bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A continuum model for platelet plug formation and growth
Authors: Storti F. , van Kempen T.H.S. , van de Vosse F.N.
Published: January 2014

When the wall of a blood vessel is damaged, the immediate response of the body to prevent blood loss is the creation of a platelet plug. The process is both chemical (platelets are chemically activated to adhere to the injured wall) and mechanical (platelets are convected by blood flow, which interacts with the forming plug). A continuum model for platelet plug formation and growth is presented in this work, which allows to study the interaction between platelet plug morphology and local haemodynamics. The numerical framework consists of two parts: a biochemical model combined with a new plug growth model. The biochemical model is a system of convection–diffusion–reaction equations, each of which represents the dynamics of platelets and chemicals involved in the plug formation process. The plug growth model defines the plug interface displacement based on the outcome of the biochemical model, that is, on the number of deposited bounded platelets on the injured part of the vessel wall. Results for different cases are shown, together with a comparison between the sole biochemical model and the complete model that includes plug growth. The framework opens the way to the development of continuum models for full blood clot formation and growth in physiologically relevant configurations.Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A randomized controlled trial of motivational interviewing + self‐help versus psychoeducation + self‐help for binge eating
Authors: Vella‐Zarb Rachel A. , Mills Jennifer S. , Westra Henny A. , Carter Jacqueline C. , Keating Leah
Published: January 2014

Objective

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a collaborative therapy that focuses on strengthening a person's internal motivation to change. Research suggests that MI may be helpful for treating binge eating; however, findings are limited and little is known about how MI for binge eating compares to active therapy controls. The present study aimed to build on current research by comparing MI as a prelude to self‐help treatment for binge eating with psychoeducation as a prelude to self‐help treatment for binge eating.

Method

Participants with full or subthreshold DSM‐IV Binge Eating Disorder or nonpurging Bulimia Nervosa were randomly assigned to receive either 60 minutes of MI followed by a self‐help manual (n = 24) or 60 minutes of psychoeducation followed by a self‐help manual (n = 21). Questionnaires were completed pre‐ and postsession, and at 1 and 4 months postsession.

Results

MI significantly increased readiness to change and confidence in ability to control binge eating, whereas psychoeducation did not. No group differences were found when changes in eating disorder attitudes and behaviors were examined.

Discussion

MI offers benefits for increasing motivation and self‐efficacy. However, it may not be a uniquely effective treatment approach for reducing binge eating. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2015; 48:328–332)
PI3K/PTEN/AKT/mTOR polymorphisms: Association with clinical outcome in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma receiving cetuximab‐docetaxel
Authors: Pfisterer Katharina , Fusi Alberto , Klinghammer Konrad , Knödler Maren , Nonnenmacher Anika , Keilholz Ulrich
Published: January 2014

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in AKT1, AKT2, FRAP1, PIK3CA, and PTEN were associated with treatment response and clinical outcome in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

Genomic DNA was extracted from formalin‐fixed tissue of 45 patients with recurrent or initially metastatic HNSCC, and SNPs were genotyped by means of real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) system or direct sequencing.

Results

The AKT2:rs8100018 and the PTEN:rs12569998 homozygous variants resulted as associated with an increased risk of progression (hazard ratio [HR], 4.83; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.11–21.03; and HR, 2.36; 95% CI, 1.24–4.50, respectively). An additive effect on risk of progression was observed. The AKT2:rs8100018 homozygous variant was significantly associated with a higher risk of death (HR, 3.57; 95% CI, 1.06–12.00), whereas the presence of at least one variant allele of AKT1:rs3803304 was associated with a lower risk of death (HR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.27–0.97).

Conclusion

We identified combined genotypes associated with outcome of HNSCC, which might have an impact for identification of a target population for cetuximab‐docetaxel treatment. Results should be considered as an initial finding and warrant validation in larger clinical trials. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 471–478, 2015
Arsenic trioxide inhibits tumor cell growth in malignant rhabdoid tumors in vitro and in vivo by targeting overexpressed Gli1
Authors: Kerl Kornelius , Moreno Natalia , Holsten Till , Ahlfeld Julia , Mertins Julius , Hotfilder Marc , Kool Marcel , Bartelheim Kerstin , Schleicher Sabine , Handgretinger Rupert , Schüller Ulrich , Meisterernst Michael , Frühwald Michael C.
Published: January 2014

Rhabdoid tumors are highly aggressive tumors occurring in infants and very young children. Despite multimodal and intensive therapy prognosis remains poor. Molecular analyses have uncovered several deregulated pathways, among them the CDK4/6‐Rb‐, the WNT‐ and the Sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathways. The SHH pathway is activated in rhabdoid tumors by GLI1 overexpression. Here, we demonstrate that arsenic trioxide (ATO) inhibits tumor cell growth of malignant rhabdoid tumors in vitro and in a mouse xenograft model by suppressing Gli1. Our data uncover ATO as a promising therapeutic approach to improve prognosis for rhabdoid tumor patients.
TBX2 blocks myogenesis and promotes proliferation in rhabdomyosarcoma cells
Authors: Zhu Bo , Zhang Meiling , Byrum Stephanie D. , Tackett Alan J. , Davie Judith K.
Published: January 2014

Rhabdomyosarcomas (RMSs) are the most frequent soft tissue sarcomas in children that share many features of developing skeletal muscle. We have discovered that a T‐box family member, TBX2, is highly upregulated in tumor cells of both major RMS subtypes. TBX2 is a repressor that is often overexpressed in cancer cells and is thought to function in bypassing cell growth control, including repression of p14 and p21. The cell cycle regulator p21 is required for the terminal differentiation of skeletal muscle cells and is silenced in RMS cells. We have found that TBX2 interacts with the myogenic regulatory factors MyoD and myogenin and inhibits the activity of these factors. TBX2 is expressed in primary myoblasts and C2C12 cells, but is strongly downregulated upon differentiation. TBX2 recruits the histone deacetylase HDAC1 and is a potent inhibitor of the expression of muscle‐specific genes and the cell cycle regulators, p21 and p14. TBX2 promotes the proliferation of RMS cells and either depletions of TBX2 or dominant negative TBX2 upregulate p21‐ and muscle‐specific genes. Significantly, depletion or interference with TBX2 completely inhibits tumor growth in a xenograft assay, highlighting the oncogenic role of TBX2 in RMS cells. Thus, the data demonstrate that elevated expression of TBX2 contributes to the pathology of RMS cells by promoting proliferation and repressing differentiation‐specific gene expression. These results show that deregulated TBX2 serves as an oncogene in RMS, suggesting that TBX2 may serve as a new diagnostic marker or therapeutic target for RMS tumors.
The Number of Cyclic Configurations of Type (v3) and the Isomorphism Problem
Authors: Koike Hiroki , Kovács István , Pisanski Tomaž
Published: January 2014

A configuration of points and lines is cyclic if it has an automorphism that permutes its points in a full cycle. A closed formula is derived for the number of nonisomorphic connected cyclic configurations of type (v3), i.e. which have v points and lines, and each point/line is incident with exactly three lines/points. In addition, a Bays–Lambossy type theorem is proved for cyclic configurations if the number of points is a product of two primes or a prime power.
Prenatal ultrasonographic diagnosis of generalized arterial calcification of infancy
Authors: Corbacioglu Esmer Aytul , Kalelioglu Ibrahim , Omeroglu Rukiye Eker , Kayserili Hulya , Gulluoglu Mine , Has Recep , Yuksel Atıl
Published: January 2014

A healthy 19‐year‐old nulliparous pregnant woman was referred to our clinic because of fetal pericardial effusion and ascites. The sonographic examination performed at 28 weeks' gestation revealed scalp edema, severe skin edema, bilateral hydrocele, ascites, and pleural and pericardial effusion. Fetal echocardiographic examination showed that both ventricles were dilated with severely depressed contractility. The aortic annulus, ascending aorta, aortic arch, descending aorta, common iliac arteries, main pulmonary artery, tricuspid valve, and mitral chordae tendinae were hyperechogenic. Right ventricular outflow tract was narrow with decreased blood flow. There was tricuspid and mitral valve regurgitation and tricuspid valve stenosis. On the basis of these findings, we made the diagnosis of generalized arterial calcification, which is characterized by extensive calcification of internal elastic lamina and intimal proliferation of medium‐sized and large arteries. This diagnosis was confirmed histologically after the termination of pregnancy. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 43:50–54, 2015
Resegmentation in the mexican axolotl, Ambystoma mexicanum
Authors: Piekarski Nadine , Olsson Lennart
Published: January 2014

Cover illustration. In amniotes, single vertebrae derive from the sclerotomes of two adjacent somites. However this process of resegmentation is poorly studied in anamniotes. In this issue of the Journal of Morphology, Piekarski and Olsson (pp. 141–152) provide experimental evidence that resegmentation occurs in a species of amphibian. Their results now provide evidence for wider generality of the resegmentation process across vertebrates. The cover image shows a scanning electron micrograph of an axolotl embryo at early tailbud stage. The epidermis has been removed from the left side of the embryo to reveal underlying structures. Cells of the cranial neural crest (marked green) migrate ventrally in distinct streams. The paraxial mesoderm in the dorsal trunk region is segmented into somites, which give rise to vertebrae by resegmentation.
Fritting techniques in chromatography
Authors: Cheong Won Jo
Published: January 2014

It is surprising that there has been no devoted review article for frits and relevant studies so far despite the long history of packed columns and the use of frits in them. This review was activated for such a reason. Both separate frits and in situ permanent frits have been covered since the appearance of primitive frits. The in situ fritting methods such as the formation of organic monoliths, sol–gel technology, sintering, fritless techniques such as tapered tip and capillary restrictors, and miscellaneous fritting techniques including magnetically trapped frits and single particle frits are introduced and discussed. In addition, frit‐related studies and patents are also introduced. Finally, some conclusive comments on the choice of fritting technique in different situations and future perspectives are given.
Interference by Nitrous Acid Decomposition in the Kinetic Study of Nitrosation Reactions
Authors: Arenas‐Valgañón Jorge , Gómez‐Bombarelli Rafael , González‐Pérez Marina , González‐Jiménez Mario , Calle Emilio , Casado Julio
Published: January 2014

Under the acidic conditions of the stomach lumen, nitrosation reactions can occur in the human body between nitrite (added to meat because of its antibotulinic properties) and many compounds such as amino acids. From the results obtained, two conclusions can be drawn: (i) In the quantitative study of nitrosation reactions, it is necessary to take into account the competing reaction of HNO2 decomposition, which in some conditions is the dominant reaction; (ii) two alternative approaches based on the initial rate method are necessary to assess the weight of nitrous acid decomposition using taurine and homotaurine as nitrosatable substrates. In strongly acidic media, the decomposition reaction is dominant: In the case of taurine, the decomposition rate is negligible at pH ≥ 3.2. In the pH 3.2−2.5 range, decomposition is lower than nitrosation but not negligible, and at pH ≤ 2.5 decomposition is faster than nitrosation. With homotaurine, HNO2 decomposition is negligible at pH higher than 4.1. In the pH 4.1−2.8 range, nitrosation is faster but decomposition should be considered, and at pH ≤ 2.8 decomposition is the dominant reaction.
Flame‐Retardant Polypropylene/Multiwall Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites: Effects of Surface Functionalization and Surfactant Molecular Weight
Authors: He Qingliang , Yuan Tingting , Yan Xingru , Ding Daowei , Wang Qiang , Luo Zhiping , Shen Tom D. , Wei Suying , Cao Dapeng , Guo Zhanhu
Published: January 2014

Flame‐retardant polypropylene (PP)/carbon nanotubes (CNTs) nanocomposites influenced by surface functionalization and surfactant molecular weights are studied. 3‐Aminopropyl‐triethoxysilane (APTES) is utilized to modify the CNTs (f‐CNTs), and maleic‐anhydride‐grafted PP (MAPP) with two molecular weights ( of 800 and 8000 g mol−1) is used to further improve the dispersion of f‐CNTs in the PP matrix. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and microscale combustion calorimetry (MCC) reveal that the molecular weight of MAPP directly affects the thermal stability and flammability of PP/f‐CNTs PNCs: both MAPP polymers ( of 800 and 8000 g mol−1) increase the thermal stability of PP; however, the heat release rate of PP/f‐CNTs is reduced in the presence of MAPP ( of 800 g mol−1) and increased in the presence of MAPP ( of 8000 g mol−1). MAPP ( of 800 g mol−1) also results in a lower viscosity of the PP/f‐CNTs PNCs compared with pure PP.

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Contingent Self‐Esteem, Self‐Presentational Concerns, and Compulsive Buying
Authors: Roberts James A. , Manolis Chris , Pullig Chris
Published: January 2014

The present study investigates the influence of contingent self‐esteem (CSE) on compulsive buying tendencies. It is argued that this influence is mediated by the self‐presentational concerns of fear of negative evaluation (FNE) and the importance of social identity (SI). These core propositions are tested using a multimethod approach that includes a survey of 402 US adults and two experiments with 160 and 243 subjects, respectively. Survey results find that CSE's impact on compulsive buying is fully mediated by FNE and SI. The two experiments deepen understanding of this effect. Only under high levels of anxiety do those high in CSE exhibit compulsive buying. High CSE leads to higher FNE and SI regardless of anxiety levels, but only at high anxiety levels do FNE and SI lead to compulsive buying. The study's results increase understanding of the role and process by which CSE impacts compulsive buying in adults of all ages.
How assumed composition affects the interpretation of satellite observations of volcanic ash
Authors: Mackie Shona , Millington Sarah , Watson I. M.
Published: January 2014

The monitoring of volcanic ash in the atmosphere by satellite‐borne instruments is highly important for generation of warnings of potential ash hazards to aviation, and to constraining model predictions of an ash cloud's anticipated evolution. The high economic cost of flight restrictions creates a demand for precise monitoring and forecasting; however, no scientific product can be considered precise unless presented with a robust estimate of its associated uncertainty. Data from infrared sensors are focused on, as these monitor the atmosphere both day and night. Most methods for the detection of ash, and the retrieval of its properties, rely on forward modelling to estimate the ash signal at the satellite. This requires assumptions to be made about the ash composition in order to constrain its optical properties as represented in a radiative transfer model. Ash composition may change through the course of an eruption, and is often unknown for new eruptions. Even in cases where the composition of the ash can be sampled, it is unlikely that it is homogeneous enough to match the composition of any of the available optical property datasets exactly (which properties are required for radiative transfer modelling). This often necessary assumption can affect the observed ash signal by an amount that varies with cloud altitude, thickness, and concentration from a few percent to 17.7% for the highest ash concentration examined in this study. This has implications for methods that rely on forward modelling of ash observations, and for the interpretation of real ash observations when ash composition is unknown.
Referenceless reconstruction of spatiotemporally encoded imaging data: Principles and applications to real‐time MRI
Authors: Seginer Amir , Schmidt Rita , Leftin Avigdor , Solomon Eddy , Frydman Lucio
Published: January 2014

Purpose

Ultrafast sequences based on “Hybrid” spatiotemporal encoding (SPEN) replace echo‐planar imaging's phase encoding “blips,” while retaining a k‐space readout acquisition. Hardware imperfections during acquisition may lead to ghosts and striped artifacts along the SPEN dimension; akin to echo‐planar imaging's Nyquist ghosts, but weaker. A referenceless method to eliminate these artifacts in Hybrid SPEN is demonstrated.

Theory and Methods

Owing to its encoding in direct space, rather than reciprocal space, undersampling in SPEN does not generate an echo‐planar‐imaging‐like aliasing, but instead lowers the spatial resolution. Hybrid SPEN data can be split into two undersampled signals: a reference one comprised of the odd‐echos, and an even‐echo set that has to be “corrected” for consistency with the former. A simple way of implementing such a correction that enables a joint high‐resolution reconstruction is proposed.

Results

The referenceless algorithm is demonstrated with various examples, including oblique scans, large in vivo datasets from real‐time dynamic contrast‐enhanced perfusion experiments, and human brain imaging.

Conclusions

The referenceless correction enables robust single‐scan imaging under changing conditions—such as patient motion and changes in shimming over time—without the need of ancillary navigators. This opens new options for real‐time MRI and interactive scanning. Magn Reson Med 72:1687–1695, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mechanical characterization and modeling of poly (β‐hydroxybutyrate)‐co‐poly(β‐hydroxyvalerate)–Alfa fiber‐reinforced composites
Authors: Cheikh Ridha Ben , Michel Aaron , Billington Sarah
Published: January 2014

The mechanical properties of biobased composites of poly(β‐hydroxybutyrate)‐co‐poly(β‐hydroxyvalerate) biopolymer continuously reinforced with unidirectional Alfa fibers are investigated via tensile testing of oriented composite laminates. Simple mechanical models for the elastic stiffness, strength, and nonlinear hardening of the biobased composites are proposed with an emphasis on techniques that only require the independent properties of the fiber and matrix to facilitate composite design. Rule of mixtures (ROM) approaches are found to effectively predict the elastic properties of the composites but generally overestimate strength. Modified ROM approaches that discount the contribution of the matrix in the fiber loading direction and the contribution of the fiber in the transverse loading direction provide the most accurate strength predictions. Apparent elastic properties for composites with varying fiber orientations are predicted using a modified orthotropic laminate plate method which was found to overestimate composite stiffness in off‐axis loading directions. Postyield nonlinear hardening is modeled using a calibrated continuum yield and plasticity model and demonstrated to provide a close match of the experimental results. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:1758–1766, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Optical and structural properties of electrodeposited polyaniline/Q‐CdS composites
Authors: Mehto Varsha R. , Rathore Deepshikha , Pandey R.K.
Published: January 2014

HCl doped polyaniline (PANI)/Q‐CdS composite thin films have been synthesized using the electrodeposition route on indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass substrates. Three different sizes of CdS quantum dots were uniformly dispersed in PANI matrix. As deposited samples were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Optical properties of the composite structures were investigated by using optical absorption, photoluminescence, and Raman spectroscopy. PANI/Q‐CdS composite showed significant improvement in the thermal behavior as indicated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) thermograph. Our results also indicated that the doping state of the nanocomposites was dependent on the size of the CdS nanoparticles and improved with decreasing size. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:1864–1874, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Light‐curing of a sol–gel‐derived silicate‐based epoxy‐functional polymer nanocomposite material system
Authors: Çopuroğlu Mehmet , Şen Murat
Published: January 2014

In an effort to explore the potential of certain types of polymer nanocomposites to be successful candidates as dental restoration/adhesion materials, a Ti‐ or Zr‐containing and organically modified silicate‐based material system with epoxy functionality was prepared by use of a sol–gel synthesis method, and ultraviolet light‐ and visible light (VL)‐curing processes. Comparative influences of certain synthesis/processing parameters on the properties of the system were detailed. It was shown that both Ti‐ and Zr‐containing species could play significant roles in determining the structure and hence the properties of the nanocomposites. VL‐curing was demonstrated to be a relatively advantageous process that could be employed in applications such as dental restoration/adhesion. Moreover, the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites were shown to be promisingly high. Overall observations and results indicated a prospective opportunity for this material system to be utilized in dental restoration/adhesion applications. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:1879–1887, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
EPDM/silicone blend layered silicate nanocomposite by solution intercalation method: Morphology and properties
Authors: Acharya Himadri , Kumar Srivastava Suneel
Published: January 2014

Ethylene–propylene–diene terpolymer (EPDM)/silicone blend nanocomposites are prepared by solution method for the first time. EPDM and silicone rubber in their 50:50 (by weight) blend is intercalated within the silicate sheets of organically modified montmorillonite. Organic modification to the pristine sodium montmorillonite (Na‐MMT) surfaces is carried out by ion‐exchange reaction using hexadecyl ammonium chloride. The incorporation of such organic functional group makes Na‐MMT hydrophobic and expands the interlayer spacing between silicate sheets. The intercalated structure of EPDM/silicone blend nanocomposites is characterized by the X‐ray diffraction. Transmission electron microscopic characterization visualized the presence of both exfoliated and intercalated layered silicate in the polymer nanocomposites. The mechanical properties of the nanocomposites show a maximum improvement in tensile strength and elongation at break of 23 and 68%, respectively, compared with EPDM/silicone blend. The dielectric measurement demonstrates the increase in relative permittivity for the nanocomposite than the pure blend. The increase in the onset temperature of the thermal degradation of nanocomposites (∼52°C) corresponding to 1 wt% decomposition indicates the enhancement of thermal stability of (EPDM)/silicone blend due to interaction with silicates. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:1834–1841, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation of polypropylene/graphite nanocomposite with the aids of rotating solid‐state mixing and dynamic packing injection molding
Authors: Li Nan , Wang Ke , Zhang Qin , Fu Qiang
Published: January 2014

In this work, to achieve good dispersion state of graphite in the nonpolar intractable polymer, polypropylene (PP), two specific compounding/molding techniques, rotating solid‐state mixing (RSSM), and dynamic packing injection molding (DPIM), were used during the preparation of PP/graphite nanocomposite. The enhanced dispersion/exfoliation of graphite substance in PP matrix induced by RSSM and/or DPIM treatment was well identified by a combination of polarized optical microscopy, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, and scanning electronic microscopy. A comparative analysis indicated that RSSM mainly pulverizes graphite pristine‐particles into tactoids with significantly decreased diameter‐size, while DPIM offers strong melt shear force for exfoliating graphite tactoids into nanosheets whose thicknesses are about tens nanometers and length of 1 micron. Uniform dispersion of graphite nanosheets leaded to substantial increase in heterogeneous crystallization rate and mechanical properties. Our present study proposes a facile effective approach for large‐scale preparation of polymer/graphite nanocomposite with high‐performances. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:1943–1951, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation and characterization of antibacterial chitosan/Ag–montmorillonite with improved dynamic mechanic properties
Authors: Li Tian , Zhang Yuanyuan , Song Zhiyong , Wu Hongtao
Published: January 2014

Chitosan/Ag–montmorillonite (CS/Ag–MMT) nanocomposite was obtained via solution intercalation. The X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy results indicated the successful formation of intercalated‐and‐exfoliated nanostructures at low Ag–MMT contents and intercalated‐and‐flocculated nanostructures at high Ag–MMT contents. The CS/Ag–MMT nanocomposite with 7 wt% Ag–MMT presented a very high inhibition ratio against Staphylococcus aureus (>70%), and its bacterial inhibition zone diameter was 3.2 mm larger than that of CS, which showed remarkable antibacterial activity. When the Ag–MMT content was 5 wt%, the E′ of CS/Ag–MMT was increased to 3,261 MPa, which was 195% higher than CS and exhibited excellent mechanic property. The DMA test results showed the Tg of CS/Ag–MMT shifted to a higher temperature, suggesting the Ag–MMT interlayer not only interacted quite strongly with the reactive groups of CS but also restricted the motion of CS macromolecules, which was also verified by Fourier transform infrared spectrum measurements. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:1980–1988, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Pd‐catalyzed bicyclization of 2‐alkynylhalobenzenes and propargylic alcohols for the formation of indeno[1,2]furans: a DFT study
Authors: Yang Liu , Ren Gerui , Ye Xinchen , Que Xianyong , Lei Qunfang , Fang Wenjun , Xie Hujun
Published: January 2014

The mechanism of palladium‐catalyzed bicyclization of 2‐alkynylhalobenzenes and propargylic alcohols for the formation of indeno[1,2]furans has been studied computationally with the aid of density functional theory (DFT). Full free energy profiles are computed for different reaction equations between different reaction substrates. The calculation results showed that the catalytic cycle is found to contain six steps, oxidative addition, ligand substitution, first C ≡ C triple bond insertion, rearrangement, second C ≡ C triple bond insertion and reductive elimination, with the reductive elimination being the rate‐determining step for the different reaction equations (1), (2) and (3). Our calculations are consistent with experimental observations. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radial distribution of iron in silicon crystals grown by Czochralski method from contaminated feedstock
Authors: Mchedlidze Teimuraz , Weber Jörg
Published: January 2014

The radial distribution of iron in Cz‐Si crystals grown from photovoltaic grade feedstock was analysed using deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS). A high temperature annealing sequence followed by fast quenching to 273 K was used to transform iron silicide precipitates, formed after the crystal growth, to iron‐containing species detectable by DLTS. The results suggest a homogeneous radial distribution of iron over the crystal. From comparison of as‐grown and annealed samples, a strong suppression of iron precipitation close to the walls of the crystals becomes obvious and possible mechanisms of this phenomenon are discussed. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Carbon Dioxide Incorporation into Alkyne Compounds Mediated by Silver Catalysts
Authors: Kikuchi Satoshi , Yamada Tohru
Published: January 2014

We have reported that a silver catalyst with a base was an effective system for the incorporation and utilization of carbon dioxide in organic syntheses under mild reaction conditions. The C≡C triple bond activation by the silver catalysts was assumed to be a key step in these reactions, which was supported by DFT calculations with a model substrate. Based on these reports, we recently developed three new CO2 incorporations under the mild reaction conditions using our silver catalyst system. In this Personal Account, we describe the silver‐catalyzed CO2 incorporation with C–C bond formation to afford the corresponding γ‐lactone derivatives and the synthesis of benzoxazin‐2‐one derivatives and 4‐hydroxyquinolin‐2(1H)‐one derivatives from alkynylanilines with carbon dioxide catalyzed by silver salts.
Implementing a low‐starch biscuit‐free diet in zoo gorillas: The impact on health
Authors: Less E.H. , Lukas K.E. , Bergl R. , Ball R. , Kuhar C.W. , Lavin S.R. , Raghanti M.A. , Wensvoort J. , Willis M.A. , Dennis P.M.
Published: January 2014

In the wild, western lowland gorillas consume a diet high in fiber and low in caloric density. In contrast, many gorillas in zoos consume a diet that is high‐calorie and low in fiber. Some items commonly used in captive gorilla diets contain high levels of starch and sugars, which are minimal in the natural diet of gorillas. There is a growing concern that captive gorillas may qualify as obese. Furthermore, the leading cause of death for adult male gorillas in zoos is heart disease. In humans, a diet that is high in simple carbohydrates is associated with both obesity and the incidence of heart disease. In response to these issues, we implemented a biscuit‐free diet (free of biscuits and low in fruit) and measured serum biomarkers of obesity and insulin resistance pre‐ and post‐diet change at three institutions: North Carolina Zoological Garden, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, and Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. We also added a resistant starch supplement to gorilla diets at two of the above institutions. We anticipated that these diet changes would positively affect biomarkers of obesity and insulin resistance. Both diet manipulations led to a reduction in insulin. Resistant starch also decreased overall serum cholesterol levels. Future research will examine these health changes in a greater number of individuals to determine if the results remain consistent with these preliminary findings. Zoo Biol. 33:74–80, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Real-virtual contributions to the inclusive Higgs cross-section at N3LO
Authors: Anastasiou Charalampos , Duhr Claude , Dulat Falko , Herzog Franz , Mistlberger Bernhard
Published: January 2014

Abstract

We compute the contributions to the N3LO inclusive Higgs boson cross-section from the square of one-loop amplitudes with a Higgs boson and three QCD partons as external states. Our result is a Taylor expansion in the dimensional regulator ϵ, where the coefficients of the expansion are analytic functions of the ratio of the Higgs boson mass and the partonic center of mass energy and they are valid for arbitrary values of this ratio. We also perform a threshold expansion around the limit of soft-parton radiation in the final state. The expressions for the coefficients of the threshold expansion are valid for arbitrary values of the dimension. As a by-product of the threshold expansion calculation, we have developed a soft expansion method at the integrand level by identifying the relevant soft and collinear regions for the loop-momentum.
Empowerment Theory: Clarifying the Nature of Higher‐Order Multidimensional Constructs
Authors: Peterson N. Andrew
Published: January 2014

Development of empowerment theory has focused on defining the construct at different levels of analysis, presenting new frameworks or dimensions, and explaining relationships between empowerment‐related processes and outcomes. Less studied, and less conceptually developed, is the nature of empowerment as a higher‐order multidimensional construct. One critical issue is whether empowerment is conceptualized as a superordinate construct (i.e., empowerment is manifested by its dimensions), an aggregate construct (i.e., empowerment is formed by its dimensions), or rather as a set of distinct constructs. To date, researchers have presented superordinate models without careful consideration of the relationships between dimensions and the higher‐order construct of empowerment. Empirical studies can yield very different results, however, depending on the conceptualization of a construct. This paper represents the first attempt to address this issue systematically in empowerment theory. It is argued that superordinate models of empowerment are misspecified and research that tests alternative models at different levels of analysis is needed to advance theory, research, and practice in this area. Recommendations for future work are discussed.
The Use of Skin Substitutes in the Treatment of the Hand and Upper Extremity
Authors: Capo John T. , Kokko Kyle P. , Rizzo Marco , Adams Julie E. , Shamian Ben , Abernathie Brenon , Melamed Eitan
Published: January 2014

The introduction of skin substitutes in the last decade has dramatically changed how we think about the concept of “non-healing” wounds. Their use has improved prognosis and reduced morbidity in the treatment of open wounds. This article aims to summarize the development of tissue-engineered skin substitutes, discuss their use, and highlight some specific applications in different clinical settings.
Bilinear Strichartz estimates for the Zakharov–Kuznetsov equation and applications
Authors: Pilod Didier , Molinet Luc
Published: January 2014

This article is concerned with the Zakharov–Kuznetsov equation

\partial _{t}u + \partial _{x}\mathrm{\Delta }u + u\partial _{x}u = 0.

We prove that the associated initial value problem is locally well-posed in

H^{s}(\mathbb{R}^{2})

for

s > \frac{1}{2}

and globally well-posed in

H^{1}(\mathbb{R} \times \mathbb{T})

and in

H^{s}(\mathbb{R}^{3})

for

s > 1

. Our main new ingredient is a bilinear Strichartz estimate in the context of Bourgain's spaces which allows to control the high-low frequency interactions appearing in the nonlinearity of (0.1). In the

\mathbb{R}^{2}

case, we also need to use a recent result by Carbery, Kenig and Ziesler on sharp Strichartz estimates for homogeneous dispersive operators. Finally, to prove the global well-posedness result in

\mathbb{R}^{3}

, we need to use the atomic spaces introduced by Koch and Tataru.
Are relational ties always good for knowledge acquisition? Buyer–supplier exchanges in China
Authors: Zhou Kevin Zheng , Zhang Qiyuan , Sheng Shibin , Xie En , Bao Yeqing
Published: January 2014

Relational ties between manufacturers and their suppliers serve as an important strategic resource for value creation and realization. However, conflicting evidence exists regarding their role in the acquisition of specific knowledge. This study proposes that relational ties have a nonlinear effect on specific knowledge acquisition and that this nonlinear relationship is conditional on contract specificity and competitive intensity. Results from a sample of 385 manufacturer–supplier exchanges in China demonstrate that a buyer's relational ties with its major supplier have an inverted U‐shaped effect on specific knowledge acquisition from this supplier; this inverted U‐shaped relationship is stronger (steeper) when contract specificity is high and competition is more intense. These findings suggest that managers should understand the benefits and downsides of relational ties in acquiring specific knowledge and avoid building highly embedded ties when they draft detailed contracts or competition is highly intensive.
Metal Permeation into Multi-layered Graphene Oxide
Authors: Ogata Chikako , Koinuma Michio , Hatakeyama Kazuto , Tateishi Hikaru , Asrori Mohamad Zainul , Taniguchi Takaaki , Funatsu Asami , Matsumoto Yasumichi
Published: January 2014

Understanding the chemical and physical properties of metal/graphene oxide (M/GO) interfaces is important when GO is used in electronic and electrochemical devices because the metal layer must be firmly attached to GO. Here, permeation of metal from the surface into GO paper bulk at the M/GO interface was observed at room temperature for metals such as Cu, Ag, Ni, Au and Pt. Cu, Ag and Ni quickly permeated GO as ions into the bulk under humid conditions. At first, these metals changed to hydrated ions as a result of redox reactions (with reduction of GO) at the surface and then permeated the interlayers. Au and Pt were observed to permeate GO as atoms into the GO bulk at room temperature, although the permeation rates were low. These surprising results are considered to be due to the presence of many defects and/or edges with oxygenated groups in the GO paper.
Tungsten Oxide Nanorods: An Efficient Nanoplatform for Tumor CT Imaging and Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Zhou Zhiguo , Kong Bin , Yu Chao , Shi Xiangyang , Wang Mingwei , Liu Wei , Sun Yanan , Zhang Yingjian , Yang Hong , Yang Shiping
Published: January 2014

We report here a facile thermal decomposition approach to creating tungsten oxide nanorods (WO2.9 NRs) with a length of 13.1 ± 3.6 nm and a diameter of 4.4 ± 1.5 nm for tumor theranostic applications. The formed WO2.9 NRs were modified with methoxypoly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) carboxyl acid via ligand exchange to have good water dispersability and biocompatibility. With the high photothermal conversion efficiency irradiated by a 980 nm laser and the better X-ray attenuation property than clinically used computed tomography (CT) contrast agent Iohexol, the formed PEGylated WO2.9 NRs are able to inhibit the growth of the model cancer cells in vitro and the corresponding tumor model in vivo and enable effective CT imaging of the tumor model in vivo. Our “killing two birds with one stone” strategy could be extended for fabricating other nanoplatforms for efficient tumor theranostic applications.
Surface-charge accumulation effects on open-circuit voltage in organic solar cells based on photoinduced impedance analysis
Authors: Zang Huidong , Hsiao Yu-Che , Hu Bin
Published: January 2014

The accumulation of dissociated charge carriers plays an important role in reducing the loss occurring in organic solar cells.
The synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial and antimutagenic activities of hydroxyphenylimino ligands and their metal complexes of usnic acid isolated from Usnea longissima
Authors: Koçer Sibel , Uruş Serhan , Çakır Ahmet , Güllüce Medine , Dığrak Metin , Alan Yusuf , Aslan Ali , Tümer Mehmet , Karadayı Mehmet , Kazaz Cavit , Dal Hakan
Published: January 2014

Novel Schiff base ligands of usnic acid isolated fromUsnea longissimaand their metal complexes were synthesized and characterized. Investigated their antimicrobial and antimutagenic activities.
Continuous‐wave dual‐pump fibre optical parametric amplifier around 1 µm
Authors: Mussot A. , Stroïazzo L. , Hugonnot E. , Kudlinski A.
Published: January 2014

The first experimental demonstration of a continuous‐wave dual‐pump fibre optical parametric amplifier operating near 1 µm is reported. A flat gain band of 23 dB spanning over 16 nm (4.5 THz) with <2 dB variation is reported. This fibre optical parametric amplifier is achieved with a dispersion stabilised microstructured optical fibre having a high figure of merit, i.e. high nonlinearity and low loss.
Simplified drain current model for pinch‐off double gate junctionless transistor
Authors: Sahu C. , Swami P. , Sharma S. , Singh J.
Published: January 2014

A simplified analytical drain current model for the long‐channel pinch‐off junctionless (JL) double‐gate field effect transistor (DGFET) is proposed. The drain current is generally expressed in terms of the mobile charge density and it has been expressed in terms of the pinch‐off voltage and the gate capacitance. The proposed model is validated against TCAD simulation results, and is able to predict the behaviour of the JL DGFET for different bias conditions and device dimensions, accurately. The transconductance and the transconductance‐to‐drain‐current ratio are important parameters for analogue circuits, and have been calculated and exhibit good agreement with the TCAD results.
Charge emission induced transient leakage currents of a‐Si:H and IGZO TFTs on flexible plastic substrates
Authors: Smith J. , Couture A. , Allee D.
Published: January 2014

The transient off‐state thermal emission leakage currents of hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a‐Si) and indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) metal oxide thin‐film transistors (TFTs) fabricated on flexible plastic substrates have been examined for the first time. The transient leakage currents resulting from the detrapping of charge in the TFT active layer were observed to decay in a 1/t power law behaviour from 2 to 100 ms after switching the TFT test structures off. The results demonstrated a uniform density of states for both types of thin‐film devices and an ∼1.3× higher transient leakage current for the IGZO TFTs. It was also shown that the observed transient leakage currents result in a shot noise at the input to the data‐line charge integration amplifiers that is 20 × larger than predicted by using only the conventional static DC TFT leakage current measurements.
Using the Seebeck coefficient to determine charge carrier concentration, mobility, and relaxation time in InAs nanowires
Authors: Schmidt Volker , Mensch Philipp F. J. , Karg Siegfried F. , Gotsmann Bernd , Das Kanungo Pratyush , Schmid Heinz , Riel Heike
Published: January 2014

A method for determining charge carrier concentration, mobility, and relaxation time in semiconducting nanowires is presented. The method is based on measuring both the electrical conductivity and the Seebeck coefficient of the nanowire. With knowledge on the bandstructure of the material, Fermi level and charge carrier concentration can be deduced from the Seebeck coefficient. The ratio of measured conductivity and inferred charge carrier concentration then leads to the mobility, and using the Fermi level dependence of mobility one can finally obtain the relaxation time. Using this approach we exemplarily analyze the characteristics of an n-type InAs nanowire.
Implementation of a generalized actuator disk wind turbine model into the weather research and forecasting model for large-eddy simulation applications
Authors: Mirocha J. D. , Kosovic B. , Aitken M. L. , Lundquist J. K.
Published: January 2014

A generalized actuator disk (GAD) wind turbine parameterization designed for large-eddy simulation (LES) applications was implemented into the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. WRF-LES with the GAD model enables numerical investigation of the effects of an operating wind turbine on and interactions with a broad range of atmospheric boundary layer phenomena. Numerical simulations using WRF-LES with the GAD model were compared with measurements obtained from the Turbine Wake and Inflow Characterization Study (TWICS-2011), the goal of which was to measure both the inflow to and wake from a 2.3-MW wind turbine. Data from a meteorological tower and two light-detection and ranging (lidar) systems, one vertically profiling and another operated over a variety of scanning modes, were utilized to obtain forcing for the simulations, and to evaluate characteristics of the simulated wakes. Simulations produced wakes with physically consistent rotation and velocity deficits. Two surface heat flux values of 20 W m−2 and 100 W m−2 were used to examine the sensitivity of the simulated wakes to convective instability. Simulations using the smaller heat flux values showed good agreement with wake deficits observed during TWICS-2011, whereas those using the larger value showed enhanced spreading and more-rapid attenuation. This study demonstrates the utility of actuator models implemented within atmospheric LES to address a range of atmospheric science and engineering applications. Validated implementation of the GAD in a numerical weather prediction code such as WRF will enable a wide range of studies related to the interaction of wind turbines with the atmosphere and surface.
Measuring contact angle and meniscus shape with a reflected laser beam
Authors: Eibach T. F. , Fell D. , Nguyen H. , Butt H. J. , Auernhammer G. K.
Published: January 2014

Side-view imaging of the contact angle between an extended planar solid surface and a liquid is problematic. Even when aligning the view perfectly parallel to the contact line, focusing one point of the contact line is not possible. We describe a new measurement technique for determining contact angles with the reflection of a widened laser sheet on a moving contact line. We verified this new technique measuring the contact angle on a cylinder, rotating partially immersed in a liquid. A laser sheet is inclined under an angle φ to the unperturbed liquid surface and is reflected off the meniscus. Collected on a screen, the reflection image contains information to determine the contact angle. When dividing the laser sheet into an array of laser rays by placing a mesh into the beam path, the shape of the meniscus can be reconstructed from the reflection image. We verified the method by measuring the receding contact angle versus speed for aqueous cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide solutions on a smooth hydrophobized as well as on a rough polystyrene surface.
Improved hydrogen desorption properties of Li-Ca-B-N-H system catalyzed by cobalt containing species
Authors: Chu Hailiang , Qiu Shujun , Sun Lixian , Wu Guotao
Published: January 2014

Calcium borohydride, Ca(BH4)2, one of the promising candidates for efficient hydrogen storage, has been synthesized successfully by the metathesis reaction between magnesium chloride and sodium borohydride in tetrahydrofuran in which the insoluble byproduct sodium chloride can be easily removed. And the hydrogen storage properties of its related Ca(BH4)2-4LiNH2 composite system with the presence of cobalt containing species as additives are systematically investigated. A doping of 5 wt. % CoCl2 considerably decreases the dehydrogenation temperature of a mixture of Ca(BH4)2-4LiNH2. More than 4.5 and 7 wt. % of hydrogen can be released at temperatures as low as ca. 165 and 178 °C, respectively. The effective catalytic species is determined to be cobalt particle which is formed on-site during ball milling process, having superior catalytic performance to cobalt powder as a catalyst. In addition, the results show that the amount of by-product NH3 is less when dehydrogenated by volumetric release than by thermogravimetric analysis (TG), i.e., evolved NH3 can react with borohydride for hydrogen release in closed reactor.
Enhanced optoelastic interaction range in liquid crystals with negative dielectric anisotropy
Authors: Simoni F. , Lalli S. , Lucchetti L. , Criante L. , Brasselet E.
Published: January 2014

We demonstrate that the long-range interaction between surface-functionalized microparticles immersed a nematic liquid crystal—a “nematic colloid”—and a laser-induced “ghost colloid” can be enhanced by a low-voltage quasistatic electric field when the nematic mesophase has a negative dielectric anisotropy. The optoelastic trapping distance is shown to be enhanced by a factor up to 2.5 in presence of an electric field. Experimental data are quantitatively described with a theoretical model accounting for the spatial overlap between the orientational distortions around the microparticle and those induced by the trapping light beam itself.