bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studies of Health Effects from Nuclear Testing near the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site, Kazakhstan
Authors: Grosche Bernd , Zhunussova Tamara , Apsalikov Kazbek , Kesminiene Ausrele
Published: May 2015

The nuclear bomb testing conducted at the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site in Kazakhstan is of great importance for today’s radiation protection research, particularly in the area of low dose exposures. This type of radiation is of particular interest due to the lack of research in this field and how it impacts population health. In order to understand the possible health effects of nuclear bomb testing, it is important to determine what studies have been conducted on the effects of low dose exposure and dosimetry, and evaluate new epidemiologic data and biological material collected from populations living in proximity to the test site. With time, new epidemiological data has been made available, and it is possible that these data may be linked to biological samples. Next to linking existing and newly available data to examine health effects, the existing dosimetry system needs to be expanded and further developed to include residential areas, which have not yet been taken into account. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of previous studies evaluating the health effects of nuclear testing, including some information on dosimetry efforts, and pointing out directions for future epidemiologic studies.
Overcoming Objections to Print: The Moravian Periodical Accounts and the Pressure of Publishing in Eighteenth-Century Britain
Authors: Jensz Felicity
Published: May 2015

From the eighteenth century dedicated missionary periodicals were published by every major Protestant missionary society as an important means of informing a broad public about work amongst non-Christians throughout the colonial world. One of the very first missionary specific periodicals, the Periodical Accounts Relating to the Missions of the Church of the United Brethren, Established Among the Heathen, was printed in London by the English Moravian Church's “Brethren's Society for the Furtherance of the Gospel among the Heathen” (SFG) from 1790. The idea to publish the Periodical Accounts had, however, been raised some twenty years earlier. The article examines how the English Moravian Church, as part of a larger transnational church with its headquarters in Germany, was able to devise a publication which would be broadly acceptable to the church's German administrative body, yet specific enough to reflect the norms and interests of a local English audience, and in doing so, to establish the new genre of missionary periodicals within England.
A Comprehensive Theoretical Model of the Complex Strategic Demand Management Process
Authors: Donovan Pamela S. , Manuj Ila
Published: May 2015

This article explains the complex process of strategic demand management by developing a comprehensive theoretical framework that integrates research focused on diverse aspects of demand management such as product characteristics, environmental uncertainties, operational strategies, integration between supply and demand processes, and performance outcomes. Over 100 academic works were synthesized following a structured literature review process. A holistic definition of demand management is presented. Demand management concepts and relationships were investigated and organized in a comprehensive theoretical model. Competitive orientation and strategic consensus emerged as a fundamental construct to understand the demand management process. It was found that consensus among the environment, competitive orientation, and operational strategies supporting demand management would lead to superior performance. Six operational strategies—information sharing, integration, inventory, sourcing, manufacturing, and distribution—were analyzed with respect to the competitive orientations. This analysis can assist managers in choosing the right portfolio and objectives of the operational strategies to support their demand management goals. The comprehensive demand management framework, six operational strategies and objectives of each operational strategy, and links to performance provides a rich background for conducting empirical research in future.
Market factors related to hospitals’ patient satisfaction ratings
Authors: Kazley Abby Swanson , Ford Eric W. , Diana Mark , Menachemi Nir
Published: May 2015

Patient satisfaction is an important dimension of care that has been linked to improved clinical outcomes and increased compliance as well as organizational success. The passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act included rules that incentivize hospitals to improve patient satisfaction by offering increased reimbursements. In this analysis, three data sets are used to retrospectively examine the relationship between environmental market factors and patient satisfaction. We find that per capita income within the hospital’s catchment area, competition, metro status, and availability of general and specialty practitioners are significantly associated with hospitals’ patient satisfaction levels. In a new era of pay-for-performance and increased competition for scarce resources, hospitals must closely monitor and respond to external forces. One strategy for overcoming a turbulent external environment may be to focus on patient satisfaction.
Coherent water transport across the South Atlantic
Authors: Wang Y. , Olascoaga M. J. , Beron‐Vera F. J.
Published: May 2015

The role of mesoscale eddies in transporting Agulhas leakage is investigated using a recent technique from nonlinear dynamical systems theory applied on geostrophic currents inferred from the over two decade long satellite altimetry record. Eddies are found to acquire material coherence away from the Agulhas retroflection, near the Walvis Ridge in the South Atlantic. Yearly, one to four coherent material eddies are detected with diameters ranging from 40 to 280 km. A total of 23 eddy cores of about 50 km in diameter and with at least 30% of their contents traceable into the Indian Ocean were found to travel across the subtropical gyre with minor filamentation. Only one eddy core was found to pour its contents on the North Brazil Current. While the ability of eddies to carry Agulhas leakage northwestward across the South Atlantic is supported by our analysis, this is more restricted than suggested by earlier ring transport assessments.
The integrated urban land model
Authors: Meng Chunlei
Published: May 2015

An integrated urban land model (IUM) was developed based on the Common Land Model (CoLM). A whole layer soil evaporation parameterization scheme was developed to improve soil evaporation simulation especially in arid areas. For the urban underlying surface, the energy and water balance model were modified; urban land parameters such as the anthropogenic heat (AH), albedo, surface roughness length, imperious surface evaporation etc. were also reparameterized. IUM was validated and compared with CoLM and the urbanized high‐resolution land data assimilation system (u‐HRLDAS) in single and regional scale. The validation results indicate that IUM can improve the simulation of land surface parameters and land‐atmosphere interaction fluxes.
A Novel Strong and Ductile TWIP/Martensite Steel Composite
Authors: Bouaziz O. , Masse J. P. , Petitgand G. , Huang M. X.
Published: May 2015

A novel bi‐layered steel composite consisting of a martensitic steel and a high manganese twinning‐induced plasticity (TWIP) steel has been fabricated by roll bonding at high temperature. Microstructural and mechanical characterizations highlight that the presented bi‐layered steel composite exhibits simultaneously a high yield stress and high uniform elongation, as both the advantages of TWIP steel and martensitic steel are inherited.
International Commercial Arbitration: Past, Present, Future
Authors: Bermann George A.
Published: May 2015

International commercial arbitration has a distinguished past, a vibrant present and a promising future. That is a lot to cover in a single short essay, and I will not give all three eras equal billing.
Back To Basics: I Mediate, Therefore I Am?
Authors: Creo Robert A.
Published: May 2015

Editor's note: Longtime Alternatives columnist Bob Creo, a veteran Pittsburgh neutral, is revisiting his classic CPR Institute website columns of a decade ago in a Back to Basics Series that he has subtitled “Human Problems, Human Solutions.” In his recent Master Mediators columns, Creo has focused on neuroscience, psychological factors and cognitive biases that affect dispute resolution. These updated Back to Basics columns, in print for the first time, began in November, revisiting mediation‐room techniques and practice issues. This month, the focus is on how the humanity and values of the mediator align with the process and the participants.
The importance of gold‐electrode‐adjacent stationary high‐field Böer domains for the photoconductivity of CdS
Authors: Böer Karl Wolfgang
Published: May 2015

When the electron density decreases stronger than linearly with the electric field in photoconductive CdS due to field quenching, high‐field domains must occur that remain attached to either the cathode or anode in slit electrode geometry with blocking cathodes. These Böer domains1 are easily seen by their shift in optical absorption due to the Franz‐Keldysh effect and offer unique opportunities to analyze field dependent parameters within the range of constant electron density and electric field, such as the carrier density or mobility as a function of the field, and give information of the light dependent work function. They also provide insight why a 200 Å thick cover layer of CdS on top of a CdTe solar cell increases its efficiency from 8 to 16% . The behavior of these Böer domains escapes conventional current voltage analyses except for their visual observation, while other high‐field domains with their current fluctuations or oscillations are easily observed and are the subjects of thousands of publications and many books. In this review we will exclude detailed discussion of dynamic domains, but include some new specifics that help to understand the mechanisms of the Böer domains and their applications. Only properties at low optical excitation intensities are discussed that exclude Joules heating. Within the p‐type regime of the anode‐adjacent domain extremely steep electronic quenching signal becomes visible that could signalize an intrinsic donor level slightly above the middle of the band gap that may be responsible for not allowing CdS to ever become p‐type by doping.

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A Solomon Link through an Interwoven Molecular Grid
Authors: Beves Jonathon E. , Danon Jonathan J. , Leigh David A. , Lemonnier Jean‐François , Vitorica‐Yrezabal Iñigo J.
Published: May 2015

A molecular Solomon link was synthesized through the assembly of an interwoven molecular grid consisting of four bis(benzimidazolepyridyl)benzthiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole ligands and four zinc(II), iron(II), or cobalt(II) cations, followed by ring‐closing olefin metathesis. NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and X‐ray crystallography confirmed the doubly interlocked topology, and subsequent demetalation afforded the wholly organic Solomon link. The synthesis, in which each metal ion defines the crossing point of two ligand strands, suggests that interwoven molecular grids should be useful scaffolds for the rational construction of other topologically complex structures.
Dynamic Inclusion Complexes of Metal Nanoparticles Inside Nanocups
Authors: Alarcón‐Correa Mariana , Lee Tung‐Chun , Fischer Peer
Published: May 2015

Host–guest inclusion complexes are abundant in molecular systems and of fundamental importance in living organisms. Realizing a colloidal analogue of a molecular dynamic inclusion complex is challenging because inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) with a well‐defined cavity and portal are difficult to synthesize in high yield and with good structural fidelity. Herein, a generic strategy towards the fabrication of dynamic 1:1 inclusion complexes of metal nanoparticles inside oxide nanocups with high yield (>70 %) and regiospecificity (>90 %) by means of a reactive double Janus nanoparticle intermediate is reported. Experimental evidence confirms that the inclusion complexes are formed by a kinetically controlled mechanism involving a delicate interplay between bipolar galvanic corrosion and alloying–dealloying oxidation. Release of the NP guest from the nanocups can be efficiently triggered by an external stimulus.
Programmed Synthesis by Stimuli‐Responsive DNAzyme‐Modified Mesoporous SiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Balogh Dora , Aleman Garcia Miguel Angel , Albada H. Bauke , Willner Itamar
Published: May 2015

DNAzyme‐capped mesoporous SiO2 nanoparticles (MP SiO2 NPs) are applied as stimuli‐responsive containers for programmed synthesis. Three types of MP SiO2 NPs are prepared by loading the NPs with Cy3‐DBCO (DBCO=dibenzocyclooctyl), Cy5‐N3, and Cy7‐N3, and capping the NP containers with the Mg2+, Zn2+, and histidine‐dependent DNAzyme sequences, respectively. In the presence of Mg2+ and Zn2+ ions as triggers, the respective DNAzyme‐capped NPs are unlocked, leading to the “click” reaction product Cy3‐Cy5. In turn, in the presence of Mg2+ ions and histidine as triggers the second set of DNAzyme‐capped NPs is unlocked leading to the Cy3‐Cy7 conjugated product. The unloading of the respective NPs and the time‐dependent formation of the products are followed by fluorescence spectroscopy (FRET). A detailed kinetic model for the formation of the different products is formulated and it correlates nicely with the experimental results.
Two‐Photon Voltmeter for Measuring a Molecular Electric Field
Authors: Rebane Aleksander , Wicks Geoffrey , Drobizhev Mikhail , Cooper Thomas , Trummal Aleksander , Uudsemaa Merle
Published: May 2015

We present a new approach for determining the strength of the dipolar solute‐induced reaction field, along with the ground‐ and excited‐state electrostatic dipole moments and polarizability of a solvated chromophore, using exclusively one‐photon and two‐photon absorption measurements. We verify the approach on two benchmark chromophores N,N‐dimethyl‐6‐propionyl‐2‐naphthylamine (prodan) and coumarin 153 (C153) in a series of toluene/dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) mixtures and find that the experimental values show good quantitative agreement with literature and our quantum‐chemical calculations. Our results indicate that the reaction field varies in a surprisingly broad range, 0–107 V cm−1, and that at close proximity, on the order of the chromophore radius, the effective dielectric constant of the solute–solvent system displays a unique functional dependence on the bulk dielectric constant, offering new insight into the close‐range molecular interaction.
Ordering of PCDTBT Revealed by Time‐Resolved Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Spectroscopy of Its Triplet Excitons
Authors: Biskup Till , Sommer Michael , Rein Stephan , Meyer Deborah L. , Kohlstädt Markus , Würfel Uli , Weber Stefan
Published: May 2015

Time‐resolved electron paramagnetic resonance (TREPR) spectroscopy is shown to be a powerful tool to characterize triplet excitons of conjugated polymers. The resulting spectra are highly sensitive to the orientation of the molecule. In thin films cast on PET film, the molecules’ orientation with respect to the surface plane can be determined, providing access to sample morphology on a microscopic scale. Surprisingly, the conjugated polymer investigated here, a promising material for organic photovoltaics, exhibits ordering even in bulk samples. Orientation effects may significantly influence the efficiency of solar cells, thus rendering proper control of sample morphology highly important.
Diaryliodoniums by Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed CH Activation: Mild Synthesis and Diversified Functionalizations
Authors: Xie Fang , Zhang Zhipeng , Yu Xinzhang , Tang Guodong , Li Xingwei
Published: May 2015

Diaryliodonium salts play an increasingly important role as an aryl source. Reported is the first synthesis of diaryliodoniums by rhodium(III)‐catalyzed CH hyperiodination of electron‐poor arenes under chelation assistance. This CI coupling reaction occurred at room temperature with high regio‐selectivity and functional‐group compatibility. Subsequent diversified nucleophilic functionalization of a diaryliodonium allowed facile construction of CC, CN, CO, CS, CP and CBr bonds, and in all cases the initial functionalization occurred at the arene containing the chelating‐group.
Pushing Up Lithium Storage through Nanostructured Polyazaacene Analogues as Anode
Authors: Wu Jiansheng , Rui Xianhong , Long Guankui , Chen Wangqiao , Yan Qingyu , Zhang Qichun
Published: May 2015

According to the evidence from both theoretical calculations and experimental findings, conjugated ladder polymers containing large π‐conjugated structure, a high number of nitrogen heteroatoms, and a multiring aromatic system, could be an ideal organic anode candidate for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). In this report, we demonstrated that the nanostructured polyazaacene analogue poly(1,6‐dihydropyrazino[2,3g]quinoxaline‐2,3,8‐triyl‐7‐(2H)‐ylidene‐7,8‐dimethylidene) (PQL) shows high performance as anode materials in LIBs: high capacity (1750 mAh g−1, 0.05C), good rate performance (303 mAh g−1, 5C), and excellent cycle life (1000 cycles), especially at high temperature of 50 °C. Our results suggest nanostructured conjugated ladder polymers could be alternative electrode materials for the practical application of LIBs.
A‐D‐A Type Small Molecules Based on Boron Dipyrromethene for Solution‐Processed Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Xiao Liangang , Wang Hongda , Gao Ke , Li Lisheng , Liu Chang , Peng Xiaobin , Wong Wai‐Yeung , Wong Wai‐Kwok , Zhu Xunjin
Published: May 2015

The unique properties of boron dipyrromethene (BODIPY) dyes including facile synthesis, high absorption coefficients, and delocalized molecular orbitals as well as excellent photochemical and thermal stability, make them promising as materials for organic solar cells. Accordingly, in this study three A‐D‐A structural small molecules of BDTT‐BODIPY, FL‐BODIPY, and TT‐BODIPY have been synthesized, in which two BODIPY acceptor units are symmetrically conjugated to 4,8‐bis(5‐(2‐ethylhexyl) thiophen‐2‐yl)benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b]dithiophene (BDTT), 9,9‐dioctyl‐9H‐fluorene (FL), and thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene (TT) donor cores, respectively. The manipulation of the structural parameters significantly improves the performances of the BHJ OSCs, which show power conversion efficiencies of 4.75 %, 1.51 %, and 1.67 % based on [6,6]‐phenyl C71‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC71BM) as the acceptor material and BDTT‐BODIPY, FL‐BODIPY, and TT‐BODIPY as the donor materials, respectively.
Anti‐senescence effects of DNA methyltransferase inhibitor RG108 in human bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Oh Youn Seo , Jeong Sin‐Gu , Cho Goang‐Won
Published: May 2015

Alteration of DNA methylation is highly associated with ageing and ageing‐related diseases. Remedy of the altered methylation pattern may provide beneficial efficacy in these diseases. In this study, we used a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor, RG108, to investigate the senescence effects in human bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (hBM‐MSCs). First, we determined the optimized dose and time of RG108 treatment in hBM‐MSCs to be 5 µM for 48 H, respectively. Under these conditions, the anti‐senescence genes TERT, bFGF, VEGF, and ANG were increased, whereas the senescence‐related genes ATM, p21, and p53 were decreased. The number of β‐galactosidase‐positive cells was significantly decreased in RG108‐treated MSCs, whereas the rates of MSC migration and cellular protection were increased. We have shown that RG108 significantly induces the expression of TERT by blocking methylation at the TERT promoter region. Thus, these data indicate that an optimized dose of RG108 may improve the cell migration, protection, cellular senescence, which may provide a better efficacy of these cells in stem cell therapy.
Adding a graphical output to a theorem prover: Results of a comparison of the acceptance from a teaching point of view
Authors: Maestro‐Prieto Jose A. , Simon‐Hurtado Arancha
Published: May 2015

This article describes the experience and results obtained from teaching computational logic in an introductory course for undergraduates. The proposed teaching approach helps students to reach a deeper level of understanding in first order logic representation, computational logic procedures and automated theorem proving. The article includes the description of SLI, a theorem prover with a graphical output and the results of a survey to assess the acceptance of the tool. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 23:837–845, 2015; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI 10.1002/cae.21654
Conversion of a Mono‐ and Diacylglycerol Lipase into a Triacylglycerol Lipase by Protein Engineering
Authors: Lan Dongming , Popowicz Grzegorz Maria , Pavlidis Ioannis V. , Zhou Pengfei , Bornscheuer Uwe T. , Wang Yonghua
Published: May 2015

Despite the fact that most lipases are believed to be active against triacylglycerides, there is a small group of lipases that are active only on mono‐ and diacylglycerides. The reason for this difference in substrate scope is not clear. We tried to identify the reasons for this in the lipase from Malassezia globosa. By protein engineering, and with only one mutation, we managed to convert this enzyme into a typical triacylglycerol lipase (the wild‐type lipase does not accept triacylglycerides). The variant Q282L accepts a broad spectrum of triacylglycerides, although the catalytic behavior is altered to some extent. From in silico analysis it seems that specific hydrophobic interactions are key to the altered substrate specificity.
Snapshot quiz – “Tattoo of Scheepers”
Authors: van den Boom Anne Loes , de Graaf Erlinde , Scheepers Joris J. G.
Published: May 2015

Key Clinical Message

An ink marker at the descending part of the gastrojejunostomy or duodenojejunostomy after a pancreaticoduodenectomy or pylorus‐preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy prevents a misplacing of a postoperative endoscopic intervention.
Recurrent undifferentiated shock: Idiopathic Systemic Capillary Leak Syndrome
Authors: Aroney Nicholas , Ure Stewart , White Hayden , Sane Sunil
Published: May 2015

Key Clinical Message

Idiopathic Systemic Capillary Leak Syndrome is a potentially fatal disorder that is under diagnosed. It commonly presents as recurrent undifferentiated shock with hypotension, hypoalbuminemia and hemoconcentration. There are three distinct phases that define the syndrome; Prodromal, Extravasation and Recovery.
Infantile pyknocytosis, a rare cause of hemolytic anemia in newborns: report of two cases in twin girls and literature overview
Authors: El Nabouch Mohamad , Rakotoharinandrasana Iarolalao , Ndayikeza Alexis , Picard Véronique , Kayemba‐Kay's Simon
Published: May 2015

Key Clinical Message

Infantile pyknocytosis is a rare cause of neonatal jaundice and hemolytic anemia. We report on two cases in twin girls that were diagnosed on peripheral blood smear reading. Pyknocytosis should be considered in cases of early unexplained severe hemolytic anemia, and systematic peripheral smear review performed. Its management consists of phototherapy and RBC transfusion.
Combined AFM/SECM Investigation of the Solid Electrolyte Interphase in Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zampardi Giorgia , Klink Stefan , Kuznetsov Volodymyr , Erichsen Thomas , Maljusch Artjom , La Mantia Fabio , Schuhmann Wolfgang , Ventosa Edgar
Published: May 2015

The solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) is an electronically insulating film formed from the decomposition of the organic electrolyte at the surface of the negative electrodes in Li‐ion batteries (LIBs). This film is of vital importance in the performance and safety of LIBs. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) are combined in one platform for the consecutive in situ investigation of surface reactions in LIBs inside an Ar‐filled glovebox. As proof of concept, the formation and the electrochemical properties of the SEI formed on glassy carbon electrodes are investigated. Changes in topography during film formation of the SEI are studied via AFM. The AFM tip is then used to partially remove a small area (50×50 μm2) of the SEI, which is subsequently probed using SECM in feedback mode. The AFM‐scratched spot is clearly visualized in the SECM image, demonstrating the strength of the AFM/SECM combination for the investigation in the field of LIBs.
[P3Se4]+: A Binary Phosphorus–Selenium Cation
Authors: Feldmann Kai‐Oliver , Wiegand Thomas , Ren Jinjun , Eckert Hellmut , Breternitz Joachim , Groh Matthias F. , Müller Ulrike , Ruck Michael , Maryasin Boris , Ochsenfeld Christian , Schön Oliver , Karaghiosoff Konstantin , Weigand Jan J.
Published: May 2015

Although a fairly large number of binary group 15/16 element cations have been reported, no example involving phosphorus in combination with a group 16 element has been synthesized and characterized to date. In this contribution is reported the synthesis and structural characterization of the first example of such a cation, namely a nortricyclane‐type [P3Se4]+. This cation has been independently discovered by three groups through three different synthetic routes, as described herein. The molecular and electronic structure of the [P3Se4]+ cage and its crystal properties in the solid state have been characterized comprehensively by using X‐ray diffraction, Raman, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopies, as well as quantum chemical calculations.
Aluminiumchlorid‐katalysierter Organosolv‐Aufschluss von Buchenholz
Authors: Schwiderski Martin , Kruse Andrea
Published: May 2015

Der Organosolv‐Aufschluss ist ein Verfahren, um lignocellulosehaltige Biomasse in ihre Bestandteile Cellulose, Hemicellulose und Lignin aufzutrennen. Üblicherweise wird dieses Verfahren Brønsted‐sauer‐katalysiert durchgeführt. In dieser Arbeit wird die Brønsted‐Säure durch die Lewis‐Säure Aluminiumchlorid ersetzt. Um ähnliche Produkteigenschaften des aufgeschlossenen Holzes, wie hoher Cellulosegehalt sowie hohe Hemicellulose‐ und Lignin‐Entfernung, zu erhalten, wird im Vergleich zur Schwefelsäure deutlich weniger Aluminiumchlorid benötigt. Außerdem katalysiert Aluminiumchlorid den Zerfall von Xylose zu den wichtigen Basischemikalien Furfural und Milchsäure.
Stem‐Cell Angiogenesis and Regeneration of the Heart: Review of a Saga of 2 Decades
Authors: Liebson Philip R.
Published: May 2015

Advances in the novel approach to control ischemic heart disease and heart failure using stem cells or progenitor cells from bone marrow, mesenchyme, or myocardial tissue itself have demonstrated efficacy for increasing left ventricular function, decreasing infarct scar tissue, improving exercise tolerance and heart failure symptoms, and, in some studies, decreasing mortality and reducing rehospitalization for intractable angina or subsequent myocardial infarction. The most common techniques utilize injections of cells into the coronary vasculature or directly into specific areas of vulnerable myocardium. Although few adverse effects have been noted in clinical trials of these procedures, further clinical trials over the next decade should provide further advances in interventional techniques, ancillary supporting technologies to enhance cell regeneration, and applications in ischemic heart disease, cardiomyopathies, and cardiac genetic disorders.
A correlation‐based and spectrum‐aware admission control mechanism for multimedia streaming in cognitive radio sensor networks
Authors: Hosseini Elahe S. , Esmaeelzadeh Vahid , Berangi Reza , Akan Ozgur B.
Published: May 2015

Bandwidth management and traffic control are critical issues to guarantee the quality of service in cognitive radio networks. This paper exploits a network load refinement approach to achieve the efficient resource utilization and provide the required quality of service. A connection admission control approach is introduced in cognitive radio multimedia sensor networks to provide the data transmission reliability and decrease jitter and packet end‐to‐end delay. In this approach, the admission of multimedia flows is controlled based on multimedia sensors' correlation information and traffic characteristics. We propose a problem, connection admission control optimization problem, to optimize the connection admission control operation. Furthermore, using a proposed weighting scheme according to the correlation of flows issued by multimedia sensors enables us to convert the connection admission control optimization problem to a binary integer‐programming problem. This problem is a kind of a Knapsack problem that is solved by a branch and bound method. Simulation results verify the proposed admission control method's effectiveness and demonstrate the benefits of admission control and traffic management in cognitive radio multimedia sensor networks. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ligand‐Field Strength and Symmetry‐Restricted Covalency in CuII Complexes – a Near‐Edge X‐ray Absorption Fine Structure Spectroscopy and Time‐Dependent DFT Study
Authors: Mangione Giulia , Pandolfo Luciano , Sambi Mauro , Ligorio Giovanni , Nardi Marco Vittorio , Cossaro Albano , Floreano Luca , Casarin Maurizio
Published: May 2015

The low‐lying empty orbitals of bis(acetylacetonato)copper have been probed by near‐edge X‐ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy at the Cu L2,3 edges and time‐dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) calculations within the Tamm–Dancoff approximation (TDA) coupled to the relativistic zeroth‐order regular approximation including spin–orbit effects (SO‐ZORA TDDFT‐TDA). Both the relative positions of NEXAFS features and their linear dichroism are satisfactorily reproduced. Moreover, a comparison with literature data pertaining to two other square‐planar CuII complexes ([CuCl4]2– and copper phthalocyanine) provided information about how metal‐to‐ligand charge‐transfer transitions associated with excitations from CuII 2p orbitals to low‐lying, ligand‐based π* molecular orbitals in a simplified one‐electron picture may contribute to the CuII L2,3 edge intensity and, thus, weaken its believed relationship with the CuII–ligand symmetry‐restricted covalency.
Ba5Tr2(Ge,Sn)2P8 and Ba5Tr5(Ga,Tt)2P12 (Tr = Al, Ga; Tt = Ge, Sn): Phosphides with Triel and Tetrel Mixing
Authors: Pan Ming‐Yan , Xia Sheng‐Qing , Liu Xiao‐Cun , Tao Xu‐Tang
Published: May 2015

A series of new multinary phosphide Zintl compounds, Ba5Ga2GeSnP8, Ba5Al2GeSnP8, Ba5Ga6GeP12, and Ba5Ga6SnP12, have been synthesized through high‐temperature Pb or Sn flux reactions. The structures of the compounds, which have been determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, feature two different new structural types bearing various polyanion chain fragments. Ba5Tr2GeSnP8 (Tr = Al, Ga) crystallize in the monoclinic C2/m (No. 12) space group with cell parameters: a = 16.8211(10)/16.7586(21) Å, b = 6.0115(4)/6.0867(8) Å, c = 9.5873(6)/9.5983(12) Å, β = 111.9270(10)/112.1880(10)° for the Al‐ and Ga‐containing compounds, respectively. For Ba5Ga6TtP12 (Tt = Ge, Sn), the compounds belong to a different orthorhombic system [space group: Cmcm (No. 63)] with the cell dimensions: a = 10.5222(6)/10.5802(9) Å, b = 16.2717(10)/16.3529(14) Å, c = 13.9093(8)/13.9643(12) Å for Ba5Ga6GeP12 and Ba5Ga6SnP12. Despite the clear differences in the crystallographic parameters, these two types of structures are closely related through the [Tr2P4] and [Tr5P12] polyanion chains (Tr = triels) as well as the significant mixing between the triel and tetrel atoms. The close relationships between these phases and some previously reported analogues are also discussed in detail. Theoretical calculations based on DFT methods confirm the precise electron nature of these compounds, which are also consistent with results from crystallographic data and the optical absorption measurements.
Techno‐Economic Analysis of the Carbon Dioxide (CO2)–Ethane Azeotrope Separation for Natural Gas Processes
Authors: Hasanvandian Reza , Tavan Yadollah
Published: May 2015

In this study, the effect of feed‐splitting on energy demand as well as environmental and economic indicators of the extractive distillation of carbon dioxide (CO2)–ethane process are studied. An alternative process is proposed based on partial pre‐cooling of the feed stream to minimize the expensive energy requirements of the refrigeration cycle that produces the tower reflux. The results clearly demonstrate that the proposed process leads to a 55 % reduction of the refrigerant requirement in comparison to the conventional process and a significant reduction in the column energy demand.
Effect of biochar on organic matter conservation and metabolic quotient of soil
Authors: Li Hua , Yutong Wang , Tianpei Wang , Hongrui Ma
Published: May 2015

Emission of CO2 resulting from mineralization of organic carbon in agricultural soil is main pathways of greenhouse gas emission. In this research, effect of biochar on humus, organic carbon accumulation, and metabolic quotient of soil were investigated. Different contents of biochar were added in two kinds of soil with different fertility. According to the results, biochar played a positive role on promoting the formation of soil humus. Contents of humic acids (HAs), fulvic acids (FAs), and humins (HMs) in treatment with biochar increased obviously, which was benefit to the stability of soil organic carbon pool. After 210 days incubation, content of HAs increased 9.8% to 13.6%; content of FAs increased 17.2% to 20.8%; content of HMs increased 20.5% to 22.6% compared with control. Biochar promoted the accumulation of nutrient elements thereby improved the soil quality. In addition, biochar accelerated the formation of carbohydrate, esters, aromatics and other organic macromolecules, which is difficult to decompose by soil microbial, resulting in the stability increase of organic carbon. Moreover, after 210 ‐days incubation, metabolic quotient (qCO2) in soils with 8% biochar decreased 5% to 10% compared with control, suggesting that biochar has positive effect on the ecological function of soil. Therefore, it can be concluded that biochar can affect on soil carbon cycle by changing soil carbon characteristics. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 1467–1472, 2015
Kinetic, isotherm, and thermodynamic studies for removal of direct red 12b using nanostructured biosilica incorporated into calcium alginate matrix
Authors: Darvishi Cheshmeh Soltani Reza , Khataee Alireza , Koolivand Ali
Published: May 2015

This article presents the immobilization of nanostructured biosilica within calcium alginate biopolymer and its potential for the adsorption of Direct Red 12B (DR12B) as an azo dye in batch flow mode reactors. The immobilization of biosilica was performed well according to the images of scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, the results of Fourier transform infra‐red analysis confirmed strong binding of dye molecules by surficial functional groups. The adsorption process was pH‐dependent and increasing initial pH from 3 to 11 led to the decrease in adsorbed dye from 16.02 to 11.88 mg/g, respectively. Increasing adsorbent dosage from 0.5 to 4 g/L led to decreasing the adsorption of DR12B from 75.13 to 12.10 mg/g, respectively. Among various isotherm models, Langmuir isotherm had the highest correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.9924) with a maximum adsorption capacity of 33.78 mg/g. The value of mean free energy (E = 15.81 KJ/mol) related to Dubinin–Radukevisch (D–R) model demonstrated chemical nature of the adsorption process. The results of kinetic study revealed the fitness of experimental data to pseudo‐second order model. The negative values of Gibbs free energy (ΔG°) and enthalpy change (ΔH°) suggested a simultaneous and exothermic adsorption process, respectively. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 1435–1443, 2015
NFkB is activated by multiple mechanisms in hairy cell leukemia
Authors: Nagel Stefan , Ehrentraut Stefan , Meyer Corinna , Kaufmann Maren , Drexler Hans G. , MacLeod Roderick A.F.
Published: May 2015

Hairy cell leukemia (HCL) is a rare chronic B‐cell lymphoproliferative disorder of unclear pathogenesis. Recent studies have identified BRAF(V600E) mutations in most HCL patients, highlighting this abnormality as a molecular hallmark for this disease. Cell lines originating from HCL patients lack BRAF mutations but retain the typical piliferous morphology and the distinctive HCL immunophenotype, thus, constituting suitable tools for identifying alternative tumor genes and leukemic mechanisms in this malignancy. To this end, we integrated genomic and transcriptional profiling of the HCL cell line MLMA. The expression levels of genomically targeted genes were compared to four HCL control cell lines, thus, identifying 91 chromosomally deregulated genes. Gene set enrichment analysis of these indicted apoptosis, proliferation, and DNA damage response as altered processes. Accordingly, prominent target genes overexpressed in this cell line include ATM, BRAF, CDK6, CUTL1/CUX1, H2AFX, and REL. Treatment of MLMA with selective pharmacological inhibitors and specific siRNA‐mediated gene knockdowns highlighted a central role for NFkB in their deregulation in HCL. Moreover, relevant expression profiling data from HCL and ABC‐DLBCL cell lines display elevated NFkB‐pathway activity when compared to GC‐DLBCL equivalents. Finally, analysis of HCL patient samples in silico collectively supported the clinical significance of NFkB activation in this disease. In conclusion, we identified deregulated genes and multiple mechanisms underlying aberrantly activated NFkB‐pathway in HCL. Therefore, NFkB may represent a B‐cell specific hallmark of HCL and a promising novel therapeutic target, most notably in patients lacking BRAF mutations in this entity including variant HCL. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of management and co‐digestion on life cycle emissions and energy from anaerobic digestion
Authors: Aguirre‐Villegas Horacio A. , Larson Rebecca , Reinemann Douglas J.
Published: May 2015

This study applies life cycle assessment (LCA) techniques to evaluate the processes controling the environmental impacts of anaerobic digestion (AD) pathways on a modeled dairy farm setting representative of Wisconsin. Seven electricity‐producing AD pathways are compared against a base‐case (BC) pathway to understand the effect of management practices, co‐digestion strategies, and energy conversion processes on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, ammonia (NH3) emissions, depletion of fossil fuels (DFF), and nutrient balances. The pathway selected has a substantial influence on the estimates of environmental impacts. GHG emissions range from 178 to 267 kg CO2‐eq GJ−1, NH3 emissions range from 11 to 18 kg GJ−1, DFF range from 176 to 327 MJ GJ−1, and N availability ranges from 7 to 15 kg GJ−1 of produced energy. The results of this paper show that the environmental benefits and concerns of anaerobic digestion systems can be further improved with the adoption of management practices on‐farm. Injection of digestate during land application is an effective management practice to reduce NH3 emissions, which at the same time increases N availability and reduces GHG emissions and DFF given that the manufacturing of purchased fertilizers is fossil energy intensive. Co‐digesting manure with corn stover and switchgrass increases energy production. Recovering heat has proven to be an easy to adopt strategy that improves all sustainability indicators without implementing major operational changes. Finally, 100 kg CO2‐eq GJ−1, 4.2 kg NH3 GJ−1 and 566 MJ GJ−1 are determined for GHG emissions, NH3 emissions and DFF respectively for a compressed biogas pathway. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
A Quantitative Approach to Assessing Sovereign Default Risk in Resource‐Rich Emerging Economies
Authors: Nyambuu Unurjargal , Bernard Lucas
Published: May 2015

The problem of sovereign default is a tricky one for bankers, policy makers, politicians and investors alike. Purely financial models are likely to miss nuance and cultural idiosyncrasies. Nonetheless, risk metrics must play a role. Using a stochastic growth model in an open economy, we propose a Kealhofer, McQuown and Vasicek (KMV)‐style approach for assessing sovereign default risk in resource‐rich emerging economies. As is well known, financial effects, specifically external debt, can make a country vulnerable to economic shocks. Excessive external debt is, thus, a prime indicator for financial health in both resource‐poor and resource‐rich countries; yet, safe ratios are difficult to determine. Using a straightforward and easily implementable methodology, we show how optimal debt ratios may be used to define a ‘distance from default’ indicator variable. Further, we demonstrate that this is a plausible risk metric for a number of different developing countries, including representatives from Latin America, Africa and Asia. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An automated perfusion bioreactor for the streamlined production of engineered osteogenic grafts
Authors: Ding Ming , Henriksen Susan S. , Wendt David , Overgaard Søren
Published: May 2015

A computer‐controlled perfusion bioreactor was developed for the streamlined production of engineered osteogenic grafts. This system automated the required bioprocesses, from the initial filling of the system through the phases of cell seeding and prolonged cell/tissue culture. Flow through chemo‐optic micro‐sensors allowed to non‐invasively monitor the levels of oxygen and pH in the perfused culture medium throughout the culture period. To validate its performance, freshly isolated ovine bone marrow stromal cells were directly seeded on porous scaffold granules (hydroxyapatite/β‐tricalcium‐phosphate/poly‐lactic acid), bypassing the phase of monolayer cell expansion in flasks. Either 10 or 20 days after culture, engineered cell‐granule grafts were implanted in an ectopic mouse model to quantify new bone formation. After four weeks of implantation, histomorphometry showed more bone in bioreactor‐generated grafts than cell‐free granule controls, while bone formation did not show significant differences between 10 days and 20 days of incubation. The implanted granules without cells had no bone formation. This novel perfusion bioreactor has revealed the capability of activation larger viable bone graft material, even after shorter incubation time of graft material. This study has demonstrated the feasibility of engineering osteogenic grafts in an automated bioreactor system, laying the foundation for a safe, regulatory‐compliant, and cost‐effective manufacturing process. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 532–537, 2016.
Reduced oxidative stress in primary human cells by antioxidant released from nanoporous alumina
Authors: Pujari‐Palmer Shiuli , Pujari‐Palmer Michael , Karlsson Ott Marjam
Published: May 2015

Nanoporous alumina elicits different inflammatory responses dependent on pore size, such as increased complement activation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, on 200 versus 20 nm pores. In this study, we attempt to further modulate inflammatory cell response by loading nanoporous alumina membranes (20, 100, and 200 nm pores), with an antioxidant, Trolox, for controlled drug release. For mononuclear cells (MNC) no difference in cell response, due to pore size, was seen when cultured on nonloaded membranes. However, when exposed to membranes loaded with Trolox, 100 uM was enough to quench ROS by more than 95% for all pore sizes. Polymorphonuclear cells (PMNC) produced significantly more ROS when exposed to 20 versus 100 nm pores. For Trolox loaded membranes, this trend reversed, due to slower release of antioxidant from the 20 nm pores. Furthermore, Trolox exhibited a unique effect on PMNCs that has not previously been reported: It delayed the production of ROS in a manner distinct from antioxidant activity. The present study confirms that nanoporous alumina is a suitable vehicle for drug delivery, and that Trolox can successfully modulate the inflammatory response of both MNC and PMNCs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 568–575, 2016.
Evaluation of a performance appraisal framework for radiation therapists in planning and simulation
Authors: Becker Jillian , Bridge Pete , Brown Elizabeth , Lusk Ryan , Ferrari‐Anderson Janet
Published: May 2015

Introduction

Constantly evolving technology and techniques within radiation therapy require practitioners to maintain a continuous approach to professional development and training. Systems of performance appraisal and adoption of regular feedback mechanisms are vital to support this development yet frequently lack structure and rely on informal peer support.

Methods

A Radiation Therapy Performance Appraisal Framework (RT‐PAF) for radiation therapists in planning and simulation was developed to define expectations of practice and promote a supportive and objective culture of performance and skills appraisal. Evaluation of the framework was conducted via an anonymous online survey tool. Nine peer reviewers and fourteen recipients provided feedback on its effectiveness and the challenges and limitations of the approach.

Results

Findings from the evaluation were positive and suggested that both groups gained benefit from and expressed a strong interest in embedding the approach more routinely. Respondents identified common challenges related to the limited ability to implement suggested development strategies; this was strongly associated with time and rostering issues.

Conclusions

This framework successfully defined expectations for practice and provided a fair and objective feedback process that focussed on skills development. It empowered staff to maintain their skills and reach their professional potential. Management support, particularly in regard to provision of protected time was highlighted as critical to the framework's ongoing success. The demonstrated benefits arising in terms of staff satisfaction and development highlight the importance of this commitment to the modern radiation therapy workforce.
Microextraction methods for the determination of phthalate esters in liquid samples: A review
Authors: Farajzadeh Mir Ali , Sorouraddin Saeed Mohammad , Afshar Mogaddam Mohammad Reza
Published: May 2015

1,2‐Benzenedicarboxylic acid esters, commonly referred to as phthalate esters, form a group of compounds that are mainly used as plasticizers in polymers. Because phthalate esters are not chemically bound to the plastics, they can be released easily from products and migrate into the food or water that comes into direct contact. Due to their widespread use, they are considered as ubiquitous environmental pollutants. Phthalate esters are regarded as endocrine disrupting compounds by means of their carcinogenic effect. Phthalate esters can be analyzed by gas chromatography or high‐performance liquid chromatography, however, their sensitivity and selectivity limit their direct use for determination of phthalates at very low level of concentrations exist in environmental samples with complex matrices. Therefore a sample pretreatment prior to their analysis is necessary. In this review, the historical development and overview of sample preparation methodologies have briefly been discussed and a comprehensive application of these methods in combination with different analytical techniques for preconcentration and determination of phthalate esters in various matrices have been summarized. Finally, a critical comparison of the different approaches in terms of enrichment factors achieved, extraction efficiency, precision, selectivity and simplicity of operation is provided.