bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic and Magnetodielectric Properties of Epitaxial Iron Vanadate Thin Films
Authors: Zhou Dongyi , Takahashi Ryota , Zhou Yanyu , Kim Dohyung , Suresh Vandrangi Kumar , Chu Ying‐Hao , He Qing , Munroe Paul , Lippmaa Mikk , Seidel Jan , Valanoor Nagarajan
Published: December 2016

The magnetic and magnetodielectric behavior of epitaxial (001) transition metal oxide spinel iron vanadate (Fe1+xV2−xO4, FVO) thin films grown on (001) SrTiO3 substrates by pulsed laser deposition is reported. X‐ray absorption spectroscopy studies confirm the trivalent and nominally divalent nature of V and Fe ions, respectively, while an excess of Fe3+ ions is also found. Aberration‐corrected cross‐sectional scanning transmission electron microscopy analysis suggests that the excess Fe3+ may be accommodated through Fe3O4 stacking faults along the {111} planes. Temperature‐dependent X‐ray magnetic circular dichroism spectra reveal an anti‐parallel alignment of spins between the Fe2+ and V3+ cations. M–H loops acquired at 10 K, well below the noncollinear ferromagnetic phase transition temperature, show magnetic anisotropy and point to the existence of two distinct phases with different coercive fields. Visual evidence for magnetic domains and their switching is given by magnetic force microscopy, which finds a switching field of ≈3 T in agreement with the M–H loops. Magnetodielectric measurements for a Pd/FVO/Nb:STO heterostructure reveal a weak hysteresis in the magneto‐capacitance loops at 10 K, thus confirming magneto‐dielectric coupling. Detailed temperature and frequency‐dependent dielectric studies find that Maxwell‐Wagner‐type relaxation dominates capacitance behavior above ≈40 K due to a FVO/Nb:SrTiO3 Schottky interface.
Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Carbon Dioxide Capture and Methane Storage
Authors: Lin Yichao , Kong Chunglong , Zhang Qiuju , Chen Liang
Published: December 2016

In the global transition to a sustainable low‐carbon economy, CO2 capture and storage technology still plays a critical role for deep emission reduction, particularly for the stationary sources in power generation and industry. However, for small and mobile emission sources in transportation, CO2 capture is not suitable and it is more practical to use relatively clean energy, such as natural gas. In these two low‐carbon energy technologies, designing highly selective sorbents is one of the key and most challenging steps. Toward this end, metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have received continuously intensive attention in the past decades for their highly porous and diversified structures. In this review, the recent progress in developing MOFs for selective CO2 capture from post‐combustion flue gas and CH4 storage for vehicle applications are summarized. For CO2 capture, several promising strategies being used to improve CO2 adsorption uptake at low pressures are highlighted and compared. In addition, the conventional and novel regeneration techniques for MOFs are also discussed. In the case of CH4 storage, the flexible and rigid MOFs, whose CH4 storage capacity is close to the target set by U.S. Department of Energy are particularly emphasized. Finally, the challenge of using MOFs for CH4 storage is discussed.
Electrochemical Stiffness Changes in Lithium Manganese Oxide Electrodes
Authors: Çapraz Ömer Özgür , Bassett Kimberly L. , Gewirth Andrew A. , Sottos Nancy R.
Published: December 2016

In situ strain and stress measurements are performed on composite electrodes to monitor potential‐dependent stiffness changes in lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4). Lithium insertion and removal results in asynchronous strain and stress generation in the electrode. Electrochemical stiffness changes are calculated by combining coordinated stress and strain measurements. The electrode experiences dramatic changes in electrochemical stiffness due to potential‐dependent Li+ ion intercalation mechanisms. The development of stress in the early stages of delithiation (at ≈3.95 V) due to a kinetic barrier at the electrode surface gives rise to stiffness changes in the electrode. Strain generation due to phase transformations reduces stiffness in the electrode at 4.17 V during delithiation and at 4.11 V during lithiation. During lithiation, stress generation due to Coulombic repulsions between occupied and incoming Li+ ions leads to stiffening of the electrode at 3.96 V. The electrode also experiences greater changes in stiffness during delithiation compared to lithiation. These changes in electrochemical stiffness provide insight into the interplay between mechanical and electrochemical properties which control electrode response to lithiation and delithiation.
General Controlled Sulfidation toward Achieving Novel Nanosheet‐Built Porous Square‐FeCo2S4‐Tube Arrays for High‐Performance Asymmetric All‐Solid‐State Pseudocapacitors
Authors: Tang Shaochun , Zhu Baogang , Shi Xiling , Wu Juan , Meng Xiangkang
Published: December 2016

A significant advance toward the design and fabrication of a novel hierarchical supercapacitor electrode consisting of FeCo2S4‐tubes with well‐defined square cross‐section and intersecting nanosheets built porous shells on a 3D porous Ni backbone via controlled sulfidation is reported. This general method allows template‐free synthesis of metal sulfides tubular structures with polygonal cross‐sections and also fine control over the nanostructure leading to both maximized porosity and saturation sulfidation. New insights into concentration and time dependent sulfidation reaction kinetics are proposed. The FeCo2S4 electrode achieves a specific capacitance reaching 2411 F g‐1 at 5 mA cm‐2 and good rate capability, which are superior over those for nanotube arrays of other ternary transition metal sulfides. This is attributed to rich redox reactions, the highly porous but robust architecture as well as high electrical conductivity. Especially such porous shells effectively avoid “dead volume”, thus improve the utilization ratio of the electrode material. Asymmetric solid‐state device applying the FeCo2S4 as positive electrode and N‐doped graphene hydrogel film as negative electrode has a high cell voltage of 1.6 V and thus delivers considerably higher energy density of 76.1 W h kg‐1 (at 755 W kg‐1) than those reported for similar devices.
The International Classification of the radiological Complexity (ICC) of frontal recess and frontal sinus
Authors: Wormald Peter John , Bassiouni Ahmed , Callejas Claudio A. , Kennedy David W. , Citardi Martin J. , Smith Timothy L. , Orlandi Richard R. , Kaschke Oliver , Siow Jin Keat , Szczygielski Kornel , Lund Valerie , Fokkens Wytske , Psaltis Alkis J.
Published: December 2016

Background

The frontal sinus is considered the most challenging sinus to address surgically. There are no current classifications of the degree of surgical complexity of different frontal sinus configurations. The aim of this study is to develop a classification system of the degree of complexity of frontal recess surgery based on preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans.

Methods

Authors were asked to submit a classification system. These were circulated to all authors. Selection of the final 3 classifications was based on a majority consensus. These classifications were compared further for time‐taken, ease‐of‐use, and interrater agreement. These were assessed by the authors on 10 CT scans representing a range of anticipated surgical difficulty.

Results

Out of 3 compared classifications, classification A was the quickest to score (1.44 minutes vs 1.57 minutes and 2.25 minutes), subjectively easiest (3.23 vs 4.07 and 5 on a visual analogue scale [VAS]), and had a moderate interrater agreement (0.52 vs 0.42 and 0.79). In addition, the grading of complexity was as good whether measurements were taken on the CT scans or whether size of the frontal ostium was visually estimated.

Conclusion

We propose a fast, easy classification to anticipate the complexity of surgery in the frontal sinus and recess, for patients undergoing primary surgery.
Human spinal ejaculation generator
Authors: Chéhensse Clément , Facchinetti Patricia , Bahrami Stéphane , Andrey Philippe , Soler Jean‐Marc , Chrétien Fabrice , Bernabé Jacques , Clément Pierre , Denys Pierre , Giuliano François
Published: December 2016

Objective

A spinal ejaculation generator (SEG) has been identified in the rat with lumbar galaninergic interneurons playing a pivotal role (Science 2002;297:1566–1569). The aim was to evidence a SEG in humans.

Methods

Spatial distribution of galaninergic neurons was studied in postmortem spinal cord segments of 6 men and compared with that of 6 women for evidencing sexual dimorphism. Based on the identified segmental distribution of galaninergic neurons, the ability for penile vibratory stimulation (PVS) to elicit ejaculation when the concerned spinal segments were injured was studied in 384 patients with clinically complete spinal cord injury (SCI) and consequent anejaculation. Such patients represent a unique model to investigate the role of defined spinal segments in the control of ejaculation.

Results

Galaninergic neurons were mostly located between L2 and L5 segments in medial lamina VII, with a maximal density within L4. Three‐dimensional 3D reconstruction showed that these neurons were grouped into single columns bilaterally to the central canal. In addition, galaninergic neuron density was found higher in L3 and L4 segments in men as compared to women supporting sexual dimorphism. In the patients' cohort, injury of L3–L5 segments was the sole independent predictor for failure of PVS to induce ejaculation. Although evidence from clinical observations was indirect, there is close correspondence to neuroanatomical data.

Interpretation

Organization and sexual dimorphism of human spinal galaninergic neurons were similar to the rat's SEG. Neurohistological data, together with clinical results, corroborate the existence of an SEG in humans in L3–L5 segments. Such a generator could be targeted to treat neurogenic and non‐neurogenic ejaculatory disorders. ANN NEUROL 2017;81:35–45
Untersuchung der Struktur und Dynamik des B13+ mithilfe der Infrarot‐Photodissoziationsspektroskopie
Authors: Fagiani Matias R. , Song Xiaowei , Petkov Petko , Debnath Sreekanta , Gewinner Sandy , Schöllkopf Wieland , Heine Thomas , Fielicke André , Asmis Knut R.
Published: December 2016

Die Struktur und Dynamik des “magischen” Borclusters B13+ wurde mithilfe der Gasphasen‐Schwingungsspektroskopie an kryogenen Ionen untersucht. Das Infrarot‐Photodissoziationspektrum (IRPD) des D2‐komplexierten Monoisotopologs 11B13+ wurde im Bereich von 435 cm−1 bis 1790 cm−1 gemessen und durch Vergleich mit simulierten IR‐Spektren energetisch tiefliegender Isomere aus Dichtefunktionaltheorie‐Rechnungen eindeutig einer planaren Bor‐Doppelradspezies zugeordnet. Born‐Oppenheimer‐Molekulardynamik(BOMD)‐Simulationen sagen bereits unter 100 K eine interne Quasirotation voraus. Die berechneten BOMD‐Schwingungsspektren ermöglichen, zusammen mit den experimentellen IRPD‐Spektren, erstmals den spektroskopischen Nachweis dieser außergewöhnlichen Dynamik des B13+.
Structure and Fluxionality of B13+ Probed by Infrared Photodissociation Spectroscopy
Authors: Fagiani Matias R. , Song Xiaowei , Petkov Petko , Debnath Sreekanta , Gewinner Sandy , Schöllkopf Wieland , Heine Thomas , Fielicke André , Asmis Knut R.
Published: December 2016

We use cryogenic ion vibrational spectroscopy to characterize the structure and fluxionality of the magic number boron cluster B13+. The infrared photodissociation (IRPD) spectrum of the D2‐tagged all‐11B isotopologue of B13+ is reported in the spectral range from 435 to 1790 cm−1 and unambiguously assigned to a planar boron double wheel structure based on a comparison to simulated IR spectra of low energy isomers from density‐functional‐theory (DFT) computations. Born–Oppenheimer DFT molecular dynamics simulations show that B13+ exhibits internal quasi‐rotation already at 100 K. Vibrational spectra derived from these simulations allow extracting the first spectroscopic evidence from the IRPD spectrum for the exceptional fluxionality of B13+.
Balance of mechanical and electrical performance in polyimide/nano titanium dioxide prepared by an in‐sol method
Authors: Lin Jiaqi , Wang Yu , Yang Wenlong , Lu Haowei
Published: December 2016

Hybrid polyimide (PI)/titanium dioxide (TiO2) films were prepared by in situ polymerization and sol–gel and in‐sol methods (where in‐sol method indicates that in situ polymerization and the sol–gel method were used in the same samples). The mechanical and electrical properties were found to be sensitive to the processing methods and the dispersion of nano titanium dioxide (nano‐TiO2) in the PI matrix. For the PI/TiO2 films prepared by the in situ polymerization method, their tensile strength increased with increasing TiO2‐in situ (“TiO2‐in situ” is “the TiO2 nano‐particles prepared by in situ polymerization method”) concentration. However, the optimal corona lifetime of the PI/TiO2 films was 15 min at 20 kHz and 2 kV because of poor dispersion. For the PI/TiO2 films prepared by the sol–gel method, the corona lifetime reached 113 min because of superior dispersion and a tensile strength of about 19.63 MPa. A balance of mechanical and electrical performances was achieved with the in‐sol method. The corona‐resistant life of the PI/TiO2 films was 43 min, which was about six times longer than that of the neat PI. Their tensile strength was 83.5 MPa; these films showed no decrease in this value compared with the pure PI films. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44666.
Crystallinity and mechanical properties of polylactide/ether‐amide copolymer blends
Authors: Jauzein Thibault , Huneault Michel A. , Heuzey Marie‐Claude
Published: December 2016

The present study focuses on the improvement of impact properties and particularly on the interaction between crystallinity development and mechanical properties of impact modified polylactide (PLA). The PLA was toughened by the addition of a random linear ether‐amide copolymer (PEBAX 3533™). A random copolymer of ethylene, methyl‐acrylate, and glycidyl‐methacrylate (LOTADER AX8900™) was also used to reactively compatibilize the ether‐amide copolymer with the PLA matrix. Melt rheology of the blends was investigated in small amplitude oscillatory shear and showed that the impact modifier could significantly influence the viscoelastic response of the material. The Izod impact resistance and tensile properties were measured using standard testing protocols. The blend morphology was also examined using scanning electron microscopy on cryofractured and microtomed surfaces, while the crystalline morphology was assessed by optical microscopy. A sub‐micron dispersion of the impact modifier was achieved in the presence of the reactive compatibilizer. Significantly improved impact strength was found with 10 wt % impact modifier. High crystallinity samples showed the highest impact strength with values reaching 68 kJ/m2, hence a 20‐fold improvement with respect to the neat PLA. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44677.
Effect of multistage sonication on dispersive mixing of polymer nanocomposites characterized via shear‐induced crystallization behavior
Authors: Iyer Ganapathi Jayadurga , Kalyon Dilhan M. , Fisher Frank T.
Published: December 2016

While nanoparticle dispersion is necessary to achieve optimal properties, it has long been recognized as a major technological hurdle for polymer nanocomposites. Here, a systematic study incorporated carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in polycaprolactone (PCL) using a multi‐stage sonication process, with Stage 1 sonication of CNT/solvent followed by Stage 2 sonication of the pre‐processed CNT/solvent with the dissolved polymer. Conventional dispersion characterization techniques were complemented with analysis of the shear‐induced crystallization (SIC) behavior of the semicrystalline nanocomposite, which was found to be particularly sensitive to the state of nanoparticle dispersion. While Stage 1 sonication was found to have a pronounced effect on the nanoparticle dispersion as characterized via SIC and thermal characterization, the impact of Stage 2 sonication on the level of nanoparticle dispersion was much smaller. Such results demonstrate the utility of characterization of the shear‐induced crystallization behavior as a means to analyze nanoparticle dispersion in semicrystalline polymer nanocomposites. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2017,134, 44681.
A thermal conductivity prediction model for porous building blocks
Authors: Van De Walle Wouter , Janssen Hans
Published: December 2016

A 3D model for the prediction of the effective thermal conductivity of porous building blocks is introduced. Simulations are performed directly on the microstructure using voxel images and the finite element technique. Very good agreement with analytical solutions is achieved. The model is used to investigate the miscalculation effect of 2D simulations, clearly indicating the need for a 3D model. Furthermore, a method for incorporating radiative heat transfer at the microscale is implemented and applied on a synthetic sample, demonstrating the influence of thermal radiation on the effective thermal conductivity.

Ein Vorhersagemodell für die Wärmeleitfähigkeit poröser Bausteine. Ein 3D‐Modell zur Vorhersage der effektiven Wärmeleitfähigkeit poröser Bausteine wird vorgestellt. Simulationen werden direkt in der Mikrostruktur mittels Voxel‐Bildern und Finite‐Elemente‐Methode durchgeführt. Sehr gute Übereinstimmungen mit analytischen Verfahren werden erreicht. Das Modell wird verwendet, um die Fehlberechnungswirkung von 2D‐Simulationen zu untersuchen, welche klar das Erfordernis eines 3D‐Modells zeigen. Zudem wird eine Methode zur Einbeziehung strahlungsgebundener Wärmeübertragung im Mikrobereich umgesetzt und auf einen synthetischen Prüfkörper angewandt. Dies zeigt den Einfluss von Wärmestrahlung auf die effektive Wärmeleitfähigkeit.
Modeling damage of building materials induced by sodium sulphate crystallization
Authors: Koniorczyk Marcin , Gawin Dariusz , Konca Piotr , Bednarska Dalia
Published: December 2016

One of the most adverse phenomena which is related to salt and moisture presence in the pore system of building materials is salt crystallization. The microstructure analysis (using mercury intrusion porosimetry) of cement mortar samples due to cyclic salt crystallization is analyzed. We assume that salt crystals grow only from the supersaturated solution. The salt phase change kinetics is taken into account during the modelling of coupled moisture, salt and heat transport. To solve the set of governing, partial differential equations the finite element and finite difference methods are used. The drying and the cooling – warming of brick wall, during which the salt phase change occurs, have been simulated using the developed software. The changes of salt concentration in the pore solution and the amount of precipitated salt due to variation of boundary conditions are calculated and discussed.

Modellierung von Schäden an durch Natriumsulfat‐Kristallisation. Eines der nachteiligsten Phänomene im Zusammenhang mit Salz und Feuchtigkeit im Porensystem von Baustoffen ist die Salzkristallisation. Die Veränderung der Mikrostruktur von Zementmörtel‐Prüfkörpern durch zyklische Salzkristallisation wird analysiert (mittels Quecksilber Intrusions‐Porosimetrie). Es wird vorausgesetzt, dass Salzkristalle nur aus übersättigter Lösung wachsen. Die Kinetik der Phasenänderung des Salzes wird bei der Modellierung des gekoppelten Feuchte‐, Wärme‐ und Salztransports berücksichtigt. Die zugrunde liegenden partiellen Differentialgleichungen werden mittels Finite‐Elemente‐ und Finite‐Differenzen‐Methoden gelöst. Die Trocknung und Kühlung bzw. Erwärmung einer Ziegelwand, während welcher der Salz‐Phasenwechsel erfolgt, wurden mittels der entwickelten Software simuliert. Die Änderungen der Salzkonzentration in der Porenlösung und die Mengenänderung des Salzniederschlags durch Variation der Randbedingungen werden berechnet und diskutiert.
Association of essential trace metals in maternal hair with the risk of neural tube defects in offspring
Authors: Yan Lailai , Wang Bin , Li Zhenjiang , Liu Yaqiong , Huo Wenhua , Wang Jingyu , Li Zhiwen , Ren Aiguo
Published: December 2016

Background

The relationship between essential trace metals (ETMs) and the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) is still unclear. One of the challenges is to evaluate the intake of ETMs of women during their early period of pregnancy. We proposed the hypothesis that an ETM deficiency in women during their early period of pregnancy is associated with an elevated risk of NTDs in offspring.

Methods

We recruited 191 women with NTD‐affected pregnancies (case group) and 261 women who delivered healthy infants (control group). Nine ETMs in hair sections grown during maternal early pregnancy were analyzed: iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), molybdenum (Mo), and stannum (Sn). Information on maternal dietary habits were collected by questionnaire.

Results

We observed a significant decreasing trend in the dose‐response relationships between the Ni and Mo concentrations in hair and NTD risks. A Zn deficiency was only associated with an elevated risk of spina bifida, and a Sn deficiency was only associated with anencephaly. The Ni and Zn concentrations in hair were positively correlated with the frequency of consumption of fresh green vegetables and fresh fruits, while the Zn concentration was also associated with fish or meat consumption.

Conclusion

We concluded that maternal intakes of the four ETMs (Ni, Mo, Zn, and Sn) played an important role in the formation of NTDs in our study population, and that this intake is related to maternal dietary habits.Birth Defects Research 109:234–243, 2017.© 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The origin of animals: Can molecular clocks and the fossil record be reconciled?
Authors: Cunningham John A. , Liu Alexander G. , Bengtson Stefan , Donoghue Philip C. J.
Published: December 2016

The evolutionary emergence of animals is one of the most significant episodes in the history of life, but its timing remains poorly constrained. Molecular clocks estimate that animals originated and began diversifying over 100 million years before the first definitive metazoan fossil evidence in the Cambrian. However, closer inspection reveals that clock estimates and the fossil record are less divergent than is often claimed. Modern clock analyses do not predict the presence of the crown‐representatives of most animal phyla in the Neoproterozoic. Furthermore, despite challenges provided by incomplete preservation, a paucity of phylogenetically informative characters, and uncertain expectations of the anatomy of early animals, a number of Neoproterozoic fossils can reasonably be interpreted as metazoans. A considerable discrepancy remains, but much of this can be explained by the limited preservation potential of early metazoans and the difficulties associated with their identification in the fossil record. Critical assessment of both records may permit better resolution of the tempo and mode of early animal evolution.
Micelle‐enhanced spectrofluorimetric method for quantification of entacapone in tablets and human plasma
Authors: Belal F. , Ibrahim F. , Sheribah Z. A. , Alaa H.
Published: December 2016

In this paper, a simple and highly sensitive spectrofluorimetric method was developed and validated for the determination of entacapone (ETC). The proposed method is based on forming a highly fluorescent product through the reduction of ETC with Zn/HCl. The produced fluorophore exhibits strong fluorescence at λem 345 nm after excitation at λex 240 nm. The use of fluorescence enhancers such as Tween‐80 and carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC) greatly enhanced the fluorescence of the produced fluorophore by 150% and 200%, respectively. Calibration curves showed good linear regression (r2 > 0.9998) within test ranges of 0.05–2.0 and 0.02–1.80 μg mL−1 with lower detection limits of 1.27 × 10−2 and 4.8 × 10−3 μg mL−1 and lower quantification limits of 4.21 × 10−2 and 1.61 × 10−2 μg mL−1 upon using Tween‐80 and or CMC, respectively. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of ETC in its pharmaceutical formulations (either alone or in presence of other co‐formulated drugs). The results were in good agreement with those obtained using the official method. The methods were further extended to determine the drug in human plasma samples, and to study the pharmacokinetics of ETC. The paper is the first report on the spectrofluorimetric determination of entacapone.
Preparation of balanced trichromatic white phosphors for solid‐state white lighting
Authors: Al‐Waisawy Sara , George Anthony F. , Jadwisienczak Wojciech M. , Rahman Faiz
Published: December 2016

High quality white light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) employ multi‐component phosphor mixtures to generate light of a high color rendering index (CRI). The number of distinct components in a typical phosphor mix usually ranges from two to four. Here we describe a systematic experimental technique for starting with phosphors of known chromatic properties and arriving at their respective proportions for creating a blended phosphor to produce light of the desired chromaticity. This method is applicable to both LED pumped and laser diode (LD) pumped white light sources. In this approach, the radiometric power in the down‐converted luminescence of each phosphor is determined and that information is used to estimate the CIE chromaticity coordinate of light generated from the mixed phosphor. A suitable method for mixing multi‐component phosphors is also described. This paper also examines the effect of light scattering particles in phosphors and their use for altering the spectral characteristics of LD‐ and LED‐generated light. This is the only approach available for making high efficiency phosphor‐converted single‐color LEDs that emit light of wide spectral width.
Quality of reporting in surgical randomized clinical trials
Authors: Yu J , Li X , Li Y , Sun X
Published: December 2016

Background

RCTs testing surgical interventions can change clinical practice. The adequate reporting of surgical trials is an important issue.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was undertaken by searching PubMed for two-arm parallel randomized trials assessing surgical interventions published in 2003 or 2013. Quality of reporting was evaluated against the CONSORT checklist containing 29 items (standard CONSORT plus CONSORT Extension for Trials Assessing Non-Pharmacological Treatments). Univariable and multivariable linear regression was undertaken to explore factors associated with quality of reporting measured with CONSORT scores.

Results

Some 120 trials were identified and included. The mean(s.d.) CONSORT score was 12·7(4·0). Trials published in 2013 achieved a higher CONSORT score than those published in 2003 (mean 14·5(3·8) versus 10·8(3·4) respectively; P < 0·001). The extent to which these trials met the requirement for CONSORT reporting differed substantially across items: four of 29 items were reported adequately across trials, and seven were reported adequately in less than 20 per cent of trials. Less than 40 per cent of the trials described the additional items related to surgical interventions and care providers (such as nursing care and anaesthetic management). In multivariable regression analysis, trials published in 2013 (coefficient 3·05, 95 per cent c.i. 1·89 to 4·20) and multicentre studies (coefficient 2·08, 0·79 to 3·37) were associated with statistically higher quality of reporting.

Conclusion

The quality of reporting in surgical trials has improved in the past decade. Overall quality, however, remains suboptimal, particularly in relation to details regarding surgical interventions and management.
Asymmetric Epoxidation of Olefins with H2O2 Catalyzed by a Bioinspired Aminopyridine N4 Iron Complex
Authors: Wang Wenfang , Sun Qiangsheng , Xu Daqian , Xia Chungu , Sun Wei
Published: December 2016

An iron complex with a chiral aminopyridine N4 ligand bearing strong electron‐donating and bulky morpholine groups on the ligand is synthesized and characterized. The iron complex serves to efficiently catalyze the asymmetric epoxidation of various olefins by employing aqueous hydrogen peroxide as the green oxidant, providing the corresponding epoxides in good to excellent yields and enantioselectivities (up to 93 % yield and 99.9 % ee). Owing to the introduction of morpholine functional groups on the ligand, the Fe‐catalyzed reaction can proceed with a catalytic amount of the carboxylic acid partner (3 mol %).
Hierarchical Gadolinium Oxide Microspheres for Enzymeless Electro‐biosensors in Hydrogen Peroxide Dynamic Detection
Authors: Yan Yibo , Zhao Jun , Luo Jianqiang , Lee Jong‐Min
Published: December 2016

A porous gadolinium oxide spherically hierarchical structure (Gd2O3‐ms) has been developed by using a hydrothermal method to perform enzymeless dynamic detection of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), based on its high sensitivity in electrocatalytic reduction of H2O2. X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy have assisted in shedding light on the morphology, material formation process, structure, and properties of the porous gadolinium oxide microspheres. The linear range from 1 to 450 μM (linear correlation coefficient 0.991), sensitivity of 13.9 μA mM−1, and fine detection limit with a prompt current response attaining stable value were achieved by this enzymeless sensor, which was also employed to implement the dynamic tracing of H2O2‐releasing processes.
Highly Enantioselective α‐Cyanation with 4‐Acetylphenyl Cyanate
Authors: Qiu Jia‐Shen , Wang Yao‐Feng , Qi Gui‐Rong , Karmaker Pran G. , Yin Hong‐Quan , Chen Fu‐Xue
Published: December 2016

A highly effective asymmetric version of α‐cyanation of β‐keto esters and amides was developed with a Lewis‐acid catalyst. Thus, by using 10 mol % of a tridentate bisoxazoline–zinc(II) complex as the catalyst, a series of chiral nitriles containing a quaternary carbon center were obtained in excellent enantioselectivities (up to 97 % enantiomeric excess) and up to 95 % yield in the presence of 4 Å molar sieve at room temperature. For the first time, mild and active 4‐acetylphenyl cyanate was used instead of cyano‐hyperiodinate as the cationic cyano source for catalytic asymmetric α‐cyanation.
Magnetic Bistability in Macrocycle‐Based FeII Spin‐Crossover Complexes: Counter Ion and Solvent Effects
Authors: Milin Eric , Benaicha Bouabdellah , El Hajj Fatima , Patinec Véronique , Triki Smail , Marchivie Mathieu , Gómez‐García Carlos J. , Pillet Sébastien
Published: December 2016

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Smail Triki from Université de Brest, France. The cover image shows the crucial effect of the counter ions and solvent molecules on the spin‐crossover behavior of macrocycle‐based FeII complexes.
CO2 Footprint and Life‐Cycle Costs of Electrochemical Energy Storage for Stationary Grid Applications
Authors: Baumann M. , Peters J. F. , Weil M. , Grunwald A.
Published: December 2016

Batteries are considered as one of the key flexibility options for future energy storage systems. However, their production is cost‐ and greenhouse‐gas intensive and efforts are made to decrease their price and carbon footprint. We combine life‐cycle assessment, Monte‐Carlo simulation, and size optimization to determine life‐cycle costs and carbon emissions of different battery technologies in stationary applications, which are then compared by calculating a single score. Cycle life is determined as a key factor for cost and CO2 emissions. This is not only due to the required battery replacements but also due to oversizing needed for battery types with low cycle lives to reduce degradation effects. Most Li‐ion but also the NaNiCl batteries show a good performance in all assessed applications whereas lead‐acid batteries fall behind due to low cycle life and low internal efficiency. For redox‐flow batteries, a high dependence on the desired application field is pointed out.
Threat‐Detection and Attentional Bias to Threat in Women Recovered from Anorexia Nervosa: Neural Alterations in Extrastriate and Medial Prefrontal Cortices
Authors: Bang Lasse , Rø Øyvind , Endestad Tor
Published: December 2016

Objective

Behavioral studies have shown that anorexia nervosa (AN) is associated with attentional bias to general threat cues. The neurobiological underpinnings of attentional bias to threat in AN are unknown. This study investigated the neural responses associated with threat‐detection and attentional bias to threat in AN.

Methods

We measured neural responses to a dot‐probe task, involving pairs of angry and neutral face stimuli, in 22 adult women recovered from AN and 21 comparison women.

Results

Recovered AN women did not exhibit a behavioral attentional bias to threat. In response to angry faces, recovered women showed significant hypoactivation in the extrastriate cortex. During attentional bias to angry faces, recovered women showed significant hyperactivation in the medial prefrontal cortex. This was because of significant deactivation in comparison women, which was absent in recovered AN women.

Conclusions

Women recovered from AN are characterized by altered neural responses to threat cues. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Production of organic flavor compounds by dominant lactic acid bacteria and yeasts from Obushera, a traditional sorghum malt fermented beverage
Authors: Mukisa Ivan M. , Byaruhanga Yusuf B. , Muyanja Charles M. B. K. , Langsrud Thor , Narvhus Judith A.
Published: December 2016

Single and mixed starter cultures of lactic acid bacteria (LAB): Weissella confusa MNC20, Lactobacillus plantarum MNC21, Lactococcus lactis MNC24 and Lactobacillus fermentum MNC34 and yeasts: Issatchenkia orientalis MNC20Y and Saccharomyces cerevisiae MNC21Y were used to produce Obushera, a fermented sorghum beverage. Microbial counts, pH, sugars, organic acids, and volatile compounds in starter culture and spontaneous fermentations were monitored during 48 hrs. Maximum counts of LAB (8.4–9.4 log cfu g−1) and yeasts (7.5 ± 0.1 cfu g−1) starter cultures were attained in 6–48 hrs. Weissella confusa, Lc. lactis, and Lb. fermentum showed possible acid sensitivity while I. orientalis produced surface films. LAB starter cultures and their combinations with S. cerevisiae lowered pH from 5.83 to <4.5 (3.50–4.13) in a shorter time (12 hrs) than spontaneous fermentations (24 hrs). Lactococcus lactis and W. confusa metabolized glucose the fastest (p < .05) during the first 6 hrs. Lactobacillus fermentum, Lb. plantarum, and S. cerevisiae utilized glucose and maltose concurrently. Lactobacillus plantarum and S. cerevisiae additionally utilized fructose. S. cerevisiae metabolized sugars the fastest (p < .05) during the first 12–24 hrs. Lactobacillus plantarum and W. confusa produced the highest (p < .05) amounts of lactate (5.43 g kg−1) and diacetyl (9.5 mg kg−1), respectively. LAB also produced acetate, ethanol, acetaldehyde, acetone, and acetoin. Coculturing LAB with S. cerevisiae reduced (p < .05) lactate and diacetyl yield. Yeasts produced high amounts of acetaldehyde and methyl alcohols. Issatchenkia orientalis produced higher (p < .05) amounts of 2‐methy‐1‐propanol and 3‐methyl‐1‐butanol than S. cerevisiae. Combinations of LAB with S. cerevisiae produced a profile flavor compounds close to that of spontaneously fermented Obushera. These combinations can be adopted for controlled fermentation of Obushera and related fermented cereal products.
BIM as a process in tunnelling / BIM als Prozess im Tunnelbau
Authors: Mayer Peter‐Michael , Frodl Stephan , Hegemann Felix
Published: December 2016

In this article, digitally supported processes for project development in tunnelling are described, supported on the one hand by a digital structure model from the design phase and on the other hand by an interactive process platform during the construction phase. Pricing and material quantity data from tendering and construction are part of the process chain. The connectivity of different BIM models and the associated interfaces represent an important but also challenging part of the closed solution. A BIM viewer is used as a bridge solution for data exchange between the IT systems used. Examples and solution approaches for 3D modelling in tunnelling and their networking with the information system IRIS are described. This article describes a multi‐unit process system, which is being continuously developed and contains all relevant building blocks of the BIM process in the field of infrastructure.

Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden digital gestützte Prozesse zur Projektabwicklung im Tunnelbau erläutert, die sich einerseits auf ein digitales Bauwerksmodell aus der Planung und andererseits auf eine interaktive Prozessplattform im Rahmen der Ausführung abstützen. Kalkulationsdaten aus der Angebotslegung und Bauausführung sind Bestandteil der Prozesskette. Die Vernetzung unterschiedlicher BIM‐Modelle und die damit verbundenen Schnittstellen stellen einen wichtigen aber auch anspruchsvollen Teil einer geschlossenen Lösung dar. Als Brückenlösung zum Datenaustausch der eingesetzten IT‐Systeme kommt ein BIM‐Viewer zum Einsatz. Es werden Beispiele und Lösungsansätze zur 3D‐Modellierung im Tunnelbau und deren Vernetzung mit dem Informationssystem IRIS aufgezeigt. Dieser Beitrag beschreibt ein mehrgliedriges Prozesssystem, das kontinuierlich ausgebaut wird und alle relevanten Bausteine des BIM‐Prozesses im Infrastrukturbereich enthält.
Value Engineering – Presentation of the new bulletin of the FSV / Value Engineering – Vorstellung des neuen Merkblatts der Forschungsgesellschaft Straße und Verkehr (FSV)
Authors: Herdina Johann
Published: December 2016

The term “Value Engineeering” was introduced into Austrian construction contracts in 2006 with the issue of the standard ÖNORM B 2118. The first attempts to implement value engineering proposals in practice met with considerable difficulties and led to long discussions on various sites. Representatives of client organisations and contractors together with representatives of universities and expert lawyers already tried to produce a generally acceptable regulation in 2009. This first attempt failed and only the present FSV bulletin has succeeded in laying down a common viewpoint.

The process presented in this report for the implementation of a value engineering proposal can only be an aid for practical project development. The implementation of a value engineering proposal requires agreement between contractor and client, which can only be reached through reciprocal estimation and trust.

Im Jahr 2006 wurde mit der Veröffentlichung der ÖNORM B 2118 der Begriff “Value Engineering” in die österreichische Bauvertragsabwicklung eingeführt. Die ersten Versuche, Value Engineering‐Vorschläge in der Praxis umzusetzen, stießen auf erhebliche Schwierigkeiten und führten zu langen Diskussionen auf diversen Baustellen. Bereits im Jahr 2009 versuchten Vertreter von Bauherren und Bauausführenden gemeinsam mit Vertretern von Universitäten und Fachjuristen eine allgemein akzeptierte Regelung zu erarbeiten. Diese ersten Versuche scheiterten, und erst mit dem jetzt vorliegenden FSV‐Merkblatt ist es gelungen, eine gemeinsame Sichtweise festzuschreiben.

Der in diesem Bericht vorgestellte Prozess zur Abwicklung eines Value Engineering‐Vorschlags kann nur ein Hilfsmittel für die praktische Abwicklung sein. Die Umsetzung eines Value‐Engineering‐Vorschlags bedarf das Einvernehmen zwischen Auftragnehmer und Auftraggeber, das nur durch gegenseitige Wertschätzung und Vertrauen erzielt werden kann.
Tunnelling in Crete – A challenging task from a variety of aspects
Authors: Gütter Wolfgang , Rudigier Günther
Published: December 2016

In 2012 the Greek State awarded Intrakat the Aposelemis Tunnel, an approx. 3.5 km long, tunnel inclined at 15% accommodating a 1.8 m diameter steel pipe to convey water from the Lassithi Plateau to the reservoir impounded by the Aposelemis dam about 600 m below for the drinking water supply of Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos in Crete. The project is regarded as an environmental project and as such is being financed from the Cohesion Fund of the European Commission. Unexpectedly, this relatively small tunnel project has offered a wide spectrum of tunnelling problems and turns out to be a challenging task from a variety of aspects: the tender and the contractual situation, technical and the meanwhile encountered geological challenges. On top of these, the economic crisis in Greece doesn't make such a project easy. Since October 2013, Jäger Bau GmbH has mastered these challenges together with Intrakat on the basis of a service contract. The TBM excavation works commenced in March 2015 and were expected to be completed within 11 months at the latest, but due to various unforeseen adverse geological occurrences, only two‐thirds of the tunnel length had been excavated by August 2016.
Logistic challenges and special geotechnical features in inner‐city tunnelling through the example of Crossrail Contract C510 in London / Logistische Herausforderungen und geotechnische Besonderheiten im innerstädtischen Tunnelbau am Beispiel des Bauloses Crossrail C510 in London
Authors: Stärk Alfred , Falkner Leo , Hill Nigel
Published: December 2016

Using the example of Crossrail contract C510, the logistic challenges of inner‐city tunnelling are considered in the first part of the article. Noise and dust protection measures and restricted working times have to be observed out of consideration for the local inhabitants. Supply to the site is subject to strict rules. The routes to and from the site are precisely specified, and the number of trucks underway at the same time is limited. The road safety equipment of the trucks, without which these cannot be used, is precisely specified.

The second part of the article is concerned with long‐term settlement as a result of tunnelling. Due to the long project duration, meanwhile 5 ½ years, the settlement behaviour of some existing buildings could now been observed for up to 2 ½ years after the completion of tunnelling. The results are partially astonishing since they contradict expert opinion until now about long‐term settlement in London clay. Long‐term settlement approximately doubles the settlement that is directly due to tunnelling. The measurements demonstrate that inclinations and deflections to buildings are growing and long‐term damage cannot be ruled out. This example is used to explain the effects of long‐term settlement, what duration has to be expected and what the causes could be.

Am Beispiel des Bauloses Crossrail C510 werden im ersten Teil des Beitrags die logistischen Herausforderungen beim innerstädtischen Tunnelbau betrachtet. Mit Rücksicht auf die Anrainer sind Lärm‐ und Staubschutzmaßnahmen und eingeschränkte Arbeitszeiten einzuhalten. Die Andienung der Baustelle unterliegt strikten Regeln. Die Routen zur und von den Baustellen sind genau festgelegt, die Anzahl der Lkw, die gleichzeitig unterwegs sein dürfen, ist begrenzt. Die Ausstattung der Lkw in Bezug auf Verkehrssicherheit, ohne die sie nicht eingesetzt werden dürfen, ist genau vorgeschrieben.

Der zweite Teil des Beitrags befasst sich mit Langzeitsetzungen infolge der Vortriebsarbeiten. Durch die lange Projektdauer von mittlerweile 5 ½ Jahren konnte das Setzungsverhalten bei manchen Bestandsbauwerken bis zu 2 ½ Jahre nach Vortriebsende beobachtet werden. Die Ergebnisse sind teilweise erstaunlich, da sie im Gegensatz zur bisherigen Lehrmeinung über Langzeitsetzungen im Londoner Ton stehen. Langzeitsetzungen verdoppeln in etwa die direkten vortriebsbedingten Setzungen. Die Messungen belegen, dass Neigung und Durchbiegung an den Gebäuden größer werden und langfristig Schäden nicht auszuschließen sind. Anhand eines Beispiels wird erläutert, wie sich die Langzeitsetzungen auswirken, mit welcher Dauer zu rechnen ist und welche Ursachen dahinter stehen können.
Durability of double shell tunnels focusing on sheet membranes / Dauerhaftigkeit von zweischaligen Tunnelbauwerken mit dem Fokus auf die Kunststoffabdichtung
Authors: Lorenz Stefan
Published: December 2016

Tests were performed on lining materials, which enable conclusions about the long‐term stability of tunnels. For this purpose, laboratory tests were carried out on lining elements, which had been in use in existing tunnels for 20 to 40 years. To examine the effective forces and load transfer between tunnel lining layers, experiments were performed with sheet membranes in combination with shotcrete and in‐situ concrete. The investigations show the influence of the surface roughness of sprayed concrete on the sheet membrane and the shear behaviour of the waterproofing system. The sheet membrane shows various types of damage, like indentations and scratches to the surface. The tests reveal that the requirements of the valid guideline are sufficient for uniaxial loading, but combination with shear stresses could lead to damage to the sheet membrane. The results provide information about the bonding behaviour of double‐layer tunnel constructions.

Durch Untersuchungen an Ausbaumaterialien können Rückschlüsse auf die Langzeitstabilität von Tunnelbauwerken gezogen werden. Im Rahmen eines Forschungsvorhabens wurden Laborversuche an Stützmitteln durchgeführt, die in bestehenden Tunnelbauwerken ca. 20 bis 40 Jahre im Einsatz waren. Um die wirkenden Kräfte zwischen den Tunnelschalen zu untersuchen, wurden Experimente mit Kunststoffdichtungsbahnen im Verbund mit Spritzbeton‐ und Ortbeton durchgeführt. Die durchgeführten Versuche zeigen den Einfluss der Oberflächenrauigkeit von Spritzbeton auf die mechanische Beständigkeit und auf das Scherverhalten des Abdichtungssystems. Die Dichtungsbahnen weisen in Abhängigkeit von der einwirkenden Belastung unterschiedliche Schadensbilder in Form von Eindrücken und Kratzern an der Oberfläche auf. Die Untersuchungen zeigen, dass die Anforderungen laut gültiger Richtlinie bei rein axialer Belastung ausreichend sind, dass es bei zusätzlicher Scherbeanspruchung aber zu Schädigungen in der Abdichtung kommen kann. Die dargestellten Erkenntnisse geben Auskunft über das Verbundverhalten von zweischaligen Tunnelausbauten.
Five short screening tests in the detection of prevalent delirium: diagnostic accuracy and performance in different neurocognitive subgroups
Authors: O'Regan N.A. , Maughan K. , Liddy N. , Fitzgerald J. , Adamis D. , Molloy D.W. , Meagher D. , Timmons S.
Published: December 2016

Background

Delirium is prevalent and serious, yet remains under‐recognised. Systematic screening could improve detection; however, consensus is lacking as to the best approach. Our aim was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of five simple cognitive tests in delirium screening: six‐item cognitive impairment test (6‐CIT), clock‐drawing test, spatial span forwards, months of the year backwards (MOTYB) and intersecting pentagons (IPT).

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted. Within 36 h of admission, older medical patients were assessed for delirium using the Revised Delirium Rating Scale. They also underwent testing using the five cognitive tests outlined above. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV; NPV) were calculated for each method. Where appropriate, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was also calculated.

Results

Four hundred seventy patients were included, and 184 had delirium. Of the tests scored on a scale, the 6‐CIT had the highest AUC (0.876), the optimum cut‐off for delirium screening being 8/9 (sensitivity 89.9%, specificity 62.7%, NPV 91.2%, PPV 59.2%). The MOTYB, scored in a binary fashion, also performed well (sensitivity 84.6%, specificity 58.4%, NPV 87.4%, PPV 52.8). On discriminant analysis, 6‐CIT was the only test to discriminate between patients with delirium and those with dementia (without delirium), Wilks' Lambda = 0.748, p < 0.001.

Conclusion

The 6‐CIT measures attention, temporal orientation and short‐term memory and shows promise as a delirium screening test. This study suggests that it may also have potential in distinguishing the cognitive impairment of delirium from that of dementia in older patients. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.