bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new method to improve the stability, tensile strength, and heat resistant properties of shape‐memory epoxy resins: Two‐stages curing
Authors: Sun He , Liu Yuyan , Tan Huifeng , Du Xingwen
Published: September 2013

In this article, we design a new thermal curing method: two‐stage curing. The purpose of using this approach is to maintain the excellent shape‐memory property of epoxy resin system after first stage curing, and the material can be folded in small size to storage or transportation and recovery its original shape commodiously by heating temperature. Then, after second stage curing, the stability, glass transition temperature(Tg), and tensile strength of material can be improved effectively. For this aim, a series of mixtures have been prepared. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), tensile test, scanning electron microscope (SEM), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and fold‐deploy shape‐memory test have been used to characterize the feasibility of two‐stage curing process, curing degree, tensile strength, morphology, thermodynamic properties, and shape‐memory performance of these polymers. DSC results show that two independent curing stages can be achieved successfully. Tensile tests and DMA results suggest that tensile strength and heat resistance have been improved after the second curing stage. SEM results reveal that the addition of latent curing agent do not change the fracture mechanism. Furthermore, the fold‐deploy shape‐memory tests prove that the composites after first stage curing possess eximious shape‐memory property. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39882.
Investigation of membrane preparation condition effect on the PSD and porosity of the membranes using a novel image processing technique
Authors: Sharak Ashkan Zolfaghari , Samimi Armin , Mousavi Seyyed Abbas , Bozarjamhari Ramin Bozorgmehri
Published: September 2013

A totally computerized image processing program package is developed to analyze the SEM images of membrane surface and cross‐section. Pore size distribution and porosity of the fabricated membranes are determined using the proposed image processing procedure. Furthermore, effect of coagulation bath temperature on the morphology and mechanical properties (such as tensile strength, strain break, tensile energy absorbent, and tensile stiffness) of Polysulfone (PSf) membranes are investigated. The results reveal that the mechanical properties are higher when N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP) is used as solvent. Also, an increase in the coagulation bath temperature caused a monotonous increase in the mean pore size value of Dimethylformamide (DMF)‐based membranes. However, mean pore size curve has a maximum when NMP is used as solvent. Also, porosity of the fabricated membranes increased when coagulation bath temperature increased. For the NMP‐base membranes, pore's diameter was in the range of 0–5 μm. However, DMF‐based membranes have pore size value of smaller than 1 μm when the precipitation medium is kept at 8°C. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39899.
Extraction of protein from skim natural rubber latex using PEG as a surfactant via low speed centrifugation and continuous flow
Authors: Danwanichakul Duangkamol , Rattanaphan Ornthana , Srisatjang Jirarat , Danwanichakul Panu
Published: September 2013

Protein extractions from skim natural rubber latex using 3 %w/v polyethylene glycol (PEG6000) via both low speed centrifugation and continuous flow were investigated. In centrifugal extraction, when the speed was 1000 rpm, the extractable protein (EP) content in serum increased with processing time from 5 to 30 min and when the time was fixed at 5 min, EP content increased with centrifugal speed. In addition, further washing deproteinized chips with 2 %w/v SDS solution could remove proteins with efficiencies corresponding to the efficiencies of protein removals in latex phase, implying the role of PEG in protein reduction in both steps. In continuous flow extraction, EP content increased with increasing Reynolds number or increasing mean residence time of the flow to a maximum and then dropped. The efficiencies of the centrifugal extraction and continuous flow extraction were 55.2 and 33.7%, respectively. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39900.
Ecology and conservation of grassy wetlands dominated by spiny mud grass Pseudoraphis spinescens in the southern Murray–Darling Basin, Australia
Authors: Colloff Matthew J. , Ward Keith A. , Roberts Jane
Published: September 2013

The distribution, ecosystem functions, conservation status and threatening processes of grassy wetlands are reviewed, with an emphasis on changes in flood regimes, water resource development and land use. The focus of the review is the ecology of spiny mud grass Pseudoraphis spinescens (R.Br.) Vickery, a C4 perennial aquatic grass.

In Australia P. spinescens is a dominant species in grassy wetlands of the southern Murray–Darling Basin, the Wet–Dry Tropics and coastal New South Wales. Adapted to high irradiance and ambient temperatures, and to intermittent inundation for several months’ duration, it is a rapidly growing (> 20 mm d‐1), stoloniferous species, requiring prolonged, deep flooding interspersed with drying to achieve maximum growth and reproduction. Pseudoraphis spinescens can be considered an important species of grassy wetlands, providing food and habitat for waterfowl and other aquatic organisms through high primary productivity and nutrient cycling.

Grassy wetlands in Australia are under threat from altered flood regimes, water resource development, grazing and land‐use change. The provision of flood regimes that most closely match plant‐specific water requirements represents the management action with the best prospect for the conservation of grassy wetlands on regulated rivers.

A basic model for the water regime of P. spinescens grassy wetlands is presented to inform conservation and management, and stressing the need of such wetlands for large areas and rivers with high flow volumes that generate relatively deep prolonged flooding followed by drying out of the floodplain.

Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessing the consequences of habitat fragmentation for two migratory salmonid fishes
Authors: Junge Claudia , Museth Jon , Hindar Kjetil , Kraabøl Morten , Vøllestad L. Asbjørn
Published: September 2013

Man‐made barriers such as dams affect the movement of aquatic species, reducing gene flow and genetic variability. Such encroachments may also lead to selective changes in life history and behaviour. Hydropower construction worldwide has fragmented many previously continuous fish habitats, leading to loss of populations and production. It is therefore important to assess potential impacts on habitats before such developments begin.

Here, the potential ecological and evolutionary consequences of planned hydropower development on two migratory salmonid fishes – brown trout (Salmo trutta) and European grayling (Thymallus thymallus) – were assessed, combining telemetry with population genetics. Almost 200 fish were radio‐tagged and tracked weekly between March and November. Using microsatellite markers, the genetic population structure was assessed and the number of migrants among different river sections identified for both species.

Overall, both species displayed extensive within‐ and between‐river movement, with larger home ranges in grayling than in trout. Regular movements between distinct spawning, feeding and wintering areas were common. These vital habitats were often located within areas of planned hydropower development.

Both species exhibited significant population genetic structuring within the study area, with waterfalls acting as impassable barriers to upstream gene flow for grayling. The structuring was more developed for trout than for grayling. However, downstream gene flow was common, resulting in a highly admixed trout population below a waterfall.

The large‐scale movement patterns and extensive connectivity of the system indicate that habitat fragmentation and changes in water flow will adversely affect both species, but most strongly the trout. The reduction in water flow over large and productive stretches of the river might select for less migratory genotypes in both species. The loss of particular genotypes may reduce the biocomplexity of the system and overall population resilience.

Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biosorption and biotransformation of fluoranthene by the white‐rot fungus Pleurotus eryngii F032
Authors: Hadibarata Tony , Kristanti Risky Ayu , Hamdzah Myzairah
Published: September 2013

Major concern about the presence of fluoranthene, which consists of four fused benzene rings, in the environment has been raised in the past few years due to its toxic, mutagenic, and persistent organic pollutant properties. In this study, we investigated the removal of fluoranthene under static and agitated conditions. About 89% fluoranthene was removed within 30 days under the agitated condition, whereas under the static condition, only 54% fluoranthene was removed. We further investigated the behavior and mechanism of fluoranthene biosorption and biotransformation by Pleurotus eryngii F032 to accelerate the elimination of fluoranthene. The optimum conditions for the elimination of fluoranthene by P. eryngii F032 included a temperature of 35 °C, pH 3, 0.2% inoculum concentration, and a C/N ratio of 16. Under these conditions at the initial fluoranthene concentration of 10 mg/L, more than 95% of fluoranthene was successfully removed within 30 days. Of those factors influencing the biodegradation of fluoranthene, salinity, glucose, and rhamnolipid content were of the greatest importance. Degradation metabolites identified using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry were 1‐naphthalenecarboxylic acid and salicylic acid, suggesting possible metabolic pathways. Finally, it can be presumed that the major mechanism of fluoranthene elimination by white‐rot fungi is to mineralize polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons via biotransformation enzymes like laccase.
Chemical and ultrastructural studies of lignocellulose biodegradation during Agaricus bisporus cultivation
Authors: Zhang Rui , Wang Hexiang , Liu Qinghong , Ng TziBun
Published: September 2013

During Agaricus bisporus cultivation, lignocellulose degradation is the result of the activity of both the mushroom and microbial communities developed during the composting. To investigate the lignocellulose degradation in detail from the beginning to the end of the process, the functional groups of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin have been studied with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and the morphological changes of lignocelluloses were elucidated with scanning electron microscopy. The aperture of lignin and cellulose increased to enable the mycelia of A. bisporus to penetrate into the medium and to degrade lignocelluloses in a more direct way. The chemical structure changes implied a preferential use of lignin that could make for better use of cellulose to boost growth of A. bisporus. Changes in chemical structure together with ultrastructural changes induced by the microbial flora during cultivation substrate production by the composting substrate are important in promoting the utilization of lignocelluloses by A. bisporus.
Tumour supressor secreted frizzled related protein 1 regulates p53‐mediated apoptosis
Authors: Gauger Kelly J. , Schneider Sallie S.
Published: September 2013

The most frequently occurring cancer in women, and the second leading cause of cancer death among women, is breast cancer. Cancer results from cellular mutations that enhance proliferation and decrease programmed cell death (apoptosis). Secreted frizzled‐related proteins (SFRPs) are a family of proteins known for their ability to negatively modulate the Wnt signalling cascade. SFRP1 expression is lost in a multitude of cancers, including breast cancer, and SFRP1 down regulation reduces apoptosis in vitro but the mechanisms remain unclear, as also the effect ofSfrp1deficiency on apoptosis on mammary epithelial cells in vivo. Our data show that mammary glands fromSfrp1−/−mice express significantly lessBcl2l11(Bim) andBaxmRNA in response to DNA damage. The effect ofSfrp1loss in reducing γ‐irradiation induced apoptosis was examined by TUNEL staining and cleaved‐caspase‐3 immunostaining. The findings show thatSfrp1−/−mice have less DNA fragmentation, whilst caspase‐3 expression is decreased, and that p53 expression is generally diminished. Recombinant SFRP1 could replace endogenous expression and elevate the levels of pro‐apoptotic and p53‐mediated gene expression(Bcl2l,Bax,Cdkn1aandBbc3) in mammary epithelial cells derived fromSfrp1−/−mice. Thus Sfrp1 plays an important role in mediating mammary epithelial apoptotic response to DNA damage in vivo. The role SFRP1 plays in p53 target gene expression was also noted, which suggests that this pathway may be worth exploiting for novel therapies.
Postclose technique for large sheath arterial access using percloseTM in emergency endovascular repair
Authors: Kim Tae‐Hoon , Shim Won‐Heum
Published: September 2013

The “Preclose technique” using a perclose device has recently become widely used in various percutaneous procedures requiring a large access sheath. However, the post‐procedural application of the percloseTM to the large sheath arteriotomy is more challenging because of the risk of bleeding and difficulty of device application. This report introduces a novel post‐procedural closing technique of large 22 Fr arterial sheath access using perclose devices. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Low profile vascular plugs for paravalvular leaks after TAVR
Authors: Feldman Ted , Salinger Michael H. , Levisay Justin P. , Smart Steven
Published: September 2013

Background

Paravalvular leak (PVL) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is associated with less good outcomes. The use of percutaneous plugs is among the strategies to treat PVL after TAVR. Plugs have been limited by the need to pass 4–6 F delivery sheaths between the TAVR stent frame and the native valve leaflets.

Methods

The study population consists of six patients who had at least moderate aortic insufficiency (AI), and also developed symptoms of heart failure after TAVR. We describe in detail the use of low profile vascular plugs that require crossing the leaks with only a 4 F diagnostic catheter.

Results

Low profile vascular plugs were successfully deployed in all six patients without significant complications. Fluoroscopy time ranged 16.7–69.4 min (44.8 ± 18.8 min). Contrast volume ranged 15–100 mL (45 ± 34 mL). One plug was used in five, and two adjacent plus in one case. AI severity was reduced from moderate or severe to mild or less in four patients, from severe to moderate in one, and in one, there was no change. Five of six patients were treated electively and were significantly improved in terms of both echocardiographic PVL and also symptoms. The one who did not have echocardiographic improvement did not improve clinically and expired one month later.

Conclusions

PVL closure can be consistently accomplished after TAVR with low profile vascular plugs. Careful analysis of PVL location on echo before closure greatly facilitates finding the fluoroscopic location of the leak. Decreases in PVL severity are associated with significant clinical improvement. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Outcomes in diabetic patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention for acute anterior myocardial infarction: Results from the INFUSE‐AMI study
Authors: Sanidas Elias A. , Brener Sorin J. , Maehara Akiko , Généreux Philippe , Witzenbichler Bernhard , El‐Omar Magdi , Fahy Martin , Mehran Roxana , Gibson C. Michael , Stone Gregg W.
Published: September 2013

Objectives

To evaluate the clinical, angiographic, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) results in patients with and without diabetes mellitus (DM) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Background

DM has been associated with increased mortality in patients with STEMI, yet the mechanisms underpinning this association have not been completely elucidated.

Methods

Overall, 451 patients (51 diabetics) from the INFUSE‐AMI trial were studied. They presented with an anterior STEMI due to an occluded left anterior descending artery (LAD) and underwent bivalirudin‐supported primary PCI with or without intralesion abciximab and with or without thrombus aspiration. Angiographic baseline and post‐procedure parameters, cMRI at 30 days, and clinical follow‐up at 30 days and at 1 year were compared between diabetic and nondiabetic patients.

Results

Patients with DM had significantly more comorbidities and more extensive LAD disease than nondiabetics. Primary PCI was equally effective in restoring coronary flow in both groups and the infarct size at 30 days was similar (14.3% [7.1, 24.5] vs. 17.3% [8.1, 23.6], respectively, P = 0.55). Diabetic patients had more major cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events at 1 year (16.5% vs. 8.0%, P = 0.04). Stent thrombosis within 30 days after primary PCI was higher in diabetic than in nondiabetic subjects (4.3% vs. 0.8%, P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Patients with DM presenting with STEMI had a higher baseline risk profile than those without DM. Although reperfusion success and infarct size were similar, diabetic patients experienced more death, reinfarction, stent thrombosis, and revascularization than nondiabetics. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nanosized Carbon‐Supported Manganese Oxide Phases as Lithium–Oxygen Battery Cathode Catalysts
Authors: Kavakli Cüneyt , Meini Stefano , Harzer Gregor , Tsiouvaras Nikolaos , Piana Michele , Siebel Armin , Garsuch Arnd , Gasteiger Hubert A. , Herranz Juan
Published: September 2013

The poor discharge and recharge efficiency demonstrated by lithium–air batteries renders the search for highly active and inexpensive oxygen reduction and evolution catalysts crucial to the development of these energy‐storage and conversion devices. Previous works have shown that manganese oxides are promising lithium–oxygen cathode catalysts, which is in agreement with their remarkable activities for the reduction and evolution of oxygen in aqueous media. Motivated by these resembling catalytic behaviors, we prepared and characterized a number of manganese oxide modifications directly on carbon black and attempted to correlate their oxygen reduction and evolution activities in aprotic and aqueous electrolytes. Although our results cannot confirm this correlation, they provide valuable insight into the reaction mechanisms at play in each medium. More precisely, in 0.1 M potassium hydroxide, the reduction of oxygen is related to the reduction of a manganese(III) intermediate whereas the oxidation of hydrogen peroxide (which was regarded as a mimic of the lithium peroxide produced upon lithium–oxygen battery discharge) correlates with the transition between manganese(II) and manganese(III) phases. In the aprotic medium, manganese oxide cathodes prefilled with lithium peroxide showed a strong catalytic effect but were not active in the oxidation of lithium peroxide produced in the previous discharge. This discrepancy is thought to arise from the stark differences in the sizes and morphologies of the lithium peroxide involved in each test, which implies that the catalytic activity of a material for the oxidation of lithium peroxide prefilled on electrodes is not indicative of its behavior in the charging of a real lithium–oxygen cell.
Locating Catalytically Active Oxygen on Ag(1 1 1)—A Spectromicroscopy Study
Authors: Günther Sebastian , Böcklein Sebastian , Wintterlin Joost , Niño Miguel A. , Menteş Tevfik O. , Locatelli Andrea
Published: September 2013

The loading of an Ag(1 1 1) sample with oxygen was monitored by in situ low‐energy electron microscopy and X‐ray photoemission electron microscopy during NO2 dosing at T≥480 K. At first, adsorbed oxygen populates the Ag(1 1 1) surface, which initiates the (4×4) reconstruction leading to the characteristic O 1s core level at 528.30 eV. The formation of this phase proceeds on a mesoscopic length scale by traveling fronts separating reconstructed from non‐reconstructed surface areas. Continued NO2 dosing leads to the accumulation of a new oxygen species mainly at steps and step bunches. Characterized by an O 1s peak with two components at 530.20 eV and 530.75 eV, this species represents the active oxygen during the ethylene epoxidation reaction over Ag. The 530.20 eV component is attributed to surface oxygen, the 530.75 eV species to subsurface oxygen. This inhomogeneous accumulation of the active oxygen occurs at a very low rate. However, the preparation route can be changed, which strongly accelerates the population of the catalytically active oxygen species and leads to a homogeneous distribution of oxygen on the surface. This route involves the complete formation of the O(4×4) reconstruction by NO2 dosing, followed by a complete de‐reconstruction of the surface by desorption of the oxygen adlayer. The faster population kinetics is related to the Ag adatom transport during such a reconstruction/de‐reconstruction cycle.
The e‐tongue‐based classification and authentication of mineral water samples using cross‐correlation‐based PCA and Sammon's nonlinear mapping
Authors: Kundu Palash K. , Kundu Madhusree
Published: September 2013

The present paper elaborates on the design of classifiers based on cross‐correlation‐based principal component analysis (PCA) and Sammon's nonlinear mapping (NLM) using current signals obtained from electronic tongue (e‐tongue) with commercial mineral water samples available in the Indian market. The pulse‐voltammetric method is used to capture the electroanalytical/electrochemical characteristics of the sampled mineral waters by considering a real model for the liquid–electrode interface in a given e‐tongue apparatus. Then the cross‐correlation coefficients between the output and input signals are determined. Both PCA and Sammon's NLM create a subspace from high‐dimensional mineral water data by considering the principal eigenvectors and minimising the stress function, respectively. The proposed cross‐correlation‐based PCA and Sammon's classifiers establish the highest separation distance among the investigated water brands and carries out the authentication of more than one unknown sample of the same brand with a certain degree of variability with respect to their sources. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Plasmonic Scissors for Molecular Design
Authors: Sun Mengtao , Zhang Zhenglong , Kim Zee Hwan , Zheng Hairong , Xu Hongxing
Published: September 2013

Heterogeneous catalysts play an important role in surface catalytic reactions, but selective bond breaking and control of reaction products in catalytic processes remain significant challenges. High‐vacuum tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (HV‐TERS) is one of the best candidates to realize surface catalytic reactions. Herein, HV‐TERS was employed in a new method to control dissociation by using hot electrons, generated from plasmon decay, as plasmonic scissors. In this method, the NN bond in 4,4′‐dimercaptoazobenzene was selectively dissociated by plasmonic scissors, and the reaction products formed from the radical fragment (SC6H5N) were controlled by varying the pH value. Under acidic conditions, p‐aminothiophenol was produced from the radical fragment by attachment of hydrogen ions, whereas under alkaline conditions, 4‐nitrobenzenethiol was obtained by attachment of oxygen ions to the substrate.
Recent Advances in the Field of Main‐Group Mono‐ and Diatomic “Allotropes” Stabilised by Neutral Ligands
Authors: Wilson David J. D. , Dutton Jason L.
Published: September 2013

The study of ligand stabilised mono‐ and diatomic zero oxidation state complexes is a young and fascinating topic. This area merges the fields of low‐oxidation‐state main‐group chemistry, homoatomic multiple bonding and fundamental coordination chemistry. As with a great deal of recent coordination chemistry within the d‐block, carbene ligands are clearly the star of the show, highlighting their importance within the p‐block as well. This Minireview focuses on the significant developments of the past two years.
Pharmacokinetics and absolute bioavailability of mepolizumab following administration at subcutaneous and intramuscular sites
Authors: Ortega Hector , Yancey Steve , Cozens Simon
Published: September 2013

This study characterized the pharmacokinetics (PK) of mepolizumab, after a single intravenous (IV), subcutaneous (SC), or intramuscular (IM) dose in healthy adults and determined the absolute bioavailability of SC and IM mepolizumab delivered at different anatomical regions. Sixty healthy subjects were randomly assigned to receive a single dose of either mepolizumab 250 mg by IV, SC injection (upper arm, abdomen, or thigh); or IM injection (thigh). Following IV administration, the mean maximum observed plasma mepolizumab concentration (Cmax) and the mean area under the concentration versus time curves from time zero to infinity (AUC(0‐∞)) were 109 ± 17 µg/mL and 1,557 ± 250 µg d/mL, respectively. After SC administration, the mean (±SD) values of Cmax and AUC(0‐∞) were 34.1–38.2 ± 7.3–12.1 µg/mL and 1,110–1,238 ± 228–372 µg d/mL, respectively. Following IM administration, the mean values of Cmax and AUC(0‐∞) were 46.9 ± 10.6 µg/mL and 1,395 ± 348 µg d/mL. The median terminal half‐life was similar for SC, IM and IV administration (17.9–20.4, 19.2, and 18.5 days, respectively). The overall mean bioavailability of SC mepolizumab was 64–75%, and absorption was relatively similar for the three SC injection sites. Mepolizumab 250 mg was generally well tolerated in this study. These results support flexibility in the SC injection site for mepolizumab.
Fabrication of Metal‐Nanoparticle‐Modified Semiconducting Copper– and Silver–TCNQ Materials as Substrates for the Reduction of Chromium(VI) Using Thiosulfate Ions at Ambient Temperature
Authors: Pearson Andrew , O'Mullane Anthony P.
Published: September 2013

The formation of readily recoverable and reusable organic semiconducting Cu‐ and AgTCNQ (TCNQ=7,7,8,8‐tetracyanoquinodimethane) microstructures decorated with Pt and Pd metallic nanoparticles is described for the effective reduction of CrVI ions in aqueous solution at room temperature using both formic acid and an environmentally friendly thiosulfate reductant. The M‐TCNQ (M=metal) materials were formed by electrocrystallisation onto a glassy carbon surface followed by galvanic replacement in the presence of H2PtCl6 or PdCl2 to form the composite material. It was found that loading of the surface with nanoparticles could easily be controlled by changing the metal salt concentration. Significantly, the M‐TCNQ substrates facilitated the formation of well‐isolated metal nanoparticles on their surfaces under appropriate galvanic replacement conditions. The semiconductor–metal nanoparticle combination was also found to be critical to the catalyst performance, wherein the best‐performing material was CuTCNQ modified by well‐isolated Pt nanoparticles with both formic acid and thiosulfate ions as the reductant.
Modification of interface anisotropy and its effect on microstructural evolution during ostwald ripening
Authors: Singh N. B. , Berghmans A. , King M. , Knuteson D. , Talvacchio J. , Kahler D. , House M. , Schreib B. , Wagner B. , McLaughlin S.
Published: September 2013

We performed an experiment to study the role of anisotropy in interfacial energy during the coarsening of a complex oxide CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) material system. When we altered the interface anisotropy, we observed that evolution and sizes of spherical grains completely altered to facetted cubes. When interface became anisotropic, crystal growth appears to occur by the surface attachment/detachment, the motion of ledges, and the nucleation of new layers. Our observations showed that new layers grew by screw dislocation mechanism. This suggests that nucleation limited coarsening is occurring by the development of a transient bimodal grain size distribution consisting of large growing grains with step. In presence of PbO we always observed the development of shaped nucleus which grew larger. Sometimes very complex shaped crystals grew as a metastable shape. These shapes became uniform as the growth progressed and size of grains became larger. This process produces smaller grains that act as a source of material for the growing less defective larger grains.
Performance evaluation of multiuser diversity in multiuser two‐hop cooperative multi‐relay wireless networks using maximal ratio combining over Rayleigh fading channels
Authors: Al‐Mistarihi Mamoun F. , Mohaisen Rami , Sharaqa Ashraf , Shurman Mohammad M. , Darabkh Khalid A.
Published: September 2013

Multiuser diversity (MUD) cooperative wireless networks combine the features of the MIMO systems without confronting the physical layer constraints by providing multiple copies of the transmitted signal from the source to the destination with the help of the relay node. Cooperative wireless networks have attracted the full attention in the last few years and are implemented widely in many wireless communication systems to adapt for the fading impairments, provide higher data rates, and improve the performance of the wireless communication systems. In this paper, we present an informative study for the reason of evaluating the performance of the MUD in the multiuser two‐hop cooperative multi‐relay networks using maximal ratio combining. Furthermore, we derive tight closed‐form expressions of outage probability and symbol error probability for the amplify‐and‐forward and fixed decode‐and‐forward protocols with the MUD. Additionally, we conduct a simulation study to show to what extent our analytical and simulation results agree with each other. It is worthy to mention that our analytical and simulation results agree fairly with each other under high average signal‐to‐noise ratio, whereas they show that our proposed system with multiple relays provides significant improvements over those previously proposed systems having only one relay. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of lipase production on crambe oil and meal by Fusarium sp. (Gibberella fujikuroi complex)
Authors: Oliveira Bruno H. , Coradi Gilberto V. , Attili‐Angelis Derlene , Scauri Carolina , Luques Ana Helena P. G. , Barbosa Aneli M. , Dekker Robert F. H. , Neto Pedro Oliva , Lima Valeria M. G.
Published: September 2013

This study provides a comparison of fermentation conditions for the production lipases by Fusarium sp. (Gibberella fujikuroi complex) isolate FCLA‐MA‐41 in submerged (SmF) and solid‐state fermentation (SSF) using agro‐industrial residues. To assess SmF, a univariate study of seven carbon sources (crambe, corn, linseed, olive, palm (dendê), soybean oils and chicken fat) and four nitrogen sources (ammonium sulfate, sodium nitrate, urea, yeast extract) was performed. The relationship among the concentrations of carbon and nitrogen sources, Triton X‐100 and yeast extract was studied using a Central Composite Design (CCD). To assess SSF, different residues (sugarcane bagasse) and oil‐seed meals (castorbean, corn, crambe, soybean) with additional supplements added (minimum salts, seed oils) were examined. Based on the CCD matrix, a medium containing crambe oil (17.5 mL/L), Triton X‐100 (5 g/L), ammonium sulfate (5 g/L) and yeast extract (1 g/L) was proposed, resulting in a lipase titer of 3.0 ± 0.25 U/mL. The cost/production relationship was 7.73% less expensive than SmF with corn oil. SSF produced a maximum lipase titer of 5.0 ± 0.25 U/gds on crambe meal moistened with phosphate buffer. The best cost/enzyme activity estimate was for SSF with crambe meal as substrate in only distilled water (87.27% less expensive than SmF).
Potassium fluoride impregnated CaO/NiO: An efficient heterogeneous catalyst for transesterification of waste cottonseed oil
Authors: Kaur Mandeep , Ali Amjad
Published: September 2013

Potassium fluoride impregnated CaO/NiO has been prepared by wet impregnation method in nano particle form as supported by powder XRD, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy studies. Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area and basic sites measurement studies have been performed to establish the effect of potassium fluoride impregnation on catalyst surface morphology and basic strength. CaO/NiO impregnated with 20 wt% potassium fluoride was used as solid catalyst for the transesterification of waste cottonseed oil having up to 5.8 wt% free fatty acid content. The variables used for the transesterification were, KF impregnated on CaO/NiO, catalyst concentration, reaction temperature, and methanol to oil molar ratio. Reaction parameters have been optimized to achieve the least reaction period for the completion of the reaction. Complete transesterification (>99% FAMEs yield) of waste cottonseed oil with methanol (1:15 molar ratio) required 4 h in the presence of 5 wt% catalyst (with respect to oil) at 65°C. Reusability study suggests that catalyst could be recycled for four successive runs without significant loss in activity. A pseudo first order kinetic equation was applied to evaluate the kinetic parameters and under optimized conditions first order rate constant and activation energy was found to be 0.023 min−1 and 41.2 kJ/mol, respectively. Few physicochemical properties of the prepared biodiesel sample have also been studied and compared with standard values.

Practical applications: In India, application of edible vegetable oils for biodiesel production is prohibited to avoid food versus fuel situation. Application of waste cottonseed oil (WCO) for biodiesel production could circumvent this problem. However, homogeneous alkali catalyst could not be employed due to the presence of high free fatty acid contents in such feedstock. In this context present study demonstrates the impregnation preparation of KF impregnated CaO/NiO and its application as reusable solid catalyst for the transesterification of WCO.
Asymmetric syn‐Aldol Reaction of α‐Hydroxy Ketones with Tertiary Amine Catalysts
Authors: Baś Sebastian , Woźniak Łukasz , Cygan Judyta , Mlynarski Jacek
Published: September 2013

The tertiary amine‐catalyzed direct asymmetric aldol reaction of 2‐hydroxyacetophenones (2‐hydroxy‐1‐arylethanones) with a variety of aliphatic aldehydes has been demonstrated. By using 20 mol‐% of unmodified cinchonine as catalyst, the direct aldol reaction products were isolated in good yields and with remarkably high syn diastereocontrol and good asymmetric induction (40–78 % ee). This newly elaborated tertiary‐amine‐catalyzed direct asymmetric aldol reaction has extended the scope of organocatalytic processes to aromatic α‐hydroxy ketones, which have hitherto been unreactive towards enamine catalysis.
Multivalent Functionalization of Cyclodextrins by Photochemical Thiol‐Ene Addition Reaction
Authors: Becker Maria M. , Zeng Zhaoyang , Ravoo Bart Jan
Published: September 2013

Cyclodextrins are among the most popular host compounds in supramolecular chemistry. In this paper we describe a versatile approach to the multivalent functionalization of cyclodextrins by using photochemical thiol‐alkene addition reactions (“thiol‐ene click chemistry”). Starting from cyclodextrins allylated at the 2‐OH, 3‐OH and/or 6‐OH positions, a range of thiols could be introduced in good to excellent yields. By using alkanethiols substituted with hydroxy, carboxylic acid, ester, protected amine, and tetraethyleneglycol groups, a broad variety of functionalized cyclodextrins was obtained. By using fluorinated alkanethiols, highly fluorinated cyclodextrins (up to 56 wt.‐% of fluorine) were obtained in excellent yield.
An accurate strength amplification factor for the design of SDOF systems with P–Δ effects
Authors: Amara Fabio , Bosco Melina , Marino Edoardo M. , Rossi Pier Paolo
Published: September 2013

The response of structures subjected to seismic actions is always influenced by P–Δ effects. The importance of this effect is generally modest for structures experiencing an elastic response but often relevant for structures responding well within the inelastic range of behaviour. Seismic codes indicate that P–Δ effects may be counterbalanced through an increase in the structural strength required by a first order analysis. This increase is calculated by means of a strength amplification factor. The expressions suggested in codes for this factor are simplistic and often criticized by researchers.

In this paper, the effectiveness of some of the provisions reported in the literature or suggested in seismic codes is evaluated on single degree of freedom systems with different periods of vibration. As suggested by past studies, attention is focused on the influence of the interstorey drift sensitivity coefficient, significant duration of the ground motion, class of the site soil, displacement ductility and equivalent viscous damping ratio of the system. Finally, an accurate expression of the strength amplification factor is proposed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toward anthropogenic combustion emission constraints from space‐based analysis of urban CO2/CO sensitivity
Authors: Silva Sam J. , Arellano Avelino F. , Worden Helen M.
Published: September 2013

We explore the value of multispectral CO retrievals from NASA/Terra Measurement of Pollution In The Troposphere (MOPITT v5), along with Atmospheric CO2 Observations from Space (ACOSv2.9) CO2 retrievals from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT), for characterizing emissions from anthropogenic combustion. We use these satellite retrievals to analyze observed CO2/CO enhancement ratios (ΔCO2/ΔCO) over megacities. Since CO is coemitted with CO2 in anthropogenic combustion, the observed ΔCO2/ΔCO characterizes the general trend in combustion activity. Our analyses show patterns in ΔCO2/ΔCO that correspond well with the developed/developing status of megacities, and ΔCO2/ΔCO that agree well with available literature and emission inventories to approximately 20%. Comparisons with ΔCO2/ΔCO derived from Total Carbon Column Observing Network measurements show similar agreement, where some of the differences in observed ΔCO2/ΔCO are due to representativeness and limited GOSAT data. Our results imply potential constraints in anthropogenic combustion from GOSAT/MOPITT, particularly in augmenting our carbon monitoring systems.
Impact of soil moisture‐climate feedbacks on CMIP5 projections: First results from the GLACE‐CMIP5 experiment
Authors: Seneviratne Sonia I. , Wilhelm Micah , Stanelle Tanja , van den Hurk Bart , Hagemann Stefan , Berg Alexis , Cheruy Frederique , Higgins Matthew E. , Meier Arndt , Brovkin Victor , Claussen Martin , Ducharne Agnès , Dufresne Jean‐Louis , Findell Kirsten L. , Ghattas Joséfine , Lawrence David M. , Malyshev Sergey , Rummukainen Markku , Smith Benjamin
Published: September 2013

The Global Land‐Atmosphere Climate Experiment–Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 5 (GLACE‐CMIP5) is a multimodel experiment investigating the impact of soil moisture‐climate feedbacks in CMIP5 projections. We present here first GLACE‐CMIP5 results based on five Earth System Models, focusing on impacts of projected changes in regional soil moisture dryness (mostly increases) on late 21st century climate. Projected soil moisture changes substantially impact climate in several regions in both boreal and austral summer. Strong and consistent effects are found on temperature, especially for extremes (about 1–1.5 K for mean temperature and 2–2.5 K for extreme daytime temperature). In the Northern Hemisphere, effects on mean and heavy precipitation are also found in most models, but the results are less consistent than for temperature. A direct scaling between soil moisture‐induced changes in evaporative cooling and resulting changes in temperature mean and extremes is found in the simulations. In the Mediterranean region, the projected soil moisture changes affect about 25% of the projected changes in extreme temperature.
Increasing the Visibility of Women of Color in Academic Science and Engineering: Professional Society Data
Authors: Frehill Lisa M. , Ivie Rachel
Published: September 2013

Professional societies collect a wealth of data on underrepresented scholars in specific disciplines that can be used to understand minority experiences throughout different stages of academia.
Family‐Friendly Policies for Doctoral Students
Authors: Lester Jaime
Published: September 2013

Doctoral students can face unique obstacles in terms of balancing the demands of a graduate program with personal obligations.
UK Cross‐Border Cooperation: Extending Rescue to Jersey Debtors on a ‘Passporting’ Basis
Authors: Omar Paul J.
Published: September 2013

This article looks at the scope of using, via the Letter of Request method, the insolvency laws of another jurisdiction in circumstances where the laws of the requesting jurisdiction do not adequately cater for the type of proceeding required. Copyright © 2013 INSOL International and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fiber‐Based Composite Tissue Engineering Scaffolds for Drug Delivery
Authors: Trachtenberg Jordan E. , Mountziaris Paschalia M. , Kasper F. Kurtis , Mikos Antonios G.
Published: September 2013

Drug delivery through tissue‐engineered scaffolds provides a composite approach to address the regenerative limitations of simple material implantation, providing expanded avenues for therapeutic tissue‐repair strategies in the clinic. Both nano‐ and microfibrous scaffolds generated by a variety of techniques have been investigated for their potential in drug‐delivery applications. While nanofibers mimic the structure and organization of natural extracellular matrix, microfibers provide more sustained release of drugs, larger pores to facilitate cell infiltration, and improved mechanical support. Various methods exist to embed drugs within the fiber matrix to modulate the release kinetics specific to the tissue‐engineering application. The current article reviews the established and emerging fabrication methods for drug‐loaded fiber‐based scaffolds and addresses how further combination into composite scaffolds can enhance drug delivery and tissue regeneration.
A Simple, Fast Correction Method of Triglyceride Interference in Blood Hemoglobin Automated Measurement
Authors: Zeng Su‐Gen , Zeng Ting‐Ting , Jiang Hong , Wang Lan‐Lan , Tang Shu‐Qiang , Sun Yu‐Ming , Ying Bin‐Wu , Jia Yong‐Qian
Published: September 2013

Background

To establish a reliable correction method for automated hemoglobin (HGB) measurement by minimizing the interference from blood high triglyceride (TG).

Methods

Fifty whole blood samples and 50 plasma samples containing variable TG concentrations were used to determine the centrifugation speed and time. Complete blood cell counts (CBCs) were performed by an automated hematology analyzer for 102 blood samples, in which high‐level TG were artificially added. The same blood samples were centrifuged at low –speed to separate the plasma from blood cells. Then the plasma was analyzed by the same analyzer. By using the two CBC results, a correction formula was established to calculate the corrected HGB, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) values. Comparisons were also made of HGB, MCH, and MCHC values before and after correction of in‐patient individuals who received intralipid and developed lipemia.

Results

The percentage differences between the corrected and true values of HGB, MCH and MCHC were −0.28%, 0.06%, and −0.31%, respectively. The correlation coefficients of corrected values versus true values of HGB, MCH, and MCHC were 0.989, 0.935, and 0.717, respectively. This correction method was also effective for native lipemic samples.

Conclusion

High blood TG level can cause blood turbidity and erroneously high HGB results by hematology analyzers commonly used in clinical laboratories. Adding a simple step of low‐speed centrifugation and measurement of HGB in the plasma fraction allows a quick correction of HGB measurement in lipemic blood samples.
Can We Predict Postoperative Pancreatic Leakage After Pancreaticoduodenectomy Using Preoperative Fecal Elastase‐1 Level?
Authors: Shin Hyun Wook , Kim Jae Keun , Park Joon Seong , Yoon Dong Sup
Published: September 2013

Introduction

The measurement of fecal elastas‐1 in stools is a sensitive and relatively inexpensive noninvasive test. The aim of this study was to study fecal elastase levels in patients who develop pancreatic leakage after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) to determine if fecal elastase level can be used to predict patients at high risk for pancreatic leakage after PD.

Methods

Pancreatic function was considered normal when fecal elastase‐1 concentration exceeded 200 μg/g feces and moderately or severely insufficient when fecal elastas‐1 concentration was less than 200 μg/g feces.

Results

Of 123 patients who underwent PD, 67 (54.5%) showed fecal elastase‐1 levels less than 200 μg/g, indicating moderate or severe pancreatic insufficiency. Pancreas texture, pathology origin, and level of γ‐glutamyl transferase (r‐GT) were significantly correlated with fecal elastas‐1 level. On univariate analysis, the incidence of pancreatic leakage was significantly greater in the group with normal fecal elastase‐1 level (≥200 μg/g), pathologic origin (bile duct/ampulla/duodenum), and soft pancreas texture. In multivariate analysis, normal fecal elastase‐1 level (≥200 μg/g) and soft pancreatic texture were identified as independent factors for pancreatic leakage.

Conclusions

Fecal elastase‐1 is the most simple and objective method for predicting pancreatic leakage after PD.
Stratified Reporting of High Sensitivity Troponin I Assay Is Associated With Suboptimal Management of Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome and Intermediate Troponin Elevation
Authors: Kim Jiwon , Gaddam Sainath , Wu Wen‐Chih , Behera Vikram , Sharma Satish , Choudhary Gaurav
Published: September 2013

Background

Newer troponin assays provide high sensitivity and precision and are reported in a stratified manner by some laboratories. We sought to investigate the clinical impact of such reporting in the treatment of patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods

We identified patients presenting with suspected ACS over a one‐year period. Patients were stratified based on their peak troponin I values within 24 hours of admission into the following categories as reported by our laboratory: troponin value ≤0.03 ng/ml, which is reported as normal (negative troponin group), troponin value 0.04–0.29 ng/ml, which is reported as suggestive of myocardial damage (intermediate troponin group), and troponin value ≥0.3 ng/ml which is reported as indicative of myocardial necrosis (high troponin group).

Results

Plasma troponin concentrations were ≤0.03 ng/ml in 77 patients (68.7%), 0.04–0.29 ng/ml in 18 patients (16.1%), and ≥0.30 ng/ml in 17 patients (15.2%). Patients in the intermediate troponin group had thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) risk scores that were similar to that of the high troponin group. Despite this, patients in the intermediate troponin group were almost 50% less likely to receive coronary angiography, anticoagulation, and clopidogrel when compared to the high troponin group.

Conclusion

Patients in the intermediate troponin group that meet the guideline definition of acute myocardial infarction are less likely to receive optimal medical and invasive therapy as compared to the high troponin group even though TIMI risk scores were similar in the two groups.