bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly efficient full‐wave electromagnetic analysis of 3‐D arbitrarily shaped waveguide microwave devices using an integral equation technique
Authors: Vidal A. , San‐Blas A. A. , Quesada‐Pereira F. D. , Pérez‐Soler J. , Gil J. , Vicente C. , Gimeno B. , Boria V. E.
Published: June 2015

A novel technique for the full‐wave analysis of 3‐D complex waveguide devices is presented. This new formulation, based on the Boundary Integral‐Resonant Mode Expansion (BI‐RME) method, allows the rigorous full‐wave electromagnetic characterization of 3‐D arbitrarily shaped metallic structures making use of extremely low CPU resources (both time and memory). The unknown electric current density on the surface of the metallic elements is represented by means of Rao‐Wilton‐Glisson basis functions, and an algebraic procedure based on a singular value decomposition is applied to transform such functions into the classical solenoidal and nonsolenoidal basis functions needed by the original BI‐RME technique. The developed tool also provides an accurate computation of the electromagnetic fields at an arbitrary observation point of the considered device, so it can be used for predicting high‐power breakdown phenomena. In order to validate the accuracy and efficiency of this novel approach, several new designs of band‐pass waveguides filters are presented. The obtained results (S‐parameters and electromagnetic fields) are successfully compared both to experimental data and to numerical simulations provided by a commercial software based on the finite element technique. The results obtained show that the new technique is specially suitable for the efficient full‐wave analysis of complex waveguide devices considering an integrated coaxial excitation, where the coaxial probes may be in contact with the metallic insets of the component.
Belief in Pseudoscience, Cognitive Style and Science Literacy
Authors: Majima Yoshimasa
Published: June 2015

Most studies of superstitious belief have focused on paranormal phenomena, but this study extended existing findings to non‐paranormal pseudoscience by exploring links between belief and dual‐process thought (cognitive ability and intuitive‐analytical thinking styles). In the present study, Japanese participants (N = 264; 188 women, 76 men; mean age = 25.0; range = 18–81) completed questionnaires on cognitive style and ability and level of beliefs and science literacy. Results showed that belief in paranormal and non‐paranormal pseudoscience correlated positively; after controlling for demographic variables, level of science literacy and cognitive ability, both analytic and intuitive cognitive styles positively predicted paranormal belief. Belief in non‐paranormal pseudoscience associated positively with analytic, but not intuitive style. These results follow the dual‐process view of belief perseverance; however, analytic style affected beliefs oppositely from previous studies. This discrepancy might emerge from Western and Eastern cultural differences in reasoning. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sleep, Pain Catastrophizing, and Central Sensitization in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients With and Without Insomnia
Authors: Campbell Claudia M. , Buenaver Luis F. , Finan Patrick , Bounds Sara C. , Redding Mary , McCauley Lea , Robinson Mercedes , Edwards Robert R. , Smith Michael T.
Published: June 2015

Objective

Osteoarthritis (OA), a chronic degenerative joint disorder, is characterized by joint pain. Emerging research demonstrates that a significant number of patients evidence central sensitization (CS), a hyperexcitability in nociceptive pathways, which is known to amplify and maintain clinical pain. The clinical correlates of CS in OA, however, are poorly understood. Insomnia is prevalent in older adults with OA, and recent experiments suggest associations between poor sleep and measures of CS. Catastrophizing, a potent predictor of pain outcomes, has also been associated with CS, but few studies have investigated possible interactions between catastrophizing, sleep, and CS.

Methods

We conducted a case–control study of 4 well‐characterized groups of adults with insomnia and/or knee OA. A total of 208 participants completed multimodal sleep assessments (questionnaire, diary, actigraphy, and polysomnography) and extensive evaluation of pain using clinical measures and quantitative sensory testing to evaluate associations between CS, catastrophizing, and insomnia. Descriptive characterization of each measure is presented, with specific focus on sleep efficiency and CS.

Results

The knee OA–insomnia group demonstrated the greatest degree of CS compared to controls. In the overall sample, we found that catastrophizing moderated the relationship between sleep efficiency and CS. Specifically those with low sleep efficiency and high catastrophizing scores reported increased levels of CS. In addition, CS was significantly associated with increased clinical pain.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the importance of assessing sleep efficiency, CS, and catastrophizing in chronic pain patients and have important clinical implications for treatment planning.
Biofunctionalized Nanostructured Zirconia for Biomedical Application: A Smart Approach for Oral Cancer Detection
Authors: Kumar Suveen , Kumar Saurabh , Tiwari Sachchidanand , Srivastava Saurabh , Srivastava Manish , Yadav Birendra Kumar , Kumar Saroj , Tran Thien Toan , Dewan Ajay Kumar , Mulchandani Ashok , Sharma Jai Gopal , Maji Sagar , Malhotra Bansi Dhar
Published: June 2015

Results of the studies are reported relating to application of the silanized nanostructured zirconia, electrophoretically deposited onto indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass for covalent immobilization of the monoclonal antibodies (anti‐CYFRA‐21‐1). This biosensing platform has been utilized for a simple, efficient, noninvasive, and label‐free detection of oral cancer via cyclic voltammetry technique. The results of electrochemical response studies conducted on bovine serum albumin (BSA)/anti‐CYFRA‐21‐1/3‐aminopropyl triethoxy silane (APTES)/ZrO2/ITO immunoelectrode reveal that this immunoelectrode can be used to measure CYFRA‐21‐1 (oral cancer biomarker) concentration in saliva samples, with a high sensitivity of 2.2 mA mL ng−1, a linear detection range of 2–16 ng mL−1, and stability of six weeks. The results of these studies have been validated via enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.
Gray zone lymphoma with features intermediate between classicalHodgkin lymphoma and diffuse largeB‐cell lymphoma:Characteristics, outcomes, and prognostication among a large multicenter cohort
Authors: Evens Andrew M. , Kanakry Jennifer A. , Sehn Laurie H. , Kritharis Athena , Feldman Tatyana , Kroll Aimee , Gascoyne Randy D. , Abramson Jeremy S. , Petrich Adam M. , Hernandez‐Ilizaliturri Francisco J. , Al‐Mansour Zeina , Adeimy Camille , Hemminger Jessica , Bartlett Nancy L. , Mato Anthony , Caimi Paolo F. , Advani Ranjana H. , Klein Andreas K. , Nabhan Chadi , Smith Sonali M. , Fabregas Jesus C. , Lossos Izidore S. , Press Oliver W. , Fenske Timothy S. , Friedberg Jonathan W. , Vose Julie M. , Blum Kristie A.
Published: June 2015

Gray zone lymphoma (GZL) with features between classical Hodgkin lymphoma and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a recently recognized entity reported to present primarily with mediastinal disease (MGZL). We examined detailed clinical features, outcomes, and prognostic factors among 112 GZL patients recently treated across 19 North American centers. Forty‐three percent of patients presented with MGZL, whereas 57% had non‐MGZL (NMGZL). NMGZL patients were older (50 versus 37 years,P = 0.0001); more often had bone marrow involvement (19% versus 0%,P = 0.001); >1 extranodal site (27% versus 8%,P = 0.014); and advanced stage disease (81% versus 13%,P = 0.0001); but they had less bulk (8% versus 44%,P = 0.0001), compared with MGZL patients. Common frontline treatments were cyclophosphamide‐doxorubicin‐vincristine‐prednisone +/− rituximab (CHOP+/−R) 46%, doxorubicin‐bleomycin‐vinblastine‐dacarbazine +/− rituximab (ABVD+/−R) 30%, and dose‐adjusted etoposide‐doxorubicin‐cyclophosphamide‐vincristine‐prednisone‐rituximab (DA‐EPOCH‐R) 10%. Overall and complete response rates for all patients were 71% and 59%, respectively; 33% had primary refractory disease. At 31‐month median follow‐up, 2‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival rates were 40% and 88%, respectively. Interestingly, outcomes in MGZL patients seemed similar compared with that of NMGZL patients. On multivariable analyses, performance status and stage were highly prognostic for survival for all patients. Additionally, patients treated with ABVD+/−R had markedly inferior 2‐year PFS (22% versus 52%,P = 0.03) compared with DLBCL‐directed therapy (CHOP+/−R and DA‐EPOCH‐R), which persisted on Cox regression (hazard ratio, 1.88; 95% confidence interval, 1.03–3.83;P = 0.04). Furthermore, rituximab was associated with improved PFS on multivariable analyses (hazard ratio, 0.35; 95% confidence interval, 0.18–0.69;P = 0.002). Collectively, GZL is a heterogeneous and likely more common entity and often with nonmediastinal presentation, whereas outcomes seem superior when treated with a rituximab‐based, DLBCL‐specific regimen. Am. J. Hematol. 90:778–783, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nasal endoscopic evaluation and its impact on survival in patients with stage I/II extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma, nasal type
Authors: Cho Hyun‐Jin , Jang Min‐Seok , Hong Sang Duk , Kim Seok Jin , Ahn Yong Chan , Oh Dongryul , Ko Young Hyeh , Kim Hyo Yeol , Dhong Hun‐Jong , Chung Seung‐Kyu , Kim Won Seog
Published: June 2015

Background

Endoscopic findings of extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma (ENKTL), nasal type, are heterogeneous, but not fully understood. The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of nasal endoscopic examination and its implications for treatment of stage I/II ENKTL.

Methods

This retrospective study included 60 consecutive patients diagnosed with stage I/II ENKTL, nasal type, from 2000 to 2011.

Results

The endoscopic findings were classified into early (45%) and advanced (55%) lesions. Furthermore, the primary tumor extent assessed by endoscopy was significantly correlated with the radiologic imaging (p < 0.001). The results of univariate analysis showed that the patients with advanced lesions had worse overall survival (p = 0.004) and disease‐free survival (p = 0.001) than those with early lesions. In multivariate analysis, advanced lesions on nasal endoscopy was an independent prognostic factor (p = 0.024; hazard ratio 5.29; 95% confidence interval, 1.25–22.39).

Conclusion

We found that nasal endoscopic findings were important prognostic factors in stage I/II ENKTL, nasal type, suggesting that comprehensive endoscopic evaluation of primary tumor should be performed in this setting.
LMNB1‐related autosomal‐dominant leukodystrophy: Clinical and radiological course
Authors: Finnsson Johannes , Sundblom Jimmy , Dahl Niklas , Melberg Atle , Raininko Raili
Published: June 2015

Objective

Duplication of the LMNB1 gene encoding lamin B1 causes adult‐onset autosomal‐dominant leukodystrophy (ADLD) starting with autonomic symptoms, which are followed by pyramidal signs and ataxia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain reveals characteristic findings. This is the first longitudinal study on this disease. Our objective is to describe the natural clinical and radiological course of LMNB1‐related ADLD.

Methods

Twenty‐three subjects in two families with LMNB1 duplications were studied over two decades with clinical assessment and MRI of the brain and spinal cord. They were 29 to 70 years old at their first MRI. Repeated MRIs were performed in 14 subjects over a time period of up to 17 years.

Results

Pathological MRI findings were found in the brain and spinal cord in all examinations (i.e., even preceding clinical symptoms). MRI changes and clinical symptoms progressed in a definite order. Autonomic dysfunction appeared in the fifth to sixth decade, preceding or together with gait and coordination difficulties. Motor signs developed ascending from spastic paraplegia to tetraplegia and pseudobulbar palsy in the seventh decade. There were clinical, radiological, and neurophysiological signs of myelopathy. Survival lasted more than two decades after clinical onset.

Interpretation

LMNB1‐related ADLD is a slowly progressive neurological disease. MRI abnormalities of the brain and spinal cord can precede clinical symptoms by more than a decade and are extensive in all symptomatic patients. Spinal cord involvement is a likely contributing factor to early autonomic symptoms and spastic paraplegia. Ann Neurol 2015;78:412–425
Defektmanipulierte Metall‐organische Gerüste
Authors: Fang Zhenlan , Bueken Bart , De Vos Dirk E. , Fischer Roland A.
Published: June 2015

Die gezielte Manipulation Metall‐organischer Gerüste (MOFs) ist ein interessantes Konzept zur Entwicklung maßgeschneiderter Materialeigenschaften, das nicht nur in den Gebieten der Sorption und Katalyse neue Möglichkeiten schafft, sondern auch bei der Kontrolle anspruchsvollerer physikalischer Merkmale wie der Bandlücke sowie magnetischer und elektrischer Eigenschaften. Bisher gab es wenig Bemühungen, die intrinsischen oder absichtlich geschaffenen Defekte verschiedenster Art zu charakterisieren. Basierend auf Veröffentlichungen aus den letzten Jahrzehnten schließt dieser Aufsatz die Lücke, indem er einen prägnanten Überblick über Defekte in MOFs, oder weiter gefasst in Koordinationsnetzwerk‐Verbindungen (CNCs), gibt und deren Klassifikation und Charakterisierung sowie (mögliche) Anwendungen der defekthaltigen CNCs/MOFs einschließt. Außerdem werden wir wichtige Aspekte des Konzepts der “Defektmanipulation” in Anwendung an CNCs hervorheben, auch in Gegenüberstellung mit relevanten Feststoffen wie Zeolithen oder kovalenten organischen Gerüsten (COFs). Zuletzt werden wir das Potenzial der defektmanipulierten CNCs für die Zukunft diskutieren.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Pyrrole‐Based Spiro‐ and Polycyclic Derivatives by Iridium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Allylic Dearomatization and Controllable Migration Reactions
Authors: Zhuo Chun‐Xiang , Cheng Qiang , Liu Wen‐Bo , Zhao Qiang , You Shu‐Li
Published: June 2015

The first highly diastereo‐ and enantioselective synthesis of five‐membered spiro‐2H‐pyrroles was achieved using an Ir‐catalyzed asymmetric allylic dearomatization reaction. The spiro‐2H‐pyrrole derivatives readily undergo a controllable and stereospecific allylic migration under acid catalysis, providing polycyclic pyrrole derivatives in excellent yields and ee values. Additionally, the novel Ir‐complex K1, derived from [Ir(cod)Cl]2 (cod=1,5‐cyclooctadiene) and N‐benzhydryl‐N‐phenyldinaphthophosphoramidite (BHPphos), showed excellent control of both diastereo‐ and enantioselectivities.
Fluorreiche Fluoride – neue Erkenntnisse über die Chemie von Polyfluoridanionen
Authors: Vent‐Schmidt Thomas , Brosi Felix , Metzger Jens , Schlöder Tobias , Wang Xuefeng , Andrews Lester , Müller Carsten , Beckers Helmut , Riedel Sebastian
Published: June 2015

Polyfluoride wurden mittels Matrixisolationsspektroskopie und quantenchemischen Berechnungen auf Coupled‐Cluster‐Niveau untersucht. Erstmalig konnte ein höheres Polyfluoridanion spektroskopisch in Neonmatrices bei 4 K nachgewiesen werden. Das C2v‐symmetrische [F5]− weist eine sehr starke Bande bei 850 cm−1 auf. Darüber hinaus wird eine neue Bande für den Cs+[F3]−‐Komplex in Neon beschrieben.
Efficient Visible‐Light‐Driven Z‐Scheme Overall Water Splitting Using a MgTa2O6−xNy /TaON Heterostructure Photocatalyst for H2 Evolution
Authors: Chen Shanshan , Qi Yu , Hisatomi Takashi , Ding Qian , Asai Tomohiro , Li Zheng , Ma Su Su Khine , Zhang Fuxiang , Domen Kazunari , Li Can
Published: June 2015

An (oxy)nitride‐based heterostructure for powdered Z‐scheme overall water splitting is presented. Compared with the single MgTa2O6−xNy or TaON photocatalyst, a MgTa2O6−xNy /TaON heterostructure fabricated by a simple one‐pot nitridation route was demonstrated to effectively suppress the recombination of carriers by efficient spatial charge separation and decreased defect density. By employing Pt‐loaded MgTa2O6−xNy /TaON as a H2‐evolving photocatalyst, a Z‐scheme overall water splitting system with an apparent quantum efficiency (AQE) of 6.8 % at 420 nm was constructed (PtOx‐WO3 and IO3−/I− pairs were used as an O2‐evolving photocatalyst and a redox mediator, respectively), the activity of which is circa 7 or 360 times of that using Pt‐TaON or Pt‐MgTa2O6−xNy as a H2‐evolving photocatalyst, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest AQE among the powdered Z‐scheme overall water splitting systems ever reported.
Molecular CsF5 and CsF2+
Authors: Rogachev Andrey Yu. , Miao Mao‐sheng , Merino Gabriel , Hoffmann Roald
Published: June 2015

D5h star‐like CsF5, formally isoelectronic with known XeF5− ion, is computed to be a local minimum on the potential energy surface of CsF5, surrounded by reasonably large activation energies for its exothermic decomposition to CsF+2 F2, or to CsF3 (three isomeric forms)+F2, or for rearrangement to a significantly more stable isomer, a classical Cs+ complex of F5−. Similarly the CsF2+ ion is computed to be metastable in two isomeric forms. In the more symmetrical structures of these molecules there is definite involvement in bonding of the formally core 5p levels of Cs.
Percolation and catalysis effect of bamboo‐based active carbon on the thermal and flame retardancy properties of ethylene vinyl‐acetate rubber
Authors: Peng Hui , Feng Jie , Zhou You , Li Zhuoshi , Zou Hongfei , Hao Jianwei
Published: June 2015

The effect of percolation and catalysis of bamboo‐based active carbon (BAC) on the thermal degradation and flame retardancy of ethylene vinyl‐acetate rubber (EVM) composites with intumescent flame retardants (IFR) consisting of ammonium polyphosphate (APP) and dipentaerythritol (DPER) has been investigated. The vulcanization characteristics were analyzed by a moving die rheometer. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and fire behavior tests such as limiting oxygen index (LOI), vertical burning (UL 94), and cone calorimetry were used to evaluate the thermal properties and flame retardancy of EVM composites. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to study the morphology of residues of EVM composites. The addition of BAC significantly increased the maximum torque (MH) of EVM composites and EVM matrices. The combination of IFR with BAC can improve the thermal stability of EVM composites. Moreover, BAC can enhance char residue and promote the formation of a network for IFR. The current EVM/37IFR/3BAC composite achieved an LOI of 33.6% and a UL 94 V‐0 rating. The PHRR, total heat release (THR), and total smoke release (TSR) for EVM/IFR/BAC were greatly reduced as compared to EVM/40IFR. Also, the mechanical properties of the EVMIFR/BAC composites increased with increasing BAC contents. The physical percolation effect between BAC and EVM before and after thermal degradation, and the chemical catalysis effect between BAC and IFR during thermal degradation are responsible for the improved flame retardancy of EVM composites. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2015,132, 42414.
Preparation of conducting polysiloxane/polyaniline composites
Authors: Depa Katarzyna , Strachota Adam , Stejskal Jaroslav , Bober Patrycja , Cimrová Věra , Prokeš Jan , Trchová Miroslava , Šlouf Miroslav , Hodan Jiří
Published: June 2015

Polysiloxane/polyaniline microcomposites were prepared, in which polyaniline particles act as filler, thus combining the mechanical properties of polysiloxane matrix with conductivity of polyaniline. Two syntheses were evaluated: (1) homogeneous dispersion of a polyaniline colloid in the reaction mixture from which the polysiloxane matrix subsequently formed, and (2) the blending of previously prepared dry polyaniline particles with a liquid oligomeric siloxane resin followed by cure (“heterogeneous method”). Both methods lead to composites with evenly distributed filler. Electrical conductivity was achieved above 40 wt % of polyaniline, which is better obtained by the “heterogeneous” method. During the composite cure, the polyaniline particles, which are softer than the matrix, act as a catalyst and cause more efficient matrix crosslinking, thus leading to somewhat raised moduli. Although particulate fillers usually deteriorate the impact toughness, in the case of the prepared composites, the impact toughness was preserved due to the softer consistence of the filler, which hinders crack propagation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42429.
Biocompatible, ionic‐strength‐sensitive, double‐network hydrogel based on chitosan and an oligo(trimethylene carbonate)–poly(ethylene glycol)–oligo(trimethylene carbonate) triblock copolymer
Authors: Cao Zheng , Yang Quanzhu , Fan Changjiang , Liu Lijian , Liao Liqiong
Published: June 2015

A double‐network (DN) hydrogel was prepared through the sequential photopolymerization of oligo(trimethylene carbonate) (TPT)‐block‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐oligo(trimethylene carbonate) diarylate and methacrylated chitosan (CS–MA). The swelling behavior and mechanical properties of the hydrogels were tunable via the control of the concentration of CS–MA. Under physiological conditions, the fracture stress of the DN hydrogel reached 3.4 MPa; this was more than twice that of the corresponding TPT‐block‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐TPT single network (1.6 MPa). At high ionic strength, the fracture stress of the DN hydrogel reached 6.4 MPa. The DN hydrogel exhibited good cytocompatibility, as revealed by a live–dead assay. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42459.
Use of ionic liquids based on phosphonium salts for preparing biocomposites by in situ polymerization
Authors: Totaro Grazia , Marchese Paola , Sisti Laura , Celli Annamaria
Published: June 2015

A sodium montmorillonite, Dellite HPS, was modified with ionic liquids based on phosphonium salts, such as octadecyltriphenylphosphonium tetrafluoroborate and octadecyltriphenylphosphonium bromide. Thanks to their high thermal stability, these salts can be used during in situ polymerization, a method that favors the achievement of a good dispersion of the clay. Poly(1,4‐dimethylcyclohexane adipate) (PCHA), was chosen as an example of aliphatic polyester which can be a suitable matrix for new biocomposites with organo‐clays. The organo modified clays prepared were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy, and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) while biocomposites were analyzed in terms of molecular structure, thermal and thermomechanical properties. The degree of dispersion of the clays in the polymer matrix was studied by XRD. The results show that the clays are well dispersed in the biocomposites, despite an intercalated structure highlighted by XRD analysis. Moreover, the clays confer a certain improvement in mechanical properties to the final materials. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42467.
6‐O‐dodecyl‐chitosan carbamate–based pH‐responsive polymeric micelles for gene delivery
Authors: Chen Huiying , Zhao Yinan , Cui Shaohui , Zhi Defu , Zhang Shubiao , Peng Xiaojun
Published: June 2015

pH‐responsiveness is highly desirable in the stimuli‐responsive controlled release because of the distinct advantages of the fast response of pH‐triggered release and the available pH‐difference between intra‐ and extra‐cells. The present work reported a kind of novel pH‐responsive polymeric micelles, which was derived from biopolymer of 6‐O‐dodecyl‐chitosan carbamate (DCC) and evaluated as gene‐controlled release vector. The amphiphilic and amino‐rich DDC was synthesized through a protection‐graft‐deprotection method. 13C CP/MAS NMR, FTIR, and elemental analysis identified that dodecyls were chemoselectively grafting at 6‐hydroxyls of chitosan via the pH‐responsive bonds of carbamate, and the substitute degree (SD) was 14%. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) showed that DCC self‐assembled into polymeric micelles in aqueous solutions. The DCC polymeric micelles formed complexes with pDNA, which was elucidated by Gel retardation, TEM, and DLS. Transfection and cytotoxicity assays in A549 cells showed that DCC polymeric micelles were suitable for gene delivery. The improved transfection was attributed to the pH‐responsiveness and the moderate pDNA‐binding affinity, which led to easier release of pDNA intra‐cells. The synthesized DCC polymeric micelles might be a promising and safe candidate as nonviral vectors for gene delivery. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42469.
Studies of solvent effect on the conductivity of 2‐mercaptopyridine‐doped solid polymer blend electrolytes and its application in dye‐sensitized solar cells
Authors: Theerthagiri Jayaraman , Senthil Raja Arumugam , Ali@Buraidah Mohd Hamdi , Madhavan Jagannathan , Mohd Arof Abdul Kariem
Published: June 2015

Solvents and electrolytes play an important role in the fabrication of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). We have studied the poly(ethylene oxide)‐poly(methyl methacrylate)‐KI‐I2 (PEO‐PMMA‐KI‐I2) polymer blend electrolytes prepared with different wt % of the 2‐mercaptopyridine by solution casting method. The polymer electrolyte films were characterized by the FTIR, X‐ray diffraction, electrochemical impedance and dielectric studies. FTIR spectra revealed complex formation between the PEO‐PMMA‐KI‐I2 and 2‐mercaptopyrindine. Ionic conductivity data revealed that 30% 2‐mercaptopyridine‐doped PEO‐PMMA‐KI‐I2 electrolyte can show higher conductivity (1.55 × 10−5 S cm−1) than the other compositions (20, 40, and 50%). The effect of solvent on the conductivity and dielectric of solid polymer electrolytes was studied for the best composition (30% 2‐mercaptopyridine‐doped PEO‐PMMA‐KI‐I2) electrolyte using various organic solvents such as acetonitrile, N,N‐dimethylformamide, 2‐butanone, chlorobenzene, dimethylsulfoxide, and isopropanol. We found that ac‐conductivity and dielectric constant are higher for the polymer electrolytes processed from N,N‐dimethylformamide. This observation revealed that the conductivity of the solid polymer electrolytes is dependent on the solvent used for processing and the dielectric constant of the film. The photo‐conversion efficiency of dye‐sensitized solar cells fabricated using the optimized polymer electrolytes was 3.0% under an illumination of 100 mW cm−2. The study suggests that N,N‐dimethylformamide is a good solvent for the polymer electrolyte processing due to higher ac‐conductivity beneficial for the electrochemical device applications. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42489.
PPS/recycled PEEK/ carbon nanotube composites: Structure, properties and compatibility
Authors: Deng Shuling , Lin Zhidan , Cao Lin , Xian Jiaming , Liu Chunyuan
Published: June 2015

Blends of poly(phenylene sulfide) (PPS) and recycled poly(ether ether ketone) (r‐PEEK) were prepared using a twin‐screw extruder. The carbon nanotube (CNT) added to the blends not only improved the compatibility of the two polymers, but also affected the morphology of the immiscible PPS/r‐PEEK blends. R‐PEEK always forms the dispersed phase and PPS the continuous phase in such blends. In the composite, CNT particles were observed in the PPS phase, mostly distributes in the interface between PPS and PEEK. The results show that r‐PEEK improves the impact and tensile strength of PPS, but does not provide nucleation effect on PPS. However, CNT improved the flexural modulus of PPS/r‐PEEK blends and promoted the crystallization of r‐PEEK rather than that of PPS. The prepared PPS/r‐PEEK blends provided larger electrical conductivity than neat polymers. Adding 20 wt % CNT to blend resulted in composite with the minimum volume resistivity, a reduction of four orders of magnitude, compared with that of the neat blend. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42497.
Towards meso‐Ester BODIPYs with Aggregation‐Induced Emission Properties: The Effect of Substitution Positions
Authors: Chua Ming Hui , Ni Yong , Garai Monalisa , Zheng Bin , Huang Kuo‐Wei , Xu Qing‐Hua , Xu Jianwei , Wu Jishan
Published: June 2015

Three meso‐ester boron dipyrromethene (BODIPY) dyes have been synthesized and functionalized with aggregation‐induced emission (AIE)‐active tetraphenylethene or triphenylethene moieties. It was found that functionalizing at the different positions of the BODIPY core resulted in the final dye having different emission properties in response to aggregation: from aggregation‐induced quenching (ACQ) to being AIE active. X‐ray crystallographic analysis was thus performed to provide an explanation for these differences.
Realization of FTA with High Tracking Accuracy in FSO
Authors: Lv Chun Lei , Li Yan , Zhang Yun Feng , Jiang Hui Lin , Tong Shou Feng
Published: June 2015

High tracking accuracy is a prerequisite of reliable space optical communication links and its effective means is the utilization of coarse and fine compound‐axis structure. After an in‐depth study of the active laser tracking mechanism of fine tracking assembly, this paper emphasizes the exploration of these methods enabling the improvement of tracking accuracy under the condition of relative movement and platform vibration. Firstly, switching technique using a single beacon between different divergence angles is put forward to improve the signal to noise ratio (SNR) of the focal spot. Secondly, the high‐frame rate charge‐coupled device is achieved after proposing the pseudo random window readout technique. Thirdly, the unique design of the high resonant frequency of two‐dimensional PZT fast steering mirror (FSM) and sub‐pixel subdivision technique with adaptive control of integral time is used to achieve high accuracy and fast beam pointing. Fourthly, this paper puts forward a digital servol control method with intelligent variable structure. Finally, after building a hardware‐in‐loop simulation platform, the tracking accuracy of 3μrad is concluded according to simulation experimental results.
Conserved genetic pathways associated with microphthalmia, anophthalmia, and coloboma
Authors: Reis Linda M. , Semina Elena V.
Published: June 2015

The human eye is a complex organ whose development requires extraordinary coordination of developmental processes. The conservation of ocular developmental steps in vertebrates suggests possible common genetic mechanisms. Genetic diseases involving the eye represent a leading cause of blindness in children and adults. During the last decades, there has been an exponential increase in genetic studies of ocular disorders. In this review, we summarize current success in identification of genes responsible for microphthalmia, anophthalmia, and coloboma (MAC) phenotypes, which are associated with early defects in embryonic eye development. Studies in animal models for the orthologous genes identified overlapping phenotypes for most factors, confirming the conservation of their function in vertebrate development. These animal models allow for further investigation of the mechanisms of MAC, integration of various identified genes into common developmental pathways and finally, provide an avenue for the development and testing of therapeutic interventions. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 105:96–113, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthetic vectors for gene delivery: An overview of their evolution depending on routes of administration.
Authors: Belmadi Nawal , Midoux Patrick , Loyer Pascal , Passirani Catherine , Pichon Chantal , Le Gall Tony , Jaffres Paul‐Alain , Lehn Pierre , Montier Tristan
Published: June 2015

Nucleic acid delivery constitutes an emerging therapeutic strategy to cure various human pathologies. This therapy consists of introducing genetic material into the whole body or isolated cells to correct a cellular abnormality or disfunction. As with any drug, the main objective of nucleic acid delivery is to establish optimal balance between efficacy and tolerance. The methods of administration and the vectors used are selected depending on whether the goal of treatment is the production of an active protein; the replacement of a missing or inactive gene; or the combat of acquired diseases, such as cancer or AIDS. In that sense, synthetic vectors represent a valuable solution because they are well characterized, their structure can be fine tuned, and their potential toxicity can be reduced, since toxicity depends on the composition of the formulations. Here we review various synthetic vectors for gene delivery and address the question of their biodistribution as a function of the route of administration. We highlight the modifications to vectors structure and formulations necessary to overcome the major hurdles limiting the effectiveness of nucleic acid therapies.
Meta-analysis of surgical outcome after enucleation versus standard resection for pancreatic neoplasms
Authors: Hüttner F J , Koessler-Ebs J , Hackert T , Ulrich A , Büchler M W , Diener M K
Published: June 2015

Background

Pancreatic enucleation is a tissue-sparing approach to pancreatic neoplasms and may result in better postoperative pancreatic function than standard pancreatic resection. The objective of this review was to compare the postoperative outcome after pancreatic enucleation versus standard resection.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library were searched systematically until February 2015 to identify studies comparing the outcome of enucleation versus standard resection for pancreatic neoplasms. After critical appraisal, meta-analysis was performed and the findings were presented as odds ratios or weighted mean differences with corresponding 95 per cent c.i.

Results

Twenty-two observational studies (1148 patients) were included. Duration of surgery (P < 0·001), blood loss (P < 0·001), length of hospital stay (P = 0·04), and postoperative endocrine (P < 0·001) and exocrine (P = 0·01) insufficiency were lower after enucleation than after standard resection. Mortality (P = 0·44), overall complications (P = 0·74), reoperation rate (P = 0·93) and delayed gastric emptying (P = 0·15) were not significantly different between the two approaches. The overall rate of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) was higher after enucleation than after standard resection (P < 0·001). However, the raised POPF rate did not result in higher mortality or overall morbidity. Sensitivity analysis of high-volume studies (total of more than 20 enucleations and more than 4 per year) showed that, in specialized centres, enucleation can be performed with no increased risk of POPF (P = 0·12).

Conclusion

Compared with standard resection, pancreatic enucleation can be performed effectively and with comparable safety in high-volume institutions. Enucleation should be considered instead of standard resection for selected pancreatic neoplasms.
Adjuvant taxanes and the development of breast cancer-related arm lymphoedema
Authors: Cariati M , Bains S K , Grootendorst M R , Suyoi A , Peters A M , Mortimer P , Ellis P , Harries M , Van Hemelrijck M , Purushotham A D
Published: June 2015

Background

Despite affecting approximately one-quarter of all patients undergoing axillary lymph node dissection, the pathophysiology of breast cancer-related lymphoedema (BCRL) remains poorly understood. More extensive locoregional treatment and higher body mass index have long been identified as major risk factors. This study aimed to identify risk factors for BCRL with a specific focus on the potential impact of chemotherapy on the risk of BCRL.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of a cohort of consecutive patients with breast cancer treated at a major London regional teaching hospital between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2012. All patients had node-positive disease and underwent axillary lymph node dissection. Data regarding tumour-, patient- and treatment-related characteristics were collected prospectively. The diagnosis of BCRL was based on both subjective and objective criteria. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression was used to assess the association between treatment and risk of BCRL.

Results

Some 27·1 per cent of all patients (74 of 273) developed BCRL over the study period. Administration of taxanes showed a strong association with the development of BCRL, as 52 (33·5 per cent) of 155 patients who received taxanes developed BCRL. Multivariable Cox regression analysis demonstrated that patients who received taxanes were nearly three times more likely to develop BCRL than patients who had no chemotherapy (hazard ratio 2·82, 95 per cent c.i. 1·31 to 6·06). No such increase was observed when taxanes were administered in the neoadjuvant setting.

Conclusion

The present findings suggest that adjuvant taxanes play a key role in the development of BCRL after surgery. This may support the use of taxanes in a neoadjuvant rather than adjuvant setting.
The ratio of oxidized and reduced forms of selected antioxidants as a possible marker of oxidative stress in humans
Authors: Kanďár Roman
Published: June 2015

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between reactive oxygen species exposure and the ability of organisms to detoxify the reactive intermediates and to repair the oxidative damage of biologically important molecules. Many clinical studies of oxidative stress unfortunately provide conflicting and contradictory results. The ability of antioxidant systems to adequately respond to oxidative stress can be used in laboratory diagnostics. In the present review, methods using the ratio of reduced and oxidized forms of uric acid, ascorbic acid, glutathione and coenzyme Q10as suitable indicators of oxidative stress are discussed. From the mentioned publications it is evident that suitable sample preparation prior to analysis is crucial. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Parallel manipulator software tool for design, analysis, and simulation of 195 GSP mechanisms
Authors: Toz Metin , Kucuk Serdar
Published: June 2015

In this paper, a new parallel manipulator software tool based on the MATLAB Graphical User Interface (GUI) is developed for design, analysis and simulation of 195 6‐DOF General Stewart Platform mechanisms (GSP). The new proposed tool called as GSPDAP uses four basic leg types (SPS, SPC, CPS, and CCC) to design GSP mechanisms. Point or line coordinates required for leg connections are sufficient for GSPDAP to design a GSP mechanism. Once the design of a GSP mechanism is completed, GSPDAP provides the user with several analyses such as inverse kinematics, Jacobian matrix, workspace, and dexterity. It is not necessary for the user to have preliminary knowledge to obtain the inverse kinematics or Jacobian matrix etc. Additionally, GSPDAP generates symbolic equations for the inverse kinematics and the inverse Jacobian matrices of 195 GSP mechanisms. Including 195 parallel manipulator in its library, GSPDAP provides the educational users to profoundly improve the understanding of parallel manipulator fundamentals through interactive simulation. Parallel manipulators are more complex structures than their serial counterparts. Therefore, designing even one parallel manipulator is very cumbersome and expensive issue. In this condition GSPDAP may provide educators and students to design their manipulators in a computer environment with minimum cost. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 23:931–946, 2015; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI 10.1002/cae.21665
Direct Synthesis of Phosphorus‐Doped Mesoporous Carbon Materials for Efficient Electrocatalytic Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Zhu Yun‐Pei , Liu Youlin , Liu Yu‐Ping , Ren Tie‐Zhen , Chen Tiehong , Yuan Zhong‐Yong
Published: June 2015

Chemical doping has been recognized as a promising route to achieve novel physicochemical functions of porous carbons as metal‐free catalysts in renewable energy‐related technologies, such as electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, it remains challenging to exploit an effective method for the synthesis of metal‐free carbonaceous electrocatalysts. Herein, we report the direct synthesis of phosphorus‐doped mesoporous carbonaceous electrocatalysts for the first time through soft‐templating method, in which organophosphonic acid serves as the phosphorus source. The resulting mesoporous carbon material possesses high doping level, large surface area, and an interconnected mesopore system, ensuring the sufficient exposure and availability of catalytic sites to realize considerable catalytic activity for ORR in alkaline media. More importantly, much better tolerance for methanol oxidation, higher durability, and comparable Tafel slopes as compared with the commercial Pt/carbon (Pt/C) catalyst are valuable for developing alternative fuel cells and metal–air batteries.
Reactivity of Para‐Substituted Fluorobenzenes in Palladium‐catalyzed Intermolecular Direct Arylations
Authors: He Mian , Soulé Jean‐François , Doucet Henri
Published: June 2015

The influence of both electron‐withdrawing and electron‐donating substituents such as amino, bromo, chloro, ketone, methyl, methoxy, and nitro at C‐4 on fluorobenzene derivatives, for palladium‐catalyzed direct arylation at α‐position to the fluorine atom has been explored. With moderate electron‐withdrawing substituents, the reaction proceeds nicely using phosphine‐free PdCl2 catalyst, at a very low loading, and potassium pivalate/dimethylacetamide (PivOK/DMA) as catalytic system. In all cases, a regioselective arylation at the α position to the fluorine atom was observed. Moreover, a wide variety of substituents on the aryl bromide coupling partner, such as formyl, nitro, nitrile, chloro, and methyl, and also heteroaryl bromides was tolerated.
Shape and Size Control of LiFePO4 for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liang Yachun , Wen Kechun , Mao Yiwu , Liu Zhongping , Zhu Gaolong , Yang Fei , He Weidong
Published: June 2015

Olivine‐type LiFePO4, which is an extensively employed cathode material in lithium‐ion batteries, has attracted much attention due to its abundance, low cost, low toxicity, and high thermal stability. However, low electronic conductivity and sluggish lithium‐ion diffusion in LiFePO4 result in poor rate capability, which seriously limits its applications in next‐generation green and sustainable power systems. Extensive efforts have focused on exploring efficient synthetic approaches to optimize its performance by controlling the particle size and shape. In this Review, we first summarize the typical synthetic methods for LiFePO4 and follow with a discussion of the correlation between LiFePO4 crystal size/morphology and the associated electrochemical performance. Our overview seeks to provide insightful guidance for the design of high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries with highly efficient and cost‐effective LiFePO4 cathode materials.
Structure Modification Function of g‐C3N4 for Al2O3 in the In Situ Hydrothermal Process for Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Li Fa‐tang , Liu Shao‐jia , Xue Ya‐bin , Wang Xiao‐jing , Hao Ying‐juan , Zhao Jun , Liu Rui‐hong , Zhao Dishun
Published: June 2015

Heterojunctions of g‐C3N4/Al2O3 (g‐C3N4=graphitic carbon nitride) are constructed by an in situ one‐pot hydrothermal route based on the development of photoactive γ‐Al2O3 semiconductor with a mesoporous structure and a high surface area (188 m2g−1) acting as electron acceptor. A structure modification function of g‐C3N4 for Al2O3 in the hydrothermal process is found, which can be attributed to the coordination between unoccupied orbitals of the Al ions and lone‐pair electrons of the N atoms. The as‐synthesized heterojunctions exhibit much higher photocatalytic activity than pure g‐C3N4. The hydrogen generation rate and the reaction rate constant for the degradation of methyl orange over 50 % g‐C3N4/Al2O3 under visible‐light irradiation (λ>420 nm) are 2.5 and 7.3 times, respectively, higher than those over pristine g‐C3N4. The enhanced activity of the heterojunctions is attributed to their large specific surface areas, their close contact, and the high interfacial areas between the components as well as their excellent adsorption performance, and efficient charge transfer ability.
Iron/Brønsted Acid Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation: Mechanism and Selectivity‐Determining Interactions
Authors: Hopmann Kathrin H.
Published: June 2015

Hydrogenation catalysts involving abundant base metals such as cobalt or iron are promising alternatives to precious metal systems. Despite rapid progress in this field, base metal catalysts do not yet achieve the activity and selectivity levels of their precious metal counterparts. Rational improvement of base metal complexes is facilitated by detailed knowledge about their mechanisms and selectivity‐determining factors. The mechanism for asymmetric imine hydrogenation with Knölker’s iron complex in the presence of chiral phosphoric acids is here investigated computationally at the DFT‐D level of theory, with models of up to 160 atoms. The resting state of the system is found to be an adduct between the iron complex and the deprotonated acid. Rate‐limiting H2 splitting is followed by a stepwise hydrogenation mechanism, in which the phosphoric acid acts as the proton donor. CH⋅⋅⋅O interactions between the phosphoric acid and the substrate are involved in the stereocontrol at the final hydride transfer step. Computed enantiomeric ratios show excellent agreement with experimental values, indicating that DFT‐D is able to correctly capture the selectivity‐determining interactions of this system.
Size‐Dependent Enantioselective Adsorption of Racemic Molecules through Homochiral Metal–Organic Frameworks Embedding Helicity
Authors: Xu Zhong‐Xuan , Fu Hong‐Ru , Wu Xin , Kang Yao , Zhang Jian
Published: June 2015

Homochiral metal–organic frameworks (HMOFs) are efficient materials for enantioselective adsorption. However, the combination of size selectivity and enantioselectivity is still a major challenge in the field of HMOFs. Herein, two enantiomorphic HMOFs built from predesigned proline‐derived ligands are presented. Both of them show multiple homochiral features: they contain four different helical chains and three types of helical channels. Due to the size effect of the helical channels, each HMOF can enantioselectively adsorb methyl lactate with high ee. The results reveal a new approach toward size‐dependent enantioselective separation of racemic compounds by using HMOFs built from inexpensive proline derivatives.
Combined Spectroscopic and Electrochemical Detection of a NiI⋅⋅⋅HN Bonding Interaction with Relevance to Electrocatalytic H2Production
Authors: Kochem Amélie , O'Hagan Molly , Wiedner Eric S. , van Gastel Maurice
Published: June 2015

The [Ni(PR2NR′2)2]2+family of complexes are exceptionally active catalysts for proton reduction to H2. In this manuscript, we explore the first protonation step of the proposed catalytic cycle by using a catalytically inactive NiIcomplex possessing a sterically demanding variation of the ligand. Due to the paramagnetic nature of the NiIoxidation state, the protonated NiIintermediate has been characterized through a combination of cyclic voltammetry, electron nuclear double resonance (ENDOR) spectroscopy, and hyperfine sublevel correlation (HYSCORE) spectroscopy. Both the electrochemical and spectroscopic studies indicate that the NiIcomplex is protonated at a pendant amine that isendoto Ni, which suggests the presence of an intramolecular NiI⋅⋅⋅HN bonding interaction. Using density functional theory, the hydrogen bond was found to involve three doubly‐occupied, localized molecular orbitals: the 3dxz, 3d, and 3dyzorbitals of nickel. These studies provide the first direct experimental evidence for this critical catalytic intermediate, and implications for catalytic H2production are discussed.