bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brazilian South–South Development Cooperation: The Case of the Ministry of Social Development in Africa
Authors: Leite Iara Costa , Pomeroy Melissa , Suyama Bianca
Published: November 2015

The article analyses domestic and external drivers of the rise of South–South development cooperation to a foreign policy priority under the Lula administrations. It argues that the rise was a consequence of presidential leadership, growing domestic mobilisation, shifts in the global political economy and the prioritisation of South–South development cooperation by traditional donors. It explores the case of the Ministry of Social Development cooperation with Africa, focusing on two experiences—the Bolsa Família and the Purchase from Africans for Africa Programme. Although the ministry's partnership with traditional donors remained constant, there was increased domestic leadership in the food purchase programme. © 2015 UNU‐WIDER.Journal of International Developmentpublished by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selection of an actinobacteria mixed culture for chlordane remediation. Pesticide effects on microbial morphology and bioemulsifier production
Authors: Fuentes María S. , Colin Verónica L. , Amoroso María J. , Benimeli Claudia S.
Published: November 2015

Chlordane bioremediation using actinobacteria mixed culture is an attractive clean‐up technique. Their ability to produce bioemulsifiers could increase the bioavailability of this pesticide. In order to select a defined actinobacteria mixed culture for chlordane remediation, compatibility assays were performed among six Streptomyces strains. The strains did not show growth inhibition, and they were assayed for chlordane removal, either as pure or as mixed cultures. In pure cultures, all of the strains showed specific dechlorination activity (1.42–24.20 EU mg−1) and chlordane removal abilities (91.3–95.5%). The specific dechlorination activity was mainly improved with cultures of three or four microorganisms. The mixed culture consisting of Streptomyces sp. A2‐A5‐A13 was selected. Their ability to produce bioemulsifiers in the presence of glucose or chlordane was tested, but no significant differences were observed (p > 0.05). However, the stability of the emulsions formed was linked to the carbon source used. Only in chlordane presence the emulsions retained 100% of their initial height. Finally, the selected consortium showed a high degree of sporulation in the pesticide presence. This is the first study on the effects that chlordane exerts on microbe morphology and emulsifier production for a defined mixed culture of Streptomyces with ability to remediate the pesticide.
Global maximum power point tracking based on new extremum seeking control scheme
Authors: Bizon Nicu
Published: November 2015

A new perturbed‐based extremum seeking control (PESC) scheme is proposed in this paper to track the global maximum power point (GMPP). The PESC scheme has two control loops based on power of the photovoltaic (PV) array: the first loop operates as usually to track the maximum power point and the second sweeps all local MPPs to locate the GMPP. Once the GMPP is located based on its uniqueness (after the PV pattern is quickly scanned many times, depending on the PV pattern's profile), the GMPP is accurately tracked based on first control loop. The used PV patterns have the profile of the PV power characteristics obtained for PV array under partially shaded conditions (PSCs). This PESC scheme is proposed to track the GMPP in the PV applications, but also in other multimodal problems from industry, being a good motif to revive the specialists' interest for the extremum seeking control field. The results obtained here are very promising for both search speed and tracking accuracy performances of the GMPP under different PSCs simulated on the PV array. Thus, the energy efficiency of PV array controlled with the proposed PESC scheme will increase with more than 1.2% in comparison with that obtained with the other MPP algorithms because of better performance shown by this PESC scheme. A 99.6% tracking accuracy is obtained here in comparison with a maximum 98.4% tracking accuracy reported in the literature. Furthermore, 100% hit and high search speed are obtained here for the GMPP localization. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Volume and correlates of objectively measured physical activity and sedentary time in non‐Hodgkin lymphoma survivors
Authors: Boyle Terry , Lynch Brigid M. , Ransom Emily K. , Vallance Jeff K.
Published: November 2015

Objectives

Few studies have measured the physical activity levels of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) survivors, and no previous studies have measured sedentary behavior levels in this population. This study used accelerometers to measure the physical activity and sedentary time levels of NHL survivors and examined the demographic, behavioral, and medical correlates of these behaviors.

Methods

A total of 156 NHL survivors (mean age = 64 years) completed a questionnaire and wore an accelerometer for seven consecutive days during waking hours. Descriptive statistics were used to describe physical activity and sedentary time levels, and linear regression was used to investigate correlates of these behaviors.

Results

Participants averaged 8.6 h of sedentary time per day (60% of their accelerometer wear time), 5.3 h of light‐intensity physical activity (37%), and 30 min of moderate‐intensity physical activity (3%). Only 12% of the participants accrued the duration of moderate‐vigorous physical activity recommended by physical activity guidelines (30 min accrued in bouts of at least 10 min). Female participants, older participants, smokers, and participants with larger waist circumference had lower levels of moderate‐to‐vigorous intensity physical activity. Smokers and participants with larger waist circumference also had higher sedentary time levels.

Conclusion

The NHL survivors in this study spent the majority of their waking hours sedentary, and few met physical activity guidelines. The results of this study emphasize the need for more research exploring the health consequences of sedentary behavior and physical inactivity in NHL survivors. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of fatty acyl chain length, double‐bond number and matrix on phosphatidylcholine responses in matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization on an Orbitrap mass spectrometer
Authors: Chagovets Vitaliy , Lísa Miroslav , Holčapek Michal
Published: November 2015

Rationale

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS) is used for the fast qualitative and quantitative analysis of phosphatidylcholines (PC). Fatty acyl chain lengths and the number of double bonds (DB) affect relative responses of PC; hence the determination of correction factors of individual PC is important for the accurate quantitation. The signal intensity in MALDI‐MS strongly depends on the matrix; therefore, the following matrices typically used in lipidomics are studied in the present work: 2,5‐dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB), 1,5‐diaminonaphthalene (DAN) and 9‐aminoacridine (9AA).

Methods

Series of PC with various fatty acyl chain lengths are synthesized for this study. PC concentrations over two orders of magnitude are studied with MALDI‐MS. These experiments provide sets of calibration curves for each of the synthesized PC and the further analysis of parameters of calibration curves is performed.

Results

Correction factors for PC decrease with increasing fatty acyl chain length for all matrices. These dependences are steeper for unsaturated PC than for saturated ones. MALDI matrices also have a significant effect on this dependence. The weakest dependence on fatty acyl chain length is found for saturated PC in 9AA. In the case of the other matrices, the effect of fatty acyl chain length on the response is essential for both saturated and unsaturated PC. Calibration curves and parameters of calibration curves for both saturated and monounsaturated PC are fitted by a linear function with regression coefficients decreasing in the order 9AA > DAN > DHB.

Conclusions

Differences in relative responses for PC in MALDI‐MS measurements must be taken into account for accurate quantitation. Parameters of calibration curves can be used for the determination of PC concentrations using a single internal standard (IS). This method gives good results for the 9AA matrix, but the reproducibility of measurements for the DHB and DAN matrices is lower and the method can be used for a rough estimation only. These matrices are less convenient for the quantitation of PC. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Corrosion countermeasures for LNG storage tanks made of series 5083 aluminum–magnesium alloy
Authors: Nakayama Gen , Kurebayashi Koichi , Ooga Susumu , Kanayama Tadafumi
Published: November 2015

Natural gas as produced contains various kinds of gaseous hydrocarbons and nitrogen and is purified to ensure safe storage and use. Finally, the gas is cooled to below −162 °C to liquefy it, resulting in purified LNG, because it is non‐corrosive. Independent prismatic storage tanks are made of thick plates of the 5083‐series aluminum–magnesium (Al–4Mg) alloy that is grouped with corrosion‐resistant aluminum alloys. The tanks are covered in insulation and stored in a ship hull, which means the aluminum alloy LNG storage tanks are not prone to corrosion while in use. The tanks are to be used not only for storing LNG, but also as floating storage tanks and offloading units at offshore bases. When the Al–4Mg alloy is to be utilized to construct a large LNG storage tank, numerous alloy sheets are required. Here, one recommended method for storing the alloy sheets involves using resin board spacers of insulating plastic materials to avoid any undesired modification of the alloy sheet surfaces during storage. The inner surface of the tank thus constructed is temporarily exposed to corrosive conditions, of the type encountered when conducting water‐filling hydraulic tests to assess the structural integrity of the tank constructed. The water used for the water‐filling hydraulic test contains very few corrosive chemicals or precipitation substances and the surface should be kept dry once the water‐filling hydraulic test is complete. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
LIFE INSURANCE AND PENSION CONTRACTS II: THE LIFE CYCLE MODEL WITH RECURSIVE UTILITY
Authors: Aase Knut K.
Published: November 2015

We analyze optimal consumption and pension insurance during the life time of a consumer using the life cycle model, when the consumer has recursive utility. The relationship between substitution of consumption and risk aversion is highlighted, and clarified by the introduction of this type of preferences. We illustrate how recursive utility can be used to explain the empirical consumption puzzle for aggregates. This indicates a plausible choice for the parameters of the utility function, relevant for the consumer in the life cycle model. Optimal life insurance is considered, as well as the portfolio choice problem related to optimal exposures in risky securities. A major finding is that it is optimal for the typical insurance buyer to smooth adverse shocks to the financial market, unlike what is implied by the conventional model. This has implications for what type of contracts the life and pension insurance industry should offer.
In the Aftermath of the Crisis – The EU Administrative System Between Impediments and Momentum
Authors: CHITI Edoardo
Published: November 2015

The European responses to the financial and public debt crisis have triggered a process of administrative reorganisation and growth in the governance of the internal market in financial services and economic and monetary union. Such a process is characterised by four main tensions, referring respectively to: the powers conferred on the satellite administrative bodies established in order to tackle the crisis; the jurisdictions of the new administrations; the degree of centralisation which is sought within the new mechanisms for the implementation of EU laws and policies; and to the accountability mechanisms. The effects of such tensions are deeply ambivalent. On the one hand, they might operate as ‘fault lines’ within the EU administrative machinery. On the other hand, by pointing to a host of unsolved issues in EU administrative law, they provide an opportunity for opening a genuine institutional and scientific discussion on the ways in which the EU administrative system should be adjusted or reformed.
Transatlantic Regulatory Interdependence, Law and Governance: The Evolving Roles of the EU and US Legislatures
Authors: JANČIĆ Davor
Published: November 2015

This article analyses the roles of the European Parliament and the US Congress in addressing regulatory interdependencies arising in the EU–US strategic partnership. It examines their international actorness as a potential remedy for the problems of democratic participation, executive dominance, and opaqueness in the shaping of transatlantic relations. It shows that legislatures significantly contribute to regulatory discrepancies and trade disputes and that the adverse consequences thereof justify more intensiveex antecooperation between them. The analysis conducts two groups of case studies to demonstrate how the EP and Congress influence law and policy in areas of transatlantic regulatory and foreign policy divergence. The first group of case studies analyses parliamentary involvement in the making of international agreements (TTIP and ACTA). The second group of case studies inspects legislative action with extraterritorial effects (US Helms–Burton and Sarbanes–Oxley Acts). The article argues that the EP and Congress have so far frequently acted against the spirit of the strategic partnership in ways that are injurious to the interests of the other side, and discusses whether an interparliamentary early warning mechanism could reduce legislative and political frictions and increase the coherence of transatlantic lawmaking.
Completeness of Methicillin-ResistantStaphylococcus aureusBloodstream Infection Reporting From Outpatient Hemodialysis Facilities to the National Healthcare Safety Network, 2013
Authors: Nguyen Duc B. , See Isaac , Gualandi Nicole , Shugart Alicia , Lines Christi , Bamberg Wendy , Dumyati Ghinwa , Harrison Lee H. , Lesher Lindsey , Nadle Joelle , Petit Susan , Ray Susan M. , Schaffner William , Townes John , Njord Levi , Sievert Dawn , Thompson Nicola D. , Patel Priti R.
Published: November 2015

Reports of bloodstream infections caused by methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureusamong chronic hemodialysis patients to 2 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention surveillance systems (National Healthcare Safety Network Dialysis Event and Emerging Infections Program) were compared to evaluate completeness of reporting. Many methicillin-resistantS. aureusbloodstream infections identified in hospitals were not reported to National Healthcare Safety Network Dialysis Event.

Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol.2016;37(2):205–207
ON MULTIPLE ZETA VALUES OF EXTREMAL HEIGHT
Authors: KANEKO MASANOBU , SAKATA MIKA
Published: November 2015

We give three identities involving multiple zeta values of height one and of maximal height: an explicit formula for the height-one multiple zeta values, a regularised sum formula and a sum formula for the multiple zeta values of maximal height.
A NOTE ON LACUNARY POWER SERIES WITH RATIONAL COEFFICIENTS
Authors: MARQUES DIEGO , RAMIREZ JOSIMAR , SILVA ELAINE
Published: November 2015

In this note, we prove that for any ${\it\nu}>0$, there is no lacunary entire function $f(z)\in \mathbb{Q}[[z]]$ such that $f(\mathbb{Q})\subseteq \mathbb{Q}$ and $\text{den}f(p/q)\ll q^{{\it\nu}}$, for all sufficiently large $q$.
UNIMODALITY AND COLOURED HOOK FACTORISATION
Authors: LIN ZHICONG
Published: November 2015

We prove the unimodality of some coloured$q$-Eulerian polynomials, which involve the flag excedances, the major index and the fixed points on coloured permutation groups, via two recurrence formulas. In particular, we confirm a recent conjecture of Mongelli about the unimodality of the flag excedances over type B derangements. Furthermore, we find the coloured version of Gessel’s hook factorisation, which enables us to interpret these two recurrences combinatorially. We also provide a combinatorial proof of a symmetric and unimodal expansion for the coloured derangement polynomial, which was first established by Shin and Zeng using continued fractions.
ORBITALLY NONEXPANSIVE MAPPINGS
Authors: LLORENS-FUSTER ENRIQUE
Published: November 2015

We define a class of nonlinear mappings which is properly larger than the class of nonexpansive mappings. We also give a fixed point theorem for this new class of mappings.
Using exploratory factor analysis to examine consecutive in-situ X-ray diffraction measurements
Authors: Westphal Torsten , Bier Thomas A. , Takahashi Keisuke , Wahab Mirco
Published: November 2015

A method is presented to examine consecutive in-situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) diffractograms using exploratory factor analysis. Systematic changes in the diffractograms are described numerically by score values that could be used to correlate diffraction data with other non-stationary sample properties. Phase and structure evolution in a reacting material can be studied by in-situ XRD. The consecutively collected data can be considered a time series of datasets. Time series are non-stationary data. Such non-stationary data are often hard to examine fully by conventional evaluation methods including applications of the Rietveld method. Here a method is presented to avoid shortcomings of conventional evaluation methods. The new method helps to identify and describe significant systematic changes in in-situ XRD datasets by numerical values. These systematic changes can represent structural changes as well as changes in phase composition. The method can be used to describe the development of the complex processes of compositional and structural changes. The method is demonstrated using the example of a hydrating Portland cement mortar. This hydration process involves at least 11 phases including non-crystalline phases. In the presented example factor analysis of in-situ XRD data results in three variables (factors) describing the observed changes numerically.
Crystal structure of sitagliptin dihydrogen phosphate monohydrate, C16H16F6N5O(H2PO4)(H2O)
Authors: Kaduk James A. , Zhong Kai , Gindhart Amy M. , Blanton Thomas N.
Published: November 2015

The crystal structure of sitagliptin dihydrogen phosphate monohydrate (sometimes referred to as sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate) has been solved and refined using synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction data, and optimized using density functional techniques. Sitagliptin dihydrogen phosphate monohydrate crystallizes in space group P212121 (#19) with a = 6.137 108(12), b = 9.304 018(14), c = 38.307 67(10) Å, V = 2187.359(8) Å3, and Z = 4. The sitagliptin cation folds so that the two planar portions are roughly parallel. The ammonium group of the sitagliptin cation, the phosphate anion, and the water molecule form a network of strong hydrogen bonds. The result is a two-dimensional network, parallel to the ab plane. Halfway between these hydrogen bond planes, there are planes of high fluorine density. The powder pattern is included in the Powder Diffraction File™ as entry 00-064-1500.
Data Correction Needed for Long-Term Heat Transport Monitoring
Authors: Betz Eric
Published: November 2015

Scientists assess how historical temperature biases could impact the detection of ocean heat transport changes in a key area of the South Atlantic Ocean where data are scarce.
Multi-contrast submillimetric 3 Tesla hippocampal subfield segmentation protocol and dataset
Authors: Kulaga-Yoskovitz Jessie , Bernhardt Boris C. , Hong Seok-Jun , Mansi Tommaso , Liang Kevin E. , van der Kouwe Andre J.W. , Smallwood Jonathan , Bernasconi Andrea , Bernasconi Neda
Published: November 2015

The hippocampus is composed of distinct anatomical subregions that participate in multiple cognitive processes and are differentially affected in prevalent neurological and psychiatric conditions. Advances in high-field MRI allow for the non-invasive identification of hippocampal substructure. These approaches, however, demand time-consuming manual segmentation that relies heavily on anatomical expertise. Here, we share manual labels and associated high-resolution MRI data (MNI-HISUB25; submillimetric T1- and T2-weighted images, detailed sequence information, and stereotaxic probabilistic anatomical maps) based on 25 healthy subjects. Data were acquired on a widely available 3 Tesla MRI system using a 32 phased-array head coil. The protocol divided the hippocampal formation into three subregions: subicular complex, merged Cornu Ammonis 1, 2 and 3 (CA1-3) subfields, and CA4-dentate gyrus (CA4-DG). Segmentation was guided by consistent intensity and morphology characteristics of the densely myelinated molecular layer together with few geometry-based boundaries flexible to overall mesiotemporal anatomy, and achieved excellent intra-/inter-rater reliability (Dice index ≥90/87%). The dataset can inform neuroimaging assessments of the mesiotemporal lobe and help to develop segmentation algorithms relevant for basic and clinical neurosciences.
Liquid-liquid phase separation of freely falling undercooled ternary Fe-Cu-Sn alloy
Authors: Wang W .L. , Wu Y. H. , Li L. H. , Zhai W. , Zhang X. M. , Wei B.
Published: November 2015

The active modulation and control of the liquid phase separation for high-temperature metallic systems are still challenging the development of advanced immiscible alloys. Here we present an attempt to manipulate the dynamic process of liquid-liquid phase separation for ternary Fe47.5Cu47.5Sn5 alloy. It was firstly dispersed into numerous droplets with 66 ~ 810 μm diameters and then highly undercooled and rapidly solidified under the containerless microgravity condition inside drop tube. 3-D phase field simulation was performed to explore the kinetic evolution of liquid phase separation. Through regulating the combined effects of undercooling level, phase separation time and Marangoni migration, three types of separation patterns were yielded: monotectic cell, core shell and dispersive structures. The two-layer core-shell morphology proved to be the most stable separation configuration owing to its lowest chemical potential. Whereas the monotectic cell and dispersive microstructures were both thermodynamically metastable transition states because of their highly active energy. The Sn solute partition profiles of Fe-rich core and Cu-rich shell in core-shell structures varied only slightly with cooling rate.
Modeling crowdsourcing as collective problem solving
Authors: Guazzini Andrea , Vilone Daniele , Donati Camillo , Nardi Annalisa , Levnajić Zoran
Published: November 2015

Crowdsourcing is a process of accumulating the ideas, thoughts or information from many independent participants, with aim to find the best solution for a given challenge. Modern information technologies allow for massive number of subjects to be involved in a more or less spontaneous way. Still, the full potentials of crowdsourcing are yet to be reached. We introduce a modeling framework through which we study the effectiveness of crowdsourcing in relation to the level of collectivism in facing the problem. Our findings reveal an intricate relationship between the number of participants and the difficulty of the problem, indicating the optimal size of the crowdsourced group. We discuss our results in the context of modern utilization of crowdsourcing.
Gravity-driven postseismic deformation following the Mw 6.3 2009 L’Aquila (Italy) earthquake
Authors: Albano Matteo , Barba Salvatore , Saroli Michele , Moro Marco , Malvarosa Fabio , Costantini Mario , Bignami Christian , Stramondo Salvatore
Published: November 2015

The present work focuses on the postseismic deformation observed in the region of L’Aquila (central Italy) following the Mw 6.3 earthquake that occurred on April 6, 2009. A new, 16-month-long dataset of COSMO-SkyMed SAR images was analysed using the Persistent Scatterer Pairs interferometric technique. The analysis revealed the existence of postseismic ground subsidence in the mountainous rocky area of Mt Ocre ridge, contiguous to the sedimentary plain that experienced coseismic subsidence. The postseismic subsidence was characterized by displacements of 10 to 35 mm along the SAR line of sight. In the Mt Ocre ridge, widespread morphological elements associated with gravitational spreading have been previously mapped. We tested the hypothesis that the postseismic subsidence of the Mt Ocre ridge compensates the loss of equilibrium induced by the nearby coseismic subsidence. Therefore, we simulated the coseismic and postseismic displacement fields via the finite element method. We included the gravitational load and fault slip and accounted for the geometrical and rheological characteristics of the area. We found that the elastoplastic behaviour of the material under gravitational loading best explains the observed postseismic displacement. These findings emphasize the role of gravity in the postseismic processes at the fault scale.
On the Importance of the Deformability of Red Blood Cells in Blood Flow
Authors: Abkarian Manouk , Viallat Annie
Published: November 2015

The evolution of macroscopic living beings on Earth required the establishment of vascular systems to transport nutrients and eliminate waste. For example, oxygen transport from the respiratory organs to tissues occurs via a high volume fraction of red blood cells (RBCs) that circulate through the vascular system. If blood was analogous to a concentrated suspension of solid particles or a suspension of droplets of similar dimensions, it would display a viscosity several orders of magnitude larger than its actual value, which would compromise the transport pathway. The amazing fluidity of blood originates from the deformability of RBCs and the microstructures they form in flow. Consequently, blood is shear-thinning. The deformability of RBCs is postulated to be a major determinant of impaired perfusion, increased blood viscosity and occlusion in microvessels. Despite advances in understanding the molecular organization of RBCs, the relationships between the rheology of each element of the cell’s composite structure, the global deformability of the cells and the behavior of the cells in microflows are not understood. In this chapter, we describe recent advances in the description of the flow of RBCs. We focus on flows for which experimental, analytical and numerical advances have been made and discuss the physics underlying hemorheological phenomena where cell deformability is important.
Correction: Biocompatible organic charge transfer complex nanoparticles based on a semi-crystalline cellulose template
Authors: Nagai Atsushi , Miller Jason B. , Du Jia , Kos Petra , Stefan Mihaela C. , Siegwart Daniel J.
Published: November 2015

Correction for ‘Biocompatible organic charge transfer complex nanoparticles based on a semi-crystalline cellulose template' by Atsushi Nagai et al., Chem. Commun., 2015, 51, 11868–11871.
Zigzag-edge related ferromagnetism in MoSe2 nanoflakes
Authors: Xia Baorui , Gao Daqiang , Liu Peitao , Liu Yonggang , Shi Shoupeng , Tao Kun
Published: November 2015

Outstanding magnetic properties are highly desired for two-dimensional ultrathin semiconductor nanosheets for their potential applications in nano-electronics and spintronics.
Silica nanoparticle-generated ROS as a predictor of cellular toxicity: mechanistic insights and safety by design
Authors: Lehman Sean E. , Morris Angie S. , Mueller Paul S. , Salem Aliasger K. , Grassian Vicki H. , Larsen Sarah C.
Published: November 2015

This work evaluates cytotoxicity for an array of silica nanomaterials and relates this back to surface-derived phenomena, primarily ROS-generation.
Biodegradable containers composed of anionic liposomes and cationic polypeptide vesicles
Authors: Yaroslavov A. A. , Zaborova O. V. , Sybachin A. V. , Kalashnikova I. V. , Kesselman E. , Schmidt J. , Talmon Y. , Rodriguez A. R. , Deming T. J.
Published: November 2015

An electrostatic complexation of liposomes, composed of mixture of anionic and zwitterionic lipids, with bilayer vesicles composed of cationic poly(l-lysine)-b-poly(l-leucine) polypeptides has been investigated.
Design of an ultra-sensitive gold nanorod colorimetric sensor and its application based on formaldehyde reducing Ag+
Authors: Lin Jin-Mei , Huang Yi-Qun , Liu Zhen-bo , Lin Chang-Qing , Ma Xudong , Liu Jia-Ming
Published: November 2015

HCHO could reduce Ag+ to Ag on the surface of AuNRs to form Au core–Ag shell nanorods (Au@Ag↓NRs) in AuNRs–Ag+–HCHO system, which caused LPAB of AuNRs to redshift. Thus, a responsive AuNRs colorimetric sensor for the detection HCHO has been developed.
A novel label-free aptasensor based on target-induced structure switching of aptamer-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles
Authors: Du Lili , Zhang Yu , Du Yan , Yang Dongzhi , Gao Fenglei , Tang Daoquan
Published: November 2015

A strategy for high-performance liquid chromatography detection of adenosine triphosphate was developed based on mesoporous silica nanoparticles functionalized with an aptamer as a cap.
Synthesis of ternary graphene/molybdenum oxide/poly(p-phenylenediamine) nanocomposites for symmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Li Dan , Liu Yurong , Lin Baoping , Lai Changwei , Sun Ying , Yang Hong , Zhang Xueqin
Published: November 2015

A ternary graphene/MoO3/PpPD nanocomposite (GMP) has been successfully synthesized via a two-step process including the generation of binary graphene/MoO3 through a hydrothermal method and polymerization of p-phenylenediamine monomer.
Copper(i)–triazole dimer formation and rate acceleration in in-source click reaction
Authors: Qiu Ran , Luo Hai
Published: November 2015

Click and beyond click. A copper(i) triazole dimer was discovered in in-source click reaction, which indicated significant rate acceleration effect.
Poly(sodium-4-styrene sulfonate) (PSSNa)-assisted transferable flexible, top-contact high-resolution free-standing organic field-effect transistors
Authors: Ji Deyang , Donner Ansgar Dominique , Wilde Gerhard , Hu Wenping , Fuchs Harald
Published: November 2015

Here we demonstrate how, by means of poly(sodium-4-styrene sulfonate), one can successfully transfer the free-standing, flexible, high-resolution top-contact OFETs based on polystyrene insulator to arbitrary substrates.
An unprecedented anionic Ln-MOF with a cage-within-cage motif: spontaneous reduction and immobilization of ion-exchanged Pd(ii) to Pd-NPs in the framework
Authors: Han Yun-Hu , Tian Chong-Bin , Lin Ping , Du Shao-Wu
Published: November 2015

A first Ln-MOF with a cage-within-cage motif was synthesized. Well-dispersed Pd-NPs embedded in the framework exhibit excellent activity for hydrogenation of styrene.
Binary particle swarm optimisation‐based optimal substation coverage algorithm for phasor measurement unit installations in practical systems
Authors: Mishra Chetan , Jones Kevin D. , Pal Anamitra , Centeno Virgilio A.
Published: November 2015

Phasor measurement units (PMUs) play an important role in the wide‐area monitoring and protection of modern power systems. Historically, their deployment was limited by the prohibitive cost of the device itself. Therefore, the objective of the conventional optimal PMU placement problem was to find minimum number of devices, which when carefully placed throughout the network, maximised observability subject to different constraints. Due to improvements in relay technology, digital relays can now serve as both relays and PMUs. Under such circumstances, the substation installations consume the largest portion of the deployment cost, and not the devices themselves. Thus, for minimising cost of synchrophasor deployment, number of substation installations must be minimised. This study uses binary particle swarm optimisation to minimise number of substations in which installations must be performed for making all voltage levels observable, while being subject to various practical constraints. Standard IEEE systems have been used to explain the technique. Finally, a large‐scale network of Dominion Virginia Power is used as the test bed for implementation.
Symmetries and reductions of order for certain nonlinear third- and second-order differential equations with arbitrary nonlinearity
Authors: Tamizhmani K. M. , Krishnakumar K. , Leach P. G. L.
Published: November 2015

We examine the reductions of the order of certain third- and second-order nonlinear equations with arbitrary nonlinearity through their symmetries and some appropriate transformations. We use the folding transformation which enables one to change from a nonlinearity with an arbitrary exponent to a nonlinearity with a specific numerical exponent.
Structural evolution of Ge-rich Si1−xGex films deposited by jet-ICPCVD
Authors: Wang Yu , Yang Meng , Wang Gang , Wei Xiaoxu , Wang Junzhuan , Li Yun , Zou Zewen , Zheng Youdou , Shi Yi
Published: November 2015

Amorphous Ge-rich Si1−xGex films with local Ge-clustering were deposited by dual-source jet-type inductively coupled plasma chemical-vapor deposition (jet-ICPCVD). The structural evolution of the deposited films annealed at various temperatures (Ta) is investigated. Experimental results indicate that the crystallization occurs to form Ge and Si clusters as Ta = 500 °C. With raising Ta up to 900 °C, Ge clusters percolate together and Si diffuses and redistributes to form a Ge/SiGe core/shell structure, and some Ge atoms partially diffuse to the surface as a result of segregation. The present work will be helpful in understanding the structural evolution process of a hybrid SiGe films and beneficial for further optimizing the microstructure and properties.
Magnetocapacitance effects in MnZn ferrites
Authors: Xu Y. M. , Zhang N.
Published: November 2015

The magnetocapacitance effects of MnZn ferrites with different initial permeabilities have been studied systematically. Both intrinsic effect associated with magnetoelectric coupling and extrinsic effect, which means the combined contribution of magnetoresistance and the Maxwell-Wagner effect, have been observed simultaneously. Analysis shows that the relationship between the origins of both is in competitive equilibrium. Either of both mechanisms plays a dominant role in magnetocapacitance effects under different conditions, respectively, such as permeability and frequency of applied signals.
Feeding ecology of dusky dolphins
Lagenorhynchus obscurus
: evidence from stable isotopes
Authors: Loizaga de Castro Rocío , Saporiti Fabiana , Vales Damián G. , García Néstor A. , Cardona Luis , Crespo Enrique A.
Published: November 2015

The dusky dolphin Lagenorhynchus obscurus occurs in the Southern Hemisphere, where it is restricted to coastal temperate areas. This study aimed to characterize the feeding ecology of dusky dolphins inhabiting northern and central Patagonia by using δ 13 C and δ 15 N stable isotope ratios in skin samples. We searched for evidence of geographical and seasonal variation in diet and we explored dietary differences between sexes. Significant differences in the stable isotope ratios of dusky dolphins were found among the 4 gulfs under study. Skin samples from Golfo San Matías and Golfo San Jorge were 13 C-enriched and 15 N-depleted compared to those from Golfo Nuevo and Golfo San José. There was no seasonality in the diet at Golfo Nuevo, and no differences in the diet between sexes in any gulf. Furthermore, Bayesian ellipses of males and females were similar in size and the overlap was mostly symmetrical in Golfo San José and Golfo San Jorge, while in the Golfo San Matías and Golfo Nuevo, females had wider ranges of δ 15 N, suggesting the exploitation of a wider trophic niche. Finally, pelagic fishes and demersal pelagic squids were identified as the main prey for this species of dolphin, although the proportion of each prey varied regionally.

El delfín oscuro Lagenorhynchus obscurus se distribuye ampliamente en el Hemisferio Sur, donde prefiere áreas templadas costeras. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo caracterizar la ecología trófica de delfines oscuros que habitan en el norte y centro de la Patagonia mediante el uso de isótopos estables de δ 13 C y δ 15 N en muestras de piel. Específicamente, buscamos evidencia de variación geográfica y estacional en la dieta de los delfines y exploramos la diferencia de dieta entre sexos. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en los valores de isótopos estables de los delfines entre los cuatro golfos bajo estudio. Las muestras de piel de Golfo San Matías y Golfo San Jorge se encuentran enriquecidas en 13 C y deprimidas en 15 N en comparación con las muestras del Golfo Nuevo y Golfo San José. No hubo estacionalidad en la dieta en el Golfo Nuevo, y no hay diferencias en la dieta entre sexos en ningún golfo. Además, las elipses bayesianas de machos y hembras fueron similares en tamaño y la superposición fue mayormente simétrica en el Golfo San José y el Golfo San Jorge, mientras que en el Golfo San Matías y el Golfo Nuevo, las hembras tienen rangos más amplios de δ 15 N, lo que sugiere la explotación de un nicho trófico más amplio. Por último, los peces pelágicos y los calamares demersales pelágicos fueron identificados como la presa principal de esta especie de delfín, aunque la contribución de cada presa varió regionalmente.
Image Analysis Approach to Understand the Differences in Flour Particle Surface and Shape Characteristics
Authors: Siliveru Kaliramesh , Kwek Jin W. , Lau Grace M. L. , Ambrose R. P. Kingsly
Published: November 2015

The separation efficiency of wheat flour particles based on size, with minimum bran contamination, is important for a flour mill. Separation of flour during fractionation depends on the surface characteristics and shape of flour particles. Wheat flour particle characteristics such as surface lipid content, roughness, and morphology with respect to particle size were studied to better understand the differences between hard and soft wheat flours. Fractal analysis using image analysis was used to ascertain surface roughness. That was in turn verified by atomic force microscopy measurements. Soft wheat flours (soft red winter and soft white) had a higher degree of surface roughness than the hard wheat flours (hard red spring, hard red winter, and hard white). The fractal dimension values ranged from 2.67 to 2.78 and from 2.28 to 2.55 for soft and hard wheat flours, respectively. The surface lipid content increased with particle size in hard wheat but decreased in soft wheat flours. The surface lipid levels ranged from 1.02 to 1.18 and from 2.55 to 2.58% (% of total area) for 45 μm particles in hard wheat flours (hard red spring, hard red winter, and hard white) and soft wheat flours (soft red winter and soft white), respectively. For the 90 μm particles the lipid levels ranged from 1.54 to 1.62 and from 1.70 to 1.83% (% of total area) for flour particles in hard wheat flours (hard red spring, hard red winter, and hard white) and soft wheat flours (soft red winter and soft white), respectively. Surface lipid content and roughness values showed that soft wheat flours will be more cohesive than hard wheat flours. The morphology values revealed the irregularity in flour particles, irrespective of wheat class and particle size, owing to nonuniform fragmentation of protein and starch matrix of the wheat endosperm.
Standardized Consent: The Effect of Information Sheets on Information Retention
Authors: Clarke Keara , O'Loughlin Padhraig , Cashman James
Published: November 2015

Introduction

Informed consent embodies the ethical principle of autonomy of the surgical patient. Effective communication is essential to this decision-making process. Variability in consent can lead to confusion among patients and can expose the surgeon to risk in an increasingly litigious environment.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the use of a standardized consenting process and assess the pattern of information recall following provision of patient information sheets.

Methods

One hundred orthopedic clinic patients were randomly selected to participate in this prospective audit. Mean age was 41 years. Each participant was consented to undergo wrist manipulation under anaesthesia and K-wiring using a standardized British Orthopaedic Association consent form. A 22-item questionnaire was completed based on the information provided. Half of the cohort received additional printed take-home material. Each questionnaire was repeated 1 day later to determine which aspects of consent were best retained.

Results

Baseline scores were low on initial questioning for each section. There was a significant decrease in information retained over 24-hour interval (mean, 8.94 versus 7.98, P ≤ 0.000). Where standardized forms were provided, individual baseline scores rose significantly 24 hours after initial questioning. In particular, arthritis, neurovascular injury, and infection were more likely to be remembered with provision of written information (P = 0.01). Significantly lower scores were seen in those who had not received written information (mean, 9.542 versus 6.449; P ≤ 0.00).

Conclusions

Consent remains challenging even with a standardized process. Information retention improves significantly with the use of information sheets. We advocate the use of standard consent and provision of patient information sheets for commonly performed procedures.
Bowel Management and Quality of Life in Children With Spina Bifida in South Korea
Authors: Choi Eun Kyoung , Im Young Jae , Han Sang Won
Published: November 2015

Bowel management is a concern in patients with spina bifida. We evaluated the status of bowel management in children with spina bifida (SB) and the effects on quality of life (QoL) of children and their caregivers. Data were collected from 173 children with SB between January and June 2011, whose bowel management status and QoL were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire. Of the 173 children, 38 (22.0%) reported normal defecation, 73 (42.2%) reported constipation only, and 62 (35.8%) reported fecal incontinence with/without constipation. For defecation, 59 children (34.1%) used digital stimulation or manual extraction, 28 (16.2%) used suppositories or enemas, 35 (20.3%) used laxatives, 4 (2.3%) used an antegrade continence enema, and 3 (1.7%) used transanal irrigation. There were significant differences in QoL, depending on defecation symptoms. Children with fecal incontinence and their caregivers had difficulties in travel and socialization (p < .0001), caregivers' emotions (p < .0001), family relationships (p < .0001), and finances (p < .0001). Constipation and fecal incontinence affect QoL of children with SB and their caregivers. Therefore, more attention should be paid to bowel problems and help should be provided to children and their caregivers to improve QoL.
The friction of sliding wet textured surfaces: the Bruggeman effective medium approach revisited
Authors: Scaraggi M.
Published: November 2015

The mean field fluid dynamics and the friction occurring in the wet sliding contact between inhomogeneous surfaces, characterized by a deterministically repeated pattern of microdefects, are modelled within the Bruggeman effective medium theory. By comparing with the results of an accurate numerical homogenization of the flow equations, and with asymptotic solutions, we discuss the validity of the mean field model and its limitations in relation to the occurrence of clustering and interference effects. Finally, an analytical upgrade to the Bruggeman approach, allowing for inclusion of the clustering effect, is presented and discussed.
Multi-dimensional scale to measure destination food image: case of Korean food
Authors: Seo Sunhee , Yun Nara
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– Given the increasing importance of food in tourist activities and destination choice, the purpose of this paper is to reveal a comprehensive measurement scale to evaluate the image of destination food, adopting procedures recommended by previous studies.

Design/methodology/approach

– The procedure in this study followed two steps: first, item generation including literature review and focus groups; and second, scale purification. Scale purification included exploratory factor analysis to derive an initial factor structure and reliability assessment and confirmatory factor analysis to test the theoretical factor structure and assess validity.

Findings

– The scale development procedure yielded five dimensions of destination food image: “food safety and quality,” “attractiveness of food,” “health benefits of food,” “food culture,” and “unique culinary arts.”

Research limitations/implications

– This study contributes to the food-related tourism literature by measuring destination food image based on scale development processes using both cognitive and affective elements.

Practical implications

– The results help practitioners understand the complex dimensions of destination food image and how destination marketing professionals can use this image to advertise a destination.

Originality/value

– This study has value in measuring destination food image through scale development processes and integrating both cognitive evaluations and affective evaluations.
An examination of the interplay between corporate social responsibility, the brand’s home country, and consumer global identification
Authors: Magnusson Peter , Westjohn Stanford A. , Zdravkovic Srdan
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine two contextual factors with respect to the influence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) messages on consumer attitudes and purchase intentions. First, the authors examine the interplay between CSR messages and country image, and second, how consumers’ global identity affects their response to CSR signals.

Design/methodology/approach

– The conceptual framework is examined in two samples of US consumers evaluating a new foreign entrant into the US market.

Findings

– The empirical findings largely support the conceptual framework. Consistent with expectations, CSR and country image influence attitudes and purchase intentions. Most importantly, the authors also find a significant interaction effect between CSR and country of origin (COO). Further, consumers high on global identity are more responsive to positive CSR signals. These findings are confirmed in two complimentary studies.

Practical implications

– CSR has become an important strategic priority for managers. This study allows managers to make more informed decisions regarding the CSR initiatives of their organizations.

Originality/value

– This study connects the CSR literature with the COO literature, both of which are very important in the international marketing literature. Viewed through a signaling theory lens, this study provides new insights when, where, and how positive and negative CSR messages help or hurt the firm.