bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quand le narrateur boit(e)… (Réflexions sur le narrateur non fiable et/ou indigne de confiance)
Authors: Wagner Frank
Published: October 2016

Cet article consiste en une tentative de mise au point sur la question du narrateur non fiable et/ou indigne de confiance – « procédé » textuel susceptible de nous aider à formaliser indirectement la  problématique de lapolyphoniedu texte littéraire. Y est tout d’abord esquissée une forme d’état des lieux métathéorique des thèses des tenants de l’approche « rhétorique » (Booth), de la narratologie structurale (Lintvelt, Jouve) et du cognitivisme (Fludernik, Nünning), dans l’espoir de clarifier lescritèresnécessaires à l’établissement du défaut de fiabilité de l’instance narrative. Sont ensuite évoquées, dans une perspective plus critique, quelques typologies poétologiques (Mercier et Fortier, Langevin) permettant de repérer les variantes textuelles du « procédé » ainsi que la diversité de ses fonctions et de ses effets. On espère ainsi qu’à l’issue de ce parcours, les tenants et aboutissants esthétiques autant qu’épistémologiques du récit à narrateur non fiable et/ou indigne de confiance auront pu être quelque peu clarifiés – de même, par la bande, que la question de la polyphonie du texte littéraire.
Surface structures of rutile TiO2(114)
Authors: Kubo Toshitaka , Orita Hideo , Nozoye Hisakazu
Published: October 2016

The surface structures of rutile TiO2(114) have been studied using a combination of scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Depending on the sample preparation, the surface exhibits many complicated local nanostructures, e.g., dot-like, missing row, row-like (1 × 3), and twin dotted (2 × 2) structures. After several cycles of sputtering and high-temperature annealing, all samples exhibit triangular pyramidal structure. Microfaceted structural models, which are composed of combinations of {111} and (001) microfacets, can explain all experimental results as well as the structural variety. The calculated STM images are in good agreement with the experimental results. The decreasing density of dangling bonds, the increasing coordination number, and the evolution of non-polar structures stabilize the surface energy, which results in the microfaceted reconstructions. The formation of various nanostructures and the surface stoichiometric changes are discussed.
A comparative study of emission efficiencies in low-pressure argon plasmas induced by picosecond and nanosecond Nd:YAG lasers
Authors: Marpaung Alion Mangasi , Ramli Muliadi , Idroes Rinaldi , Suyanto Hery , Lahna Kurnia , Abdulmadjid Syahrun Nur , Idris Nasrullah , Pardede Marincan , Hedwig Rinda , Lie Zener Sukra , Kurniawan Davy Putra , Kurniawan Koo Hendrik , Lie Tjung Jie , Tjia May On , Kagawa Kiichiro
Published: October 2016

An experimental study is performed on the comparative advantages of nanosecond (ns) and picosecond (ps) lasers in laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) analysis. The experiment focused on the relative efficiencies of the plasma emission induced by the two lasers in low-pressure Ar ambient gas for samples of various hardnesses. It is shown that the emission intensities are consistenly reduced when the ns laser is replaced by the ps laser. This is explained as the consequence of the increased power density delivered by the ps laser, which results in a time mismatch between the passage of the ablated atoms and the formation of the shock wave. The time mismatch in turn leads to less effective thermal excitation by the shock wave plasma and the hence reduced emission intensity. Furthermore, this adverse effect is found to worsen for softer samples due to the slower formation of the shock wave. These results are obtained with the same volumes of craters produced by the two lasers on the same sample, which implies that ns laser irradiation has higher emission efficiency than ps laser irradiation.
Spatial and temporal variability of ground and satellite column measurements of NO2 and O3 over the Atlantic Ocean during the Deposition of Atmospheric Nitrogen to Coastal Ecosystems Experiment
Authors: Martins Douglas K. , Najjar Raymond G. , Tzortziou Maria , Abuhassan Nader , Thompson Anne M. , Kollonige Debra E.
Published: October 2016

In situ measurements of O3 and nitrogen oxides (NO + NO2 ≡ NOx) and remote sensing measurements of total column NO2 and O3 were collected on a ship in the North Atlantic Ocean as part of the Deposition of Atmospheric Nitrogen to Coastal Ecosystems (DANCE) campaign in July–August 2014, ~100 km east of the mid‐Atlantic United States. Relatively clean conditions for both surface in situ mixing ratio and total column O3 and NO2 measurements were observed throughout the campaign. Increased surface and column NO2 and O3 amounts were observed when a terrestrial air mass was advected over the study region. Relative to ship‐based total column measurements using a Pandora over the entire study, satellite measurements overestimated total column NO2 under these relatively clean atmospheric conditions over offshore waters by an average of 16%. Differences are most likely due to proximity, or lack thereof, to surface emissions; spatial averaging due to the field of view of the satellite instrument; and the lack of sensitivity of satellite measurements to the surface concentrations of pollutants. Total column O3 measurements from the shipboard Pandora showed good correlation with the satellite measurements (r = 0.96), but satellite measurements were 3% systematically higher than the ship measurements, in agreement with previous studies. Derived values of boundary layer height using the surface in situ and total column measurements of NO2 are much lower than modeled and satellite‐retrieved boundary layer heights, which highlight the differences in the vertical distribution between terrestrial and marine environments.
Introduction to NASA Living With a Star (LWS) Institute GIC Working Group Special Collection
Authors: Pulkkinen A.
Published: October 2016

This paper is a brief introduction to the NASA Living With a Star (LWS) Institute GIC Working Group Special Collection that is product of work by a group of researchers from more than 20 different international organizations. In this introductory paper, I summarize the group's work in the context of novel NASA LWS Institute element and introduce the individual contributions in the collection.
Plausibility of freshwater lenses adjacent to gaining rivers: Validation by laboratory experimentation
Authors: Werner A. D. , Kawachi A. , Laattoe T.
Published: October 2016

The occurrence of freshwater lenses in saline aquifers adjoining gaining rivers has recently been demonstrated as being theoretically possible by way of analytical solution. However, physical evidence for freshwater lenses near gaining rivers is limited largely to airborne geophysical surveys. This paper presents the first direct observations of freshwater lenses adjacent to gaining rivers, albeit at the laboratory‐scale, as validation of their plausibility. The experimental conditions are consistent with the available analytical solution, which is compared with laboratory observations of lens extent and the saltwater flow rate, for various hydraulic gradients. Numerical simulation shows that dispersion can account for the small amount of mismatch between the sharp‐interface analytical solution and laboratory measurements. Calibration and uncertainty analysis demonstrate that accurate mathematical predictions require calibration to laboratory measurements of the lens. The results provide unequivocal proof that freshwater lenses can persist despite gaining river conditions concordant with theoretical lenses predicted by the analytical solution, at least within the constraints of the experimental setup.
Attitude
Authors: Feeley Thomas Hugh , Weiss Julia K.
Published: October 2016

Attitudes are defined as individuals' predisposition to respond to attitude objects in a preferential manner. Attitudes are a fundamental element in the study of human communication processes. To properly assess the strength and valence of attitudes in a target audience, it is important to consider the formation of attitudes and essential attitudinal elements (e.g., cognition, affect). Several methods are available to measure attitudes and to gauge how they change over time and influence behavior.
Aristotle
Authors: Haskins Ekaterina V.
Published: October 2016

A prominent ancient Greek intellectual, Aristotle not only contributed to multiple fields of philosophical inquiry but also established a systematic conceptual framework for thinking and talking about natural and social phenomena. In particular, his teachings on logic, dialectic, and rhetoric have become integral to Western intellectual tradition and they continue to stimulate contemporary debates about the role of language and persuasion in scientific inquiry and social cooperation.
Cause and Effect
Authors: Bigman Cabral A. , Quick Brian L.
Published: October 2016

Drawing on a quantitative social science perspective, this entry begins by acknowledging the lack of consensus surrounding causality before turning attention to practical considerations related to causal inference in media effects literature. Specifically, the discussion centers on the role of research design, logic, and theory in causal inference, and reviews some common pitfalls that can undermine causal claims.
Ancient Siege Warfare, 700BC–AD645
Authors: Sidebottom Harry
Published: October 2016

Siege warfare in antiquity was bloodier than other forms of combat, usually involving urban centers rather than purely military installations. Though sieges, in contrast to open battles, required complicated logistics and employed high technology, there was remarkably little development of fundamental designs. The two significant advances were the invention of torsion artillery around 400bcand the introduction of traction artillery in the sixth centuryad. The besieger could attempt one of three ways to get into a town: under the walls (by mining), over the walls (by scaling), or through the walls (by rams, artillery, or subterfuge). A complex variety of motives encouraged men to run the enormous risks involved in being first through the breach or over the wall; once in the town itself, they faced the bloody prospect of house‐to‐house combat. Following a successful assault, the mental and physical strains imposed on the besiegers often led to savage reprisals. Other sieges, however, ended not with storm and sack but with the capitulation of the starving defenders. Sieges upset societal norms; exceptionally in the ancient world, women might be found taking an active part in combat. As urban centers were often religious centers, it is unsurprising that the gods often feature prominently in literary accounts. High literature not only responded to the excitement and heroism of sieges but also could actively shape the ways in which sieges were prosecuted.
Violent behavior among military reservists
Authors: Kwan Jamie , Jones Margaret , Hull Lisa , Wessely Simon , Fear Nicola , MacManus Deirdre
Published: October 2016

Large numbers of British and American Reservists have been deployed to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Little is known about the impact of deployment and combat exposure on violent behavior in Reservists. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of self‐reported violent behavior among a representative sample of United Kingdom Reservists, the risk factors associated with violence and the impact of deployment and combat exposure on violence. This study used data from a large cohort study of randomly selected UK military personnel and included Reservists who were in service at the time of sampling (n = 1710). Data were collected by questionnaires that asked about socio‐demographic and military characteristics, pre‐enlistment antisocial behavior, deployment experiences, post‐deployment mental health, and self‐reported interpersonal violent behavior. The prevalence of violence among Reservists was 3.5%. Deployment was found to be a risk factor for violent behavior even after adjustment for confounders. The association with violence was similar for those deployed in either a combat role or non‐combat role. Violence was also strongly associated with mental health risk factors (PTSD, common mental disorders, and alcohol misuse). This study demonstrated higher levels of self‐reported post‐deployment violence in UK Reservists who had served in either Iraq or Afghanistan. Deployment, irrespective of the role was associated with higher levels of violent behavior among Reservists. The results also emphasize the risk of violent behavior associated with post‐deployment mental health problems. Aggr. Behav. 43:273–280, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Refining and Reinforcing Effects of In Situ AlN–TiN–TiB2/Al Composite Refiner on Aluminum
Authors: Wang Qian , Wang Xin , Cui Chun Xiang , Zhao Li Chen , Liu Shuang Jin
Published: October 2016

Typical Al–Ti–B master alloys are good inoculant for aluminum alloys, which have shown obvious dependence on some alloying elements. In this work, in situ AlN–TiN–TiB2/Al composite refiner was successfully prepared by nitrogen alloying based on an Al–8Ti–1B melt. It is found that the refining, tensile strength, yield strength, and hardness of the pure aluminum modified by in situ AlN–TiN–TiB2/Al composite inoculant were all obviously improved. The enhanced refining and reinforcing effects of the refiner can be attributed to the following aspects: the formation of AlN and TiN particles, the homogeneous distribution of AlN, TiN, and TiB2 particles and the miniaturization of Al3Ti phases. The above three factors are all caused by nitridation and have a combining effect for improving the nucleation rate of α‐Al.
Galactosylated Lipidoid Nanoparticles for Delivery of Small Interfering RNA to Inhibit Hepatitis C Viral Replication In Vivo
Authors: Park Hyun‐Ji , Jeon Eun Je , Lee Jung Seung , Hong Sang Hyeon , Cho Ann‐Na , Lee Joan , Moon Jae‐Su , Jung Kyeong‐Eun , Oh Jong‐Won , Lee Haeshin , Cho Seung‐Woo
Published: October 2016

Small interfering RNA (siRNA) delivery can provide an effective therapy for treating viral diseases by silencing genes involved in viral replication. In this study, a liver‐targeting formulation of lipidoid nanoparticle for delivery of siRNA that targets protein kinase C‐related kinase 2 (PRK2) to inhibit hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication is reported. The most effective, minimally cytotoxic lipidoid for siRNA delivery to hepatic cells is identified from a small library of alkyl epoxide–polyamine conjugates. In vitro transfection of PRK2 siRNA (siPRK2) using this lipidoid induces significant silencing of PRK2 (≈80%), suppressing HCV replication in human hepatic cells transfected with the HCV subgenomic replicon. Systemic administration of siPRK2 using the lipidoid nanoparticles results in significant reduction of host PRK2 in the mouse liver (≈60%). This treatment significantly suppresses HCV replication in an HCV‐xenograft mouse model. siRNA delivery to the liver is further improved via galactosylation of the lipidoid. Compared with the unmodified lipidoid formulation, galactosylated lipidoids induce greater silencing of host PRK2 in mouse livers (≈80%) and more rapid suppression of HCV replication in an HCV‐xenograft mouse. This study suggests that galactosylated lipidoid nanoparticles could provide a treatment for hepatitis C by mediating delivery of anti‐viral RNA interference therapeutics to the liver.
Characterization of Phenotypic and Transcriptional Differences in Human Pluripotent Stem Cells under 2D and 3D Culture Conditions
Authors: Kamei Ken‐ichiro , Koyama Yoshie , Tokunaga Yumie , Mashimo Yasumasa , Yoshioka Momoko , Fockenberg Christopher , Mosbergen Rowland , Korn Othmar , Wells Christine , Chen Yong
Published: October 2016

Human pluripotent stem cells hold great promise for applications in drug discovery and regenerative medicine. Microfluidic technology is a promising approach for creating artificial microenvironments; however, although a proper 3D microenvironment is required to achieve robust control of cellular phenotypes, most current microfluidic devices provide only 2D cell culture and do not allow tuning of physical and chemical environmental cues simultaneously. Here, the authors report a 3D cellular microenvironment plate (3D‐CEP), which consists of a microfluidic device filled with thermoresponsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)‐β‐poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogel (HG), which enables systematic tuning of both chemical and physical environmental cues as well as in situ cell monitoring. The authors show that H9 human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and 253G1 human induced pluripotent stem cells in the HG/3D‐CEP system maintain their pluripotent marker expression under HG/3D‐CEP self‐renewing conditions. Additionally, global gene expression analyses are used to elucidate small variations among different test environments. Interestingly, the authors find that treatment of H9 hESCs under HG/3D‐CEP self‐renewing conditions results in initiation of entry into the neural differentiation process by induction of PAX3 and OTX1 expression. The authors believe that this HG/3D‐CEP system will serve as a versatile platform for developing targeted functional cell lines and facilitate advances in drug screening and regenerative medicine.
PLGA‐PNIPAM Microspheres Loaded with the Gastrointestinal Nutrient NaB Ameliorate Cardiac Dysfunction by Activating Sirt3 in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Cheng Panke , Zeng Wen , Li Li , Huo Da , Zeng Lingqing , Tan Ju , Zhou Jingting , Sun Jiansen , Liu Ge , Li Yanzhao , Guan Ge , Wang Yuxin , Zhu Chuhong
Published: October 2016

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the death of cardiomyocytes caused by a lack of energy due to ischemia. Nutrients supplied by the blood are the main source of cellular energy for cardiomyocytes. Sodium butyrate (NaB), a gastrointestinal nutrient, is a short‐chain fatty acid (butyric acid) that may act as an energy source in AMI therapy. Poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid)‐Poly (N‐isopropylacrylamide) microspheres loaded with NaB (PP‐N) are synthesized to prolong the release of NaB and are injected into ischemic zones in a Sprague–Dawley rat AMI model. Here, this study shows that PP‐N can significantly ameliorate cardiac dysfunction in AMI, and NaB can specially bind to Sirt3 structure, activating its deacetylation ability and inhibiting the generation of reactive oxygen species, autophagy, and angiogenesis promotion. The results indicate that NaB, acting as a nutrient, can protect cardiomyocytes in AMI. These results suggest that the gastrointestinal nutrient NaB may be a new therapy for AMI treatment, and PP‐N may be the ideal therapeutic regimen.
Synthesis, Structures, and Photophysical Properties of Difuro‐Fused Tetrahydro[5]helicene Imide Derivatives
Authors: Zhang Chao , Li Meng , Lu Hai‐Yan , Chen Chuan‐Feng
Published: October 2016

By using Sonogashira coupling reactions and iodine cyclization reactions, diiodide difuro‐fused tetrahydro[5]helicene imides were conveniently synthesized, which then gave a series of functionalized difuro‐fused tetrahydro[5]helicene imide derivatives by Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reactions. The crystal structures showed that the aromatic imide dyes had π‐extended and helical structures, and could pack into herringbone‐like architectures. Moreover, the imide dyes also showed intense fluorescence and redshifted emissions in both solution and spin‐coated films because of the expanded π‐conjugation systems and the helical twisted structures.
Nanoskalige, biologisch abbaubare organisch‐anorganische Hybride für effiziente Zellaufnahme und Wirkstofftransport
Authors: Hörner Sebastian , Knauer Sascha , Uth Christina , Jöst Marina , Schmidts Volker , Frauendorf Holm , Thiele Christina Marie , Avrutina Olga , Kolmar Harald
Published: October 2016

Wir präsentieren eine umfassende Studie über neuartige, hocheffiziente und bioabbaubare molekulare Transporter. Hierzu entwarfen wir verschiedene kubisch‐oktamere Silsesquioxane (“cube‐octameric silsesquioxane”, COSS) und untersuchten deren Zellaufnahme mit Konfokalmikroskopie und Duchflusszytometrie. Für ein mit kompakt angeordneten Guanidinogruppen funktionalisiertes COSS wurde bereits bei nanomolaren Konzentrationen eine schnelle Aufnahme in lebende HeLa‐Zellen beobachtet. Diese effiziente Aufnahme wurde ebenfalls in Bakterien, Hefen und Archaeen festgestellt. Der COSS‐basierte Transporter war deutlich effizienter als zellpenetrierende Peptide und zeigte geringe Toxizität. Mit seiner Hilfe wurde der kovalent gekuppelte zytotoxische Wirkstoff Doxorubicin in lebende Tumorzellen transportiert. Da die Zellaufnahme eines fluoreszenzmarkierten Transporters in Gegenwart von Serum erhalten blieb, könnte das System auch als Wirkstofftransporter für In‐vivo‐Anwendungen interessant sein.
Zum Ursprung der effizienten thermischen Chemisorption von Methan durch den heteronuklearen Metalloxidcluster [Al2TaO5]+
Authors: Zhou Shaodong , Li Jilai , Schlangen Maria , Schwarz Helmut
Published: October 2016

Die thermische Gasphasenreaktion des geschlossenschaligen Metalloxidclusters [Al2TaO5]+ mit Methan ist mittels FT‐ICR‐Massenspektrometrie und quantenchemischen Rechnungen untersucht worden. Mechanistische Aspekte der C‐H‐Bindungsaktivierung von Methan werden beleuchtet, um die Ursachen dieser effizienten Chemisorption aufzudecken, und die elektronischen Ursachen des recht ausgeprägten Unterschieds zwischen den Eigenschaften von [Al2TaO5]+/CH4 und denen anderer Systeme werden diskutiert.
Effects of bath temperature on the morphology and performance of EVOH membranes prepared by the cold‐solvent induced phase separation (CIPS) method
Authors: Wu Yu‐Hsuan , Beltsios Konstantinos G. , Lin Jian‐De , Huang Pei‐Yu , Lin Dar‐Jong , Cheng Liao‐Ping
Published: October 2016

The development and characteristics of porous EVOH membranes by cold‐solvent induced phase separation (CIPS) process were investigated. Binary dopes of 1,3‐propandiol/EVOH prepared at 80 °C were immersed in 1,3‐propandiol at a lower temperature to engender polymer precipitation. The quench temperature affects phase separation modes, and hence structure and performance of resulting CIPS membranes. When the bath temperature was set below the crystallization line and above the binodal (e.g. 45 °C), the formed membrane was dominated by a packing of semicrystalline EVOH globules. When the bath was set at a temperature just below the spinodal (e.g. 20 °C), spinodal decomposition (SD) dominated the precipitation process to give a lacy‐like bicontinuous structure; yet there is also a clear imprint from polymer crystallization. When the bath temperature was set deeply within the spinodal dome (e.g. 5 °C), polymer crystallization affected only little the SD‐derived bicontinuous morphology. Water permeation flux, wettability, tensile strength, and ultra‐filtration experiments of the membranes were conducted. The results indicated that those properties were closely correlated with the porosity level, pore size, and membrane morphology. Moreover, X‐ray diffraction and DSC analyses indicated that the formed membranes had a crystallinity of 38 to 42%, consistent with the literature data. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2016,133, 44553.
A decision‐theoretic approach to sample size determination under several priors
Authors: De Santis Fulvio , Gubbiotti Stefania
Published: October 2016

In this article, we consider sample size determination for experiments in which estimation and design are performed by multiple parties. This problem has relevant applications in contexts involving adversarial decision makers, such as control theory, marketing, and drug testing. Specifically, we adopt a decision‐theoretic perspective, and we assume that a decision on an unknown parameter of a statistical model involves two actors,
and
, who share the same data and loss function but not the same prior beliefs on the parameter. We also suppose that
has to use
's optimal action, and we finally assume that the experiment is planned by a third party,
. In this framework, we aim at determining an appropriate sample size so that the posterior expected loss incurred by
in taking the optimal action of
is sufficiently small. We develop general results for the one‐parameter exponential family under quadratic loss and analyze the interactive impact of the prior beliefs of the three different parties on the resulting sample sizes. Relationships with other sample size determination criteria are explored. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel approach for osteocalcin detection by competitive ELISA using porous silicon as a substrate
Authors: Rahimi Fereshteh , Mohammadnejad Arough Javad , Yaghoobi Mona , Davoodi Hadi , Sepehri Fatemeh , Amirabadizadeh Masood
Published: October 2016

In this study, porous silicon (PSi) was utilized instead of prevalent polystyrene platforms, and its capability in biomolecule screening was examined. Here, two types of porous structure, macroporous silicon (Macro‐PSi) and mesoporous silicon (Meso‐PSi), were produced on silicon wafers by electrochemical etching using different electrolytes. Moreover, both kinds of fresh and oxidized PSi samples were investigated. Next, osteocalcin as a biomarker of the bone formation process was used as a model biomarker, and the colorimetric detection was performed by competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Both Macro‐PSi and Meso‐PSi substrates in the oxidized state, specifically the Meso‐porous structure, were reported to have higher surface area to volume ratio, more capacitance of surface–antigen interaction, and more ability to capture antigen in comparison with the prevalent platforms. Moreover, the optical density signal of osteocalcin detected by the ELISA technique was notably higher than the common platforms. Based on the findings of this study, PSi can potentially be used in the ELISA to achieve better results and consequently more sensitivity. A further asset of incorporating such a nanometer structure in the ELISA technique is that the system response to analyte concentration could be maintained by consuming lower monoclonal antibody (or antigen) and consequently reduces the cost of the experiment.
Collagen and collagen‐chondroitin sulfate scaffolds with uniaxially aligned pores for the biomimetic, three dimensional culture of trabecular meshwork cells
Authors: Osmond Matthew , Bernier Sarah M. , Pantcheva Mina B. , Krebs Melissa D.
Published: October 2016

Glaucoma is a disease in which damage to the optic nerve leads to progressive, irreversible vision loss. The intraocular pressure (IOP) is the only modifiable risk factor for glaucoma and its lowering is considered a useful strategy for preventing or slowing down the progression of glaucomatous neuropathy. Elevated intraocular pressure associated with glaucoma is due to increased aqueous humor outflow resistance, primarily through the trabecular meshwork (TM) of the eye. Current in vitro models of the trabecular meshwork are oversimplified and do not capture the organized and complex three‐dimensional nature of this tissue that consists primarily of collagen and glycoasaminoglycans. In this work, collagen and collagen‐chondroitin sulfate (CS) scaffolds were fabricated via unidirectional freezing and lyophilization to induce the formation of aligned pores. Scaffolds were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, dynamic mechanical analysis, and a chondroitin sulfate quantification assay. Scaffold characterization confirmed the formation of aligned pores, and also that the CS was leaching out of the scaffolds over time. Primary porcine trabecular meshwork (TM) cells were seeded onto the surface of scaffolds and their gene expression, proliferation, viability, migration into the scaffolds, and morphology were examined. The TM cells were viable and proliferated 2 weeks after seeding. The cells migrated down into the internal scaffold structure and their morphology reflected the topography and alignment of the scaffold structure. This work is a promising step toward the development of a three dimensional in vitro model of the TM that can be used for testing of glaucoma pharmacological agents in future experimentation and to better our understanding of the trabecular meshwork and its complex physiology. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 915–923. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A mortality study of beryllium workers
Authors: Boffetta Paolo , Fordyce Tiffani A. , Mandel Jack S.
Published: October 2016

We aimed at investigating mortality among beryllium‐exposed workers, according to solubility of beryllium and beryllium compounds. We conducted an historical cohort study of 16,115 workers employed during 1925–2008 in 15 facilities, including eight entailing exposure to insoluble beryllium and seven entailing exposure to soluble/mixed beryllium compounds, who were followed up for mortality until 2011. Data were analyzed using indirect standardization and Cox regression modeling. Lung cancer standardized mortality ratio (SMR, national reference rates) was 1.02 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.94–1.10) in the whole cohort, 0.88 (95% CI: 0.75–1.03) in the insoluble beryllium subcohort, and 1.09 (95% CI: 0.99–1.09) in the soluble/mixed beryllium subcohort. For lung cancer, there was an association with period of hire in soluble/mixed beryllium plants but not in insoluble plants, and, conversely, employment in soluble/mixed plants was associated with increased mortality only among workers hired before 1955. There was no trend with duration of employment. Mortality from chronic beryllium disease increased, in particular, among workers hired before 1955 in soluble/mixed beryllium facilities. There was no increase in lung cancer mortality in the entire cohort and lung cancer mortality was not increased among beryllium workers hired in 1955 or later in soluble/mixed beryllium facilities, or at any time among those employed in insoluble beryllium facilities.
Unwitnessed head trauma: the bamboo did it
Authors: Sousa Rodrigo , Luz Ângela , Abecasis Francisco , Vieira Marisa
Published: October 2016

Key Clinical Message

Unwitnessed penetrating head injuries (PHIs) are often challenging. The inability to locate a foreign body should not exclude this diagnosis nor should it delay treatment. Attempts must be made to clarify the mechanism of injury, as this may allow for a better understanding of the patient's condition.
Multiresponse problems: desirability and other optimization approaches
Authors: Costa Nuno Ricardo , Lourenço João
Published: October 2016

A diversity of multiresponse optimization methods has been introduced in the literature; however, their performance has not been thoroughly explored, and only a classical desirability‐based criterion has been commonly used. With the aim of contributing to help practitioners in selecting an effective criterion for solving multiresponse optimization problems developed under the response surface methodology framework, and thus to find compromise solutions that are technically and economically more favorable, the working ability of several easy‐to‐use criteria is evaluated and compared with that of a theoretically sound method. Four case studies with different numbers and types of responses are considered. Less‐sophisticated criteria were able to generate solutions similar to those generated by sophisticated methods, even when the objective is to depict the Pareto frontier in problems with conflicting responses. Two easy‐to‐use criteria that require less‐subjective information from the user yielded solutions similar to those of a classical desirability‐based criterion. Preference parameters range and increment impact on optimal solutions were also evaluated.
Modulated Luminescence of a Stable Open‐Shell Triarylmethyl Radical: Effects of Chemical Modification on Its Electronic Structure and Physical Properties
Authors: Kusamoto Tetsuro , Kimura Shun , Ogino Yasuyo , Ohde Chie , Nishihara Hiroshi
Published: October 2016

The open‐shell luminescent (3,5‐dichloro‐4‐pyridyl)bis(2,4,6‐trichlorophenyl)methyl (PyBTM) radical contains a nitrogen atom that behaves as a stimulus‐responsive site. Chemical modification at this nitrogen atom, such as coordination of B(C6F5)3 or methylation, shifts the emission maximum to the low‐energy region and increases the reduction potential. The emission colour may be regulated by the reversible Lewis acid–base reaction between B(C6F5)3 and PyBTM. Comparison of the optical and electrochemical properties of the radicals with the electronic structures calculated by density functional theory has indicated that the chemical modification decreased the energy level of the β‐singly occupied molecular orbital, a key orbital in determining the optical and electrochemical properties of such systems.
Dual‐Sensitized Luminescent Europium(ΙΙΙ) and Terbium(ΙΙΙ) Complexes as Bioimaging and Light‐Responsive Therapeutic Agents
Authors: Dasari Srikanth , Singh Swati , Sivakumar Sri , Patra Ashis K.
Published: October 2016

Dual‐photosensitized stable EuΙΙΙ and TbΙΙΙ complexes, namely [Eu(dpq)(tfnb)3] (1) and [Tb(dpq)(tfnb)3] (2), in which dpq=dipyrido[3,2‐d:2′,3′‐f]quinoxaline and Htfnb=4,4,4‐trifluoro‐1‐(2‐napthyl)‐1,3‐butanedione, were designed as bioimaging and light‐responsive therapeutic agents. Their X‐ray structures, photophysical properties, biological interactions, photoinduced DNA damage, photocytotoxicity, and cellular uptake properties were studied. Discrete mononuclear complexes adopt an eight‐coordinated {LnN2O6} distorted square antiprism geometry with bidentate N,N‐donor dpq and O,O‐donor tfnb ligands. The designed probes have the advantage of dual‐sensitizing antennae (dpq, Htfnb) to modulate their desirable optical properties for cellular imaging and light‐responsive intracellular damage. The remarkable photostability, absence of inner‐sphere water (q<1), and longer excited‐state lifetimes of the complexes make them suitable as cellular‐imaging probes. The dpq 3T state is well located energetically to allow efficient energy transfer (ET) to the emissive 5D0 and 5D4 states of EuΙΙΙ and TbΙΙΙ. This leads to higher quantum yields (φ=0.15–0.20) in aqueous media and makes these compounds suitable cellular‐imaging probes. The complexes display significant binding ability toward DNA and bovine serum albumin (K≈105 m−1). They effectively cleave supercoiled DNA to its nicked circular form at λ=365 nm through photoredox pathways. The cellular internalization studies showed cytosolic and nuclear localization. The remarkable photocytotoxicity of these probes offers a strategy towards developing photoresponsive LnΙΙΙ probes as cellular‐imaging and phototherapeutic agents.
Synthesis of Mesoporous Lithium Titanate Thin Films and Monoliths as an Anode Material for High‐Rate Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Balcı Fadime Mert , Kudu Ömer Ulaş , Yılmaz Eda , Dag Ömer
Published: October 2016

Mesoporous Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) thin film is an important anode material for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Mesoporous films could be prepared by self‐assembly processes. A molten‐salt‐assisted self‐assembly (MASA) process is used to prepare mesoporous thin films of LTOs. Clear solutions of CTAB, P123, LiNO3, HNO3, and Ti(OC4H9)4 in ethanol form gel‐like meso‐ordered films upon either spin or spray coating. In the assembly process, the CTAB/P123 molar ratio of 14 is required to accommodate enough salt species in the mesophase, in which the LiI/P123 ratio can be varied between molar ratios of 28 and 72. Calcination of the meso‐ordered films produces transparent mesoporous spinel LTO films that are abbreviated as Cxx‐yyy‐zzz or CAxx‐yyy‐zzz (C=calcined, CA=calcined–annealed, xx=LiI/P123 molar ratio, and yyy=calcination and zzz=annealing temperatures in Celsius) herein. All samples were characterized by using XRD, TEM, N2‐sorption, and Raman techniques and it was found that, at all compositions, the LTO spinel phase formed with or without an anatase phase as an impurity. Electrochemical characterization of the films shows excellent performance at different current rates. The CA40‐350‐450 sample performs best among all samples tested, yielding an average discharge capacity of (176±1) mA h g−1 at C/2 and (139±4) mA h g−1 at 50 C and keeping 92 % of its initial discharge capacity upon 50 cycles at C/2.
Amphiphilic Metallopolymers for Photoswitchable Supramolecular Hydrogels
Authors: Borré Etienne , Bellemin‐Laponnaz Stéphane , Mauro Matteo
Published: October 2016

A series of amphiphilic metallopolymers is described that features zinc(II) bis‐terpyridine coordination nodes as well as a backbone with hydrophobic azoaryl moieties and hydrophilic phenylene‐ethynylene units decorated with PEG brushes. Using such metallopolymers at very low concentration, stable, photo‐responsive and self‐healing hydrogels are obtained. UV irradiation of the gel allows modulation of the degree of hydrophobic π‐π interactions between photoisomerizable azoaryl units and a polarity switch that overall induces a fast gel‐to‐sol transition. Finally, the material phase can be readily and fully restored to the thermodynamically stable state either thermally or photochemically by using visible light. The presented strategy can be further generalized towards modular supramolecular metallopolymers for injectable gels in drug delivery and bio‐engineering applications.
Characterization and Comparison of Commercial Chinese Cereal and European Grape Vinegars Using 1H NMR Spectroscopy Combined with Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Wang Xiaohua , Wang Jie , Kamal Ghulam Mustafa , Jiang Bin , Sun Peng , Zhang Xu , Liu Maili
Published: October 2016

A holistic and comparative quality assessment of vinegars from different countries is needed with international trade of vinegar become frequent. In this study, compounds characterization and comparison of commercial‐grade Chinese cereal and European grape vinegars were performed using 1H NMR spectroscopy coupled with principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal projection to latent structures discriminate analysis (OPLS‐DA). The results showed that Balsamic vinegars of Modena were clearly discriminated by higher amount of fructose and glucose, while Chinese aromatic vinegar and aged vinegars were characterized by higher amount of amino acids, volatile compounds, succinate and betaine. On the other hand, flavoring compounds in Chinese rice vinegar and European wine vinegars are less than the others. These characteristic components are associated with the special raw materials and producing process of each types of vinegar and endow them special flavor. The results obtained in this study provide a global insight into vinegar through a 1H NMR based compounds analysis that allows a holistic quality assessment and comparison of vinegars from different manufacture origins.
Underpotential Deposition Preparation of Pt‐loading AuNPs/Reduced Graphene Oxide and Its Catalytic Detection of Catechol
Authors: Wang Cong , Guo Zhihua , Zhang Li , Zhang Na , Zhang Keying , Fei Bailu , Wang Hongyan , Xu Jigui , Shi Hongwei , Qin Miao , Ren Lei , Wu Xingxing
Published: October 2016

Ultralow Pt‐loading Au nanoparticles have been fabricated on the surface of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) by using underpotential deposition (UPD) monolayer redox replacement process. The Pt/Au/RGO modified electrode exhibits an excellent electrocatalytic activity toward catechol and hydroquinone. Under the optimized condition, the separation of peak‐to‐peak between hydroquinone and catechol is 197 mV, which is wide enough to distinguish the isomers of benzenediol. Catechol is detected by the Pt/Au/RGO/GCE with a low detection limit in the presence of hydroquinone.
Co9Se8 Nanosheets Electrodes: Drop‐Cast versus in situ Growth
Authors: Sun Hong , Wang Gang , Wang Zhong‐Sheng
Published: October 2016

Co9Se8 nanosheets are synthesized via a solvothermal reaction. Thin films of Co9Se8 nanosheets are respectively fabricated through drop‐cast and in situ growth for use as the electrocatalyst in dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Comparative studies reveal that the in situ growth Co9Se8 nanosheets film exhibits higher electrocatalytic activity for the electrocatalytic reduction of triiodide to iodide and better electrochemical stability than the drop‐casted film. When applied as the counter electrode in DSSCs, the in situ growth film yields higher power conversion efficiency (8.65%) than the drop‐casted film (5.87%) and even outperforms the reference Pt electrode (8.16%) under comparable conditions.
Palladium/Copper Cocatalyzed Coupling Reaction of Aroyl Hydrazides with Indoles
Authors: Liu Congrong , Yang Fulai
Published: October 2016

An unprecedented palladium/copper cocatalyzed coupling reaction of indoles with simple aroyl hydrazides has been developed under aerobic conditions. A range of aroyl hydrazides underwent palladium/copper cocatalyzed oxidative arylation with indoles open to air in a 1:1 mixture of dimethyl sulfoxide and nitromethane to give structurally diverse 2‐arylindoles or 3‐arylindoles in moderate to good yields. The reaction well tolerates a wide variety of functional groups such as alkoxy, halo, ester.
Effect of remote ischemic preconditioning on electrophysiological and biomolecular parameters in nonvalvular paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (RIPPAF study): Rationale and study design of a randomized, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Kosiuk Jedrzej , Milani Romina , Ueberham Laura , Uhe Tobias , Stegmann Clara , Hindricks Gerhard , Bollmann Andreas
Published: October 2016

Remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) has been studied in models of different cardiovascular entities. Recently, a beneficial effect of RIPC on incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in postsurgical patients has been suggested. However, the potential impact of RIPC on electrophysiological‐ and thrombogenesis‐related parameters in the setting of paroxysmal nonvalvular AF has not been investigated. The aim of the study is to answer the following questions: (1) Does RIPC have impact on inducibility of AF in patients with known paroxysmal AF? If yes, what are the direct electrophysiological mechanisms of this phenomenon, and could RIPC be implemented to reduce AF burden? (2) Does RIPC have the potential to minimize thrombogenic effects of simulated episodes of AF? If so, what are inhibited components of thrombogenesis and can this be used to reduce thromboembolic risk related to paroxysmal AF? The presented study is a 2‐arm, randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blinded, single‐center trial in a cohort of 146 patients with paroxysmal AF referred for AF ablation in sinus rhythm. The study will collect electrophysiological data such as variability of P‐wave morphology, atrial refractory period, conduction times, and inducibility/sustainability of AF. Furthermore, AF‐induced prothrombotic processes will be analyzed by quantification of platelet aggregates, analysis of platelet function, and measurement of thrombogenesis‐related plasma markers. Moreover, the study will provide a unique bio‐database for further analysis of molecular and genetic mechanisms responsible for observed results.
Correlation and Prediction of the Solubility of Air Gases in Saline Solutions for Mining Processes, Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Valderrama José O. , Campusano Richard A. , Gálvez Edelmira D.
Published: October 2016

Artificial neural networks (ANN) are used to correlate and predict the solubility of air gases (oxygen, nitrogen, and argon) in saline solutions. Several network architectures were considered in the study and correlated and predicted values of solubility were compared with values obtained from the literature. The model is general in the sense that just one model can correlate and predict the solubility of any of the three gases. As a measure of the accuracy of the method, the average relative deviation, the average relative absolute deviation, and the maximum relative absolute deviation are evaluated. The ANN model obtained give lower deviations than analytical models presented in the literature. The chosen ANN model give absolute deviations lower than 1% with some few exceptions and maximum relative absolute deviations are always below 6%.
Design and Synthesis of Fluorescent Acyclic Nucleoside Phosphonates as Potent Inhibitors of Bacterial Adenylate Cyclases
Authors: Břehová Petra , Šmídková Markéta , Skácel Jan , Dračínský Martin , Mertlíková‐Kaiserová Helena , Velasquez Monica P. Soto , Watts Val J. , Janeba Zlatko
Published: October 2016

Bordetella pertussis adenylate cyclase toxin (ACT) and Bacillus anthracis edema factor (EF) are key virulence factors with adenylate cyclase (AC) activity that substantially contribute to the pathogenesis of whooping cough and anthrax, respectively. There is an urgent need to develop potent and selective inhibitors of bacterial ACs with prospects for the development of potential antibacterial therapeutics and to study their molecular interactions with the target enzymes. Novel fluorescent 5‐chloroanthraniloyl‐substituted acyclic nucleoside phosphonates (Cl‐ANT‐ANPs) were designed and synthesized in the form of their diphosphates (Cl‐ANT‐ANPpp) as competitive ACT and EF inhibitors with sub‐micromolar potency (IC50 values: 11–622 nm). Fluorescence experiments indicated that Cl‐ANT‐ANPpp analogues bind to the ACT active site, and docking studies suggested that the Cl‐ANT group interacts with Phe306 and Leu60. Interestingly, the increase in direct fluorescence with Cl‐ANT‐ANPpp having an ester linker was strictly calmodulin (CaM)‐dependent, whereas Cl‐ANT‐ANPpp analogues with an amide linker, upon binding to ACT, increased the fluorescence even in the absence of CaM. Such a dependence of binding on structural modification could be exploited in the future design of potent inhibitors of bacterial ACs. Furthermore, one Cl‐ANT‐ANP in the form of a bisamidate prodrug was able to inhibit B. pertussis ACT activity in macrophage cells with IC50=12 μm.
Diagnostic yield of cytopathology in evaluating pericardial effusions: Clinicopathologic analysis of 419 specimens
Authors: Saab Jad , Hoda Rana S. , Narula Navneet , Hoda Syed A. , Geraghty Brian E. , Nasar Abu , Alperstein Susan A. , Port Jeffrey L. , Giorgadze Tamar
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

Pericardial effusions can cause considerable morbidity and potentially may lead to mortality. Malignant pericardial effusions are uncommon, and data on malignancies encountered in pericardial effusion cytology specimens are limited.

METHODS

Relevant records of all pericardial effusions from January 2008 to September 2014 were examined and compared with pericardial biopsy results when performed. Discrepant cases were reviewed to determine the cause of the disagreement.

RESULTS

In total, 419 pericardial effusion specimens obtained from 364 patients were examined. Cytologic diagnostic categories included: negative for malignancy (332 specimens; 79%), equivocal (25 specimens; 6%), and positive (62 specimens from 51 patients; 15%). Forty‐seven patients who had positive effusions were known to have malignancy. The most common primary malignancies were breast (39.3%) and lung (39.3%) cancers in women and lung cancer (47.4%) in men. A concurrent pericardial biopsy was performed in 46% of patients. Excluding equivocal cytologic diagnoses, cytology and biopsy were concordant in 153 of 173 paired samples (88.4%). The sensitivity of cytology in diagnosing malignancy was 92.1% compared with 55.3% for pericardial biopsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Cytologic examination has significant diagnostic utility in the evaluation of pericardial effusions and exhibits a lower false‐negative rate compared with pericardial biopsy. Submission of pericardial biopsy alongside effusion cytology is associated with increased sensitivity for detecting malignancy and may be especially useful in the setting of low‐volume pericardial effusion. Cancer Cytopathol 2017;125:128–137. © 2016 American Cancer Society.