bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Race and Sex Differences in Willingness to Undergo Total Joint Replacement: The Johnston County Osteoarthritis Project
Authors: Allen Kelli D. , Golightly Yvonne M. , Callahan Leigh F. , Helmick Charles G. , Ibrahim Said A. , Kwoh C. Kent , Renner Jordan B. , Jordan Joanne M.
Published: January 2014

Objective

Using data from the community‐based Johnston County Osteoarthritis Project, we examined race and sex variations in willingness to undergo, and perceptions regarding, total joint replacement (TJR).

Methods

Analyses were conducted for the total sample who participated in a followup measurement period from 2006–2010 (n = 1,522) and a subsample with symptomatic hip and/or knee osteoarthritis (sOA; n = 445). Participants indicated how willing they would be to have TJR (hip or knee) if their doctor recommended it; responses were categorized as “definitely” or “probably” willing versus “unsure,” “probably not,” or “definitely not” willing, or “don't know.” Participants answered 7 questions regarding perceptions of TJR outcomes. Multivariable logistic regression models of willingness included participant characteristics (including socioeconomic status) and TJR perception variables that were associated with willingness at the P < 0.1 level in bivariate analyses.

Results

African Americans had lower odds of willingness to undergo TJR than whites in the total sample (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.47 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.31–0.72]) and the sOA subsample (adjusted OR 0.42 [95% CI 0.25–0.69]). There were no sex differences in willingness. African Americans expected poorer TJR outcomes than whites, but sex differences were minimal; perceptions of TJR outcomes were not significantly associated with willingness.

Conclusion

In this community sample, race differences in TJR willingness and perceptions were substantial, but sex differences were small. Perceptions of TJR did not appear to affect willingness or explain race differences in willingness.
Effects of Solvent Additives on Morphology, Charge Generation, Transport, and Recombination in Solution‐Processed Small‐Molecule Solar Cells
Authors: Kyaw Aung Ko Ko , Wang Dong Hwan , Luo Chan , Cao Yong , Nguyen Thuc‐Quyen , Bazan Guillermo C. , Heeger Alan J.
Published: January 2014

The effects of solvent additive (1,8‐diiodooctane (DIO)) on the morphology, charge generation, transport, and recombination in solution‐processed small‐molecule solar cells are studied and these parameters are correlated with device performance. In the optimum nanoscale morphology, which is processed with 0.4% DIO, the phase separation is large enough to create a percolating pathway for carrier transport, yet still small enough to form large interfacial area for efficient charge separation. Complete phase separation in this film reduces the interfacial defects, which occurs without DIO, and hence suppresses the monomolecular recombination. Moreover, balanced charge transport and weak bimolecular recombination lead to a high fill factor (72%). On the other hand, an excess amount of DIO (0.8%) in the solvent results in the over‐aggregation of the donor phase, which disturbs the percolating pathway of the acceptor phase and reduces the electron mobility. The over‐aggregation of the donor phase also shrinks the interfacial area for charge separation and consequently reduces the photocurrent generation.
Efficient Charge Extraction in Thick Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cells through Infiltrated Diffusion Doping
Authors: Kim Junghwan , Yu Kilho , Kim Heejoo , Kwon Sooncheol , Kim Geunjin , Kwon Kyungchoon , Lee Kwanghee
Published: January 2014

A new strategy for improving the charge extraction in thick bulk heterojunction (BHJ) polymer solar cells (PSCs) is reported. By the deposition of a solution‐processed vanadium oxide (s‐VOx) onto BHJ active layers, conductive charge‐transport channels are formed inside the active layer via a charge‐transfer doping reaction between the lone‐pair electrons of the sulfur atoms in the polymer and the Lewis‐acidic vanadium atoms of the s‐VOx. Because the charge‐transport channels significantly reduce charge recombination in the BHJ films, high internal quantum efficiencies (IQEs) of over 80% are achieved in the thick inverted PSCs (≈420 nm). This finding represents a new strategy for improving the efficiency and feasibility of printable photovoltaic devices.
A Combination of X‐Ray Tomography and Carbon Binder Modeling: Reconstructing the Three Phases of LiCoO2 Li‐Ion Battery Cathodes
Authors: Zielke Lukas , Hutzenlaub Tobias , Wheeler Dean R. , Manke Ingo , Arlt Tobias , Paust Nils , Zengerle Roland , Thiele Simon
Published: January 2014

X‐ray tomography allows the active‐material domain (LiCoO2) of Li‐ion battery cathodes to be imaged, but it is unable to resolve the carbon‐binder domain (CBD). Here, a new method for creating a complete 3D representation (virtual design) of all three phases of a cathode is provided; this includes the active‐material domain, the CBD, and the electrolyte‐filled pore space. It combines X‐ray tomographic data of active material with a statistically modeled CBD. Two different statistical CBD morphology models are compared as examples: i) a random cluster model representing a standard mixture of carbon black and polyvenylidene fluoride (PVDF) and ii) a fiber model. The transport parameters are compared in a charged and a discharged cathode. The results demonstrate that the CBD content and morphology changes the ionic and electronic transport parameters dramatically and thus cannot be neglected. Calculations yield that the fiber model shows up to three times higher electrical conductivity at the same CBD content (discharged case) and better ionic diffusion conditions for all CBD contents. In the charged case, the morphology impact on electrical conduction is small. This effective method to generate transport parameters for different CBDs can be transferred to other CBD morphologies and electrodes.
Plasmon‐Enhanced Polymer Photovoltaic Device Performance Using Different Patterned Ag/PVP Electrospun Nanofibers
Authors: Chen Jung‐Yao , Wu Hung‐Chin , Chiu Yu‐Cheng , Chen Wen‐Chang
Published: January 2014

Significant enhancement of P3HT (poly(3‐hexylthiophene)):PC61BM ([6,6]‐phenyl C61‐butyric acid methyl ester) photovoltaic devices using different patterns of electrospun Ag/PVP composite nanofibers, including nonwoven, aligned, and crossed patterns, is reported. The composite electrospun nanofibers are prepared using in situ reduction of silver (Ag) nanoparticles in Ag/poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) via a two‐fluid coaxial electrospinning technique. The composition, crystalline orientation, and particle size of Ag are manipulated by controlling the core/shell solution concentration. The smallest diameter of the composite nanofibers leads to the highest orientation of the Ag nanoparticles and results in the largest conductivity due to geometric confinement. Such composite nanofibers exhibit the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect, which provides near field enhancement of electromagnetic field around active layer. Additionally, composite nanofibers with the crossed or nonwoven patterns further enhance high carrier mobility, compared to that of the aligned pattern. It leads to the 18.7% enhancement of the power conversion efficiency of photovoltaic cell compared to the parent device. The results indicate that the high conductivity and SPR effect of the Ag/PVP electrospun nanofibers can significantly improve the photocurrent and PCE, leading to promising organic solar cell applications.
Tuning the Charge‐Transport Property of Pyromellitic Diimide‐Based Conjugated Polymers towards Efficient Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Zhou Xu , Cao Yue , Wang Xiao‐Ye , Guo Zi‐Hao , Wang Jie‐Yu , Pei Jian
Published: January 2014

Organic field‐effect transistors have received increased attention because of their unique properties such as low cost and large‐area production. Among the organic field‐effect transistors, donor‐π‐acceptor (D‐A) conjugated polymers show outstanding advantages such as material design flexibility and solution processability. Herein, a series of pyromellitic diimide‐based donor‐acceptor conjugated polymers (PPMDI‐nT) with different donor/acceptor ratios were developed. Their photophysical and electrochemical properties were fully investigated. Furthermore, the organic field‐effect transistors based on PPMDI‐nT were fabricated through a solution process. PPMDI‐1T is an n‐type semiconductor, whereas the other polymers exhibit typical ambipolar transport behaviors. As the donor/acceptor ratios increased, the electron mobilities stayed almost the same, but the hole mobilities increased dramatically. Thus the charge‐transport properties of these polymers could be tuned accordingly.
Prevalence of allergic diseases in Izmir Province, Turkey
Authors: Köse Şükran , Mandıracıoğlu Aliye , Çavdar Gülsün , Ulu Yıldız , Senger Süheyla Serin
Published: January 2014

Background

The aim of the present study is to determine the prevalence of allergic diseases and related risk factors in Izmir, Turkey, and to assess the positive immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels against common allergens.

Methods

The questionnaires were completed via face‐to‐face interview with a total of 2937 individuals. Specific IgE was studied in the serum samples by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This cross‐sectional population‐based study comprised adolescents over the age of 15 years and adults of Izmir province.

Results

In Izmir, the prevalence of self‐reported allergy was 35.5%. Allergy was statistically significantly more common in females, university graduates, in those with high income, with family history for allergy, aged 40–49 years, those living in a flat, keeping pet(s), and in those using central heating. The prevalence of atopy according to the serum IgE levels (Class 3 with any of 3 IgEs) was found 1.6%.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the prevalence of atopy was found lower in Izmir as compared to the results of other studies.
α‐Oligofurane: eine aufstrebende Klasse konjugierter Oligomere für die organische Elektronik
Authors: Gidron Ori , Bendikov Michael
Published: January 2014

Obwohl sich der Bereich der organischen Elektronik im Laufe der letzten Jahre erheblich weiterentwickelt hat, wird er noch immer durch die Zahl verfügbarer Materialien beschränkt. Ein weiterer Ausbau erfordert die Einführung neuartiger π‐konjugierter Rückgrate, geeignete Kandidaten hierfür werden aber nur sehr selten entdeckt. Die Einführung einer neuen Klasse konjugierter Materialien – der langen α‐Oligofurane – wurde daher vor kurzem mit großem Interesse begrüßt. α‐Oligofurane weisen viele Eigenschaften auf, die für Anwendungen in organischen elektronischen Materialien erforderlich sind, und sollen biologisch abbaubar sein. Dieser Kurzaufsatz bietet eine Beschreibung langer Oligofurane aus der Perspektive ihrer Synthese, molekularen Eigenschaften, chemischen Reaktivität und Verwendung in elektronischen Bauelementen.
Chemosensorische Ensembles zur Echtzeitdetektion von Transportprozessen durch Biomembranen
Authors: Ghale Garima , Lanctôt Adrienne G. , Kreissl Hannah T. , Jacob Maik H. , Weingart Helge , Winterhalter Mathias , Nau Werner M.
Published: January 2014

Die Effektivität von Wirkstoffen und Biomolekülen basiert auf ihrer Fähigkeit, die Lipidmembran zu passieren. Die Entwicklung von Methoden, diese Transportprozesse direkt und mit hoher Empfindlichkeit zu verfolgen, bleibt eine Herausforderung. Der Einschluss eines chemosensorischen Ensembles, bestehend aus einem makrocyclischen Wirt (p‐Sulfonatocalix[4]aren oder Cucurbit[7]uril) und einem Fluoreszenzfarbstoff (Lucigenin oder Berberin) in Liposomen ermöglicht es, den Membrandurchtritt von unmarkierten bioorganischen Molekülen direkt und in Echtzeit mittels Fluoreszenz zu verfolgen. Dieser In‐vitro‐Assay kann auf unterschiedliche Kanalproteine und Analyten angewendet werden, eignet sich zur schnellen Charakterisierung von Kanalmodulatoren und liefert zudem die absolute Kinetik der Translokation. Mit dieser neuen biophysikalischen Methode konnten wir erstmalig die direkte schnelle Translokation des antibiotisch wirksamen Peptids Protamin durch das bakterielle Transmembranprotein OmpF nachweisen.
Tung oil‐based thermosetting polymers for self‐healing applications
Authors: Hondred Peter R. , Salat Leo , Mangler Josh , Kessler Michael R.
Published: January 2014

Several bio‐renewable thermosetting polymers were successfully prepared from tung oil through cationic polymerization for the use as the healing agent in self‐healing microencapsulated applications. The tung oil triglyceride was blended with its methyl ester, which was produced by saponification followed by esterification. The changes in storage modulus, loss modulus, and glass transition temperature as functions of the methyl ester content were measured using dynamic mechanical analysis. In addition, the fraction of cross‐linked material in the polymer was calculated by Soxhlet extraction, while proton nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and TEM were used to investigate the structure of the copolymer networks. The thermal stability of the thermosets as a function of their methyl ester blend contents was determined by thermogravimetric analysis. Finally, the adhesive properties of the thermosets were studied using compressive lap shear and the fracture surfaces were analyzed using SEM. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40406.
Synthesis of high solid content waterborne polyurethanes with controllable bimodal particle size distribution
Authors: Peng ShaoJun , Jin Yong , Sun Tongbing , Qi Rui , Fan BaoZhu , Cheng XinFeng
Published: January 2014

A series of waterborne polyurethane dispersions were synthesized by one‐pot reaction and step‐wise reaction, respectively. The effects of synthetic methods and DMPA content on the particle size distribution (PSD), solid contents and viscosity were studied by laser particle size analyzer, Brookfield viscometer and TEM analysis. High solid content and low viscosity waterborne polyurethanes (WPUs) with controllable bimodal PSD were prepared by one‐pot reaction using 2,2‐dimethylol propionic acid (DMPA) as the only self‐emulsifier. Meanwhile, 40% solid content WPUs with unimodal PSD were obtained by step‐wise reaction at the same formula. With the increment of DMPA content, the ratio of large particles to small particles decreased and two peaks of the particle size finally became one peak by one‐pot reaction while the PSD remained unimodal by step‐wise reaction. The reason leading to the difference of PSD between one‐pot reaction and step‐wise reaction was analyzed and the relationships among PSD, viscosity and solid content were discussed. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40420.
Nanostructured polystyrene films engineered by plasma processes: Surface characterization and stem cell interaction
Authors: Mattioli Samantha , Martino Sabata , D'Angelo Francesco , Emiliani Carla , Kenny Josè Maria , Armentano Ilaria
Published: January 2014

In this work we showed the promising perspectives offered by the radiofrequency plasma processes on polymeric substrates. Polystyrene (PS) films with micropatterned grooves and nanostructured roughness were developed by Oxygen plasma treatment coupled with mask, and t process parameters, as power supply and treatment time were modulated. Then, hydrogenated amorphous carbon (a‐C:H) coatings (∼30 nm thickness) were deposited by methane radiofrequency plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (rf‐PECVD) on the polymer surface. Oxygen modified PS surface showed improved wettability, roughness and etching rate by increasing the power supply and the treatment time. Uniform and patterned bi‐layer films show a regular surface morphology, uniform chemical properties, with a contact angle to water of 77°, a surface energy of 51.15 mN m−1 and good stability in physiological conditions. Nanoindentation measurements revealed a decrease of the bi‐layer friction coefficient from 0.76 of PS to 0.17, highlighting the improvement of the nanomechanical properties of the novel developed system. Interaction with human bone‐marrow mesenchymal stem cells demonstrates that uniform and patterned PS based films are biocompatible surfaces and remarkable, that groove patterned substrates induce stem cell alignment and elongation. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40427.
Control of hydration and degradation properties of triblock copolymers polycaprolactone‐b‐polydimethylsiloxane‐b‐polycaprolactone
Authors: Azemar Fabrice , Faÿ Fabienne , Réhel Karine , Linossier Isabelle
Published: January 2014

The objectives of this study are to observe the effects of the introduction of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) on the hydration and degradation of aliphatic polyesters in water, such as poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL). The mechanism of PCL degradation in water is well known, and PDMS is a nonbiodegradable and hydrophobic polymer. The ligation of these two polymers should allow the synthesis of new polymers with hybrid properties in terms of degradation and surface energy. The deterioration in water should be controlled by the ratio of each polymer. The triblock copolymers were synthesized through ring opening polymerization with stannous octanoate as the catalyst. A film of each copolymer was prepared and immersed in distilled water to study their aging. Kinetic results of hydration and degradation show that the addition of PDMS on PCL does not change the profiles of hydration and degradation. But the variation of the structure of the triblock (molecular weight or ratio of each block) allows to increase or decrease the rate of hydration, so as to control its degradation. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40431.
A Remote Sensing Perspective on Shoreline Modification, Canal Construction and Household Trajectories at Pineland along Florida's Southwestern Gulf Coast
Authors: Thompson Victor D. , Marquardt William H. , Walker Karen J.
Published: January 2014

In 2011, we initiated a geophysical survey of the Pineland Site Complex. The complex is comprised of two imposing residential midden‐mound groups, two sand burial mounds and several linear (and other) middens along previous shorelines, and a canal system that not only integrated features within the site complex, but also served to connect it to the interior of Pine Island and beyond. For 25 years, archaeologists associated with the Florida Museum of Natural History have conducted extensive investigations at the Complex, clarifying the site's intertwined environmental and human histories. Our research presented here provides additional data to confirm some of the hypotheses generated by this previous research. The geophysical results support previous ideas regarding formation and occupation of former shorelines by Pineland's early fisher–gatherer–hunters. Second, they provide better definition of a small, later‐period secondary canal, a component of the canal system. Most notably, the geophysical survey provides a basis for studying changes in household composition over time via the identification of house patterns in the resulting imaged data. We provide some speculations regarding this shift in residence patterns, suggesting that alterations may have been coeval with environmental changes. These changes may have set the stage for subsequent large‐scale cooperative labour projects, such as Pineland's waterways. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Brief Report: Alternative Activation of Laser‐Captured Murine Hemophagocytes
Authors: Canna Scott W. , Costa‐Reis Patrícia , Bernal William E. , Chu Niansheng , Sullivan Kathleen E. , Paessler Michele E. , Behrens Edward M.
Published: January 2014

Objective

Hemophagocytes (HPCs) are activated macrophages that have engulfed other hematopoietic cells. Although HPCs are rarely identified in normal spleen tissue and bone marrow, an excess of these macrophages characterizes many cytokine storm syndromes, particularly macrophage activation syndrome and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. This study was undertaken to assess the functions of HPCs and their significance in acute inflammatory conditions.

Methods

HPCs were generated in wild‐type mice using repeated stimulation with Toll‐like receptor 9 (TLR‐9) and interleukin‐10 receptor blockade. RNA was extracted from HPCs that had been isolated by laser‐captured microdissection. Transcriptional profiles of the HPCs were then compared to those of resting splenic macrophages. In addition, bone marrow samples were obtained from a diverse cohort of patients in whom excess hemophagocytosis was identified by clinical bone marrow biopsy or aspiration. The bone marrow samples were analyzed by immunohistochemistry for markers of classic (CD64) or alternative (CD163 and CD206) macrophage activation.

Results

Differential gene expression and gene set enrichment analyses of murine HPCs identified up‐regulation of genes and gene sets associated with alternative activation of HPCs. Immunohistochemical analyses of HPCs in human bone marrow samples showed universal staining of HPCs for CD163, but rarely for CD206 or CD64.

Conclusion

Laser‐captured murine TLR‐9–induced HPCs had a transcriptional profile similar to that of alternatively activated macrophages. In addition, HPC expression of CD163 was confirmed in a uniquely diverse cohort of patients with hemophagocytic syndromes. Collectively, these data support the hypothesis that HPCs have both immunoregulatory and clean‐up functions.
arXiv E‐prints and the journal of record: An analysis of roles and relationships
Authors: Larivière Vincent , Sugimoto Cassidy R. , Macaluso Benoit , Milojević Staša , Cronin Blaise , Thelwall Mike
Published: January 2014

Since its creation in 1991, arXiv has become central to the diffusion of research in a number of fields. Combining data from the entirety of arXiv and the Web of Science (WoS), this article investigates (a) the proportion of papers across all disciplines that are on arXiv and the proportion of arXiv papers that are in the WoS, (b) the elapsed time between arXiv submission and journal publication, and (c) the aging characteristics and scientific impact of arXiv e‐prints and their published version. It shows that the proportion of WoS papers found on arXiv varies across the specialties of physics and mathematics, and that only a few specialties make extensive use of the repository. Elapsed time between arXiv submission and journal publication has shortened but remains longer in mathematics than in physics. In physics, mathematics, as well as in astronomy and astrophysics, arXiv versions are cited more promptly and decay faster than WoS papers. The arXiv versions of papers—both published and unpublished—have lower citation rates than published papers, although there is almost no difference in the impact of the arXiv versions of published and unpublished papers.
A method for automatic extraction of multiword units representing business aspects from user reviews
Authors: Vechtomova Olga
Published: January 2014

The article describes a semi‐supervised approach to extracting multiword aspects of user‐written reviews that belong to a given category. The method starts with a small set of seed words, representing the target category, and calculates distributional similarity between the candidate and seed words. We compare 3 distributional similarity measures (Lin's, Weeds's, and balAPinc), and a document retrieval function, BM25, adapted as a word similarity measure. We then introduce a method for identifying multiword aspects by using a combination of syntactic rules and a co‐occurrence association measure. Finally, we describe a method for ranking multiword aspects by the likelihood of belonging to the target aspect category. The task used for evaluation is extraction of restaurant dish names from a corpus of restaurant reviews.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of the World Health Organization surgical safety checklist on postoperative complications
Authors: Bergs J , Hellings J , Cleemput I , Zurel Ö , De Troyer V , Van Hiel M , Demeere J-L , Claeys D , Vandijck D
Published: January 2014

Background

The World Health Organization (WHO) surgical safety checklist (SSC) was introduced to improve the safety of surgical procedures. This systematic review evaluated current evidence regarding the effectiveness of this checklist in reducing postoperative complications.

Methods

The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL were searched using predefined inclusion criteria. The systematic review included all original articles reporting a quantitative measure of the effect of the WHO SSC on postoperative complications. Data were extracted for postoperative complications reported in at least two studies. A meta-analysis was conducted to quantify the effect of the WHO SSC on any complication, surgical-site infection (SSI) and mortality. Yule's Q contingency coefficient was used as a measure of the association between effectiveness and adherence with the checklist.

Results

Seven of 723 studies identified met the inclusion criteria. There was marked methodological heterogeneity among studies. The impact on six clinical outcomes was reported in at least two studies. A meta-analysis was performed for three main outcomes (any complication, mortality and SSI). Risk ratios for any complication, mortality and SSI were 0·59 (95 per cent confidence interval 0·47 to 0·74), 0·77 (0·60 to 0·98) and 0·57 (0·41 to 0·79) respectively. There was a strong correlation between a significant decrease in postoperative complications and adherence to aspects of care embedded in the checklist (Q = 0·82; P = 0·042).

Conclusion

The evidence is highly suggestive of a reduction in postoperative complications and mortality following implementation of the WHO SSC, but cannot be regarded as definitive in the absence of higher-quality studies.
Brain microstructural changes and cognitive correlates in patients with pure obsessive compulsive disorder
Authors: Spalletta Gianfranco , Piras Fabrizio , Fagioli Sabrina , Caltagirone Carlo , Piras Federica
Published: January 2014

Object

The aim of this study was to investigate macrostructural and microstructural brain changes in patients with pure obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and to examine the relationship between brain structure and neuropsychological deficits.

Method

20 patients withOCDunderwent a comprehensive neuropsychological battery. A combined voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) analysis was used to capture gray matter (GM) and white matter changes inOCDpatients as compared to pair‐matched healthy volunteers. Multiple regression designs explored the relationship between cognition and neuroimaging parameters.

Results

OCDpatients had increased mean diffusivity (MD) inGMnodes of the orbitofronto‐striatal loop (left dorsal anterior cingulate [Z = 3.67,P < 0.001] left insula [Z = 3.35P < 0.001] left thalamus [Z = 3.59,P < 0.001] left parahippocampal gyrus [Z = 3.77P < 0.001]) and in lateral frontal and posterior associative cortices (right frontal operculum [Z = 3.42P < 0.001], right temporal lobe [Z = 3.79P < 0.001] left parietal lobe [Z = 3.91P < 0.001]). Decreased fractional anisotropy (FA) was detected in intrahemispheric (left superior longitudinal fasciculus [Z = 4.07P < 0.001]) and interhemispheric (body of corpus callosum [CC,Z = 4.42P < 0.001]) bundles. Concurrently, the semantic fluency score, a measure of executive control processes, significantly predictedOCDdiagnosis (Odds Ratio = 1.37; 95% Confidence Intervals = 1.09–1.73;P = 0.0058), while variation in performance was correlated with increasedMDin left temporal (Z = 4.25P < 0.001) and bilateral parietal regions (leftZ = 3.94, rightZ = 4.19P < 0.001), and decreasedFAin the right posterior corona radiata (Z = 4.07P < 0.001) and the left corticospinal tract (Z = 3.95P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The reported deficit in executive processes and the underlying microstructural alterations may qualify as behavioral and biological markers ofOCD.
Reusable Supported Ruthenium Catalysts for the Alkylation of Amines by using Primary Alcohols
Authors: Pei Shan Siah , Dang Tuan Thanh , Seayad Abdul Majeed , Ramalingam Balamurugan
Published: January 2014

Efficient and recyclable ruthenium catalysts were synthesized from readily available polystyrene‐ or silica‐supported phosphine ligands. Catalysts bound to the polymer support through an ether linkage showed good to excellent activity towards the N‐alkylation of primary and secondary amines to afford the alkylated products in 62–99 % yield at 120–140 °C. The supported phosphine ligand/ruthenium ratio was found to be crucial for higher catalytic activity and lower ruthenium leaching. The continuous flow N‐alkylation of amines was demonstrated by using the supported catalyst in a column reactor. By adopting the hydrogen‐borrowing strategy, the synthesis of the anti‐Parkinson agent Piribedil was established in 98 % yield at 140 °C.
Morphology Effects on the Supercapacitive Electrochemical Performances of Iron Oxide/Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites
Authors: Gao Peng‐Cheng , Russo Patrícia A. , Conte Donato E. , Baek Seunghwan , Moser François , Pinna Nicola , Brousse Thierry , Favier Frédéric
Published: January 2014

The benzyl alcohol route is used to decorate reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanosheets with iron oxide (FeOx) nanoparticles. The resulting FeOx/RGO composites combine both electrical double‐layer capacitive and pseudocapacitive behaviors of RGO and FeOx, respectively, owing to the hybrid nanostructure. In 1 M Na2SO4 aqueous electrolyte, the capacitance of the FeOx/RGO electrode reaches 126 F g−1 in a negative potential range from −0.8 to 0.0 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) and 97 F g−1 in the extended potential window from −0.8 to +0.7 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). By using the benzyl alcohol route, a higher concentration of iron precursor leads to full surface coverage of the RGO nanosheets by smaller FeOx nanoparticles, forming a close‐packed layer that limits the restacking of RGO nonosheets in the dry state. The resulting FeOx/RGO composite gains the same power capability as RGO and a higher energy density than raw FeOx, owing to this well‐designed morphology,.
Spot Moiré Fringes: Determination of Domain Boundaries and Structural Parameters in Ordered Nanoporous Structures
Authors: Wang Qinghua , Kishimoto Satoshi , Jiang Xiangfen , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: January 2014

Spot moiré fringes are generated by the superposition between a nanoporous structure and a digital three‐way grating. The spot moiré fringes are useful for the characterization of the domain boundaries and structural parameters in ordered nanoporous materials. The pitches and the orientations of the nanopore arrays in three directions can be simultaneously determined in a large view field.
Selective Host Molecules Obtained by Dynamic Adaptive Chemistry
Authors: Matache Mihaela , Bogdan Elena , Hădade Niculina D.
Published: January 2014

Up till 20 years ago, in order to endow molecules with function there were two mainstream lines of thought. One was to rationally design the positioning of chemical functionalities within candidate molecules, followed by an iterative synthesis–optimization process. The second was the use of a “brutal force” approach of combinatorial chemistry coupled with advanced screening for function. Although both methods provided important results, “rational design” often resulted in time‐consuming efforts of modeling and synthesis only to find that the candidate molecule was not performing the designed job. “Combinatorial chemistry” suffered from a fundamental limitation related to the focusing of the libraries employed, often using lead compounds that limit its scope. Dynamic constitutional chemistry has developed as a combination of the two approaches above. Through the rational use of reversible chemical bonds together with a large plethora of precursor libraries, one is now able to build functional structures, ranging from quite simple molecules up to large polymeric structures. Thus, by introduction of the dynamic component within the molecular recognition processes, a new perspective of deciphering the world of the molecular events has aroused together with a new field of chemistry. Since its birth dynamic constitutional chemistry has continuously gained attention, in particular due to its ability to easily create from scratch outstanding molecular structures as well as the addition of adaptive features. The fundamental concepts defining the dynamic constitutional chemistry have been continuously extended to currently place it at the intersection between the supramolecular chemistry and newly defined adaptive chemistry, a pivotal feature towards evolutive chemistry.
An Unexpected Fluctuating Reactivity for Odd and Even Carbon Numbers in the TiO2‐Based Photocatalytic Decarboxylation of C2–C6 Dicarboxylic Acids
Authors: Sun Yiran , Chang Wei , Ji Hongwei , Chen Chuncheng , Ma Wanhong , Zhao Jincai
Published: January 2014

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Professor Jincai Zhao at the Institute of Chemistry, CAS. The image shows that dicarboxylic acids with an even number of carbon atoms were degraded more slowly than those with an odd number of carbon atoms. This unusual fluctuation of the reactivity of dicarboxylic acids against the numbers of carbon atoms is very closely related to the different pre‐coordination mode of the acids with the photocatalyst surface sites. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201303236.
Characterization of Barium Strontium Titanate Particles by Means of X‐ray Diffraction
Authors: Herrmann Michael , Förter‐Barth Ulrich , Roßmann Christian , Teipel Ulrich
Published: January 2014

Nanoskalige ferroelektrische Keramiken sind aussichtsreiche Materialien zur Entwicklung miniaturisierter Bauteile für die Halbleiterindustrie. Dispergierungversuche von Bariumstrontiumtitanat (BST) zur Herstellung von integrierten Dünnfilmkondensatoren wurden durchgeführt. Die Röntgenbeugung ergab wichtige Strukturinformationen über BST und die Veränderungen während des Zerkleinerungsprozesses. Die Kristallitgrößen, das Auftreten eines Zweiphasensystems und die Stöchiometrie beeinflussen die dielektrischen Eigenschaften und damit zukünftige Anwendungen und müssen bei Entwicklung und Qualitätssicherung berücksichtigt werden.
Rheological Behavior of SiC‐Suspensions Used in Abrasive Flow Machining
Authors: Bremerstein Tina , Höhn Sören , Potthoff Annegret , Blug Bernhard , Amann Tobias
Published: January 2014

Zur Bewertung des Verschleißes von abrasiven Suspensionen infolge des Bearbeitungsprozesses Strömungsschleifen wurden abrasive Medien nach unterschiedlich langen Beanspruchungszeiten analysiert. Mithilfe rheologischer und granulometrischer Charakterisierungsmethoden wurde nachgewiesen, dass Änderungen von Festigkeit und Zusammensetzung des Mediums sowie der Partikelform für die Verschlechterung der Effizienz des Bearbeitungsprozesses verantwortlich sind.
Hierarchical Kendall copulas: Properties and inference
Authors: Brechmann Eike Christian
Published: January 2014

While there is substantial need for dependence models in higher dimensions, most existing models quickly become rather restrictive and barely balance parsimony and flexibility. Hierarchical constructions may improve on that by grouping variables in different levels. In this paper, the new class of hierarchical Kendall copulas is proposed and discussed. Hierarchical Kendall copulas are built up by flexible copulas specified for groups of variables, where aggregation is facilitated by the Kendall distribution function, the multivariate analog to the probability integral transform for univariate random variables. After deriving properties of the general model formulation, particular focus is given to inference techniques of hierarchical Kendall copulas with Archimedean components, for which closed‐form analytical expressions can be derived. A substantive application to German stock returns finally shows that hierarchical Kendall copulas perform very well for real data, out‐of‐ as well as in‐sample. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 42: 78–108; 2014 © 2014 Statistical Society of Canada
Multicolor computed tomographic molecular imaging with noncrystalline high‐metal‐density nanobeacons
Authors: Pan Dipanjan , Schirra Carsten O. , Wickline Samuel A. , Lanza Gregory M.
Published: January 2014

Computed tomography (CT) is one of the most frequently pursued radiology technologies applied in the clinics today and in the preclinical field of biomedical imaging. Myriad advances have been made to make this technique more powerful with improved signal sensitivity, rapid image acquisition and faster reconstruction. Synergistic development of novel nanoparticles has been adopted to produce the next‐generation CT contrasts agents for imaging specific biological markers. Nanometer‐sized agents are anticipated to play a critical part in the prospect of medical diagnostics owing to their capabilities of targeting specific biological markers, extended blood circulation time and defined biological clearance. This review paper introduces the readers to the fundamental design principles of nanoparticulate CT contrast agents with a special emphasis on molecular imaging with noncrystalline high‐metal‐density nanobeacons. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Nanospace Confinement on the Catalytic Activity and Stability of a Chiral Schiff Base Complex (CuL; L=C22H24N2O4): A Combined Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Bania Kusum K. , Karunakar Galla V. , Sarma Bipul , Deka Ramesh C.
Published: January 2014

Emerging trends in recyclable homogeneous chiral catalysts and their application in asymmetric synthesis are prompting a renewed interest in the field of catalysis as well as in industry. However, owing to fatal disadvantages of the homogeneous catalyst, they are not easily recoverable and recyclable. Herein, a comparison is made of the recyclability and stability of a homogeneous chiral CuII Schiff base complex of general formula CuL, in which L=C22H24N2O4, with that of a zeolite‐Y‐confined heterogeneous catalyst. On the basis of our experimental evidence, we demonstrate how self‐decomposition and bimetallic formation disrupt the catalytic activity of a homogeneous catalyst. By exploiting the special structure of faujasite zeolite, self‐decomposition of the chiral catalyst is fully controlled and efficiently used for the asymmetric nitroaldol reaction. The use of ionic liquid results in catalytic enhancement and provides a convenient way to recycle the homogeneous catalyst up to three cycles. When encapsulated in a cavity of faujasite by means of the “ship‐in‐a‐bottle” synthesis method, it shows much better catalytic activity with enhanced enantioselectivity, recyclability, and stability. The heterogeneous catalyst is recycled up to nine cycles and retains the catalytic activity for a longer period of time relative to its homogeneous counterpart. The synthesized heterogeneous CuII complex provides the nitroaldol product with a maximum of 84 % yield and 87 % enantiomeric excess (ee; R isomer). Structural and reactivity differences between the homogeneous and heterogeneous chiral complexes are substantiated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations.
Conditioned Subjective Responses to Socially Relevant Stimuli in Social Anxiety Disorder and Subclinical Social Anxiety
Authors: Tinoco‐González Daniella , Fullana Miquel Angel , Torrents‐Rodas David , Bonillo Albert , Vervliet Bram , Pailhez Guillem , Farré Magí , Andión Oscar , Perez Víctor , Torrubia Rafael
Published: January 2014

Although enhanced fear conditioning has been implicated in the origins of social anxiety disorder (SAD), laboratory evidence in support of this association is limited. Using a paradigm employing socially relevant unconditioned stimuli, we conducted two separate studies to asses fear conditioning in individuals with SAD and non‐clinical individuals with high social anxiety (subclinical social anxiety [SSA]). They were compared with age‐matched and gender‐matched individuals with another anxiety disorder (panic disorder with agoraphobia) and healthy controls (Study 1) and with individuals with low social anxiety (Study 2). Contrary to our expectations, in both studies, self‐report measures (ratings of anxiety, unpleasantness and arousal to the conditioned stimuli) of fear conditioning failed to discriminate between SAD or SSA and the other participant groups. Our results suggest that enhanced fear conditioning does not play a major role in pathological social anxiety. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

We used a social conditioning paradigm to study fear conditioning in clinical and subclinical social anxiety.

We found no evidence of enhanced fear conditioning in social anxiety individuals.

Enhanced fear conditioning may not be a hallmark of pathological social anxiety.
New psychoactive substances as adulterants of controlled drugs. A worrying phenomenon?
Authors: Giné Claudio Vidal , Espinosa Iván Fornís , Vilamala Mireia Ventura
Published: January 2014

The use of new psychoactive substances (NPS) as adulterants has received little attention in the literature. In this paper, results from Energy Control's drug checking service documenting the use of NPS as adulterants of controlled drugs are presented, and some reflections about possible explanations for this new phenomenon, potential risks for users, and challenges that it poses are discussed. From 2009 to 2012, 24 NPS belonging to several chemical classes such as phenethylamines, substituted cathinones, tryptamines, and methoxetamine were identified in 173 samples believed to be MDMA, amphetamine, ketamine, cocaine, mescaline, or methamphetamine. The NPS adulterant most frequently observed was 2‐(4‐bromo‐2,5‐dimethoxyphenyl)ethanamine (2C‐B) followed by 1‐(4‐fluorophenyl)propan‐2‐amine (4‐FA). Sixty‐nine different combinations of substances were detected: 20 involving a controlled drug combined with an NPS, and 49 involving one or more NPS that substituted the controlled drug. As these combinations could pose substantial risks to users, the need to improve knowledge about toxicity associated with these combinations, and the danger of these substances being incorporated into the products of illegal markets, are highlighted. Drug checking services and the European Union's early‐warning system operated by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and Europol can play an important role in reducing the harm associated with this phenomenon. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Classification and comparison of natural and altered flow regimes to support an Australian trial of the Ecological Limits of Hydrologic Alteration framework
Authors: Mackay Stephen J. , Arthington Angela H. , James Cassandra S.
Published: January 2014

The Ecological Limits of Hydrologic Alteration (ELOHA) is a new framework designed to develop environmental flow prescriptions for many streams and rivers in a user‐defined geographic region or jurisdiction. This study presents hydrologic classifications and comparisons of natural and altered flows in southeast Queensland, Australia, to support the ecological steps of a field trial of the ELOHA framework. We extended existing protocols for flow classification by assessing the stability of flow classes. Model‐based clustering distinguished six Reference classes (based on modelled pre‐development flow data) and five Historic classes (based on stream gauge data). The principal flow regime change was loss of some of the original (natural) flow diversity accompanied by the emergence of a perennial flow class in the Historic classification composed mostly of gauges with flow regimes influenced by dams. However, similarities between Reference and Historic classifications indicate that hydrologic changes in southeast Queensland have not totally obscured Reference (pre‐development) characteristics. Duration of low flow spells has undergone the greatest absolute change from Reference values.

Dams had substantial but variable impacts on downstream flow regimes. Each dam created a unique downstream flow signature, indicating that environmental flow guidance for each regulated river must be tailored to the particulars of flow alterations, the associated ecological impacts and the desired future ecological state of the aquatic ecosystem. Other stressors were implicated in flow regime change, highlighting the need to consider the potential influence of factors other than prominent water infrastructure on flow regime alterations and associated ecological responses. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Boswellic acids reduce Th17 differentiation via blockade of IL‐1β‐mediated IRAK1 signaling
Authors: Stürner Klarissa Hanja , Verse Nina , Yousef Sara , Martin Roland , Sospedra Mireia
Published: January 2014

Interferon‐gamma producing CD4+ T (Th1) cells and IL‐17‐producing CD4+ T (Th17) cells are involved in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases including multiple sclerosis. Therefore, the development of treatment strategies controlling the generation and expansion of these effector cells is of high interest. Frankincense, the resin from trees of the genus Boswellia, and particularly its prominent bioactive compound acetyl‐11‐keto‐β‐boswellic acid (AKBA), have potent anti‐inflammatory properties. Here, we demonstrate that AKBA is able to reduce the differentiation of human CD4+ T cells to Th17 cells, while slightly increasing Th2‐ and Treg‐cell differentiation. Furthermore, AKBA reduces the IL‐1β‐triggered IL‐17A release of memory Th17 cells. AKBA may affect IL‐1β signaling by preventing IL‐1 receptor‐associated kinase 1 phosphorylation and subsequently decreasing STAT3 phosphorylation at Ser727, which is required for Th17‐cell differentiation. The effects of AKBA on Th17 differentiation and IL‐17A release make the compound a good candidate for potential treatment of Th17‐driven diseases.
Differential expression, modulation and bioactivity of distinct fish IL‐12 isoforms: Implication towards the evolution of Th1‐like immune responses
Authors: Wang Tiehui , Husain Mansourah , Hong Suhee , Holland Jason W.
Published: January 2014

IL‐12 is a heterodimeric cytokine composed of an α‐chain (p35) and a β‐chain (p40). Primarily produced by APCs, IL‐12 induces IFN‐γ production in T, B and NK cells. IL‐12 drives Th1‐cell differentiation and IFN‐γ secretion to promote cell‐mediated immunity, which is essential in the defence against intracellular pathogens. The importance of IL‐12 in Th1 responses is echoed by its targeted suppression by intracellular pathogens evading cell‐mediated immunity. IL‐12 subunits have been identified recently in fish, although reported bioactivities are limited to higher vertebrates. Here, we report the cloning of a p35 gene and two divergent p40 genes (p40b and p40c), capable of producing two functional IL‐12 isoforms (p35/p40b and p35/p40c) in rainbow trout. Trout IL‐12 isoforms possess distinct bioactivities with respect to the induction of IFN‐γ, IL‐10 and p40c expression. Trout IL‐12 isoforms are differentially expressed and modulated in vivo, exhibiting specific gene expression profiles in bacterial, viral and parasitic infection models, and in vitro in stimulated macrophage and leucocyte cultures. These data imply that alternative or additional pathogen‐specific Th‐like cell populations may exist in fish. This study will facilitate a broader understanding of the evolutionary processes driving host–pathogen interactions and Th1‐like immune responses in lower vertebrates.
Triazolium Salts as Appropriate Catalytic Scaffolds for 1,4‐Additions to α,β‐Unsaturated Carbonyls
Authors: Bratko Ielyzaveta , Guisado‐Barrios Gregorio , Favier Isabelle , Mallet‐Ladeira Sonia , Teuma Emmanuelle , Peris Eduardo , Gómez Montserrat
Published: January 2014

1,2,3‐Triazole derivatives containing a rigid dihydroanthracenyl skeleton are suitable precursors for both organometallic and organo‐based catalysts. A Rh–carbene complex and the triazolium salt efficiently catalyzed the 1,4‐additions of C‐ and heterodonor reagents to α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl substrates, respectively.