bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary Study on Low‐Level Turbulence Advisory System with Ku‐Band Broadband Radar at Shonai Airport, Yamagata Prefecture
Authors: SHIMAMURA SHIGEHARU , YOSHIKAWA EIICHI , YOSHIDA SATORU , USHIO TOMOO , MATAYOSHI NAOKI
Published: October 2015

During winter, at Shonai Airport located at the northern part of Japan, some low‐level turbulence caused by tornadoes and downbursts often interrupts takeoffs and landings. This is a primary source of economic loss. It is well‐known that a weather radar system is one of the most useful devices for observing various weather phenomena. However, it is difficult for conventional radar systems with a range resolution of several hundred meters and a temporal resolution of about 5 min to detect small‐scale phenomena with a horizontal scale of several hundred meters and duration of several minutes. We have been developing a meteorological Ku‐band broadband radar (BBR) that can detect small‐scale phenomena with high resolution (a range resolution of several meters and a temporal resolution of about 1 min). We constructed an advisory system with the BBR in order to support aircraft operation at this airport, and performed a comparison between BBR data and flight data recorder (FDR) data.
A Precise Frequency Comparison System Using an Optical Carrier
Authors: WADA MASATO , WATABE KEN‐ICHI , OKUBO SHO , SUZUYAMA TOMONARI , HONG FENG‐LEI , AMEMIYA MASAKI
Published: October 2015

We have investigated the performance of an optical carrier transfer system for remote comparison of optical clocks. In the frequency transfer system, technical problems and fundamental principles limit coherent transfer on a long‐haul optical fiber. They contribute to noise processes that come from the propagation delay in the fiber, the design of the interferometer, burst length fluctuations of the fiber, asymmetrical propagation characteristics, and so on. The feasibility of a full optical link with high stability is discussed. Phase detection with a high degree of precision and cancelation of the fiber‐induced noise on the round‐trip light are achieved with a well‐known standard technique using an all‐fiber‐based interferometer. We report the characteristics of these noise processes with results on a spooled fiber. The Allan deviation of the compensated link which is extended to 90 km reaches 5 × 10−18, close to the theoretical limit imposed by the delay‐unsuppressed fiber noise at an averaging time of 103 s.
Evaluation of Fluorinated Self‐Assembled Monolayer by Photoelectron and Near Edge X‐Ray Absorption Fine Structure Spectroscopy
Authors: HARUYAMA YUICHI , OKADA MAKOTO , NAKAI YASUKI , ISHIDA TAKAO , MATSUI SHINJI
Published: October 2015

The electronic structure of fluorinated self‐assembled monolayers (F‐SAMs) with different chain lengths was investigated by photoelectron and near edge X‐ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy. From the measurements of the photoelectron spectra in the wide region and in the C 1s core‐level region, the chemical compositions and components of the F‐SAMs with different chain length were clarified. In the C K‐edge NEXAFS spectra of the F‐SAMs, the several spectral features were observed and the intensity of the features at 292 eV and 299 eV decreased with increasing incidence angle of the excitation photons. Based on the results of the photoelectron and NEXAFS spectral measurements, the electronic structure of four F‐SAMs with different chain length is discussed.
Humidity‐Sensing Properties of Ag0 Nanoparticles Supported on WO3‐SiO2 with Super Rapid Response and Excellent Stability
Authors: Tomer Vijay K. , Duhan Surender , Sharma Ashok K. , Malik Ritu , Jangra Suman , Nehra S. P. , Devi Sunita
Published: October 2015

Ag0 nanoparticles supported on WO3/SiO2 nanocomposites were synthesized in two steps by using a sequential combination of in situ and wet impregnation loading processes. Initially, WO3 (5 wt.‐%) was loaded onto SiO2 by using an in situ process, followed by impregnation of the WO3/SiO2 nanocomposite with AgNO3 (1, 3 and 5 wt.‐%). After calcination, the Ag0 nanoparticles were located inside the pore channels of the Ag‐WO3/SiO2 complex nanohybrid. The humidity‐sensing results show that the material exhibits excellent sensitivity, rapid response/recovery, stability, durability, and a relatively low hysteresis towards relative humidity (RH) at room temperature. In particular, the material shows a 3‐fold higher sensitivity compared with that of WO3/SiO2 along with very rapid response times. The huge improvement in sensitivity may be credited to the chemical and electronic refinement actuated by the Ag nanoparticles inside the pore channels of the WO3/SiO2. The findings reported in this study will be helpful for the development of complex mesoporous hybrid nanocomposites with improved RH‐sensing performance.
Cu3(SeO4)2(SeO3OH)2(H2O)16 – The First Example of a Linear Octahedral–Tetrahedral Heptamer in Inorganic Compounds
Authors: Gurzhiy Vladislav V. , Al‐Shuray Alexander , Britvin Sergey N. , Krivovichev Sergey V.
Published: October 2015

Cu3(SeO4)2(SeO3OH)2(H2O)16 (1) is a novel copper selenate hydrate and the first inorganic compound to contain linear octahedral–tetrahedral heptamers. The heptamers are formed by successive polymerization of two SeO3OH tetrahedra, two SeO4 tetrahedra, and three Cu(H2O)4O2 octahedra. The linkages between the octahedra and tetrahedra are in the trans‐configuration, which is in agreement with the Jahn–Teller distortion of the octahedral coordination geometry of Cu2+.
Total Syntheses of Laevigatins A and E
Authors: Hirokane Tsukasa , Ikeuchi Kazutada , Yamada Hidetoshi
Published: October 2015

We describe the first total syntheses of two ellagitannins, laevigatins A and E. Laevigatin A comprises a 2,3‐O‐(S)‐hexahydroxydiphenoyl‐α‐D‐glucose unit, whose anomeric oxygen atom forms a dehydrodigalloyl ester. Laevigatin E is a dimeric ellagitannin with structural motifs similar to those of laevigatin A. A recently developed method for synthesizing C–O digallates allowed the synthesis of more than 1 g of laevigatin A. The abundant supply allowed the synthesis of laevigatin E, an achievement that implies that more complex ellagitannins could be accessible.
From pulses to pain relief: an update on the mechanisms of rTMS‐induced analgesic effects
Authors: Moisset X. , de Andrade D.C. , Bouhassira D.
Published: October 2015

Background

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non‐invasive technique that allows cortical stimulation. Recent studies have shown that rTMS of the primary motor cortex or dorsolateral prefrontal cortex decreases pain in various pain conditions. The aim of this review was to summarize the main characteristics of rTMS‐induced analgesic effects and to analyse the current data on its mechanisms of action.

Databases

Medline, PubMed and Web of Science were searched for studies on the analgesic effects and mechanisms of rTMS‐induced analgesic effects. Studies on epidural motor cortex stimulation (EMCS) were also included when required, as several mechanisms of action are probably shared between both techniques.

Results

Stimulation site and stimulation parameters have a major impact on rTMS‐related analgesic effects. Local cortical stimulation is able to elicit changes in the functioning of distant brain areas. These modifications outlast the duration of the rTMS session and probably involve LTP‐like mechanisms via its influence on glutamatergic networks. Analgesic effects seem to be correlated to restoration of normal cortical excitability in chronic pain patients and depend on pain modulatory systems, in particular endogenous opioids. Dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine and GABAergic circuitry may also be involved in its effects, as well as rostrocaudal projections.

Conclusions

rTMS activates brain areas distant from the stimulation site. LTP‐like mechanisms, dependence on endogenous opioids and increase in concentration of neurotransmitters (monoamines, GABA) have all been implicated in its analgesic effects, although more studies are needed to fill in the still existing gaps in the understanding of its mechanisms of action.
Genomic predictors of remission to antidepressant treatment in geriatric depression using genome‐wide expression analyses: a pilot study
Authors: Eyre Harris A. , Eskin Ascia , Nelson Stanley F. , St. Cyr Natalie M. , Siddarth Prabha , Baune Bernhard T. , Lavretsky Helen
Published: October 2015

Objective

This first pilot study of genome‐wide expression as predictor of antidepressant response in late‐life depression examined genome‐wide transcriptional profiles in a randomized placebo‐controlled trial of combined methylphenidate and citalopram.

Methods

Genome‐wide transcriptional profiles were examined in peripheral blood leukocytes sampled at baseline and 16 weeks from 35 older adults with major depression, who were randomized to methylphenidate + citalopram, citalopram + placebo, or methylphenidate + placebo. Methylphenidate doses ranged between 10 and 40 mg/day, and citalopram doses ranged between 20 and 60 mg/day. Remission was defined as Hamilton Depression Rating Scale score of 6 or below. Early remission was achieved in the first 4 weeks of treatment. We hypothesized that differential gene expression at baseline can predict antidepressant response.

Results

We analyzed gene expression in 24 remitters and 11 non‐remitters. At baseline, we found three genes showing higher expression in all remitters versus non‐remitters that satisfied the established level of significance: a fold change of 2 and p‐value of 0.05 that included HLA‐DRB5, SELENBP1, and LOC388588. Two gene transcripts showed higher expression in early remitters at baseline compared with non‐remitters. The first gene was CA1 carbonic anhydrase gene, on chromosome 8 involved in respiratory function (fold change 2.54; p = 0.03). The second gene was the SNCA‐α‐synuclein gene, implicated, which binds to dopamine transporter (fold change 2.1; p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Remission to antidepressants in geriatric depression may be associated with a particular gene expression profile in monoaminergic and metabolic pathways and needs to be replicated in a larger sample. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bidirectional transendothelial migration of monocytes across hepatic sinusoidal endothelium shapes monocyte differentiation and regulates the balance between immunity and tolerance in liver
Authors: Zimmermann Henning W. , Bruns Tony , Weston Chris J. , Curbishley Stuart M. , Liaskou Evaggelia , Li Ka‐Kit , Resheq Yazid J. , Badenhorst Paul W. , Adams David H.
Published: October 2015

Monocytes are versatile cells that can fulfill proinflammatory and anti‐inflammatory functions when recruited to the liver. Recruited monocytes differentiate into tissue macrophages and dendritic cells, which sample antigens and migrate to lymph nodes to elicit T‐cell responses. The signals that determine monocyte differentiation and the role of hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells (HSECs) in this process are poorly understood. HSECs are known to modulate T‐cell activation, which led us to investigate whether transendothelial migration of monocytes across HSECs influences their phenotype and function. Subsets of blood‐derived monocytes were allowed to transmigrate across human HSECs into a collagen matrix. Most migrated cells remained in the subendothelial matrix, but ∼10% underwent spontaneous basal to apical transendothelial migration. The maturation, cytokine secretion, and T‐cell stimulatory capacity of reverse transmigrating (RT) and subendothelial (SE) monocytes were compared. SE monocytes were mainly CD16–, whereas 75%‐80% of RT monocytes were CD16+. SE monocytes derived from the CD14++CD16− subset and exhibited high phagocytic activity, whereas RT monocytes originated from CD14++CD16+ and CD14+CD16++ monocytes, displayed an immature dendritic cell–like phenotype (CD11cposHLA‐DRposCD80loCD86lo), and expressed higher levels of chemokine (C‐C motif) receptor 8. Consistent with a dendritic cell phenotype, RT monocytes secreted inflammatory cytokines and induced antigen‐specific CD4+ T‐cell activation. In contrast, SE monocytes suppressed T‐cell proliferation and activation and exhibited endotoxin tolerance. Transcriptome analysis underscored the functional differences between SE and RT monocytes. Conclusions: Migration across HSECs shapes the subsequent fate of monocytes, giving rise to anergic macrophage‐like cells in tissue and the release of immunocompetent pre–dendritic cells into the circulation. (Hepatology 2016;63:233–246)
Chronic hepatitis C viral infection subverts vaccine‐induced T‐cell immunity in humans
Authors: Kelly Christabel , Swadling Leo , Capone Stefania , Brown Anthony , Richardson Rachel , Halliday John , von Delft Annette , Oo Ye , Mutimer David , Kurioka Ayako , Hartnell Felicity , Collier Jane , Ammendola Virginia , Sorbo Mariarosaria Del , Grazioli Fabiana , Esposito Maria Luisa , Marco Stefania Di , Siani Loredana , Traboni Cinzia , Hill Adrian V.S. , Colloca Stefano , Nicosia Alfredo , Cortese Riccardo , Folgori Antonella , Klenerman Paul , Barnes Eleanor
Published: October 2015

Adenoviral vectors encoding hepatitis C virus (HCV) nonstructural (NS) proteins induce multispecific, high‐magnitude, durable CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell responses in healthy volunteers. We assessed the capacity of these vaccines to induce functional HCV‐specific immune responses and determine T‐cell cross‐reactivity to endogenous virus in patients with chronic HCV infection. HCV genotype 1‐infected patients were vaccinated using heterologous adenoviral vectors (ChAd3‐NSmut and Ad6‐NSmut) encoding HCV NS proteins in a dose escalation, prime‐boost regimen, with and without concomitant pegylated interferon‐α/ribavirin therapy. Analysis of immune responses ex vivo used human leukocyte antigen class I pentamers, intracellular cytokine staining, and fine mapping in interferon‐γ enzyme‐linked immunospot assays. Cross‐reactivity of T cells with population and endogenous viral variants was determined following viral sequence analysis. Compared to healthy volunteers, the magnitude of HCV‐specific T‐cell responses following vaccination was markedly reduced. CD8+ HCV‐specific T‐cell responses were detected in 15/24 patients at the highest dose, whereas CD4+ T‐cell responses were rarely detectable. Analysis of the host circulating viral sequence showed that T‐cell responses were rarely elicited when there was sequence homology between vaccine immunogen and endogenous virus. In contrast, T cells were induced in the context of genetic mismatch between vaccine immunogen and endogenous virus; however, these commonly failed to recognize circulating epitope variants and had a distinct partially functional phenotype. Vaccination was well tolerated but had no significant effect on HCV viral load. Conclusion: Vaccination with potent HCV adenoviral vectored vaccines fails to restore T‐cell immunity except where there is genetic mismatch between vaccine immunogen and endogenous virus; this highlights the major challenge of overcoming T‐cell exhaustion in the context of persistent antigen exposure with implications for cancer and other persistent infections. (Hepatology 2016;63:1455‐1470)
Give Me a Hand: Adult Involvement During Object Exploration Affects Object Individuation in Infancy
Authors: Johnson Kristin M. , Woods Rebecca J.
Published: October 2015

The development of object individuation, a fundamental ability that supports identification and discrimination of objects across discrete encounters, has been examined extensively by researchers. There are significant advancements in infants' ability to individuate objects during the first year‐and‐a‐half. Experimental work has established a timeline of object individuation abilities and revealed some mechanisms underlying this ability. However, the influence of adult assistance during object exploration has not yet been explored. The current study investigates the effect of adult involvement during object exploration on infants' object individuation abilities.

In Experiment 1a and 1b, we examined 9.5‐month‐old infants' colour‐based object individuation following adult‐assisted multisensory object exploration. Two components of adult interaction were of particular interest: facilitation of object manipulation (grasping, rotating, and attention‐getting behaviours) and social engagement (smiling, pointing, attention‐getting verbalizations, and object‐directed gaze). Experiment 2a and 2b assessed these components with 4.5‐month‐olds to examine their impact across development. The results showed that after adult‐guided object exploration, both 9.5‐ and 4.5‐month‐old infants successfully individuated previously undifferentiated objects. Results of Experiments 1b and 2b provide implications for the mechanisms underlying the scaffolding influence of adult interaction during infant behaviours. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Decomposing the Bid–ask Spread in Multi‐Dealer Markets
Authors: Bleaney Michael , Li Zhiyong
Published: October 2015

In this paper, we modify the Huang and Stoll spread‐decomposing model to fit multi‐dealer markets. In a multi‐dealer market, individual dealers can rebalance their inventories either by trading with other dealers or by changing the quote price. Our modified model captures this feature. Using transaction data from the Reuters D2000‐1 system, we find that the order‐processing and inventory control components of the spread in the foreign exchange market are relatively small and dealers may tolerate the unwanted inventory to keep the spread small to attract informed orders. The asymmetric information component carries the biggest weight. We study the time pattern of the spread and its components. The spread varies significantly with the time of day, but the inventory control and asymmetric information components do not. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genome‐wide analysis of long noncoding RNA expression profiles in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Sun Chuanzheng , Liu Xunyang , Yi Zhongjie , Xiao Xuefei , Yang Mingshi , Hu Gui , Liu Huaizheng , Liao Liangkan , Huang Feizhou
Published: October 2015

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common liver disorder poising burgeoning health problem to humans. Recent studies have shown that long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) plays critical roles in a myriad of biological processes and human diseases. Since the roles of lncRNA in NAFLD remain unknown, they were investigated in the study. Microarray expression profiling of mRNAs and lncRNAs was conducted using RNA extracted from patients with and without NAFLD. One thousand seven hundred thirty‐five lncRNAs and 1485 mRNA were found differentially expressed in NAFLD samples compared with those in control samples. Among them 535 and 1,200 lncRNAs were upregulated and downregulated in NAFLD, respectively; 760 and 725 mRNAs were upregulated and downregulated in NAFLD, respectively. Moreover, seven lncRNAs and seven mRNAs that were highly up‐ or downregulated in NAFLD samples were validated by quantitative real‐time polymer chain reactions. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis and Gene Ontology analysis for the differentially expressed mRNAs showed that these RNAs are involved in various metabolic processes, cellular components, and molecular functions. Our findings indicate that the expression profiles of lncRNAs have changed in NAFLD as compared with normal liver, and the identified regulated RNAs may provide novel insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying the disease and potential novel diagnostic or therapeutic targets for NAFLD. © 2015 IUBMB Life, 67(11):847–852, 2015
Predictive performance of the Vitrigel‐eye irritancy test method using 118 chemicals
Authors: Yamaguchi Hiroyuki , Kojima Hajime , Takezawa Toshiaki
Published: October 2015

We recently developed a novel Vitrigel‐eye irritancy test (EIT) method. The Vitrigel‐EIT method is composed of two parts, i.e., the construction of a human corneal epithelium (HCE) model in a collagen vitrigel membrane chamber and the prediction of eye irritancy by analyzing the time‐dependent profile of transepithelial electrical resistance values for 3 min after exposing a chemical to the HCE model. In this study, we estimated the predictive performance of Vitrigel‐EIT method by testing a total of 118 chemicals. The category determined by the Vitrigel‐EIT method in comparison to the globally harmonized system classification revealed that the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were 90.1%, 65.9% and 80.5%, respectively. Here, five of seven false‐negative chemicals were acidic chemicals inducing the irregular rising of transepithelial electrical resistance values. In case of eliminating the test chemical solutions showing pH 5 or lower, the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were improved to 96.8%, 67.4% and 84.4%, respectively. Meanwhile, nine of 16 false‐positive chemicals were classified irritant by the US Environmental Protection Agency. In addition, the disappearance of ZO‐1, a tight junction‐associated protein and MUC1, a cell membrane‐spanning mucin was immunohistologically confirmed in the HCE models after exposing not only eye irritant chemicals but also false‐positive chemicals, suggesting that such false‐positive chemicals have an eye irritant potential. These data demonstrated that the Vitrigel‐EIT method could provide excellent predictive performance to judge the widespread eye irritancy, including very mild irritant chemicals. We hope that the Vitrigel‐EIT method contributes to the development of safe commodity chemicals. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Applied Toxicology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Uninformed consent: Do medicine residents lack the proper framework for code status discussions?
Authors: Binder Adam F. , Huang Grace C. , Buss Mary K.
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND

Conversations eliciting patient preferences about cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) are among the most common examples of informed consent. However, this is rarely recognized and therefore may not include all key elements of informed consent, namely, details and benefits of the procedure, significant risks involved, likelihood of the outcome, and alternative therapeutic options.

OBJECTIVE

Assess the content of code status discussions as reported by residents to examine whether residents meet requirements of informed consent.

DESIGN

Prospective, observational, single‐center survey study.

SETTING

Internal medicine residents at an academic medical center.

INTERVENTION

Medicine residents were surveyed and data were anonymously collected.

MEASUREMENTS

Content of code status discussions and knowledge of CPR outcomes.

RESULTS

Among 100 respondents, 66% have code status discussions with most patients upon hospital admission. Two main barriers to discussing code status were lack of time (49%) and lack of rapport (29%). Only 8% reported discussing all 5 elements of informed consent. Less than 10% of the residents correctly answered questions testing knowledge regarding outcomes after cardiac arrest. In logistical regression analyses, residents who included all key elements of informed consent reported more confidence that they provided the information needed for patients to make an informed decision (odds ratio 1.7 [95% confidence interval: 1.2‐2.3]).

CONCLUSIONS

Resident conversations regarding CPR are insufficient in the 5 key elements of informed consent. Framing code status discussions as examples of informed consent may be an effective strategy for educating residents or may improve the quality of these discussions, potentially leading to better patient decisions. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:111–116. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
3D FEM analysis, dynamic modeling, and performance assessment of transverse flux PMSG for small‐scale gearless wind energy conversion systems
Authors: Behjat Vahid , Amroony Boushehry Mohammad Javad
Published: October 2015

The transverse flux permanent magnet synchronous generator has a great potential for use in direct‐drive wind energy conversion systems due to its large pole numbers, high torque, and power density. This research work develops dynamic model of a single‐side transverse flux permanent magnet synchronous generator for use in a small‐scale gearless wind energy conversion system. For acquiring the parameters of the considered generator, required for dynamic modeling, 3D finite element model of the machine is developed and analyzed in both magneto‐static and transient modes. Field‐oriented control approach is employed for tracking maximum power point from the variable wind speed. The simulation results illustrate an accurate response of the system to the wind speed variation and proper performance of the developed dynamic model and control approach of the system. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inhibition of RecBCD in Klebsiella pneumoniae by Gam and its effect on the efficiency of gene replacement
Authors: Chen Chuan , Wei Dong , Liu Pengfu , Wang Min , Shi Jiping , Jiang Biao , Hao Jian
Published: October 2015

Gam protein is an inhibitor of the host RecBCD exonuclease, and this inhibition is essential to the proficiency of Red recombinase‐mediated gene replacement. In Klebsiella pneumoniae, the efficiency of this gene replacement was lower than that in Escherichia coli, and the minimum length of homologous extensions required was longer. Thus, it was supposed that the inhibitory effect of Gam against RecBCD was weak in K. pneumoniae. To test this hypothesis, a Gam‐deficient Red recombinase expression plasmid and a ΔrecB K. pneumoniae mutant were constructed. The Gam‐deficient Red recombinase showed a reduced capacity for gene replacement compared with that of the complete Red recombinase. The efficiency of gene replacement in the ΔrecB mutant was 6–8 times higher than the wild‐type strain, and the minimum length for the homologous extensions was reduced to 100 bp. These results indicate that Gam does inhibit the RecBCD exonuclease in K. pneumoniae, but that this inhibition is not stringent. Furthermore, mutation of recB presents a convenient and efficient method to enhance the Red recombinase assisted gene replacement in K. pneumoniae.
Analytical model for predicting friction in line contacts
Authors: Echávarri Otero Javier , de la Guerra Ochoa Eduardo , Chacón Tanarro Enrique , Díaz Lantada Andrés , Munoz‐Guijosa Juan M.
Published: October 2015

This paper presents the development of an analytical model for the prediction of the friction coefficient in line contacts under thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication (TEHL). A new theoretical equation is deduced for determining the friction coefficient, taking into account the rheology of common lubricants under TEHL. This approach also considers the heat generated and its penetration into the bulk of the contacting solids. Therefore, the increase in temperature and ensuing variations in the operating conditions are determined.

In order to illustrate the use of the new model and verify its accuracy, an experimental stage is performed in a tribological test rig. The predictions of the proposed model are compared with the results obtained in the test rig and other data reported in the literature for diverse lubricants, showing a good agreement in every case. © 2015 The Authors Lubrication Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Load performance analysis of three‐pad fixing pad aerodynamic journal bearings with parabolic grooves
Authors: Liu Fuxi , Lu Yanjun , Zhang Qimeng , Zhang Yongfang , Gupta Parag , Müller Norbert
Published: October 2015

Three‐pad fixing pad aerodynamic journal bearings (TPFPAJBs) have been widely used in precision instruments due to their low friction, high stability and non‐pollution. In order to improve the load performance of TPFPAJBs, parabolic grooves are opened in the bearing pad surfaces. By opening parabolic grooves in various bearing pad surfaces, the effects of the orientation angle, distance, width and depth of the grooves on the load performance of micro‐grooved TPFPAJBs can be investigated. The numerical results show that the location of the micro‐grooved bearing pads can greatly affect the load performance of micro‐grooved TPFPAJBs. When the given bearing pad surface is grooved, the effects of the bearing number and width‐to‐diameter ratio on the load performance of micro‐grooved TPFPAJBs can be studied. The bearing number and width‐to‐diameter ratio are observed to have significant influences on the load performance of micro‐grooved TPFPAJBs. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the class of infinite horizon optimal control problems affine, which are structurally stable
Authors: Kesri M'hamed
Published: October 2015

We prove in this article that there is in the set of all problems we consider a subset, which is residual. Every problem in this subset is shown to be structurally stable and defines a dynamical system, which looks like the graph of the figure given in Section 1, contrary to what happens for ordinary dynamical systems, that is, the ones associated with ODEs. There, the initial value problem (in the smooth case) is uniquely solvable; the structurally stable systems look like the figure given in Section 1, but sources are equilibria. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hybrid Encapsulation of Photoluminescent Pigments by Emulsion Polymerization and Reactive Heterocoagulation
Authors: Neenan Macaul L. , Clauson Ryan M. , Tsavalas John G.
Published: October 2015

Polymeric encapsulation of a high surface energy inorganic can aid in its uniform dispersion in a composite coating. Here we systematically explored an approach to suitable encapsulation conditions for two specialized photoluminescent pigments. While a suspension‐like process was desired to polymerize the layer at the inorganic surface, the robustness of the encapsulation was insufficient. By way of a simplified silica analog, proper conditions were determined to covalently link p(methyl methacrylate‐co‐glycidal methacrylate) latex particles to the inorganic surface through silane coupling. Those conditions were then successfully leveraged to the irregularly shaped photoluminescent pigments without deleterious impact on phosphorescence emission spectra nor on the persistence of the emission.
Expression of cleaved SNAP‐25 after bladder wall injection of onabotulinumtoxina or abobotulinumtoxina: A comparative study in the mice
Authors: Oliveira Raquel , Coelho Ana , Charrua Ana , Avelino António , Cruz Francisco
Published: October 2015

Aims

To study the expression of cleaved synaptosomal associated protein of 25 kDa (cSNAP‐25) in the bladder wall injected with onabotulinumtoxinA (onabotA) or abobotulinumtoxinA (abobotA) and compare the relative potency of these two brands.

Methods

One injection of 0.5 U of onabotA or abobotA diluted in 2 µl of saline was carried out in the bladder dome of adult female mice, whose bladders were exposed by laparotomy. Three days later bladders were collected, divided in five segments (dome, upper, middle and lower body, and trigone) and each one was sectioned and immunoreacted against cSNAP‐25, the end product of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT/A) activity. From each of the five segments one section was taken at random and the number of cSNAP‐25 immunoreactive (IR) fibers was determined.

Results

Each injection resulted in the cleavage of SNAP‐25 in all bladder sections, including those of the more distant segment from the injection point. The average number of cSNAP‐25 positive fibers was higher in the onabotA, 341 ± 301, than in the abobotA‐treated mice, 208 ± 152 (P = 0.003). The number of cSNAP‐25 IR fibers varied three to five‐fold between animals of each experimental group.

Conclusions

These findings confirm that, when injected in the bladder wall, in the same unit amount and same volume, onabotA is 1.6 times more potent to cleave SNAP‐25 than abobotA. The conversion ratio suggested by these experiments is 1:1.6 between onabotA and abobotA. Each injection, although preformed in the same way, may induce substantially different amounts of cSNAP‐25. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:86–90, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Psychometric evaluation of an online and paper accidental bowel leakage questionnaire: The ICIQ‐B questionnaire
Authors: Markland Alayne D. , Burgio Kathryn L. , Beasley T. Mark , David Shannon L. , Redden David T. , Goode Patricia S.
Published: October 2015

Aims

To evaluate the psychometric properties of an online versus paper US‐English version of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Bowel (ICIQ‐B).

Methods

The ICIQ‐B includes 17 items under 3 domains: bowel pattern (5 items), bowel control (7 items), and quality of life (5 items). We recruited community‐dwelling adults seeking treatment for ≥monthly bowel leakage from specialty clinics within a VA medical center and university affiliate. An online versus paper version was evaluated at baseline, 2 weeks later, and 3 months after nonsurgical treatments per usual care. We assessed test‐retest reliability (Pearson correlations) at 2 weeks, internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha), and convergent validity (Pearson correlations). Sensitivity to change was the difference between the baseline and post‐treatment (3‐month) scores.

Results

Mean age was 58.0 ± 11.9; 36% Veterans, 52% women. At baseline, 2 weeks, and 3 months, we found no differences in the online vs paper scores for the bowel control and quality of life domains. The ICIQ‐B demonstrated fair internal consistency for the bowel pattern domain (Cronbach's α = 0.36–0.54). Internal consistency on the bowel pattern domain was better with the paper version than the online version at 2 weeks (P < 0.05) and 3 months (P < 0.01) with no difference at baseline. All other domains had good internal consistency (Cronbach's α > 0.80), good retest reliability (r ≥ 0.70, P < 0.001), domain‐specific convergent validity for stool consistency (P < 0.05), incontinence severity (P ≤ 0.002), and quality of life impact (P < 0.05). After nonsurgical treatments, we found a reasonable response to change (P ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions

Online and paper versions had robust psychometric data for use among U.S. men and women, including Veterans. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:166–170, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Is bariatric surgery the answer to urinary incontinence in obese women?
Authors: Shimonov Mordechai , Groutz Asnat , Schachter Pinhas , Gordon David
Published: October 2015

Aims

To investigate the effect of bariatric surgery on female pelvic floor disorders.

Methods

Eighty consecutive obese women who underwent a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy were prospectively enrolled. Four validated questionnaires (ICIQ‐UI, BFLUTS‐SF, PFDI‐20, PISQ‐12) were used to evaluate pelvic floor symptoms before and 6 months after surgery. Outcome results were analyzed according to the presence of preoperative urinary incontinence (UI), defined as a positive answer to the question “how often do you leak urine?” on the ICIQ‐UI questionnaire.

Results

Seventy‐seven women (age 41.3 ± 11.5 years; parity 1.9 ± 1.6) completed all pre‐ and postoperative questionnaires. Mean body mass index (BMI) before and 6 months after surgery was 42 ± 4.7 and 33 ± 4.7, respectively. Preoperatively, 29 (37.7%) women (mean age 45.6 ± 11, mean BMI 42.3 ± 5.2) had UI, 17 (59%) of whom had stress urinary incontinence. Surgically induced weight loss was associated with statistically significant improvement in UI and filling symptoms, pelvic organ prolapse and colorectal‐anal scores, and condition‐specific sexual function and quality of life parameters. Specifically, the total score of the ICIQ‐UI questionnaire decreased from 9.28 ± 3.6 preoperatively to 2.9 ± 3.8 postoperatively (P < 0.001), and the urinary score of the PFDI‐20 questionnaire decreased from 31.4 ± 17.9 preoperatively to 9.3 ± 12.3 postoperatively (P < 0.001). Furthermore, 15 (51.7%) women reported complete resolution of UI following weight loss.

Conclusion

Surgically induced weight loss resulted in resolution of UI in up to 52% of preoperatively incontinent women and subsequent improvement in other pelvic floor symptoms. Larger studies with longer follow‐up are required to investigate the possible impacts of bariatric surgery on various aspects of pelvic floor function. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:184–187, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Treatment of daytime urinary incontinence: A standardization document from the International Children's Continence Society
Authors: Chang Shang‐Jen , Van Laecke Erik , Bauer Stuart B. , von Gontard Alexander , Bagli Darius , Bower Wendy F. , Renson Catherine , Kawauchi Akihiro , Yang Stephen Shei‐Dei
Published: October 2015

Purpose

This article is a standardization document of the International Children's Continence Society (ICCS); it represent a consensus of ICCS on the management of pediatric daytime urine incontinence (DUI).

Materials and Methods

This document was designed and written by a multi‐disciplinary core group of authors appointed by the ICCS’ board.

Results

Based on evidence of studies and the experience of experts, the treatment guideline of DUI is assembled in this standardization document. Guidelines and the algorithm of management include non‐pharmacological treatment (urotherapy), as well as the pharmacological therapy and other modalities that are presented for DUI in general, as along with recommendations for individual conditions.

Conclusion

The final document is not a systematic literature review. It includes relevant research when available as well as experts’ opinion on the current understanding of daytime incontinence in children. This document illustrates that specific treatment of DUI based on an exact diagnosis is effective. The mainstay of treatment is urotherapy, but a combination of treatment modalities is often necessary. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:43–50, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Partitioning a graph into connected components with fixed centers and optimizing cost‐based objective functions or equipartition criteria
Authors: Lari Isabella , Ricca Federica , Puerto Justo , Scozzari Andrea
Published: October 2015

We consider a connected graph G with n vertices, p of which are centers, while the remaining ones are units. For each unit‐center pair, there is a fixed assignment cost and for each vertex there is a nonnegative weight. In this article, we study the problem of partitioning G into p connected components such that each component contains exactly one center (p‐centered partition). We analyze different optimization problems of this type by defining different objective functions based on the assignment costs, or on the vertices' weights, or on both of them. For these problems, we show that they are NP‐hard on very special classes of graphs, and for some of them we provide polynomial time algorithms when G is a tree. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 67(1), 69–81 2016
Application of Near‐IR Absorption Porphyrin Dyes Derived from Click Chemistry as Third‐Order Nonlinear Optical Materials
Authors: Mi Yongsheng , Liang Pengxia , Yang Zhou , Wang Dong , Cao Hui , He Wanli , Yang Huai , Yu Lian
Published: October 2015

Recently, third‐order nonlinear properties of porphyrins and porphyrin polymers and coordination compounds have been extensively studied in relation to their use in photomedicine and molecular photonics. A new functionalized porphyrin dye containing electron‐rich alkynes was synthesized and further modified by formal [2+2] click reactions with click reagents tetracyanoethylene (TCNE) and 7, 7, 8, 8‐tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ). The photophysical properties of these porphyrin dyes, as well as the click reaction, were studied by UV/Vis spectroscopy. In particular, third‐order nonlinear optical properties of the dyes, which showed typical D‐π‐A structures, were characterized by Z‐scan techniques. In addition, the self‐assembly properties were investigated through the phase‐exchange method, and highly organized morphologies were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effects of the click post‐functionalization on the properties of the porphyrins were studied, and these functionalized porphyrin dyes represent an interesting set of candidates for optoelectronic device components.
Mapping photovoltaic performance with nanoscale resolution
Authors: Kutes Yasemin , Aguirre Brandon A. , Bosse James L. , Cruz‐Campa Jose L. , Zubia David , Huey Bryan D.
Published: October 2015

Photo‐conductive AFM spectroscopy (‘pcAFMs’) is proposed as a high‐resolution approach for investigating nanostructured photovoltaics, uniquely providing nanoscale maps of photovoltaic (PV) performance parameters such as the short circuit current, open circuit voltage, maximum power, or fill factor. The method is demonstrated with a stack of 21 images acquired during in situ illumination of micropatterned polycrystalline CdTe/CdS, providing more than 42 000 I/V curves spatially separated by ~5 nm. For these CdTe/CdS microcells, the calculated photoconduction ranges from 0 to 700 picoSiemens (pS) upon illumination with ~1.6 suns, depending on location and biasing conditions. Mean short circuit currents of 2 pA, maximum powers of 0.5 pW, and fill factors of 30% are determined. The mean voltage at which the detected photocurrent is zero is determined to be 0.7 V. Significantly, enhancements and reductions in these more commonly macroscopic PV performance metrics are observed to correlate with certain grains and grain boundaries, and are confirmed to be independent of topography. These results demonstrate the benefits of nanoscale resolved PV functional measurements, reiterate the importance of microstructural control down to the nanoscale for 'PV devices, and provide a widely applicable new approach for directly investigating PV materials. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Material requirements for the adoption of unconventional silicon crystal and wafer growth techniques for high‐efficiency solar cells
Authors: Hofstetter Jasmin , del Cañizo Carlos , Wagner Hannes , Castellanos Sergio , Buonassisi Tonio
Published: October 2015

Silicon wafers comprise approximately 40% of crystalline silicon module cost and represent an area of great technological innovation potential. Paradoxically, unconventional wafer‐growth techniques have thus far failed to displace multicrystalline and Czochralski silicon, despite four decades of innovation. One of the shortcomings of most unconventional materials has been a persistent carrier lifetime deficit in comparison to established wafer technologies, which limits the device efficiency potential. In this perspective article, we review a defect‐management framework that has proven successful in enabling millisecond lifetimes in kerfless and cast materials. Control of dislocations and slowly diffusing metal point defects during growth, coupled to effective control of fast‐diffusing species during cell processing, is critical to enable high cell efficiencies. To accelerate the pace of novel wafer development, we discuss approaches to rapidly evaluate the device efficiency potential of unconventional wafers from injection‐dependent lifetime measurements. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantifying Trace 2,4,6‐Trinitrotoluene (TNT) in Polymer Microspheres
Authors: Brewer Timothy , Staymates Matthew , Fletcher Robert
Published: October 2015

Well characterized test materials are essential for validating the performance of current trace explosive detection systems. Explosive encapsulated microspheres have proven to be a valuable test material for trace explosive detection because of their precise size, shape, and composition. Presented herein is the quantification of explosives in the polymer microspheres by high performance liquid chromatography with UV/Vis detection (HPLC‐UV/Vis). A size exclusion separation is employed to quantify the amount of explosive encapsulated in cured microspheres. Complete quantification was achieved by simultaneously separating and quantifying the explosive and polymer components. Results indicate that approximately 30 % of the TNT is lost in the manufacturing of the microspheres and subsequent loss from the cured microspheres is minimal if stored at 4 °C.
Crowdfunding as a Fast‐Expanding Market for the Creation of Capital and Shared Value
Authors: Baumgardner Terri , Neufeld Clifford , Huang Peter Chien‐Tarng , Sondhi Tarun , Carlos Fernando , Talha Mursalin Ahmad
Published: October 2015

This article explores the fast‐expanding market of crowdfunding − a market that will have created over $62 billion in new capital, primarily for entrepreneurs and small and medium‐sized business enterprises (SMEs), by the end of this year. We will look at the history of crowdfunding, the main drivers of the current market, the various platforms and business models, and the rapid and exponential growth of the market. We will discuss the importance of the concept of “shared value” in the development and evolution of this market, and look more closely at the United States’ current economy and how the mechanism of access to capital has been disrupted since the financial crisis. We will examine the premise that crowdfunding is the “crowd's” (anyone other than the top 1%) way of responding to this disruption and creating new capital. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prognostic Factors for Distress After Genetic Testing for Hereditary Cancer
Authors: Voorwinden Jan S. , Jaspers Jan P. C.
Published: October 2015

The psychological impact of an unfavorable genetic test result for counselees at risk for hereditary cancer seems to be limited: only 10–20 % of counselees have psychological problems after testing positive for a known familial mutation. The objective of this study was to find prognostic factors that can predict which counselees are most likely to develop psychological problems after presymptomatic genetic testing. Counselees with a 50 % risk of BRCA1/2 or Lynch syndrome completed questionnaires at three time‐points: after receiving a written invitation for a genetic counseling intake (T1), 2–3 days after receiving their DNA test result (T2), and 4–6 weeks later (T3). The psychological impact of the genetic test result was examined shortly and 4–6 weeks after learning their test result. Subsequently, the influence of various potentially prognostic factors on psychological impact were examined in the whole group. Data from 165 counselees were analyzed. Counselees with an unfavorable outcome did not have more emotional distress, but showed significantly more cancer worries 4–6 weeks after learning their test result. Prognostic factors for cancer worries after genetic testing were pre‐existing cancer worries, being single, a high risk perception of getting cancer, and an unfavorable test result. Emotional distress was best predicted by pre‐existing cancer worries and pre‐existing emotional distress. The psychological impact of an unfavorable genetic test result appears considerable if it is measured as “worries about cancer.” Genetic counselors should provide additional guidance to counselees with many cancer worries, emotional distress, a high risk perception or a weak social network.
The Synergistic Effect Between Imidazoline‐Based Dissymmetric bis‐Quaternary Ammonium Salts and Thiourea Against CO2 Corrosion at High Temperature
Authors: Zhang Jing , Sun Xujin , Ren Yuanming , Du Min
Published: October 2015

Imidazoline‐based dissymmetric bis‐quaternary ammonium salt (DBA), a type of environmentally friendly surfactant, was compounded with thiourea (TU). The inhibition properties of the compound inhibitor for Q235 steel in a simulated oil field that produced water saturated with CO2 at high temperature were studied by weight loss measurement, polarization curves, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and observation of surface morphology. Weight loss measurements show that DBA alone has poor inhibition efficiency at high temperature, and TU has a narrow inhibition concentration range. However, DBA and TU together show a synergistic effect, which not only overcomes the short comings when used individually, but also significantly reduces the corrosion rate at reduced dosage. DBA–TU acts as a mixed prohibition inhibitor, and can rapidly form a protective film. The inhibition efficiency decreased slowly with soaking time, which shows it has good substantivity. In conclusion, DBA–TU can be used as high temperature corrosion inhibitor against CO2 corrosion.