bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applications of momentary Fourier transform in frequency shift keying signal demodulation
Authors: Chen Zhonghui , Xu Yiwen , Wang Weixing , Feng Xinxin
Published: October 2012

Power line communication is attracting increasing attention for its characteristics of easy availability and low cost. Frequency shift keying with the virtue of antijamming capability is suitable for the low signal‐to‐noise ratio power line environment. The principle of the frequency shift keying communication system based on momentary Fourier transform (MFT) algorithm is provided first in this paper. Theoretically, the twiddle factor in the MFT algorithm is a decimal with infinite length. However, when it is applied on digital signal processor (DSP), the registers with finite length in DSP lead to the inaccuracy of the twiddle factor. Thus, the MFT algorithm with recursive form will cause accumulative error as a result. We analyze the impact of the inaccurate twiddle factor on the MFT algorithm from a novel point of view, by which the MFT algorithm is considered as a linear time invariant system. We prove that the accumulative error would not disperse when the modulus of the twiddle factor is smaller than 1. Simulation results show that the truncation approach is more effective than both carrying and rounding methods in a practical system. In addition, the number of significant digits of truncated twiddle factor must be chosen larger than 4 to overcome the problem of accumulative error.Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrochemical behaviour of ZnO/flavonoid pairs
Authors: Vilariça M. J. , González‐Aguilar G.
Published: October 2012

The last years are witnesses of continuous raise in the price of traditional fuels. This fact, joined to environmental concerns and the fears concerning the inevitable oil reserves depletion, has empowered the search for new energetic sources. Organic photovoltaic cells or Grätzel cells are a solution for collecting solar energy. Searching for new materials for this type of solar cells is normally a trial‐and‐error procedure. Assembling components to make a solar cell in the laboratory is a difficult and expensive task. In this work, the electrochemical behaviour of flavonoids that can be used as sensitizers in solar photovoltaic cells when in contact with a given semiconductor is studied. This procedure can simplify the process of pairing a dye with a semiconductor in order to obtain optimum performance when designing new photovoltaic cells. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 32: 804–809, 2013
Preparation of mesoporous activated carbon from Kraft lignin by impregnation with H2SO4: A four parameters optimization study
Authors: Li Xianfa , Luo Xuegang
Published: October 2012

Activated carbons (ACs) were prepared from waste Kraft lignin (KL) obtained from pulp and paper industry by chemical activation with H2SO4. The KL was characterized by elemental analysis and thermal gravimetric analysis. The suitable process conditions were optimized by an orthogonal design test [L9 (34)], factors including the activation temperature, concentration of H2SO4, activation time, and N2 flow rate. The morphology and pore structure of ACs were investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy, cryogenic N2 adsorption isotherm. The orthogonal test results suggested that the optimal activation parameters were as follows: 600°C of activation temperature, 35% of H2SO4 concentration, 120 min of activation time, and 100 cm3/min of N2 flow rate. Under the selected conditions, a mesoporous ACs with BET surface area of 873.9 m2/g and total pore volume of 0.485 cm3/g was obtained. The ACs obtained from KL by H2SO4 activation were also compared with ACs prepared by H3PO4 and KOH activation. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 32: 1158–1163, 2013
The 4.1B cytoskeletal protein regulates the domain organization and sheath thickness of myelinated axons
Authors: Einheber Steven , Meng Xiaosong , Rubin Marina , Lam Isabel , Mohandas Narla , An Xiuli , Shrager Peter , Kissil Joseph , Maurel Patrice , Salzer James L.
Published: October 2012

Myelinated axons are organized into specialized domains critical to their function in saltatory conduction, i.e., nodes, paranodes, juxtaparanodes, and internodes. Here, we describe the distribution and role of the 4.1B protein in this organization. 4.1B is expressed by neurons, and at lower levels by Schwann cells, which also robustly express 4.1G. Immunofluorescence and immuno‐EM demonstrates 4.1B is expressed subjacent to the axon membrane in all domains except the nodes. Mice deficient in 4.1B have preserved paranodes, based on marker staining and EM in contrast to the juxtaparanodes, which are substantially affected in both the PNS and CNS. The juxtaparanodal defect is evident in developing and adult nerves and is neuron‐autonomous based on myelinating cocultures in which wt Schwann cells were grown with 4.1B‐deficient neurons. Despite the juxtaparanodal defect, nerve conduction velocity is unaffected. Preservation of paranodal markers in 4.1B deficient mice is associated with, but not dependent on an increase of 4.1R at the axonal paranodes. Loss of 4.1B in the axon is also associated with reduced levels of the internodal proteins, Necl‐1 and Necl‐2, and of alpha‐2 spectrin. Mutant nerves are modestly hypermyelinated and have increased numbers of Schmidt‐Lanterman incisures, increased expression of 4.1G, and express a residual, truncated isoform of 4.1B. These results demonstrate that 4.1B is a key cytoskeletal scaffold for axonal adhesion molecules expressed in the juxtaparanodal and internodal domains that unexpectedly regulates myelin sheath thickness. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Mediating Effects of Verbal Skills in the Relationship Between Low Birth Weight and Childhood Aggressive Behaviour
Authors: Vaske Jamie , Newsome Jamie , Boisvert Danielle
Published: October 2012

Prenatal and perinatal risk factors, such as low birth weight, have been linked to higher levels of aggressive and destructive behaviours during childhood. Although low birth weight is associated with childhood externalizing behaviour, the mechanisms underlying this relationship remain open to empirical investigation. The current study extends the current literature by examining whether verbal skills mediate the relationship between low birth weight and childhood externalizing behaviour. A longitudinal analysis of data from the Fragile Families and Child Well‐being Study reveals that verbal skills appear to mediate the influence of low birth weight on serious aggression and destructive behaviour at age 5. The implications of this research are discussed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tailoring of processing parameters for sintering microsphere‐based scaffolds with dense‐phase carbon dioxide
Authors: Jeon Ju Hyeong , Bhamidipati Manjari , Sridharan BanuPriya , Scurto Aaron M. , Berkland Cory J. , Detamore Michael S.
Published: October 2012

Microsphere‐based polymeric tissue‐engineered scaffolds offer the advantage of shape‐specific constructs with excellent spatiotemporal control and interconnected porous structures. The use of these highly versatile scaffolds requires a method to sinter the discrete microspheres together into a cohesive network, typically with the use of heat or organic solvents. We previously introduced subcritical CO2 as a sintering method for microsphere‐based scaffolds; here we further explored the effect of processing parameters. Gaseous or subcritical CO2 was used for making the scaffolds, and various pressures, ratios of lactic acid to glycolic acid in poly(lactic acid‐co‐glycolic acid), and amounts of NaCl particles were explored. By changing these parameters, scaffolds with different mechanical properties and morphologies were prepared. The preferred range of applied subcritical CO2 was 15–25 bar. Scaffolds prepared at 25 bar with lower lactic acid ratios and without NaCl particles had a higher stiffness, while the constructs made at 15 bar, lower glycolic acid content, and with salt granules had lower elastic moduli. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells (hUCMSCs) seeded on the scaffolds demonstrated that cells penetrate the scaffolds and remain viable. Overall, the study demonstrated the dependence of the optimal CO2 sintering parameters on the polymer and conditions, and identified desirable CO2 processing parameters to employ in the sintering of microsphere‐based scaffolds as a more benign alternative to heat‐sintering or solvent‐based sintering methods. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2013.
Consistent Gaussian basis sets of triple‐zeta valence with polarization quality for solid‐state calculations
Authors: Peintinger Michael F. , Oliveira Daniel Vilela , Bredow Thomas
Published: October 2012

Consistent basis sets of triple‐zeta valence with polarization quality for main group elements and transition metals from row one to three have been derived for periodic quantum‐chemical solid‐state calculations with the crystalline‐orbital program CRYSTAL. They are based on the def2‐TZVP basis sets developed for molecules by the Ahlrichs group. Orbital exponents and contraction coefficients have been modified and reoptimized, to provide robust and stable self‐consistant field (SCF) convergence for a wide range of different compounds. We compare results on crystal structures, cohesive energies, and solid‐state reaction enthalpies with the modified basis sets, denoted as pob‐TZVP, with selected standard basis sets available from the CRYSTAL basis set database. The average deviation of calculated lattice parameters obtained with a selected density functional, the hybrid method PW1PW, from experimental reference is smaller with pob‐TZVP than with standard basis sets, in particular for metallic systems. The effects of basis set expansion by diffuse and polarization functions were investigated for selected systems. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Raman spectroscopic investigations on intermolecular interactions in aggregates and crystalline forms of trans‐astaxanthin
Authors: Subramanian Balaji , Tchoukanova Nadéjda , Djaoued Yahia , Pelletier Claude , Ferron Mathieu
Published: October 2012

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid naturally found in microbial organisms, microalgae, and many crustaceans. Its consumption has led to beneficial effects such as pigmentation of marine animals, and it favorably addresses several human health issues as a result of its high important antioxidant property. Several companies produce synthetic trans‐astaxanthin for dietary purposes in aquaculture, where it is mainly used for pigmentation. It is known that trans‐astaxanthin manifests itself as a monomer in organic solvents, as aggregates in aqueous solutions of organic solvents, or as crystalline solids. These forms display unique optical and structural properties, which have an impact on biological systems. In this work, we report on detailed Raman investigations, in conjunction with optical absorption spectroscopy, of monomer, aggregates, and crystalline forms of trans‐astaxanthin. The Raman and optical absorption spectroscopic investigations of trans‐astaxanthin aggregates were performed as a function of time, showing the formation of card‐packed aggregates after 2 h, and head‐to‐tail aggregates after 24 h in a 10% acetone–water astaxanthin solution. For the crystalline trans‐astaxanthin, a pointwise Raman mapping evidenced the presence of two distinct crystal structures. The Raman modes of these crystal structures (A and B) were correlated with the intermolecular interactions present in chloroform solvated (AXT‐Cl) and unsolvated (un‐AXT) trans‐astaxanthin single crystals. Both crystal structure A and the card‐packed aggregates have similar intermolecular π stacking interactions as AXT‐Cl. The crystal structure B and the head‐to‐tail aggregates showed linear chain features as in un‐AXT. This work also clearly demonstrates that Raman spectroscopy is a powerful tool to distinguish the crystal structures present in crystalline powder of trans‐astaxanthin. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phase transformations in CaCO3/iron oxide composite induced by thermal treatment and laser irradiation
Authors: Beuvier T. , Bardeau J.‐F. , Calvignac B. , Corbel G. , Hindré F. , Grenèche J.‐M. , Boury F. , Gibaud A.
Published: October 2012

Calcium carbonate (CaCO3)/iron oxide composites were synthesized through a simple one‐step impregnation procedure by mixing iron oxide nanoparticles (γ‐Fe2O3 and Fe3O4) of about 6 nm in size and CaCO3 microparticles (Φ = 2 µm–8 µm, vaterite phase). The morphology and structural properties of CaCO3, iron oxide nanoparticles and CaCO3/iron oxide composites were characterized as a function of low iron content (0 %w to 3.2 %w) by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction and 57Fe Mössbauer spectrometry. The phase transformations induced by thermal treatment and laser irradiation were investigated in situ by X‐ray thermodiffraction (XRTD) and Raman spectroscopy. We have shown that the phase transformations observed by XRTD are also observed under laser irradiation as a consequence of the absorption of the laser irradiation by iron oxide nanoparticles. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Profiling of mercapturic acids of acrolein and acrylamide in human urine after consumption of potato crisps*
Authors: Watzek Nico , Scherbl Denise , Feld Julia , Berger Franz , Doroshyenko Oxana , Fuhr Uwe , Tomalik‐Scharte Dorota , Baum Matthias , Eisenbrand Gerhard , Richling Elke
Published: October 2012

Scope

Acrolein (AC) and acrylamide (AA) are food contaminants generated by heat treatment. We studied human exposure after consumption of potato crisps by monitoring excretion of mercapturic acids (MAs) in urine.

Methods and results

MA excretion was monitored in human urine collected up to 72 h after ingestion of a test meal of experimental (study 1: 1 mg AA/150 g) or commercially available (study 2: 44 μg AA plus 4.6 μg AC/175 g) potato crisps. MA contents were analysed after purification via SPE using HPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS. On the basis of the area under the curve values of MAs excreted in urine, the total excretion of AC‐related MAs exceeded that of AA‐related MAs up to 12 times in study 1 and up to four times in study 2. Remarkably, AC content of potato crisps of study 2 was found to be only about 1/10 the AA content, as determined by isotope dilution headspace GC/MS.

Conclusion

Our results indicate substantially higher exposure to AC from potato crisps than to AA. Total AC in such foods may encompass bioavailable AC forms not detected by headspace GC/MS. Both findings may also apply to other heat processed foods.
Conductivity and methanol permeability of sulfonated polystyrene membrane with dispersed montmorillonite nanoclay
Authors: Chen Yu‐Nung , Chung Pei‐Yuan , Yen Shi‐Chern
Published: October 2012

Sulfonated polystyrene membranes with dispersed montmorillonite (MMT) nanoclay were prepared and their conductivities, methanol permeabilities and other characteristics were presented in this study. Sulfonated polystyrene membranes were recast by employing various solvents such as dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), chlorobenzene/n‐butanol, chlorobenzene/DMSO and toluene/n‐butanol. These solvents enhanced the ratio of proton conductivity to methanol permeability (C/P ratio) of sulfonated polystyrene membranes, especially DMSO. To reduce the methanol permeability, surfactant‐modified MMT nanoclay, which has a large surface area, was blended with sulfonated polystyrene. The methanol permeability of the sulfonated polystyrene with dispersed nanoclay is 1/10 the value of Nafion® and the activation energy of methanol permeability is about 28 kJ/mol. As DMSO was used as a solvent, the conductivity over permeability ratio of the membrane with 14.38% sulfonation was double the value of Nafion®. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synthesis of silver nanoparticles in electrospun polyacrylonitrile nanofibers using tea polyphenols as the reductant
Authors: Zou MeiLing , Du MingLiang , Zhu Han , Xu CongSheng , Li Ni , Fu YaQin
Published: October 2012

Uniformly dispersed Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) with diameter about 5 nm embedded in electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers were synthesized by using tea polyphenols (TP) as the reductant. The reducing ability of TP toward Ag ions was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and ultraviolet–visible spectra, and the results revealed that TP exhibit satisfied reducing ability in the synthesis process. Transmission electron microscopy observation showed that the synthesized spherical AgNPs with diameter about 5 nm were immobilized on the surface and in the interior of PAN nanofibers by electrospinning technology. The interactions of Ag with PAN and TP were investigated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and the results suggested that PAN polymer and TP both served as stabilizer during the synthesis of AgNPs because of the chelating interactions of Ag with cyano groups and phenolic hydroxyls. The synthesized AgNPs in PAN nanofibers exhibit good antibacterial property and may be used for antibacterial and catalytic applications. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2013. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Properties of coconut shell powder‐filled polylactic acid ecocomposites: Effect of maleic acid
Authors: Chun Koay Seong , Husseinsyah Salmah , Osman Hakimah
Published: October 2012

Ecocomposites were produced by incorporating coconut shell powder (CSP) into polylactic acid (PLA) resin. The effect of filler content and chemical modification on the mechanical properties, thermal properties, and morphology of PLA/CSP ecocomposites were investigated. The addition of filler has decreased the tensile strength and elongation at break of PLA/CSP ecocomposites. However, tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of PLA/CSP ecocomposites were enhanced by maleic acid treatment. Meanwhile, glass transition temperature (Tg) and crystallinity (Xc) of PLA/CSP ecocomposites increased at 30 php of filler content and increased the presence of maleic acid (MA). However, the melting temperature (Tm) and crystallization temperature (Tc) were not significantly changed with the filler content and MA modification The thermal stability of PLA/CSP ecocomposites increased with the CSP content. The MA modification improved the thermal stability of PLA/CSP ecocomposites through better filler–matrix interaction. The improvement was confirmed by scanning electron microscope study. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2013. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation and characterization of polypyrrole/selenium composites
Authors: Ozkazanc Ersel , Zor Sibel , Ozkazanc Hatice , Gumus Serap
Published: October 2012

This article reports synthesis of polypyrrole (PPy) and its composites having various amounts of selenium (Se) in the presence of nitric acid in aqueous medium via chemical oxidative polymerization. Samples were spectroscopically characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy, and atomic absorption spectroscopy. Although morphology of the samples was examined by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), their thermal properties were studied via differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The alternating current (ac) conductivity and dielectric properties were investigated as a function of temperature. Variation of adsorption free energy obtained from Langmuir adsorption isotherm showed that metal cations were physically adsorbed onto the polymer surface. SEM images showed that filling process significantly changes the morphology of PPy. DSC results indicated that cold crystallization temperature (Tcc) of unfilled PPy decreases with increasing filling level. Dielectric measurements showed that relaxation times for PPy and its composites have decreased linearly with increasing temperature. The conductivity of the PPy, when filled with 1 g of Se, increased ∼ four times at room temperature for 1 kHz. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2013. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Multistep hydrothermal route for nanocoral architecture of anatase TiO2: synthesis and characterization of dye‐sensitized solar cell performance
Authors: Mali Sawanta S. , Shinde Pravin S. , Betty Chirayath A. , Bhosale Popatrao N. , Lee Won J. , Patil Pramod S.
Published: October 2012

Multistep hydrothermal (MSH) process is employed for growth of TiO2 nanocorals onto the conducting fluorine‐doped tin oxide‐coated glass substrates. The surface morphological features and physical properties of TiO2 films were investigated by field emission scanning electron microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy, room temperature photoluminescence spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The surface morphology revealed the formation of TiO2 corals having nanosized (30–40 nm) polyps. The photoelectrochemical properties of the TiO2 nanocoral electrodes were investigated in 0.1 M NaOH electrolyte under ultraviolet illumination. The results presented in this study highlight two major findings: (i) tuning the photoelectrochemical response and photoconversion efficiency via controlled thickness of TiO2 nanocorals by MSH route and (ii) the substantial increase in short‐circuit photocurrent (Jsc) because of the improved charge transport through TiO2 nanocorals prepared via MSH process. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Utilization of geometric light trapping in thin film silicon solar cells: simulations and experiments
Authors: de Jong M. M. , Sonneveld P. J. , Baggerman J. , van Rijn C. J. M. , Rath J. K. , Schropp R. E. I.
Published: October 2012

In this study, we present a new light absorption enhancement method for p‐i‐n thin film silicon solar cells using pyramidal surface structures, larger than the wavelength of visible light. Calculations show a maximum possible current enhancement of 45% compared with cells on a flat substrate. We deposited amorphous silicon (a‐Si) thin film solar cells directly onto periodically pyramidal‐structured polycarbonate (PC) substrates, which show a significant increase (30%) in short‐circuit current over reference cells deposited on flat glass substrates. The current of the cells on our pyramidal structures on PC is only slightly lower than that of cells on Asahi U‐type TCO glass (Asahi Glass Co., Tokyo, Japan), but suffer from a somewhat lower open circuit voltage and fill factor. Because the used substrates have a locally flat surface area due to the fabrication process, we believe that the current enhancement in the cells on structured PC can be increased using larger or more closely spaced pyramids, which can have a smaller flat surface area. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonaqueous emulsion polymerization: A practical synthetic route for the production of molecularly imprinted nanospheres
Authors: Dvorakova Gita , Haschick Robert , Klapper Markus , Müllen Klaus , Biffis Andrea
Published: October 2012

Monodisperse, molecularly imprinted nanospheres were synthesized by nonaqueous (mini)emulsion polymerization using a standard monomer mixture of methacrylic acid and ethylene dimethacrylate containing the drug propranolol as a template. The preparation conditions (solvent, amount of surfactant, and amount of employed template) were extensively varied in order to assess their effect on the properties of the resulting polymer nanoparticles. The molecular recognition capability of the nanospheres was evaluated in batch rebinding experiments, and the effect of the nanosphere preparation conditions as well as of the reaction conditions was investigated. In this way, optimal preparation protocols for molecularly imprinted nanoparticles under nonaqueous conditions with the use of a nonionic emulsifier were identified, which lead to nanospheres with a diameter of around 100 nm having an enhanced capacity of specific template rebinding compared to both nonimprinted nanospheres and to particles obtained by emulsion polymerization in water. Best results were obtained with nanospheres prepared in N,N‐dimethylformamide/n‐hexane with a high functional monomer to template ratio. The enantioselectivity of the rebinding process was also demonstrated. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2013
Cellulose‐based macroinitiator for crosslinked poly(butyl methacrylate‐co‐pentaerythritol triacrylate) oil‐absorbing materials by SET‐LRP
Authors: Fan Lijun , Chen Hou , Hao Zhihai , Tan Zhi
Published: October 2012

Cellulose produced from cotton fibers was used as substrate for synthesis of oil‐absorbing materials by single electron transfer‐living radical polymerization. The cellulose macroinitiator was prepared by esterification of hydroxyl group with 2‐bromoisobutyryl bromide (BiBB), followed by grafting with butyl methacrylate (BMA) and pentaerythritol triacrylate (PETA) to render a three‐dimensional architecture. The polymerization was catalyzed by Cu(0) powder/hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA) and performed in N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF). Effects of cellulose, catalyst, reaction temperature, and time were investigated in detail. The maximum oil absorption to chloroform and toluene could reach 29.0 and 15.4 g·g−1, respectively. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2013
Rapid, metal‐free room temperature vulcanization produces silicone elastomers
Authors: Fawcett Amanda S. , Grande John B. , Brook Michael A.
Published: October 2012

Silicone room temperature vulcanization elastomers are usually formed through either a platinum‐catalyzed hydrosilylation or tin‐catalyzed moisture cure. In this article, we show that it is possible to create robust, transparent silicone elastomers without the need for metal catalysts. Hydrogen‐terminated silicone polymers are crosslinked by tri‐ or tetraalkoxysilane crosslinkers in a condensation process catalyzed by the presence of trispentafluorophenylborane catalyst to give elastomers and alkane by‐products. This procedure allows for very fast cure times (< 30 s to a tack free state): the process is more conveniently controlled with the addition of a small amount of solvent. Physical and mechanical properties are readily modified by control of the chain length of the starting polymer, the functionality and nature of the alkoxy group on the crosslinker. Organofunctional groups, useful for further polymer modification, can optionally be incorporated by judicious choice of readily available starting materials. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2013
A toolbox for parameter‐free predictions of solid‐state properties of monodisperse glassy polymers with frozen‐in molecular orientation
Authors: De Focatiis Davide S. A. , Buckley C. Paul
Published: October 2012

This study presents a toolbox for the prediction of birefringence and craze initiation stress in oriented monodisperse linear amorphous polymers. The toolbox is assembled from a previously proposed melt–solid constitutive model that provides the necessary residual stress components required for predictions of birefringence and craze initiation stress. The Likhtman–McLeish theory for linear rheology of entangled polymers is used to generate the low reduced frequency part of the linear viscoelastic spectrum, the only molar mass‐dependent input parameter. All other parameters are obtained by experiment or from literature and can be considered material constants. Toolbox predictions are compared to new experimental data on two grades of linear monodisperse polystyrene (PS) of known molar mass but unknown rheology and to literature data. The toolbox is able to account for the role of molar mass on birefringence and craze initiation stress of PS subjected to supraentanglement orientation processes. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2012
Plate‐out in PVC extrusion. II. Lubricant effects on the formation of die plate‐out in lead‐based rigid PVC formulations
Authors: Varshney Neil , Gilbert Marianne , Walon Marc , Schiller Michael
Published: October 2012

Plate‐out is an extrusion phenomenon that causes formulators and processors significant problems when processing poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). It is an unwanted deposit that forms on the die, calibration, and degassing sections of extrusion equipment that can cause unacceptable streaking and scoring on the final product through continued deposition. In a previous paper, the authors used a range of analytical techniques to identify inorganic and organic components found in samples of industrial plate‐out. This paper describes a laboratory methodology to determine the statistically significant properties of polyethylene wax lubricants that contribute to plate‐out. A small‐scale twin‐screw extruder equipped with a plate‐out‐sensitive die was used to analyze lead‐based window profile formulations containing various homopolymer grades of polyethylene wax and oxidized polyethylene or high‐density polyethylene lubricants. The influence of these waxes on plate‐out is explained in terms of generally accepted lubricant theory, as well as theory proposed by other workers, such as Lippoldt. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Waste newsprint fibers for the reinforcement of radiation‐cured (styrene‐butadiene rubber)‐based composites. Part ii characterization and thermal properties
Authors: El‐Nemr Khaled F. , Ali Magdy A. , Hassan Medhat M.
Published: October 2012

Waste newsprint fibers were used as reinforcing fillers in composite materials based on a styrene‐butadiene rubber matrix. Surface modification of the fibers was carried out by polystyrene emulsion treatment, and copolymerization with the rubber matrix was done by a radiation technique. Characterization of the modified surfaces and the adhesion between the treated newsprint paper fibers and the rubber matrix involved a variety of techniques, including X‐ray diffraction, FTIR spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry, which revealed that the surface modification did occur and that it affected adhesion between the treated fibers and the rubber matrix upon irradiation. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that the thermal stability of the fibers was enhanced by the treatment and that the thermal stability of irradiated composites was increased by the addition of treated newsprint fiber. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Implications of a light Higgs in composite models
Authors: Redi Michele , Tesi Andrea
Published: October 2012

Abstract

We study the Higgs mass in composite Higgs models with partial compositeness, extending the results of ref. [1] to different representations of the composite sector for SO(5)/SO(4) and to the coset SO(6)/SO(5). For a given tuning we find in general a strong correlation between the mass of the top partners and the Higgs mass, akin to the one in supersymmetry. If the theory is natural a Higgs mass of 125 GeV typically requires fermionic partners below TeV which might be within the reach of the present run of LHC. A discussion of CP properties of both cosets is also presented.
Inner products of Bethe states as partial domain wall partition functions
Authors: Kostov Ivan , Matsuo Yutaka
Published: October 2012

Abstract

We study the inner product of Bethe states in the inhomogeneous periodic XXX spin-1/2 chain of length L, which is given by the Slavnov determinant formula. We show that the inner product of an on-shell M -magnon state with a generic M -magnon state is given by the same expression as the inner product of a 2 M -magnon state with a vacuum descendent. The second inner product is proportional to the partition function of the six-vertex model on a rectangular L × 2 M grid, with partial domain-wall boundary conditions.
Contents of Fatty Acids, Selected Lipids and Physicochemical Properties of Western Australian Sandalwood Seed Oil
Authors: Hettiarachchi D. S. , Liu Y. D. , Boddy M. R. , Fox J. E. D. , Sunderland V. B.
Published: October 2012

The study was designed to characterise two extracts of Western Australian sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) seed oils for their physicochemical and lipid characteristics. Sandalwood plantation's surplus seeds could be used for their oil content, to improve the commercial viability of this industry. The seed oils were obtained by solvent extraction and supercritical carbon dioxide extraction respectively. Important physicochemical parameters were compared with other oils commonly used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. Acid values were found to be higher (6.0–7.5 mg KOH/1 g oil) while peroxide values (6.7–9.0 mequiv/Kg) were lower than reported for other oils. Tocopherols were found to be lower than those usually reported for nut oils (α‐tocopherol 1–3 mg/100 g; δ‐tocopherol 2.2–5.7 mg/100 g), squalenes and phytosterols were found in considerable quantities. The fatty acid content consisted largely of ximenynic acid (35 %) and oleic acid (52 %). No oxidative derivatives of fatty acids were observed. Although there were statistically significant differences in some properties, the magnitude of these were insufficient to conclude there were any notable differences in the two oil extracts.
Mitochondrial fragmentation caused by phenanthroline promotes mitophagy
Authors: Park So Jung , Shin Ji Hyun , Kim Eun Sung , Jo Yoon Kyung , Kim Jung Ho , Hwang Jung Jin , Kim Jin Cheon , Cho Dong-Hyung
Published: October 2012

Mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy are thought to be important events for the quality control of mitochondria and mitochondria‐associated diseases. To identify novel mitophagy modulators, we developed a cell‐based screening system and selected 1,10‐phenanthroline (Phen) as a target molecule. Phen treatment highly induced mitochondrial fragmentation and mitochondrial dysfunctions in a Drp1 dependent manner. Phen treatment also increased autophagy. Moreover, prolonged exposure of Phen increased mitochondria clearance through mitophagy. Phen‐mediated loss of mitochondrial mass was more reduced in ATG5 deficient cells than in wild type cells. In addition, down‐regulation of Drp1 decreased autophagy activation, suggesting that mitochondrial fission is involved in Phen‐mediated mitophagy. Thus, our results demonstrate that the disruption of mitochondrial dynamics and mitochondrial dysfunctions provokes mitophagy in Phen‐treated cells.
Benefits of combined cholinesterase inhibitor and memantine treatment in moderate–severe Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Gauthier Serge , Molinuevo José L.
Published: October 2012

Background

Clinical studies and post hoc analyses have investigated the use of combination therapy for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We review the evidence for the short‐ and long‐term efficacy of combination therapy in AD.

Methods

The review is based on a search of the PubMed database to identify relevant articles concerning combination treatment with memantine and cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs).

Results

In patients with moderate‐to‐severe AD, combination treatment with the N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor antagonist memantine and the ChEI donepezil has produced significant benefits in cognition, function, behavior, global outcome, and care dependency, compared with donepezil treatment alone. Data from long‐term observational studies support these findings. Compared with ChEI monotherapy, combination treatment slowed cognitive and functional decline (a 4‐year sustained effect that appeared to increase over time) and reduced the risk of nursing home admission. Preclinically, the combination of N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor modulation and acetylcholinesterase inhibition has been shown to act synergistically, which may explain the observed clinical effects of combination treatment.

Conclusion

Treatment with memantine/ChEI combination therapy in moderate‐to‐severe AD produces consistent benefits that appear to increase over time, and that are beyond those of ChEI treatment alone.
Systematic review of the body of evidence for the use of biomarkers in the diagnosis of dementia
Authors: Noel‐Storr Anna H. , Flicker Leon , Ritchie Craig W. , Nguyen Giang Huong , Gupta Tarun , Wood Phillip , Walton Josephine , Desai Meera , Solomon Danielle Fraser , Molena Emma , Worrall Rosemary , Hayen Anja , Choudhary Prateek , Ladds Emma , Lanctôt Krista L. , Verhey Frans R. , McCleery Jenny M. , Mead Gillian E. , Clare Linda , Fioravanti Mario , Hyde Chris , Marcus Sue , McShane Rupert
Published: October 2012

Background

Although recent diagnostic criteria for Alzheimer's disease propose the use of biomarkers, validation of these biomarkers by diagnostic test accuracy studies is a necessary first step, followed by the synthesis of the evidence from these studies in systematic reviews and meta‐analyses. The quality of the resulting evidence depends on the number and size of the primary studies, their quality, and the adequacy of their reporting. This systematic review assesses the weight and quality of the evidence available from primary diagnostic test accuracy studies.

Methods

A MEDLINE search was performed in August 2011 to identify all potentially relevant publications relating to the biomarkers β‐amyloid, tau, positron emission tomography (18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose or ligands for amyloid), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The reporting and methodology were assessed using the Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy and Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies assessment tools, respectively. Because clinical progression to dementia is the most commonly used reference standard, this review focuses on participants with objective cognitive impairment but no dementia at baseline.

Results

Of the 19,104 published references identified by the search, 142 longitudinal studies relating to the biomarkers of interest were identified, which included subjects who had objective cognitive impairment but no dementia at baseline. The highest number of studies (n = 70) and of participants (n = 4722) related to structural MRI. MRI also yielded the highest number of studies with extractable data for meta‐analysis (n = 32 [46% of all structural MRI studies]), followed by cerebrospinal fluid tau (n = 24 [73%]). There were few studies on positron emission tomography ligands for amyloid having suitable data for meta‐analysis (n = 4). There was considerable variation across studies in reporting outcomes, methods of blinding and selection, means of accounting for indeterminate or missing values, the interval between the test and assessments, and the determination of test thresholds.

Conclusions

The body of evidence for biomarkers is not large and is variable across the different types of biomarkers. Important information is missing from many study reports, highlighting the need for standardization of methodology and reporting to improve the rigor of biomarker validation.
Standardization of analysis sets for reporting results from ADNI MRI data
Authors: Wyman Bradley T. , Harvey Danielle J. , Crawford Karen , Bernstein Matt A. , Carmichael Owen , Cole Patricia E. , Crane Paul K. , DeCarli Charles , Fox Nick C. , Gunter Jeffrey L. , Hill Derek , Killiany Ronald J. , Pachai Chahin , Schwarz Adam J. , Schuff Norbert , Senjem Matthew L. , Suhy Joyce , Thompson Paul M. , Weiner Michael , Jack Clifford R. ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: October 2012

The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) three‐dimensional T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) acquisitions provide a rich data set for developing and testing analysis techniques for extracting structural endpoints. To promote greater rigor in analysis and meaningful comparison of different algorithms, the ADNI MRI Core has created standardized analysis sets of data comprising scans that met minimum quality control requirements. We encourage researchers to test and report their techniques against these data. Standard analysis sets of volumetric scans from ADNI‐1 have been created, comprising screening visits, 1‐year completers (subjects who all have screening, 6‐ and 12‐month scans), 2‐year annual completers (screening, 1‐year and 2‐year scans), 2‐year completers (screening, 6‐months, 1‐year, 18‐months [mild cognitive impaired (MCI) only], and 2‐year scans), and complete visits (screening, 6‐month, 1‐year, 18‐month [MCI only], 2‐year, and 3‐year [normal and MCI only] scans). As the ADNI‐GO/ADNI‐2 data become available, updated standard analysis sets will be posted regularly.
Effectiveness of a flexible coiled sheath for correcting an acute angle between the brachiocephalic vein and the superior vena cava for successful defibrillator implantation
Authors: Yoo Yeon Pyo , Choi Jin Ho , Myung Jin Cheol , Choi Yu Jeong , Kim Won Ho , Kang Ki‐Woon
Published: October 2012

Successful implantation of implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs) that is performed to avoid surgery in patients with atypical vasculature is still problematic. Acute angulations and significant tortuosity of the venous vasculature may influence both procedural success and periprocedural complications. We successfully implanted an ICD in a patient with deformed vasculature caused by tuberculosis‐induced lung destruction by using a flexible coiled sheath instead of a friable peel‐away sheath. This report highlights an alternative maneuver that may be an option in patients who have an acute angle between the brachiocephalic vein and the superior vena cava.
Treatment of Mycobacterium fortuitum Infection of Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Case Report
Authors: Yu-Bun Yung , Pang-Hei Li , Qunn-Jid Lee , Yiu-Chung Wong , Yuk-Leung Wai
Published: October 2012

Mycobacterium fortuitum is a rapidly growing bacterium that can cause infection at different sites in humans. Prosthetic infection caused by this bacterium has historically been a challenge, with reimplantation being unsuccessful in all but one case. M. fortuitum is resistant to almost all conventional antituberculous medications. There is no standardised treatment due to its rarity of occurrence. Here, we report a case of successful reimplantation with initial debridement surgery and 6 weeks of antibiotics.
Neue Entwicklungen und Herausforderungen im Wandel der Gesundheitsberufe
Authors: Kälble Karl
Published: October 2012

Einleitung

Die Ausbildung der Gesundheitsberufe ist in den letzten Jahren im Kontext des Strukturwandels im Gesundheitswesen und der damit einher gehenden Herausforderungen verstärkt in Bewegung geraten. Vor diesem Hintergrund skizziert der Beitrag aus der Perspektive der an gesellschaftlichen Versorgungsbedarfen orientierten Sicht von Public Health aktuelle Entwicklungen im Umfeld und neue Trends im Wandel der Gesundheitsberufe. Ausblickend werden Voraussetzungen thematisiert, die eine nachhaltige qualitative Weiterentwicklung der Gesundheitsberufe befördern können.
Modellvorhaben: Physiotherapie zwischen Autonomie und Fremdkontrolle
Authors: Scheel Katharina
Published: October 2012

Einleitung

Seit etwa zehn Jahren sind verschiedene Gesundheitsberufe, darunter sowohl die Pflege als auch die Physiotherapie, verstärkt damit beschäftigt, neue Möglichkeiten der Aufgabenvertei-lung im deutschen Gesundheitswesen auszuloten und mit innovativen Projekten auf mögliche Versorgungsstrukturänderungen hinzuweisen. Sind positive Ergebnisse aus diesen Projekten zu verzeichnen, kommt ein Übertrag in die Regelversorgung zumindest infrage.
Interprofessionelle Kooperation, Leadership und Grundversorgung - Bildungsinitiativen für Gesundheitsberufe von Lancet und Careum
Authors: Sottas Beat
Published: October 2012

Einleitung

Seit 100 Jahren lösen sich Bildungsreformen ab – sie scheinen aber vielfach alte Bilder zu zementieren ohne den demografischen und epidemiologischen Herausforderungen sowie den veränderten Erwartungen der Patienten gerecht zu werden. Der Lancet-Report und Initiativen der Careum Stiftung wollen diese „schreckliche institutionelle Trägheit“ (Lancet) überwinden. Transformatives Lernen soll Studierende der Gesundheitsberufe befähigen, im Team und in der Gesellschaft Leadership zur Bewältigung des Wandels zu übernehmen und als Transformatoren den Gesundheitsnutzen zu mehren.
Fachqualifikationsrahmen Public Health
Authors: Blättner Beate
Published: October 2012

Einleitung

Seit ihrer Gründung ist eines der Ziele der Kommission Lehre der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Public Health (DGPH) sicherzustellen, dass an den Public Health-Studienstandorten in Deutschland vergleichbare Ausbildungen angeboten werden, die zudem internationalen Standards entsprechen. Der Maßstab für den Vergleich hat sich mit der Umsetzung des Bologna-Prozesses an Hochschulen verändert: Statt Lehrinhalten sind nunmehr die Kompetenzen relevant, mit denen Absolventen auf den Arbeitsmarkt treten.
Gesundheitsbezogene Masterstudiengänge an deutschen Hochschulen
Authors: Hensen Peter
Published: October 2012

Einleitung

Die Einführung von zweistufigen Studienprogrammen im Rahmen des „Bologna-Prozesses“ hat zu zahlreichen neuen und diversifizierten Studienangeboten mit Bezug zum Gesundheitswesen geführt. Masterstudiengänge bieten neben einer vertikalen Anschlussqualifizierung auf Basis eines Bachelorstudiums (konsekutive Masterstudiengänge) auch eine Weiterqualifizierung zur Generierung eines individuellen Qualifizierungsprofils (nicht-konsekutive Masterstudiengänge) oder eine Spezialisierung in Bezug auf eine ausgebübte Berufstätigkeit jenseits der ursprünglichen Primärqualifikation. Die hier vorgestellte Untersuchung liefert eine aktuelle Bestandsaufnahme zu den Angebotsstrukturen von gesundheitsbezogenen Masterstudiengängen in der deutschen Hochschullandschaft.
An introduction to the ‘new’ politics of agriculture and food
Authors: Daugbjerg Carsten , Swinbank Alan
Published: October 2012

The agricultural policy agenda has been broadened with farm policy issues now interlinking with other policy domains (food safety, energy supplies, environmental protection, development aid, etc.). New actors promoting values which sometimes conflict, or which are not always easily reconcilable, with those previously guiding agricultural policy have entered the broader agricultural and food policy domain. The studies of various new policy issues inter-linking with the agricultural policy domain included in this special issue show that value conflicts are addressed in different ways and thus result in inter-institutional coordination and conflict unfolding differently. Studies of inter-institutional policy making in the agricultural policy sector have the potential to contribute to theoretical developments in public policy analysis in much the same way as agricultural policy studies did in the past.
Caution: tripping hazards
Authors: Hutchins N.
Published: October 2012

A turbulent boundary layer formed over an external surface is spatially evolving. The flow develops from an initial set of conditions and accordingly the state of the layer at some downstream location owes a debt to its upstream history. Schlatter & Örlü (J. Fluid Mech., this issue, vol. 710, 2012, pp. 5–34) demonstrate succinctly this sensitivity to upstream history, finding that relatively minor modifications to the trip parameters can produce non-canonical development up to surprisingly high Reynolds numbers. This interesting study will serve as a cautionary note to experimentalists and numericists while providing a plausible explanation for some of the disparity noted among previously published results.