health threats due to contamination of various toxigenic and multidrug‐resistant non‐O157 STEC serogroups, and call for public health authorities to enhance surveillance/monitoring programs to prevent the spread of multidrug‐resistant toxigenic non‐O157 STEC serogroups in Indian communities and for better public health protection.
Improved RANKL expression and osteoclastogenesis induction of CD27+CD38− memory B cells: A link between B cells and alveolar bone damage in periodontitis
Authors: Han Yakun , Jin Ying , Miao Yibin , Shi Tie , Lin Xiaoping 
Published: October 2018

Background and ObjectivePeriodontitis is a bacteria‐induced disease that often leads to alveolar bone damage. Its mechanisms were considered to be complicated, involving an imbalance of the formation and resorption of bone. We sought to disclose the antibody‐independent function of B cells during periodontitis.Material and MethodsProduction of receptor activator for nuclear factor‐κB ligand (RANKL) by total lymphocytes or sorted B‐cell subsets in gingiva from healthy or experimental periodontitis animals was examined by flow cytometry, real‐time polymerase chain reaction, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. To define the effects of lymphocytes or B‐cell subsets on osteoclastogenesis induction, bone marrow mononuclear cells were culture in culture medium of lymphocytes or cocultured with B‐cell subsets. Osteoclasts were enumerated by tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase staining. Constituent ratio of B‐cell subsets in healthy or experimental periodontitis was also detected by flow cytometry.ResultGingiva B cells produce more RANKL and support more osteoclastogenesis than T and other lymphocytes, and this potential improved in periodontitis. Memory B cells (CD27+CD38−) decreased their percentage in periodontitis. Memory B cells have the highest propensity for RANKL production. Remarkably, memory B cells from periodontitis animals expressed significantly more RANKL compared to healthy controls. Memory B cells supported osteoclast differentiation in vitro in a RANKL‐dependent manner, and the number of osteoclasts was higher in cultures with memory B cells from periodontitis animals than in those derived from healthy ones. Other B‐cell subsets have limited impact on osteoclast formation.ConclusionFindings of this study further disclose the roles of B cells engaged in periodontal immunomodulation and reveal the considerable importance of memory B cells in alveolar bone homeostasis and their likely contribution to alveolar bone destruction in periodontitis.
Multi‐block analysis for the correlation of physico‐chemical and rheological data of 42 fruit pulps
Authors: Stafussa Ana Paula , Rampazzo Valéria , Fernandes Rubens Rosario , Franco Admilson Teixeira , Bona Evandro , Maciel Giselle Maria , Haminiuk Charles Windson Isidoro 
Published: October 2018

AbstractThe common dimension (ComDim) chemometric method for multi‐block analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) were used to evaluate the data obtained from the physico‐chemical and rheological characterization of 42 commercial fruit pulps. The physico‐chemical characteristics and the rheological behavior of the pulps were found to be considerably different. The Herschel–Bulkley equation was fit to the steady‐state flow curves of the fruit pulps, and it was found to appropriately describe the materials, which showed a wide range of yield stresses. The soluble solids content and the yield stress were the main factors responsible for the sample discrimination in the multivariate statistical analysis. The ComDim model indicates that these parameters may have a direct correlation. Namely, the soluble solids amount can influence the viscosity, as demonstrated by the similar scores of the samples in both common components, and this corroborated with the HCA analysis.Practical applicationsFruit pulps can be used as raw materials in the food industry to obtain several products, such as nectars, jellies, ice creams, and juices, which can also be sold directly to consumers. To evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of those industrial processes, it is important to know the physico‐chemical properties of the products. Therefore, in this study we attempt to correlate the physical–chemical and rheological data using a new statistical approach.
Experience, Aptitude, and Individual Differences in Linguistic Attainment: A Comparison of Native and Nonnative Speakers
Authors: Dąbrowska Ewa 
Published: October 2018

AbstractThis study compares the performance of native speakers and adult second language (L2) learners on tasks tapping proficiency in grammar, vocabulary, and collocations. In addition, data were collected on several predictors of individual differences in linguistic attainment, including some related to language experience (print exposure, education, and—for L2 speakers—length of residence and use of English) and some relating to an individual's aptitude to learn (language analytic ability and nonverbal intelligence) as well as age and (for L2 speakers) age of arrival. As anticipated, the native group outperformed L2 speakers on all three language measures, although the effect sizes were much larger for collocations than for grammar or vocabulary. Crucially, there were vast individual differences in both groups and considerable overlap between groups, particularly for grammar. Regression analyses revealed both similarities and differences between native and nonnative speakers in which nonlinguistic measures best predict performance on the language tasks.
Impact of maternal obesity and breastfeeding intention on lactation intensity and duration
Authors: Marshall Nicole E. , Lau Bernard , Purnell Jonathan Q. , Thornburg Kent L. 
Published: October 2018

AbstractExclusive breastfeeding (EBF) has numerous maternal health benefits. However, EBF rates are lower in mothers with obesity. We sought to better understand whether maternal body composition measurements in early pregnancy are also predictive of lower rates of EBF. Healthy pregnant women with prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) of 17.5–51 kg/m2 underwent determination of percent body fat (% body fat) in early (12–16 weeks) and late (37 weeks) gestation. Intent and duration of EBF were determined by surveys completed at 6 weeks and 6 months postpartum (PP). Unadjusted and adjusted analyses were performed to compare EBF rates and weaning by maternal BMI and % body fat. Increasing BMI and % body fat in early pregnancy were significantly associated with lower rates of EBF among women intending EBF. Women with BMI ≥ 25 were less likely to be EBF at 6 weeks and 6 months PP compared with women of normal BMI (67 and 37% vs. 91 and 79%, P value 0.005 and 0.001, respectively). Among primiparous women intending EBF, 100% of women in the lowest two body fat quartiles in early pregnancy were EBF at 6 weeks PP compared with 66.7 and 63.6% of women in the higher quartiles (P = 0.03). Lactation cessation by 6 months PP was higher with increasing maternal BMI (P = 0.001). Maternal obesity in early gestation is associated with lower EBF rates among women intending EBF and earlier weaning. Excess adiposity in early pregnancy may impede EBF.
Navigating complexity in team‐based clinical settings
Authors: LaDonna Kori A , Field Emily , Watling Christopher , Lingard Lorelei , Haddara Wael , Cristancho Sayra M 
Published: October 2018

ContextEducators must prepare learners to navigate the complexities of clinical care. Training programmes have, however, traditionally prioritised teaching around the biomedical and the technical, not the socio‐relational or systems issues that create complexity. If we are to transform medical education to meet the demands of 21st century practice, we need to understand how clinicians perceive and respond to complex situations.MethodsConstructivist grounded theory informed data collection and analysis; during semi‐structured interviews, we used rich pictures to elicit team members’ perspectives about clinical complexity in neurology and in the intensive care unit. We identified themes through constant comparative analysis.ResultsRoutine care became complex when the prognosis was unknown, when treatment was either non‐existent or had been exhausted or when being patient and family centred challenged a system's capabilities, or participants’ training or professional scope of practice. When faced with complexity, participants reported that care shifted from relying on medical expertise to engaging in advocacy. Some physician participants, however, either did not recognise their care as advocacy or perceived it as outside their scope of practice. In turn, advocacy was often delegated to others.ConclusionsOur research illuminates how expert clinicians manoeuvre moments of complexity; specifically, navigating complexity may rely on mastering health advocacy. Our results suggest that advocacy is often negotiated or collectively enacted in team settings, often with input from patients and families. In order to prepare learners to navigate complexity, we suggest that programmes situate advocacy training in complex clinical encounters, encourage reflection and engage non‐physician team members in advocacy training.
Incorporating tides into the acoustic ecology of humpback whales
Authors: Barlow Dawn R. , Fournet Michelle , Sharpe Fred 
Published: October 2018

AbstractNorth Pacific humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) migrate annually to foraging grounds in Southeast Alaska that are characterized by semidiurnal tidal cycles. Tidal activity is an important driver of marine mammal behavior on foraging grounds, but is often omitted in studies of acoustic ecology. To better understand the role of sound in this vocal species we investigated the influence of tidal height and direction on humpback whale nonsong calling behavior in Frederick Sound and described new call types for this population. The likelihood of detecting a call from the low‐frequency‐harmonic, pulsed, or noisy‐complex call classes was independent of tidal activity. The likelihood of detecting a call from the tonal call class, and a feeding call in particular, was 2.1 times higher during flood tides than during ebb tides (95% CI 1.1–4.4). This likely reflects an indirect relationship between humpback whale foraging and tides.
What is animal happiness?
Authors: Webb Laura E. , Veenhoven Ruut , Harfeld Jes Lynning , Jensen Margit Bak 
Published: October 2018

AbstractToday, we see a growing concern for the quality of life of nonhuman animals and an accompanying call for viable means of assessing how well animals thrive. Past research focused on minimizing negatives such as stress, while more recent endeavors strive to promote positives such as happiness. But what is animal happiness? Although often mentioned, the term lacks a clear definition. With recent advances in the study of animal emotion, current interest into positive rather than negative experiences, and the call for captive and domesticated animals to have good lives, the time is ripe to examine the concept of animal happiness. We draw from the human and animal literature to delineate a concept of animal happiness and propose how to assess it. We argue that animal happiness depends on how an individual feels generally—that is, a typical level of affect.