bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biowaste‐Derived Hierarchical Porous Carbon Nanosheets for Ultrahigh Power Density Supercapacitors
Authors: Yu Dengfeng , Chen Chong , Zhao Gongyuan , Sun Lei , Du Baosheng , Zhang Hong , Li Zhuo , Sun Ye , Besenbacher Flemming , Yu Miao
Published: March 2018

Low‐cost activated carbons with high capacitive properties remain desirable for supercapacitor applications. Herein, a three‐dimensional scaffolding framework of porous carbon nanosheets (PCNSs) has been produced from a typical biowaste, namely, ground cherry calyces, the specific composition and natural structures of which have contributed to the PCNSs having a very large specific surface area of 1612 m2 g−1, a hierarchical pore size distribution, a turbostratic carbon structure with a high degree graphitization, and about 10 % oxygen and nitrogen heteroatoms. A high specific capacitance of 350 F g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 has been achieved in a two‐electrode system with 6 m KOH; this value is among the highest specific capacitance of biomass‐derived carbon materials. More inspiringly, a high energy density of 22.8 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 198.8 W kg−1 can be obtained with 1 m aqueous solution of Li2SO4, and an ultrahigh energy density of 81.4 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 446.3 W kg−1 is realized with 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate electrolyte.
Testing the predictions of sex allocation hypotheses in dimorphic, cooperatively breeding riflemen
Authors: Khwaja Nyil , Preston Stephanie A. J. , Briskie James V. , Hatchwell Ben J.
Published: March 2018

Evolutionary theory predicts that parents should invest equally in the two sexes. If one sex is more costly, a production bias is predicted in favour of the other. Two well‐studied causes of differential costs are size dimorphism, in which the larger sex should be more costly, and sex‐biased helping in cooperative breeders, in which the more helpful sex should be less costly because future helping “repays” some of its parents’ investment. We studied a bird species in which both processes should favor production of males. Female riflemen Acanthisitta chloris are larger than males, and we documented greater provisioning effort in more female‐biased broods indicating they are likely costlier to raise. Riflemen are also cooperative breeders, and males provide more help than females. Contrary to expectations, we observed no male bias in brood sex ratios, which did not differ significantly from parity. We tested whether the lack of a population‐wide pattern was a result of facultative sex allocation by individual females, but this hypothesis was not supported either. Our results show an absence of adaptive patterns despite a clear directional hypothesis derived from theory. This appears to be associated with a suboptimal female‐biased investment ratio. We conclude that predictions of adaptive sex allocation may falter because of mechanistic constraint, unrecognized costs and benefits, or weak selection.
Development of eco‐hydraulic model for assessing fish habitat and population status in freshwater ecosystems
Authors: Yao Weiwei , Bui Minh Duc , Rutschmann Peter
Published: March 2018

An eco‐hydraulic model is described, namely, “WW‐Eco‐tools.” The model is composed of hydro‐morpho‐dynamic, habitat, and population models. Fish habitat suitability models assess habitat quality, based on abiotic parameters, namely, flow velocity, depth, and substratum data. These are all derived from a hydro‐morpho‐dynamic model. The relationships between parameters and habitat features are represented as suitability index curves (SI curves) or fuzzy rules. To dynamically simulate fish species, two different population models are developed. The first is converted from a logistic population concept. Its model parameters are related to time‐dependent fish habitat conditions, namely, weighted usable areas and an overall suitability index. The second model is based on a matrix population concept, with numbers as the only state vector. Age‐specific fecundities and survival rates depend on the habitat qualities defined in the matrix population model. The eco‐hydraulic model provides very promising results, highlighting the fundamental role of temporal variability of hydro‐morphological parameters in structuring habitat and populations of fish species. Using this software to anticipate water management changes, simulated population trends can help decision‐makers optimize management measures.
A comparison of the effect of beaver and human‐made impoundments on stream zooplankton
Authors: Czerniawski Robert , Sługocki Łukasz
Published: March 2018

Small human‐made dams and beaver ponds cause significant changes in the environment of small streams. The decreased current velocity and increased water retention time in these impoundments favour the development of limnetic organisms, for example, zooplankton. However, small human‐made reservoirs are regulated, deep and narrow, whereas beavers create relatively large impoundments with numerous shallow patches and their impact on the stream zooplankton communities can be different. We compared the effect of beaver ponds and small reservoirs on the zooplankton communities in streams. Three sample collection sites were established in each stream. Site 1 was approximately 100 m upstream of the water impoundment formed by the dam. Site 2 was at the dam impoundment of the stream water. Site 3 was approximately 300 m below the dam. Beaver ponds have a larger impact on the zooplankton richness and the abundance changes compared with seminatural reservoirs not maintained by people, and a much greater impact than reservoirs regularly cleaned and regulated. Beaver ponds create heterogeneous environment that favour the occurrence of a greater number of zooplankton species compared with small reservoirs. Moreover, the increase in organic matter in the downstream areas could lead to trophic changes in the stream.
A simple greenhouse experiment to explore the effect of cryogenic water extraction for tracing plant source water
Authors: Orlowski N. , Winkler A. , McDonnell J.J. , Breuer L.
Published: March 2018

Stable isotopes of water (2H and 18O) are useful tracers for determining root water uptake depths. In such studies, plant and soil water are extracted most commonly by cryogenic vacuum distillation. However, recent studies have suggested that cryogenic extraction conditions (extraction time, temperature, and vacuum) and soil physicochemical properties affect the isotopic composition of extracted soil water. Here, we perform a simple greenhouse trial with 2 plant species (Taraxacum officinale and Pelargonium spp.) in 2 soil types (clayey loam and sand) to test our ability to match plant water to its putative soil water source(s) by using different extraction conditions (30–240 min, 80–200 °C, 0.1 Pa). We irrigated plants with water of known isotopic composition, sampled root crowns and soils at 2 depths, and varied the cryogenic water extraction conditions.

Our isotope results from the sandy soils were unaffected by cryogenic extraction conditions. In contrast, extraction parameters affected the isotope composition of waters recovered from clayey soil. This influenced the estimates of plant water sourcing, where δ2H and δ18O returned different results from each other. With higher extraction temperatures and longer extraction times, we gradually extracted more enriched soil water, which reflected the source water of both plant species. Our results imply that longer extraction times and temperatures for clayey soils are needed to reduce fractionation effects during the extraction procedure. Future studies should explore how these effects apply to natural clay‐rich soils as well as plant tissue isotope composition.
A network model for primary production highlights linkages between salmonid populations and autochthonous resources
Authors: Saunders W. Carl , Bouwes Nicolaas , McHugh Peter , Jordan Chris E.
Published: March 2018

Spatial variation in fish densities across river networks suggests that the influence of food and habitat resources on assemblages varies greatly throughout watersheds. Conceptual models predict that in situ primary production should vary with river characteristics, but the influence of autochthonous resource availability on the capacity for river reaches to support fish is poorly understood. We estimated primary production throughout the South Fork and Middle Fork of the John Day River, Oregon, by measuring diel cycles in dissolved oxygen (DO) during July 2013. Using these data, we (1) evaluated the extent to which juvenile salmonid abundance and resource limitation correlated with areas of high gross primary production (GPP), (2) developed models to predict GPP from both site‐level measurements and remotely sensed data, and (3) made predictions of GPP across the entirety of the Middle Fork John Day River (MFJD) network and assessed the utility of these spatially continuous predictions for describing variation fish densities at broad scales. We produced reliable estimates of GPP at sites where DO loggers were deployed using measurements of solar exposure, water temperature, and conductivity measured at each site, as well as surrogates for these data estimated from remote sensing data sources. Estimates of GPP across fish sampling sites explained, on average, 58–63% of the variation in juvenile salmonid densities during the summer sampling period, and 51–83% during the fall sampling period, while continuous network predictions of GPP explained 44% of the variation in fish densities across 29 km of the MFJD. Further, GPP explained nearly half of the variation in juvenile steelhead dietary resource limitation, as inferred from bioenergetics modeling results. These results comprise a first effort at quantifying variation in autochthonous production across an entire river network and, importantly, provide a much‐needed food‐web context for guiding more effective fish and habitat management.
Dispersal: a matter of scale
Authors: Morton Elise R. , McGrady Michael J. , Newton Ian , Rollie Chris J. , Smith George D. , Mearns Richard , Oli Madan K.
Published: March 2018

Population density around the natal site is often invoked as an explanation for variation in dispersal distance, with the expectation that competition for limiting resources, coupled with increased intra‐specific aggression at high densities, should drive changes in dispersal distances. However, tests of the density‐dependent dispersal hypothesis in long‐lived vertebrates have yielded mixed results. Furthermore, conclusions from dispersal studies may depend on the spatial and temporal scales at which density and dispersal patterns are examined, yet multi‐scale studies of dispersal are rare. Here, we present the findings of a long‐term study examining factors influencing natal dispersal distances for the non‐migratory population of Peregrine Falcons (Falco peregrinus) in the British Isles across distinct spatial and temporal scales. Our smallest scale study included Peregrines ringed as nestlings and subsequently recaptured alive in south Scotland–north England, an area that was intensively studied during the time periods 1974–1982 and 2002–2016. Second, we examined dispersal patterns of birds ringed as nestlings in south Scotland–north England, but subsequently recaptured alive or recovered dead anywhere in the British Isles. Finally, we examined the natal dispersal patterns for Peregrines ringed and recaptured or recovered anywhere in the British Isles from 1964 to 2016. Consistent with prior findings, females dispersed farther than males across all scales. However, the patterns of dispersal were strongly scale dependent. Specifically, we found a lack of a discernible relationship between index of density and dispersal distance in the limited study area, but when region‐wide recaptures and recoveries were included in the analyses, a negative relationship was revealed. Our results suggest that conclusions of dispersal studies may be scale dependent, highlighting the importance of spatial and temporal scales in examining and interpreting the relationship between population density and dispersal patterns.
High‐Voltage Power Generation on Spacecraft
Authors: TOYODA KAZUHIRO
Published: March 2018

Spacecraft need high‐voltage power generation for high power. However, the high voltage can cause severe discharge problem on spacecraft. This paper describes the mechanism of spacecraft charging and discharging. Mitigation methods are also mentioned.
Development of Identification Unit for Two‐dimensional RFID‐Tag with UHF Band
Authors: MAYAMA KYOSUKE , OKANO YOSHINOBU
Published: March 2018

Recently, the system for massed tag management (at 13.56 MHz) and the system for the long distance identification (at 920 MHz) have been carried out to practical use. For continuous logistics, it is desired that those be integrated seamlessly. However, integration into the system, which uses the frequency band of 13.56 MHz, is disadvantageous to keep the feature of the long distance identification. In this paper, the system that identifies nearby cluttered tags by the frequency band for the long distance identification is described.
Porous and Transparent Metal‐oxide Electrodes :  Preparation Methods and Electroanalytical Application Prospects
Authors: Mierzwa Maciej , Lamouroux Emmanuel , Walcarius Alain , Etienne Mathieu
Published: March 2018

A review on the preparation methods for porous and transparent metal‐oxide electrodes is provided alongside a discussion of existing and possible electrochemical and electroanalytical applications. The elaboration routes include non‐templated particle deposition, template approaches, physical deposition methods, etching and electrospinning. Applications of such materials are mainly found in energy conversion and storage (photovoltaics, water splitting) and electroanalysis.
When significance becomes insignificant: Effect sizes and their uncertainties in Bayesian and frequentist frameworks as an alternative approach when analyzing ecotoxicological data
Authors: Feckler Alexander , Low Matthew , Zubrod Jochen P. , Bundschuh Mirco
Published: March 2018

Bayesian methods and frequentist confidence intervals are proposed as an alternative approach in ecotoxicology, emphasizing effect sizes and associated (un)certainties to judge the biological relevance of effects instead of basing decisions on p values. These approaches show advantages over null hypothesis significance testing. In particular, Bayesian methods revealed more potential than frequentist counterparts, as the posterior distribution and its credible intervals can be directly interpreted as the probability of effect sizes. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:1949–1955. © 2018 SETAC
On the spectrum of the Steger‐Warming flux‐vector splitting scheme
Authors: Witherden F.D. , Jameson A.
Published: March 2018

The flux‐vector splitting scheme of Steger and Warming is a popular approach for the Euler equations. In this work, we consider the spectrum of the scheme and show for 1≤γ≤5/3, where γ is the ideal gas constant, that the eigenvalues are strictly real and of an appropriate sign.
Acid Distribution and Durability of HT‐PEM Fuel Cells with Different Electrode Supports
Authors: Kannan A. , Li Q. , Cleemann L. N. , Jensen J. O.
Published: March 2018

The durability of high‐temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (HT‐PEMFCs) was studied with phosphoric acid doped membranes of polybenzimidazole (PBI). One of the challenges for this technology is the loss and instability of phosphoric acid resulting in performance degradation after long‐term operation. The effect of the gas diffusion layers (GDL) on acid loss was studied. Four different commercially available GDLs were subjected to passive ex situ acid uptake by capillary forces and the acid distribution mapped over the cross‐section. Materials with an apparent fine structure made from carbon black took up much more acid than materials with a more coarse apparent structure made from graphitized carbon. The same trend was evident from thermally accelerated fuel cell tests at 180 °C under constant load where degradation rates depended strongly on the choice of GDL material, especially on the cathode side. Acid was collected from the fuel cell exhaust at rates clearly correlated to the fuel cell degradation rates, but amounted to less than 6% of the total acid content in the cell even after significant degradation. Long‐term durability of more than 5,500 h with a degradation rate of 12 µV h−1 at 180 °C and 200 mA cm−2 was demonstrated with the GDL that retained acid most efficiently.
Rapid detection of superficial head and neck squamous cell carcinoma by topically spraying fluorescent probe targeting dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV
Authors: Mizushima Takeshi , Ohnishi Shunsuke , Shimizu Yuichi , Hatanaka Yutaka , Hatanaka Kanako C. , Kuriki Yugo , Kamiya Mako , Homma Akihiro , Yamamoto Keiko , Ono Shouko , Urano Yasuteru , Sakamoto Naoya
Published: March 2018

Background

A fluorescent probe glutamylprolyl hydroxymethyl rhodamine green (EP‐HMRG), which becomes fluorescent after cleavage by dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV (DPP‐IV), has been reported to be useful for the detection of esophageal cancer. Thus, we investigated whether head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) can be detected by spraying EP‐HMRG.

Methods

Fluorescence imaging of 17 cases of HNSCCs resected using endoscopic or surgical resection was performed ex vivo after spraying EP‐HMRG, and then the fluorescence intensity of the tumors and normal mucosa were measured.

Results

Iodine‐voiding lesions became fluorescent within a few minutes after the application of EP‐HMRG in 12 resected tumors without a history of radiotherapy but this was not observed in the normal mucosa. Fluorescence intensity in tumor lesions was significantly higher than normal lesions. However, 5 other tumors that developed after radiotherapy did not have sufficient contrast against normal mucosa.

Conclusion

Fluorescence imaging with EP‐HMRG would be useful for rapid detection of superficial HNSCC without a history of radiotherapy.
The value of endocervical curettage during loop electrosurgical excision procedures in predicting persistent/recurrent preinvasive cervical disease
Authors: Cuello Mauricio A. , Espinosa María E. , Orlandini Elisa J. , Hwang Du Y.
Published: March 2018

Objective

To evaluate the usefulness of endocervical curettage (ECC) during loop electrosurgical excision procedures (LEEPs) in predicting the risk of persistence/recurrence of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or higher (CIN2+) and informing clinical decision‐making after LEEP.

Methods

The present retrospective study included women undergoing LEEP for CIN2+ at a teaching hospital in Chile between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2014. Demographic, pathologic, and follow‐up data were collected. Associations between predictors and treatment failure (persistent/recurrent disease) were examined; a Cox model was used to assess the effects of different variables on the failure rate.

Results

The analysis included 330 women with a mean follow‐up of 29.4 months; 188 women underwent ECC at the time of LEEP. On multivariate analysis, a positive ECC was the only variable significantly associated with persistence/recurrence (P=0.001). In the Cox model, positive ECC (P=0.001) and positive margins (P=0.009) were independently associated with higher failure rates. When faced with positive ECC findings, clinicians tended to perform additional treatment instead of advising follow‐up.

Conclusion

Positive findings from ECC performed during LEEP were a better predictor of persistent/recurrent disease than margin status, after adjusting the individual variable effect in the Cox modelling. The performance of ECC is recommended during any LEEP performed for CIN2+; in particular, it should never be omitted if endocervical disease is suspected.
The effectiveness of the peak relational training system and corresponding changes on the VB‐MAPP for young adults with autism
Authors: Dixon Mark R. , Wiggins Scott H. , Belisle Jordan
Published: March 2018

The current investigation sought to extend prior research evaluating the use of the PEAK Relational Training System as a comprehensive treatment model in improving language skills demonstrated by individuals with autism. Baseline PEAK‐Direct Training and Verbal Behavior Milestone Assessment and Placement Program (VB‐MAPP) assessments were conducted across 3 adult male participants, and scores on the PEAK‐Direct Training assessment were used to select targets for intervention. Language instruction guided by the PEAK‐Direct Training module was implemented for 45 to 69 days across participants. Results suggest that participants mastered target skills throughout the training phase, and VB‐MAPP test probes showed an increasing trend. Follow‐up probes suggested that scores on the VB‐MAPP maintained when training was discontinued. In addition, participants demonstrated an increase in assessment scores on the PEAK‐Direct Training assessment in the follow‐up phase, including the mastery of untargeted verbal skills.
A carbon quantum dots‐enhanced chemiluminescence method for the determination of gallic acid in food samples
Authors: Chen Xiaoxia , Zhang Junmei , Han Suqin , Liu Haizhen , Du Yao
Published: March 2018

In this work, we show that gallic acid can significantly inhibit the chemiluminescence (CL) intensity of carbon quantum dots (CQDs)‐enhanced K3Fe(CN)6–luminol system. Under optimum conditions, the decrease in the CL intensity is proportional to the concentration of gallic acid over the range 0.01–1.0 μM, and the detection limit is 1.0 nM. The relative standard deviation of repeated intraday and interday determinations of gallic acid was 1.2–4.2%. This method was successfully applied to the determination of gallic acid in food samples, with recoveries in the range 94.0–103.0%. A possible mechanism of CL is discussed.
Effect of stand origin and slope position on infiltration pattern and preferential flow on a Loess hillslope
Authors: Mei Xuemei , Zhu Qingke , Ma Lan , Zhang Dong , Wang Yu , Hao Wenjing
Published: March 2018

Preferential flow is expected to provide an important pathway to replenish soil water at deep soil layers in arid or semiarid areas; however, few studies have addressed this topic, especially in semiarid Loess hillslopes. This study aimed to quantify the effect of stand origin and slope position on the contribution of preferential flow to total infiltration and spatial variations in water flow. A blue dye tracer experiment was conducted to visualize water flow in Robinia pseudoacacia plantation (PL), natural forestland (NF), and natural grassland (NG) at the upslope, midslope, and downslope, and semivariance analysis was used to determine spatial variability at the centimeter scale. The results showed that role of macropore flow was dominant in upslope and midslope, and larger in NF than that in PL and NG, due to presence of abundant root systems in the upper soil of NF. Moreover, contribution of preferential flow at the upper slope in NF was larger than that in PL. At the downslope, the role of rock fragments coverage at the downslope was emphasized, leading lateral flow dominant at the downslope in PL and NG. In addition, contribution of preferential flow and vertical variability of infiltration at the downslope in PL was higher than that in NF. The findings demonstrate that compared with PL, NF has a more positive impact on increasing infiltration and preferential flow that can replenish deep soil water, and reducing surface runoff and soil erosion. The presence of rock fragments coverage can make lateral flow dominant at the downslope on the Loess hillslope, related to water movement along the slope toward streams and catchment outlets.
The Effect of Lean‐Seafood and Non‐Seafood Diets on Fecal Metabolites and Gut Microbiome: Results from a Randomized Crossover Intervention Study
Authors: Schmedes Mette , Brejnrod Asker Daniel , Aadland Eli Kristin , Kiilerich Pia , Kristiansen Karsten , Jacques Hélène , Lavigne Charles , Graff Ingvild Eide , Eng Øyvin , Holthe Asle , Mellgren Gunnar , Young Jette Feveile , Sundekilde Ulrik Kræmer , Liaset Bjørn , Bertram Hanne Christine
Published: March 2018

Scope

The impact of dietary protein types on the gut microbiome is scarcely studied. The aim of the present study is therefore to examine the effects of lean‐seafood and non‐seafood proteins on the gut microbiome composition and activity and elucidate potential associations to cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors.

Methods

A crossover intervention study in which 20 healthy subjects consumed two diets that varied in protein source was conducted. 1H NMR spectroscopy and 16S rDNA sequencing analyses were applied to characterize fecal metabolites and gut microbiota composition, respectively.

Results

A twofold increase in fecal trimethylamine excretion was observed after the lean‐seafood diet period. Circulating TAG and the total to high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol ratio as well as circulating TMAO levels were each associated with specific gut bacteria. Following the non‐seafood diet period, a decreased relative abundance of Clostridium cluster IV and a tendency toward an increased Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio were found.

Conclusions

Lean‐seafood and non‐seafood diets differentially modulate the gut microbiome composition and activity. Furthermore, the gut microbiota composition seems to affect circulating TMAO levels and CVD risk factors.
Telehealth applications for outpatients with neuromuscular or musculoskeletal disorders
Authors: Howard Ileana M. , Kaufman Marla S.
Published: March 2018

Telehealth describes the provision of medical services remotely through technology, and may enhance patient access to specialty care services. Although teleneurology has expanded widely since the introduction of telestroke in 1999, telehealth services for outpatients with neuromuscular or musculoskeletal disorders are less widespread. In this narrative review, we will describe the current technology, applications, outcomes, and limitations of this dynamically growing field. Evidence for telehealth applications related to neuromuscular diseases, palliative care, specialized multidisciplinary services, and musculoskeletal care are reviewed. With growing demand for specialized services and finite resources, telehealth provides a promising avenue to promote access to high‐quality care, decrease the cost and burden of travel for patients, and with the expansion of software to personal computing and mobile devices, offer flexible, low‐overhead practice opportunities for clinicians. Providers embarking on careers in telehealth should be aware of current legal restrictions impacting care to minimize risk and avoid liability. Muscle Nerve 58: 475–485, 2018
Mexiletine for muscle cramps in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A randomized, double‐blind crossover trial
Authors: Oskarsson Björn , Moore Dan , Mozaffar Tahseen , Ravits John , Wiedau‐Pazos Martina , Parziale Nicholas , Joyce Nanette C. , Mandeville Ross , Goyal Namita , Cudkowicz Merit E. , Weiss Michael , Miller Robert G. , McDonald Craig M.
Published: March 2018

Introduction: More than 90% of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients have muscle cramps, but evidence‐based treatments have not been available. Methods: A multicenter, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled crossover trial of mexiletine 150 mg twice daily was conducted in ALS patients requesting treatment of symptomatic muscle cramps. Results: Muscle cramp frequency was reduced in 18 of 20 patients; 13 reductions were attributed to treatment (P < 0.05). The average reduction, based on t tests, was 1.8 cramps per day (a reduction from 5.3 with placebo to 3.5 with mexiletine). The estimated reduction of cramp severity was 15 units on a 100‐unit scale (P = 0.01) from a baseline average of 46. No effect on fasciculations was noted. One patient discontinued the study because of dizziness, and another patient discontinued the study to start open‐label mexiletine therapy. No serious adverse event occurred. Discussion: Mexiletine is a well tolerated and effective medication for controlling the symptom of muscle cramps in ALS. Muscle Nerve 58: 42–48, 2018
Equivalent continuum strain calculations based on 3D particle kinematic measurements of sand
Authors: Amirrahmat Siavash , Alshibli Khalid A. , Jarrar Maha F. , Zhang Boning , Regueiro Richard A.
Published: March 2018

Constitutive modeling of granular materials has been a subject of extensive research for many years. While the calculation of the Cauchy stress tensor using the discrete element method has been well established in the literature, the formulation and interpretation of the strain tensor are not as well documented. According to Bagi, researchers mostly adopt well‐known continuum or discrete microstructural approaches to calculate strains within granular materials. However, neither of the 2 approaches can fully capture the behavior of granular materials. They are considered complementary to each other where each has its own strengths and limitations in solving granular‐mechanics problems. Zhang and Regueiro proposed an equivalent continuum approach to calculating finite strain measures at the local level in granular materials subjected to large deformations. They used three‐dimensional discrete element method results to compare the proposed strains measures. This paper presents an experimental application of the Zhang and Regueiro approach using three‐dimensional synchrotron microcomputed tomography images of a sheared Ottawa sand specimen. Invariant Eulerian finite strain measures were calculated for representative element volumes within the specimen. The spatial maps of Eulerian octahedral shear and volumetric strain were used to identify zones of intense shearing within the specimen and compared well with maps of incremental particle translation and rotation for the same specimen. The local Eulerian volumetric strain was compared to the global volumetric strains, which also can be considered as an averaging of all local Eulerian volumetric strains.
Adulthood transitions in health and welfare; a literature review
Authors: Munck Berit , Björklund Anita , Jansson Inger , Lundberg Kristina , Wagman Petra
Published: March 2018

Aim

The aim of the literature review was to describe how adulthood transition is used in health and welfare.

Design

A qualitative design with a deductive approach were used.

Methods

As material, 283 articles published in scientific journals, between 2011–August 2013, were selected. The search was conducted August 2013. The data were analysed and sorted in a categorization matrix.

Results

Transition was identified as a process mainly related to the four types previously identified; developmental, situational, health‐illness and organizational transitions. Another one transition was also identified, lifestyle transition.
Comparison of the MHC I Immunopeptidome Repertoire of B‐Cell Lymphoblasts Using Two Isolation Methods
Authors: Lanoix Joël , Durette Chantal , Courcelles Mathieu , Cossette Émilie , Comtois‐Marotte Simon , Hardy Marie‐Pierre , Côté Caroline , Perreault Claude , Thibault Pierre
Published: March 2018

Significant technological advances in both affinity chromatography and mass spectrometry have facilitated the identification of peptides associated with the major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC I) molecules, and enabled a greater understanding of the dynamic nature of the immunopeptidome of normal and neoplastic cells. While the isolation of MHC I‐associated peptides (MIPs) typically used mild acid elution (MAE) or immunoprecipitation (IP), limited information currently exists regarding their respective analytical merits. Here, a comparison of these approaches for the isolation of two different B‐cell lymphoblast cell models is presented, and it is reported on the recovery, reproducibility, scalability, and complementarity of identification from each method. Both approaches yielded reproducible datasets for peptide extracts obtained from 2 to 100 million cells, with 2016 to 5093 MIPs, respectively. The IP typically provides up to 6.4‐fold increase in MIPs compared to the MAE. The comprehensiveness of these immunopeptidome analyses is extended using personalized genomic database of B‐cell lymphoblasts, and it is discovered that 0.4% of their respective MIP repertoire harbored nonsynonymous single nucleotide variations (also known as minor histocompatibility antigens, MiHAs).
Swendsen‐Wang algorithm on the mean‐field Potts model
Authors: Galanis Andreas , Štefankovič Daniel , Vigoda Eric
Published: March 2018

We study the q‐state ferromagnetic Potts model on the n‐vertex complete graph known as the mean‐field (Curie‐Weiss) model. We analyze the Swendsen‐Wang algorithm which is a Markov chain that utilizes the random cluster representation for the ferromagnetic Potts model to recolor large sets of vertices in one step and potentially overcomes obstacles that inhibit single‐site Glauber dynamics. Long et al. studied the case q = 2, the Swendsen‐Wang algorithm for the mean‐field ferromagnetic Ising model, and showed that the mixing time satisfies: (i) for , (ii) for , (iii) for , where βc is the critical temperature for the ordered/disordered phase transition. In contrast, for there are two critical temperatures that are relevant. We prove that the mixing time of the Swendsen‐Wang algorithm for the ferromagnetic Potts model on the n‐vertex complete graph satisfies: (i) for , (ii) for , (iii) for , and (iv) for . These results complement refined results of Cuff et al. on the mixing time of the Glauber dynamics for the ferromagnetic Potts model.
Confirmation of the Structure of Trans‐Cyclic Azobenzene by X‐Ray Crystallography and Spectroscopic Characterization of Cyclic Azobenzene Analogs
Authors: Jun Meesook , Joshi Dhruval K. , Yalagala Ravi S. , Vanloon Jesse , Simionescu Razvan , Lough Alan J. , Gordon Heather L. , Yan Hongbin
Published: March 2018

The photoisomerization properties of a series of cyclic azobenzene (cAb) analogs, including non‐substituted, Br‐, CN‐, carboxyl‐, and amino cAb, were compared. While the trans‐form of these analogs show different degrees of thermal stability, no spectral changes in the absorption wavelengths were observed for amino cAb upon exposure to purple light. The 15N NMR chemical shifts of cAb in both cis‐ and trans‐forms were found to show a large difference from those of aromatic azobenzene; however, the trend of difference in chemical shift is in agreement with that obtained from quantum chemical calculations. More importantly, the structure of the photoisomerization product from cis‐cAb was confirmed to be, indeed, the trans‐cAb by X‐ray diffraction experiments. The 15NMR data of the cAb isomers and confirmation of trans‐cAb through crystal structure will be of importance for future studies in the design and applications of cAb as a photoswitch.
An Ultrafast Transient Absorption Study of Charge Separation and Recombination Dynamics in CdSe QDs and Methyl Viologen: Dependence on Surface Stoichiometry
Authors: Sekhar M. Chandra , Paul Sneha , De Apurba , Samanta Anunay
Published: March 2018

The dependence of the dynamics of charge separation and recombination between methyl viologen (MV+2) and photo‐excited CdSe quantum dots (QDs) on the surface stoichiometry of the latter is studied for QDs with different Cd:Se mole ratios employing ultrafast time‐resolved absorption and emission measurements. The electron transfer rates between photoexcited CdSe QDs and MV+2 are measured directly by monitoring the ultrafast rise and decay of the transient absorption signal due to methyl viologen monocationic radical (MV+•). The results show that both forward and back electron transfer rates (5±1 x 1012 s−1 and 1.3±0.3 x 1010 s−1, respectively) are independent of the stoichiometry of the QDs. Interestingly, the efficiency of the electron transfer process, estimated from the yield of MV+•, shows significant dependence on the nature of the QDs, with maximum yield (Φrs=0.52±0.01) observed in the case of Cd‐rich QDs. These findings are explained considering the energetics and surface trap states of these systems.
The role of social proximity in professional CEO appointments: Evidence from caste/religion‐based hiring of CEOs in India
Authors: Damaraju Naga Lakshmi , Makhija Anil K.
Published: March 2018

Research Summary: The role of homophily in CEO appointments at the largest corporations is an important subject in corporate governance. This subject is particularly important in a country like India where a multitude of religions, castes, and communities form its social fabric. We test for the role of homophily in professional CEO appointments in India by empirically examining the preference for same caste/religion CEOs by the largest firms. Using a unique dataset, assembled by detailed identification of castes/religions from family names and counterfactuals obtained through the Coarsened Exact Matching technique, we find that caste/religion plays a crucial role in CEO selection as a source of information (positive discrimination). The evidence is not consistent with its use to pursue taste‐based preferences (negative discrimination).

Managerial Summary: We test for the role of homophily in the appointments of CEOs in India by empirically examining the preference for same caste/religion CEOs by the largest firms. We find that caste/religion plays an important role in CEO selection, i.e., as a form of information or “positive discrimination.” The evidence is not consistent with its use to pursue taste‐based preferences or “negative discrimination.”
One‐Step Hydrothermal Synthesis of Nitrogen‐Doped Conjugated Carbonized Polymer Dots with 31% Efficient Red Emission for In Vivo Imaging
Authors: Liu JunJun , Li Daowei , Zhang Kai , Yang Mingxi , Sun Hongchen , Yang Bai
Published: March 2018

Carbon dots with long‐wavelength emissions, high quantum yield (QY) and good biocompatibility are highly desirable for biomedical applications. Herein, a green, facile hydrothermal synthesis of highly efficient red emissive nitrogen‐doped carbonized polymer dots (CPDs) with optimal emission at around 630 nm are reported. The red emissive CPDs possess a variety of superior properties including excellent water dispersibility, good biocompatibility, narrow bandwidth emission, an excitation‐independent emission, and high QY (10.83% (in water) and 31.54% (in ethanol)). Further studies prove that such strong red fluorescence is ascribed to the efficient conjugated aromatic π systems and hydrogen bonds of CPDs. And the fluorescence properties of CPDs can be regulated by adjusting the dosage of HNO3 before the reaction. Additionally, the as‐prepared CPDs are successfully used as a fluorescent probe for bioimaging, both in vitro and in vivo. More importantly, biodistribution results demonstrate that most CPDs and their metabolites are not only excreted in urine but also excreted by hepatobiliary system in a rapid manner. Besides, the CPDs could easily cross the blood brain barrier, which may provide a valuable strategy for the theranostics of some brain diseases through real‐time tracking.
Transient Photocurrent Elucidating Carrier Dynamics and Potential of Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cells Fabricated by Thermal Precursor Approach
Authors: Kudo Naoki , Uchida Ken , Ikoma Tadaaki , Takahashi Kohtaro , Kuzuhara Daiki , Suzuki Mitsuharu , Yamada Hiroko , Kumagai Daichi , Yamaguchi Yuji , Nakayama Ken‐Ichi
Published: March 2018

Transient photocurrents are measured to clarify carrier dynamics in a series of bulk heterojunction solar cells that are composed of [6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) and diketopyrrolopyrrole‐tetrabenzoporphyrin conjugates substituted by straight alkyl groups (Cn‐DPP‐BP), of which the device parameters are largely dependent on the length of the substituted alkyl groups (Cn). The time profile of the observed transients indicates the presence of both unimolecular and bimolecular charge recombination processes in the active layer of the cells. Analysis of the photocurrent decays detected at various bias voltages using a drift model that considers charge extraction by electrodes and charge recombination in the active layer enables elucidation of the charge drift mobility, the initial photocarrier density, and the charge recombination rate constants. The bimolecular recombination rate constant is correlated with Cn and this is the main factor that determines the power conversion efficiency (η) of the Cn‐DPP‐BP:PCBM solar cells. The Cn‐dependent fill factor can be interpreted in terms of the bias voltage dependence of the ratio between the extraction and recombination charges (Qex/Qre). Comparison of η and Qex/Qre at the short‐circuit condition predicts that η for the Cn‐DPP‐BP:PCBM solar cell can be potentially improved up to 6%.
Experimental and analytical behavior of a new type of concrete‐filled steel tube tied‐arch bridge with trough girder
Authors: Wu Xun , Shen Gang , Gui Xing , Ling Zhimin , Chen Weizhen
Published: March 2018

Trough girders are widely accepted in engineering on account of lowing construction depth and protection against traffic noise pollution, but most of them are used for simple‐supported girder bridges with a span of generally less than 30 m. On the railway line of Nanjing–Qidong in China a new railway bridge will be built which has a span of over 64 m but a construction depth of less than 2.4 m on which Shanghai–Nantong railway line is also passed, so the type of concrete‐filled steel tube tied‐arch bridge with trough girder was chosen. For such a new structure hardly used in engineering, there are no research results yet available about mechanical properties of the structure. This paper therefore makes for the bridge an experimental model of 1:4 geometric scale in order to test mechanical properties under operation load, cracking load, and ultimate load such as cracking diagram, load‐carrying capacity, stress distribution, and failure mechanism. According to the experimental results, when the model is subjected to longitudinal bending moment, the failure mode is similar to that of pure bending of a girder, and when the model is subjected to transverse bending moment failure mode behaves like the flexural failure mode of the traditional reinforced concrete structure. A non‐linear element analysis is also made on the model with the results in good agreement with that of the experiment. The same modeling method is applied to the finite element analysis of the real bridge, considering various load in design. In the analysis, it is finally verified that this new type of bridge meets specification requirements in strength, rigidity, and resistance to cracking.
Lebenszyklusorientierte Bewertung von Segmentbrücken in Stahlverbundbauweise
Authors: Berndorfer Claus , Hierl Martin , Mensinger Martin , Seidl Günter , Zinke Tim
Published: March 2018

Innovationen bilden die Grundlage für Effizienzsteigerung. Im Brückenbau können innovative Bauweisen dazu beitragen, die in den nächsten Jahrzehnten anstehenden Sanierungs‐ und Ersatzbaumaßnahmen zu bewältigen. In diesem Beitrag wird der Schwerpunkt auf Segmentbrücken gelegt. Hierzu werden bereits erstellte Pilotprojekte beschrieben, Weiterentwicklungen erläutert und die Segmentbauweise hinsichtlich ihrer Leistungsfähigkeit im Lebenszyklus mit den beiden „klassischen” Bauweisen der Verbundfertigteilbrücken und Spannbetonbrücken verglichen. In die Gegenüberstellungen werden sowohl Herstellungs‐, Nutzungs‐ und Rückbaukosten als auch die monetarisierten Auswirkungen auf Verkehrsteilnehmer und das Umfeld integriert. Die Ergebnisse stellen eine ganzheitliche Bewertungsgrundlage bereit, die in Entscheidungsfindungen von Bauherren, Planern und Ausführenden einbezogen werden können.
Monobogen als Tor zum Spessart
Authors: Bäumler Tobias , Baumhauer Andreas
Published: March 2018

Die Bundesautobahn A3 zählt zu den bedeutendsten Bundesautobahnen in Deutschland. Aufgrund der hohen Verkehrsbelastung wird die Bundesautobahn A3 zwischen Aschaffenburg und dem Autobahnkreuz Biebelried sechsstreifig ausgebaut. Ausgewählte Bauwerke im Streckenabschnitt erhalten eine besondere Gestaltung mit Wiedererkennungswert. Dazu zählt auch die Überführung der Staatsstraße 2312, der sogenannte Monobogen. Im Zuge des sechsstreifigen Ausbaus der Bundesautobahn A3 wird durch die Verlegung der Bundesautobahn A3 und der Staatsstraße 2312 ein neues Kreuzungsbauwerk erforderlich. Die Konzeption der neuen Brücke soll insbesondere der schiefwinkligen Kreuzungssituation Rechnung tragen. Entworfen wurde ein Tragwerk, welches in seiner Statik und Ansicht der Schiefe entgegenwirkt. Der diagonal über den Überbau spannende Monobogen mit beidseitigen Seilabspannungen kreuzt nahezu rechtwinklig die unterführte Bundesautobahn. Die regelmäßig angeordneten Seilaufhängungen ermöglichen ein sehr schlank gestaltetes Brückendeck, welches seine Wirkung unabhängig vom Betrachtungswinkel entfaltet. Der Bogen zeigt sich aufgrund seiner nahezu rechtwinklig zur Bundesautobahn gerichteten Anordnung unverfälscht in seiner wahren Bogenform. Die Form der Seilüberspannung ist neben statischen Aspekten von der architektonisch gestalteten, gekreuzten Hängeransicht geprägt. Für das architektonisch gestaltete Tragwerk wurden vollverschlossene Seile gewählt, da deren Außendurchmesser und die Geometrie der Verankerungen gegenüber Litzenseilen eher den Proportionen der filigranen Brückenkonstruktion mit den vergleichsweise kurzen Seillängen gerecht werden.
Eine Bogenbrücke als Stadttor für Riedlingen
Authors: Plieninger Sven , Sander Christiane , Behrmann Tilo
Published: March 2018

In Riedlingen an der Donau entsteht zurzeit eine neue Straßenbrücke über den Donauhochwasserkanal. Um der besonderen Lage als Stadteingang vor der historischen Altstadtkulisse gerecht zu werden, wurde 2003 im Rahmen eines Realisierungs‐ und Ideenwettbewerbs eine angemessene Lösung gesucht. Nachdem mittlerweile die Aufweitung des Kanals zur Gewährleistung des Hochwasserschutzes in Riedlingen weitgehend umgesetzt wurde, stellt der Neubau der Kanalbrücke mit größerer Spannweite und verbesserter Einbindung in das Radwegenetz eine der letzten noch ausstehenden Maßnahmen dar. Neben den Anforderungen in Bezug auf Wegeführung, Gestaltung und Hochwasserschutz wurde bei der Planung besonderer Wert darauf gelegt, die aus dem temporären Wegfall der Innenstadtanbindung resultierenden Beeinträchtigungen zu minimieren. Um die Fertigstellung innerhalb einer achtmonatigen Bauzeit zu ermöglichen, wurden im Werk vorgefertigte Stahlträger als Haupttragelemente verwendet. Eine weitere Maßnahme bestand in der Errichtung einer Fußgängerbrücke, die als permanente Querung auch nach Fertigstellung der Straßenbrücke eine nachhaltige Funktion zur Anbindung der für Freizeitaktivitäten genutzten „Donauinsel” erfüllt.
Schiffstoßsicherung der Alten Mainbrücke Zellingen
Authors: Sonnabend Stephan , Goldstein Martina , Mensinger Martin
Published: March 2018

Im Jahre 1884 wurde zur Schaffung einer festen Mainquerung die „Alte Mainbrücke Zellingen” erbaut. Bauwerke aus dieser Zeit wurden nicht hinsichtlich eines möglichen Schiffstoßes bemessen. Im Zuge des fortschreitenden Ausbaues des Mains forderte das Wasserstraßen‐Neubauamt Aschaffenburg eine zeitgemäße Sicherung des Bauwerkes gegen Schiffstoß. Im nachfolgenden Aufsatz wird erläutert, auf welche Weise die „Alte Mainbrücke Zellingen” gegen Schiffstoß gesichert wurde. Die im gleichen Zuge erfolgten Instandsetzungsmaßnahmen zum Erhalt des Brückenbauwerkes werden dargelegt. Nach erfolgter Bauausführung wurde im Juni 2015 die ursprüngliche Straßenbrücke als Rad‐ und Fußgängerbrücke wieder für den Verkehr freigegeben.