bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrothermal synthesis of TiO2–yeast hybrid microspheres with controllable structures and their application for the photocatalytic reduction of Cr (VI)
Authors: Song Rui , Bai Bo , Jing Dengwei
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

Nanoparticle TiO2 and biological yeast cells have been investigated in previous work. However, the formation of TiO2–yeast hybrid materials with controllable structures is rarely reported. In the present study, the hydrolysis of titanium tetrabutoxide (TBOB) on the surface of yeast cells was proposed to prepare controllable structures of TiO2–yeast hybrid microspheres. It also develops and widens the applications of TiO2–yeast hybrid microspheres for removal of Cr(VI).

RESULTS

FE‐SEM and EDS revealed that the TiO2–yeast hybrid microspheres have rough surface morphology and uniform diameter. The XRD pattern indicated anatase phase TiO2 nanoparticles with amorphous yeast. FT‐IR spectroscopy demonstrated that the formation of controllable TiO2–yeast composite microspheres was related to surface chemical functional groups of yeast. The composite microspheres possessed enhanced light response over the wide range 250–435 nm. The photocatalytic performance of TiO2–yeast (1.3 mL TBOB) composite microspheres exhibited a maximum removal rate of 99% for the reduction of Cr(VI) under UV light irradiation.

CONCLUSIONS

TiO2–yeast hybrid microspheres with controllable structures were successfully synthesized via a hydrothermal method. The diameter of TiO2–yeast microspheres decreased with increase of the amount of TBOB. No significant decrease in photo‐activity was found when used for the reduction of Cr(VI) and the composites could be re‐used repeatedly without other treatment. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Ultrasound‐Assisted One‐pot Synthesis of Bis‐azetidinones in the Presence of Zeolite
Authors: Jetti Venkateshwarlu , Chidurala Praveen , Pagadala Ramakanth , Meshram Jyotsna S. , Ramakrishna Chowdam
Published: April 2014

Sonochemical method is an innovative task for the sustainable chemical research industry. In this work, an attempt was made to synthesize bis‐azetidin‐2‐ones (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g, 2h, 2i, 2j) by Staudinger reaction ([2 + 2] ketene‐imine cycloaddition reaction) in the presence of zeolite by using both conventional and under ultrasound irradiation. The synthesized compounds have been elucidated on the basis of their elemental analysis and spectral data (IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectra) to evaluate its performance obtained under ultrasonic waves. It was observed that complete conversion to azetidin‐2‐ones occurred in 1–2 h by sonochemical method and in 15–46 h by conventional method. Finally, it has been observed that 2‐azetidinones synthesis using sonochemical method is an energy efficient and environmentally friendly technique over the conventional method.
Synthesis, Characterization and NO Synthase Inhibition Testing of 2‐Aryl‐5‐aroyl‐3,4,5,6‐tetrahydropyrimidinium Chlorides
Authors: Bluhm Ullvi , Boucher Jean‐Luc , Clement Bernd , Girreser Ulrich , Heber Dieter , Ramassamy Booma , Wolschendorf Ulrich
Published: April 2014

Aryl methyl ketones can be easily converted to 1‐aryl‐2‐dimethylaminomethylpropenones that are known as interesting lead structures for drug development. By reaction of these enone Mannich bases with benzamidines, a series of new 2‐aryl‐5‐aroyl‐3,4,5,6‐tetrahydopyrimidines were synthesized. These structures were characterized according to their lipophilicity. Thirty five tetrahydropyrimidines were evaluated as nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitors in usual screening assays. Some interesting members of this class of compounds were forwarded to more detailed tests determining mechanism of inhibition and inhibition of NADH consumption. The investigated structures showed modest activity of NOS inhibition. However, some new tetrahydropyrimidines bearing extended aromatic substituents such as the naphthyloyl or biphenyloyl residue displayed some activity of neuronal NOS and endothelial NOS inhibition but without selectivity for an isoform and should be of interest for further modifications.
Vacuum‐assisted vaginal delivery (VAVD)—Basics for the risk manager
Authors: Veltman Larry
Published: April 2014

The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) manager calls you about a baby delivered last night now with brain trauma. She understands that it was a difficult delivery with a vacuum. There were “multiple pop‐offs” and, after the baby was delivered, the NICU resuscitation team was called. The Apgar scores were 3 and 5. They are requesting risk management to lead a debriefing today. What to ask? How many pop‐offs are allowed? What was the interaction between the nurses and physician? Why wasn't the resuscitation team in attendance before the delivery? Was the vacuum placed properly? How many pulls? How long was the vacuum in place? What should be documented, and was the documentation adequate? All of these are appropriate questions for an adequate analysis of an adverse outcome resulting from a vacuum‐assisted vaginal delivery (VAVD). This article focuses on the risk management issues of VAVD in order to give the risk manager a better understanding of appropriate use, data‐gathering tools, educational opportunities, and assistance in establishing a culture of safety for the entire perinatal team regarding the use of the vacuum device.
Desorption/ionization efficiencies of triacylglycerols and phospholipids via EASI‐MS
Authors: Fernandes Anna Maria A. P. , Fernandes Gabriel D. , Barrera‐Arellano Daniel , de Sá Gilberto F. , Lins Roberto D. , Eberlin Marcos N. , Alberici Rosana M.
Published: April 2014

Knowledge of the major effects governing desorption/ionization efficiency is required for the development and application of ambient mass spectrometry. Although all triacylglycerols (TAG) have the same favorable protonation and cationization sites, their desorption/ionization efficiencies can vary dramatically during easy ambient sonic‐spray ionization because of structural differences in the carbon chain. To quantify this somewhat surprising and drastic effect, we have performed a systematic investigation of desorption/ionization efficiencies as a function of unsaturation and length for TAG as well as for diacylglycerols, monoacylglycerols and several phospholipids (PL). Affinities for Na+ as a function of unsaturation level have also been assayed via comprehensive metadynamics calculations to understand the influence of this phenomenon on the ionization efficiency. The results suggest that dipole–dipole interactions within a carbon chain tuned by unsaturation sites govern ionization efficiency of TAG and PL. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymeric Nanocarriers for siRNA Delivery to Murine Macrophages
Authors: Forbes Diane C. , Peppas Nicholas A.
Published: April 2014

This work investigates the interactions of a polycationic nanocarrier with siRNA and with cells in order to better understand the capabilities and limitations of the carrier. The polycationic nanocarriers are cross‐linked copolymer nanoparticles synthesized in a single‐step reaction using ARGET ATRP (activators regenerated by electron transfer atom transfer radical polymerization). The polycationic nanocarriers efficiently bind siRNA for polymer/siRNA mass ratios less than 1. A method to prepare fluorescently labeled polycationic nanocarriers is presented. The fluorescently labeled polycationic nanocarriers are used to investigate cellular internalization with RAW264.7 murine macrophage cells. Flow cytometry demonstrates that the uptake increased with nanoparticle concentration and incubation time. Confocal microscopy confirmed internalization of fluorescently labeled nanoparticles. The investigation of siRNA‐induced knockdown demonstrates that higher concentrations of nanoparticles and siRNA are associated with increased knockdown. For the conditions tested in the knockdown experiments, the ARGET ATRP polycationic nanocarriers outperformed a commercially available Lipofectamine control.
Highly Monodisperse Sub‐microspherical Poly(glycidyl methacrylate) Nanocomposites with Highly Stabilized Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Yan Xingru , Li Maolin , Long Jun , Zhang Xi , Wei Huige , He Qingliang , Rutman Dan , Cao Dapeng , Wei Suying , Chen Guofang , Guo Zhanhu
Published: April 2014

Sub‐micrometer spheres of poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) with a layer of poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) film are prepared by an easily controlled assembly method. The gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) exhibit a discontinuous structure on the PGMA@PAH particle surface, exhibiting a surface interaction between the PGMA spheres and the Au NPs. PAH not only modifies the surface of the PGMA particles but also affirmatively affects the crystallite of the PGMA particles. The real permittivity of the nanocomposite spheres is much higher than that of pure PGMA spheres. An improved thermal stability is observed in the nanocomposite spheres. The calculated bandgap (0.91 eV) of the nanocomposite spheres is observed to be lower than that (4.92 eV) of pure PGMA spheres.

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The Thermal Behavior of Polylactide with Different D‐Lactide Content in the Presence of Dissolved CO2
Authors: Nofar Mohammadreza , Ameli Aboutaleb , Park Chul B.
Published: April 2014

The crystallization behavior of polylactide with different D‐lactide content (1.5, 4.6, and 10.1%.) was investigated in the presence of dissolved CO2 by using a high‐pressure differential scanning calorimeter. The PLA's crystallization rate was significantly increased with the dissolved CO2 and by reducing the D‐lactide content. However, the PLA with a high D‐lactide content did not reveal any crystallization during non‐isothermal and isothermal melt crystallization, even under 60 bar CO2 pressure. On the other hand, the final crystallinity of the other two PLA samples differed at various CO2 pressures and at different cooling rates. This was due to the resultant effects of CO2's plasticization and the density of the crystal nuclei on the PLA's molecular mobility, a phenomenon consistent with our earlier investigations of PLAs with different branching degrees and with PLA nano/microcomposites. Moreover, the plasticizing CO2 molecules depressed the crystallization and glass transition temperatures of the PLA samples similarly.
How Do Salespeople Make Decisions? The Role of Emotions and Deliberation on Adaptive Selling, and the Moderating Role of Intuition
Authors: Locander David A. , Mulki Jay P. , Weinberg Frankie J.
Published: April 2014

This research explores how salespeople make decisions and what factors influence these decisions. Research in psychology suggests that, in making decisions, people use both intuition and deliberation, often relying on some degree of both processes. This study examines the impact of emotion, intuition, and deliberation on a salesperson's adaptability and resulting performance. Intuition is found to play a significant moderating role in the relationships between both deliberation and regulation of emotions on adaptive selling. However, as anticipated, the role of this moderation variable differs for each of these relationships. Findings suggest that intuition provides an important input to deliberative and emotive thought processes, and plays an important role in salesperson adaptiveness. Implications for salesperson mentoring and training programs are explored.
Understanding the Relationship between Individualism and Word of Mouth: A Self‐Enhancement Explanation
Authors: Wien Anders Hauge , Olsen Svein Ottar
Published: April 2014

This study examines factors moderating the relationship between individualism and word‐of‐mouth (WOM) transmission. The conceptual model is based on the premise that high‐individualism consumers are highly driven by the self‐enhancement motive when they transmit WOM and that they change their willingness to provide WOM based on the perceived opportunity for self‐enhancement. The results reveal that high‐individualism consumers are more willing than low‐individualism consumers to transmit WOM in relation to satisfactory consumption experiences (vs. unsatisfactory), when WOM is unsolicited (vs. solicited), and when the context involves high perceived social risk (vs. low perceived social risk). Thus, the findings indicate that self‐enhancement may indeed be the underlying mechanism in the relationship between individualism and WOM transmission.
Cognition in movement disorders: Where can we hope to be in ten years?
Authors: Burn David , Weintraub Daniel , Ravina Bernard , Litvan Irene
Published: April 2014

Cognitive impairment and dementia associated with movement disorders represent a major management challenge and area of unmet need. This article has focused upon Parkinson's disease as an exemplar condition, but many of the roadblocks and efforts to overcome these are applicable, in a general sense, to other disorders. Short of a “penicillin moment”—a chance discovery or piece of unintended good fortune—progress is likely to be incremental. Cognitive therapies may end up being multiple and possibly multimodal, parallel with the cancer therapy field. Ultimately, benefit for one condition may extend to others as commonality in protein aggregation, synergistic pathological effects between proteins, and pathological spread emerges. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Cognitive deficits in Parkinson's disease: A cognitive neuroscience perspective
Authors: Robbins Trevor W. , Cools Roshan
Published: April 2014

Progress in characterization of the nature, neural basis, and treatment of cognitive deficits in Parkinson's disease is reviewed from the perspective of cognitive neuroscience. An initial emphasis on fronto‐striatal executive deficits is surveyed along with the discoveries of disruption as well as remediation of certain impairments by dopaminergic mediation and their association with theories of reinforcement learning. Subsequent focus on large cohorts has revealed considerable heterogeneity in the cognitive impairments as well as a suggestion of at least two distinct syndromes, with the dopamine‐dependent fronto‐striatal deficits being somewhat independent of other signs commonly associated with Parkinson's disease dementia. The utility is proposed of a new, integrated cognitive neuroscience approach based on combining genetic and neuroimaging methodologies with neuropsychological and, ultimately, psychopharmacological approaches. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
The cognitive burden in Huntington's disease: Pathology, phenotype, and mechanisms of compensation
Authors: Papoutsi Marina , Labuschagne Izelle , Tabrizi Sarah J. , Stout Julie C.
Published: April 2014

Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder. The most prominent sign of HD is the presence of involuntary motor movements. However, HD is also characterized by marked cognitive decline, which often precedes the onset of motor symptoms and is generally considered to be more debilitating to the patients and their families, compared to motor symptoms. Cognitive decline is widespread across most faculties of cognition in later stages of the disease, but seems to be selective in preclinical and early stages of the disease, with deficits in the HD patients' ability to multitask, their speed of processing, and executive function. It is now well established that preceding clinical diagnosis there is a preclinical stage, during which HD gene mutation carriers are relatively symptom free, despite disease pathological onset and the presence of neurodegeneration. Evidence from functional brain imaging studies suggests the presence of neural compensation in preclinical stages of HD, whereby the brain undergoes functional reorganization in response to neurodegeneration to preserve motor and cognitive performance. In this review, we will describe the underlying HD pathology with a focus on how it links to the cognitive phenotype. We will also present evidence regarding the presence of neural compensation in HD and the possible mechanisms supporting it. Finally, we will discuss current research in the field of cognitive interventions that aim to support and enhance neural compensation in HD. These research efforts could, one day, prolong the preclinical stage and assist with symptom management of those affected with HD. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Cognition in corticobasal syndrome and progressive supranuclear palsy: A review
Authors: Burrell James R. , Hodges John R. , Rowe James B.
Published: April 2014

Corticobasal syndrome (CBS) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) represent challenging neurodegenerative disorders for clinicians and nonclinical scientists alike. Although initially lumped together as “Parkinson's‐Plus” syndromes, CBS and PSP are clinically and pathologically distinct from Parkinson's disease. It is now clear that behavioral and cognitive changes are common in both syndromes and affect impact quality of life and carer burden considerably. We briefly review the clinical, pathological, and neuroradiological features of each syndrome, followed by more detailed descriptions of the behavioral and cognitive deficits encountered in CBS and PSP. Clinically and pathologically heterogeneous, CBS is characterized by a wide range of cognitive and behavioral disturbances. impairments in executive function and memory are common, but nonspecific. In contrast, deficits in language and visuospatial abilities appear to be more distinctive features of CBS; the relevance of specific patterns of impairment to the underlying histopathology, or prognosis, remains to be fully elucidated. As in CBS, behavioral and cognitive changes are almost universal in PSP, with a wide range of reported deficits. Apathy is very common, often paradoxically accompanied by impulsivity. Executive dysfunction is prominent, but memory and visuospatial deficits also occur. An emerging field is the study of social cognition, which appears impaired in both syndromes. As therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative pathologies emerge, more specific diagnostic tools in CBS and PSP will be required. Careful clinicopathological correlation, and the development of biomarkers for specific histopathologies, will be important milestones on the road to effective treatments.
Polymorphism at the TNF‐alpha gene interacts with Mediterranean diet to influence triglyceride metabolism and inflammation status in metabolic syndrome patients: From the CORDIOPREV clinical trial
Authors: Gomez‐Delgado Francisco , Alcala‐Diaz Juan Francisco , Garcia‐Rios Antonio , Delgado‐Lista Javier , Ortiz‐Morales Ana , Rangel‐Zuñiga Oriol , Tinahones Francisco Jose , Gonzalez‐Guardia Lorena , Malagon Maria M. , Bellido‐Muñoz Enrique , Ordovas Jose M. , Perez‐Jimenez Francisco , Lopez‐Miranda Jose , Perez‐Martinez Pablo
Published: April 2014

Scope

To examine whether the consumption of a Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), compared with a low‐fat diet, interacts with two single nucleotide polymorphisms at the tumor necrosis factor alpha gene (rs1800629, rs1799964) in order to improve triglycerides (TG), glycemic control, and inflammation markers.

Methods and results

Genotyping, biochemical measurements, dietary intervention, and oral fat load test meal were determined in 507 metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients selected from all the subjects included in CORDIOPREV clinical trial (n = 1002). At baseline, G/G subjects (n = 408) at the rs1800629 polymorphism, showed higher fasting and postprandial TG (p = 0.003 and p = 0.025, respectively), and high sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) (p = 0.003) plasma concentrations than carriers of the minor A‐allele (G/A + A/A) (n = 99). After 12 months of MedDiet, baseline differences between genotypes disappeared. The decrease in TG and hsCRP was statistically significant in G/G subjects (n = 203) compared with carriers of the minor A‐allele (p = 0.005 and p = 0.034, respectively) (n = 48). No other gene–diet interactions were observed in either diet.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the rs1800629 at the tumor necrosis factor alpha gene interacts with MedDiet to influence TG metabolism and inflammation status in MetS subjects. Understanding the role of gene–diet interactions may be the best strategy for personalized treatment of MetS.
Discrete simulations of a triaxial compression test for sand by DEM
Authors: Kozicki Jan , Tejchman Jacek , Mühlhaus Hans‐Bernd
Published: April 2014

A quasi‐static homogeneous drained triaxial compression test on cohesionless sand under constant lateral pressure was simulated using a three‐dimensional discrete element method. Grains were modelled by means of particle clusters composed of rigid spheres or spheres with contact moments imitating irregular particle shapes. Attention was paid to the effect of initial void ratio and grain shape mixture on the shear strength, volume changes, force chains, kinetic, elastic and dissipated energies. In addition, the effect of the mean grain size, grain size distribution, grain size range, specimen size and roughness and stiffness of boundaries was numerically analysed in initially dense sand. Some numerical results were compared with available experimental results. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of brown adipose tissue in the human perirenal depot
Authors: Svensson Per‐Arne , Lindberg Kristin , Hoffmann Jenny M. , Taube Magdalena , Pereira Maria J. , Mohsen‐Kanson Tala , Hafner Anne‐Laure , Rizell Magnus , Palming Jenny , Dani Christian , Svensson Maria K.
Published: April 2014

Objective

To characterize brown adipose tissue (BAT) in the human perirenal adipose tissue depot.

Method

Perirenal adipose tissue biopsies were obtained from 55 healthy kidney donors. Expression analysis was performed using microarray, real‐time PCR, immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry. Additional studies using human stem cells were performed.

Results

UCP1 gene expression analysis revealed a large intra‐individual variation in the perirenal adipose tissue biopsies. Both multi‐ and unilocular UCP1‐positive adipocytes were detected in several of the adipose tissue samples analyzed by immunohistochemical staining. Microarray analysis identified 54 genes that were overexpressed in UCP1‐positive perirenal adipose tissue. Real‐time PCR analysis of BAT candidate genes revealed a set of genes that were highly correlated to UCP1 and a set of three transcription factor genes (PRDM16, PGC1α, and RXRγ) that were highly correlated to each other. RXRγ displayed nuclear immunoreactivity in brown adipocytes and an increased gene expression during brown adipogenesis in human stem cells.

Conclusion

Our data provides the first molecular characterization of BAT in the perirenal adipose tissue depot. Furthermore, it highlights the transcription factor RXRγ as a new player in BAT development.
WHAT WORKS BEST AND WHEN: ACCOUNTING FOR MULTIPLE SOURCES OF PURESELECTION BIAS IN PROGRAM EVALUATIONS
Authors: Jung Haeil , Pirog Maureen A.
Published: April 2014

Most evaluations are still quasi‐experimental and most recent quasi‐experimental methodological research has focused on various types of propensity score matching to minimize conventional selection bias on observables. Although these methods create better‐matched treatment and comparison groups on observables, the issue of selection on unobservables still looms large. Thus, in the absence of being able to run randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or natural experiments, it is important to understand how well different regression‐based estimators perform in terms of minimizing pure selection bias, that is, selection on unobservables. We examine the relative magnitudes of three sources of pure selection bias: heterogeneous response bias, time‐invariant individual heterogeneity (fixed effects [FEs]), and intertemporal dependence (autoregressive process of order one [AR(1)]). Because the relative magnitude of each source of pure selection bias may vary in different policy contexts, it is important to understand how well different regression‐based estimators handle each source of selection bias. Expanding simulations that have their origins in the work of Heckman, LaLonde, and Smith (), we find that difference‐in‐differences (DID) using equidistant pre‐ and postperiods and FEs estimators are less biased and have smaller standard errors in estimating the Treatment on the Treated (TT) than other regression‐based estimators. Our data analysis using the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) program replicates our simulation findings in estimating the TT.
Risk of retinal tear or detachment with oral fluoroquinolone use: a cohort study
Authors: Eftekhari Kian , Ghodasra Devon H. , Haynes Kevin , Chen Jinbo , Kempen John H. , VanderBeek Brian L.
Published: April 2014

Purpose

The aim of this study is to determine if oral fluoroquinolone exposure is associated with an increased hazard for having a retinal tear or detachment.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed using individuals who met inclusion criteria from The Health Improvement Network database. Cohorts were created for individuals who had a prescription written for either an oral fluoroquinolone or an oral β‐lactam antibiotic (comparison group). Subjects were excluded if they had a previous diagnosis of a retinal tear or detachment (hereafter retinal break (RB)), or a procedure code to treat an RB, where in the practice for less than 365 days, had a previous prescription for either antibiotic within 365 days of the index date or had intraocular surgery or a diagnosis of endophthalmitis within 90 days prior to the antibiotic prescription. Covariates of interest were age, gender, diabetes, and year of index. The primary outcome measure of interest was the hazard ratio (HR) of undergoing a procedure to treat an RB within 7, 30, 90, or 365 days after exposure to an oral fluoroquinolone prescription versus an oral β‐lactam prescription.

Results

After exclusions, 6 604 423 prescriptions (290 393 fluoroquinolone; 6 314 030 β‐lactam) from 3 413 498 patients (247 073 fluoroquinolone; 3 303 641 β‐lactam) and 2685 RB procedures were eligible for analysis (661 retinal tears and 2024 retinal detachments). For fluoroquinolones, 0, 1, 5, and 23 RBs occurred at the 7‐, 30‐, 90‐, and 365‐day time points, respectively. For β‐lactam prescriptions, 7, 28, 87, and 373 RBs occurred at the 7‐, 30‐, 90‐, and 365‐day time points, respectively. Because of zero events occurring in the fluoroquinolone cohort during the 7‐day observation period, an unadjusted or an adjusted HR (and subsequent p‐value or confidence intervals) was unable to be calculated. Univariate and multivariate analyses demonstrated that fluoroquinolones were not significantly associated with RB in the 30‐, 90‐, or 365‐day observation periods (30‐day HR = 0.78, p = 0.80, 95%CI: 0.11, 5.71; 90‐day HR = 1.25, p = 0.63, 95%CI: 0.51, 3.08; and 365‐day HR = 1.35, p = 0.16, 95%CI: 0.89, 2.06).

Conclusions

Our results do not support an association between oral fluoroquinolone use and subsequent procedures to treat an RB. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of perimeter recombination in the subcells of GaInP/GaAs/Ge triple‐junction solar cells
Authors: Espinet‐González P. , Rey‐Stolle I. , Ochoa M. , Algora C. , García I. , Barrigón E.
Published: April 2014

This paper studies the recombination at the perimeter in the subcells that constitute a GaInP/GaAs/Ge lattice‐matched triple‐junction solar cell. For that, diodes of different sizes and consequently different perimeter/area ratios have been manufactured in single‐junction solar cells resembling the subcells in a triple‐junction solar cell. It has been found that neither in GaInP nor in Ge solar cells the recombination at the perimeter is significant in devices as small as 500 μm × 500μm(2.5 ⋅ 10 − 3 cm2) in GaInP and 250μm  × 250μm (6.25 ⋅ 10 − 4cm2) in Ge. However, in GaAs, the recombination at the perimeter is not negligible at low voltages even in devices as large as 1cm2, and it is the main limiting recombination factor in the open circuit voltage even at high concentrations in solar cells of 250 μm  × 250μm (6.25 ⋅ 10 − 4 cm2) or smaller. Therefore, the recombination at the perimeter in GaAs should be taken into account when optimizing triple‐junction solar cells. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and characterization of highly fluorinated poly(phthalazinone ether)s based on AB‐type monomers
Authors: Li Xiuhua , Gao Yan , Long Qiang , Hay Allan S.
Published: April 2014

Four different fluorinated methyl‐ and phenyl‐substituted 4‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐(pentafluorophenyl)‐phthalazin‐1(2H)‐ones, AB‐type phthalazinone monomers, have been successfully synthesized by nucleophilic addition–elimination reactions of methyl‐ and phenyl‐substituted 2‐((4‐hydroxy)benzoyl)benzoic acid with 1‐(pentafluorophenyl)hydrazine. Under mild reaction conditions, the AB‐type monomers underwent self‐condensation polymerization reactions successfully and gave fluorinated poly(phthalazinone ether)s with high molecular weights. Detailed structural characterization of the AB‐type monomers and fluorinated polymers was determined by 1H NMR, 19F NMR, FTIR, and GPC. The solubility, thermal properties, mechanical properties, water contact angles, and optical absorption of the polymers were evaluated. The polymers had high Tgs varying from 337 to 349 °C and decomposition temperatures (Td, 25 wt %) above 409 °C. Tough, flexible films were cast from THF and chloroform solutions. The films showed excellent tensile strengths ranging from 70 to 85 MPa with good hydrophobicities with water contact angles higher than 95.5 °C. The polymers had absorption edges below 340 nm and very low absorbance per cm at higher wavelengths 500–2500 nm. These results indicate that the polymers are promising as high performance materials, for example, membranes and hydrophobic materials. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 1761–1770
High‐performance field‐effect transistors based on furan‐containing diketopyrrolopyrrole copolymer under a mild annealing temperature
Authors: Chen Huajie , Guo Yunlong , Mao Zupan , Gao Dong , Yu Gui
Published: April 2014

Two furan‐flanked polymers poly{3,6‐difuran‐2‐yl‐2,5‐di(2‐octyldodecyl)‐pyrrolo[3,4‐c]pyrrole‐1,4‐dione‐alt‐thienylenevinylene} (PDVFs), with a highly π‐extended diketopyrrolopyrrole backbone, are developed for solution‐processed high‐performance polymer field‐effect transistors (FETs). Atomic force microscopy and grazing incidence X‐ray scattering analyses indicate that PDVF‐8 and PDVF‐10 films exhibit a similar nodular morphology with the ultrasmall lamellar distances of 16.84 and 18.98 Å, respectively. When compared with the reported polymers with the same alkyl substitutes, this is the smallest d‐spacing value observed to date. This closed lamellar crystallinity facilitates charge carrier transport. Therefore, polymer thin‐film transistors fabricated from as‐spun PDVF‐8 films exhibit a high hole mobility exceeding 1.0 cm2 V−1 s−1 with a current on/off ratio above 106. After annealing treatment at 100 °C in air, the highest hole mobility of PDVF‐8‐based FETs was significantly improved to 1.90 cm2 V−1 s−1, which is among the highest values of the reported FET devices fabricated from polymer thin films based on this mild annealing temperature. In contrast, long alkyl‐substituted PDVF‐10 exhibited a relatively low hole mobility of 1.65 cm2 V−1 s−1 mainly resulting from low molecular weight. This work demonstrated that PDVFs would be promising semiconductors for developing cost‐effective and large‐scale production of flexible organic electronics. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 1970–1977
Interactions of Serum Derived Proteins with Sub‐Micrometer Structured Surfaces
Authors: Pérez‐Roldan Maria Jesús , Parracino Antonietta , Ceccone Giacomo , Colpo Pascal , Rossi François
Published: April 2014

This work presents the development and optimization of two fabrication methods that combine plasma polymerization and electron beam lithography techniques for producing chemical patterns at the sub‐micro scale. The first method uses sacrificial resist as mask to produce the functionalization of the bioadhesive areas and the second method consists in the direct EBL writing of adhesive regions on a non‐adhesive plasma deposited PEO‐like film. The produced patterned surfaces exhibit high binding capacity as tested by Surface Plasmon Resonance Imaging with Human Serum Albumin. Furthermore, we show that adsorption on the structured surfaces is similar to that observed on a flat surface with a direct proportionality to the active area. This work shows the efficiency and suitability of the developed chemical patterning techniques and their high potential applicability for the study of protein surface interactions and miniaturized biosensing device development.
Holographic RG flow and the quantum effective action
Authors: Kiritsis E. , Li W. , Nitti F.
Published: April 2014

The calculation of the full (renormalized) holographic action is undertaken in general Einstein‐scalar theories. The appropriate formalism is developed and the renormalized effective action is calculated up to two derivatives in the metric and scalar operators. The holographic RG equations involve a generalized Ricci flow for the space‐time metric as well as the standard β‐function flow for scalar operators. Several examples are analyzed and the effective action is calculated. A set of conserved quantities of the holographic flow is found, whose interpretation is not yet understood.
Identification of metabolic pathways and enzyme systems involved in the in vitro human hepatic metabolism of dronedarone, a potent new oral antiarrhythmic drug
Authors: Klieber Sylvie , Arabeyre‐Fabre Catherine , Moliner Patricia , Marti Eric , Mandray Martine , Ngo Robert , Ollier Céline , Brun Priscilla , Fabre Gérard
Published: April 2014

The in vitro metabolism of dronedarone and its major metabolites has been studied in human liver microsomes and cryopreserved hepatocytes in primary culture through the use of specific or total cytochrome P450 (CYP) and monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. The identification of the main metabolites and enzymes participating in their metabolism was also elucidated by using rhCYP, rhMAO, flavin monooxygenases (rhFMO) and UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases (rhUGT) and liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS‐MS) analysis. Dronedarone was extensively metabolized in human hepatocytes with a metabolic clearance being almost completely inhibited (98 ± 2%) by 1‐aminobenzotriazole. Ketoconazole also inhibited dronedarone metabolism by 89 ± 7%, demonstrating the crucial role of CYP3A in its metabolism. CYP3A isoforms mostly contributed to N‐debutylation while hydroxylation on the butyl‐benzofuran moiety was catalyzed by CYP2D6. However, hydroxylation on the dibutylamine moiety did not appear to be CYP‐dependent. N‐debutyl‐dronedarone was less rapidly metabolized than dronedarone, the major metabolic pathway being catalyzed by MAO‐A to form propanoic acid‐dronedarone and phenol‐dronedarone. Propanoic acid‐dronedarone was metabolized at a similar rate to that of N‐debutyl‐dronedarone and was predominantly hydroxylated by CYP2C8 and CYP1A1. Phenol‐dronedarone was extensively glucuronidated while C‐dealkyl‐dronedarone was metabolized at a slow rate. The evaluation of the systemic clearance of each metabolic process together with the identification of both the major metabolites and predominant enzyme systems and isoforms involved in the formation and subsequent metabolism of these metabolites has enhanced the overall understanding of metabolism of dronedarone in humans.
From gentle persuasion to Thatcher's age of coercion
Authors: Baines Darrin
Published: April 2014

In our series on the history of prescribing policy, Dr Darrin Baines traces how successive governments have attempted to curb drug costs. Here, he describes how earlier efforts to control costs using persuasion were gradually replaced by policies based on coercion.
The utilization of low‐temperature evaporable CsN3‐doped NBphen as an alternative and efficient electron‐injection layer in OLED
Authors: Chu Xin Bo , Guan Min , Niu Li Tao , Zhang Yang , Li Yi Yang , Liu Xing Fang , Zeng Yi Ping
Published: April 2014

Cesium azide (CsN3) doped 2,9‐bis(naphthalen‐2‐yl)‐4,7‐diphenyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline (NBphen) has been demonstrated as an efficient electron‐injection layer (EIL) in this work. Advantageous for its low evaporation temperature and air stability, CsN3 is employed as an n‐dopant to replace the reactive alkali metals or alkali metal compounds. Organic light‐emitting diodes utilizing this composite EIL exhibit highly improved current density–luminance–voltage characteristics compared to the control device with LiF. When C545T‐doped Alq3 is used as an emitting layer, a maximum current efficiency of 10.4 cd A−1 can be reached. Our results indicate that this CsN3‐doped NBphen composite layer has great potential as an alternative EIL in organic electronic devices.
Improved high‐temperature switching characteristics of Y2O3/TiOx resistive memory through carrier depletion effect
Authors: Zheng Zhi‐Wei , Hsu Hsiao‐Hsuan , Cheng Chun‐Hu , Chen Po‐Chun
Published: April 2014

We report a stacked Y2O3/TiOx resistive random access memory (RRAM) device, showing good high‐temperature switching characteristics of extremely low reset current of 1 μA at 150 °C, large off/on resistance window (>200) at 150 °C, large rectification ratio of ∼300 at 150 °C and good current distribution at 85 °C. The good rectifying property, lower high‐temperature sneak current and tighter high‐temperature current distribution can be attributed to the combined results of the oxygen vacancies in TiOx and the related carrier depletion effect.

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(© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Repeated dose and reproductive/developmental toxicity of perfluorododecanoic acid in rats
Authors: Kato Hina , Fujii Sakiko , Takahashi Mika , Matsumoto Mariko , Hirata‐Koizumi Mutsuko , Ono Atsushi , Hirose Akihiko
Published: April 2014

Perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) are a series of environmental contaminants that have received attention because of their possible adverse effects on wildlife and human health. Although many toxicological studies have been performed on perfluorooctanoic acid with carbon chain length C8, available toxicity data on PFCAs with longer chains are still insufficient to evaluate their hazard. A combined repeated dose and reproductive/developmental toxicity screening study for perfluorododecanoic acid (PFDoA; C12) was conducted in accordance with OECD guideline 422 to fill these toxicity data gaps. PFDoA was administered by gavage to male and female rats at 0.1, 0.5, or 2.5 mg/kg/day. The administration of PFDoA at 0.5 and 2.5 mg/kg/day for 42–47 days mainly affected the liver, in which hypertrophy, necrosis, and inflammatory cholestasis were noted. Body weight gain was markedly inhibited in the 2.5 mg/kg/day group, and a decrease in hematopoiesis in the bone marrow and atrophic changes in the spleen, thymus, and adrenal gland were also observed. Regarding reproductive/developmental toxicity, various histopathological changes, including decreased spermatid and spermatozoa counts, were observed in the male reproductive organs, while continuous diestrous was observed in the females of the 2.5 mg/kg/day group. Seven of twelve females receiving 2.5 mg/kg/day died during late pregnancy while four other females in this group did not deliver live pups. No reproductive or developmental parameters changed at 0.1 or 0.5 mg/kg/day. Based on these results, the NOAELs of PFDoA were concluded to be 0.1 mg/kg/day for repeated dose toxicity and 0.5 mg/kg/day for reproductive/developmental toxicity. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 30: 1244–1263, 2015.
Potential Uses of Absorbable Fibrin Adhesive Bandage for Genitourinary Trauma
Authors: Anema John G. , Morey Allen F. , Harris Richard , MacPhee Martin , Cornum Rhonda L.
Published: April 2014

Fibrin sealants have become increasingly popular in nearly all surgical specialties. The absorbable fibrin adhesive bandage (AFAB) is a novel, potentially revolutionary product made from dried fibrinogen and thrombin. The AFAB appears to have excellent efficacy in producing rapid hemostasis in a variety of experimental major renal trauma models. The AFAB also appears to enhance healing of the urinary collecting system. Further study is essential to explore new urologic applications of this exciting technology.
Resection of Noncolorectal and Nonneuroendocrine Liver Metastases: Late Metastases Are the Only Chance of Cure
Authors: Laurent Christophe , Rullier Eric , Feyler Anne , Masson Bernard , Saric Jean
Published: April 2014

Resection of liver colorectal metastases allows a 5‐year survival in 25% to 35% of patients. The outcome of patients with noncolorectal metastases is unknown because of the heterogeneity of this group. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate predictive factors of survival in patients who underwent resection of noncolorectal and nonneuroendocrine (NCRNE) liver metastases. From 1980 to 1997, 284 patients underwent hepatectomy for liver metastases of whom 39 (25 men and 14 women, mean age 55 years)
had curative resection for NCRNE liver metastases. No patients had extrahepatic disease. The primary tumors were gastrointestinal (n
= 15), genitourinary (n = 12) and miscellaneous (n = 12). The mean number of metastases was 1.8, and the mean size of the lesions was
51 mm. The median disease‐free interval was 27 months. Twenty patients had a major hepatectomy and 19 a minor resection, with simultaneous resection of the primary in 6 cases. Overall survival was evaluated using the Kaplan‐Meier method. There was no operative mortality, and 8% morbidity. The survival at 1, 3, and 5 years was 81,
40, and 35%, respectively. Patients with a disease‐free interval higher than 24 months had a greater survival rate than those with a disease‐free interval of less than 24 months (100% vs. 10%;
p = 0.0004). Survival was not significantly influenced by age, sex, type of primary tumor, number, size and localization of metastases, type of hepatectomy, or blood transfusion. Resection of NCRNE liver metastases should be justified for patients without extrahepatic disease and resectable metastases, especially for those who have a disease‐free interval of more than 24 months.
Pancreatic Complications in Choledochal Cyst and Their Surgical Outcomes
Authors: Komuro Hiroaki , Makino Shun‐ichi , Yasuda Yoshikazu , Ishibashi Toshimitsu , Tahara Kazunori , Nagai Hideo
Published: April 2014

Follow‐up results were analyzed to evaluate the surgical managements of pancreatic complications such as pancreatitis and protein plug formation in patients with choledochal cysts. Sixty‐two patients with choledochal cysts treated between 1976
and 1999 were reviewed. Twenty‐four were children and 38 were adults.
Fifty‐four patients showed primary cases. Cyst excision and hepaticoenterostomy were finally performed in 56 patients. Surgical sphincteroplasty or endoscopic sphincterotomy was performed to prevent recurrent protein plugs in six patients. The follow‐up period was
8.1 ± 6.1 years. Acute pancreatitis and protein plug formation was observed in 18 (33.3%) and 11 (20.4%) of 54 patients showing primary cases, respectively. Both acute pancreatitis and protein plug formation were observed more frequently in children from 1 to 15 years of age (70.6% and 41.2%, respectively) than in adults (18.6% and
12.5%, respectively). Acute pancreatitis and/or protein plug formation developed in four (57.1%) of seven patients who underwent cystenterostomy. Protein plug formation in the residual cyst after cyst excision was observed in two patients, one of whom had undergone sphincteroplasty. Diabetes mellitus due to chronic pancreatitis developed in one patient who was diagnosed late. No other pancreatitis or protein plug recurred postoperatively in this series. Our results suggested that cystenterostomy did not resolve pancreatic complications of choledochal cysts, and that surgical sphincteroplasty was ineffective in preventing the recurrent protein plug formation in the residual duct. In conclusion, complete cyst excision and an early diagnosis are necessary to prevent the development of chronic or recurrent pancreatitis after surgery.
Indigenizing CBPR: Evaluation of a Community‐Based and Participatory Research Process Implementation of theElluam Tungiinun(Towards Wellness) Program in Alaska
Authors: Rasmus Stacy M.
Published: April 2014

The process that community based participatory research (CBPR) implementation takes in indigenous community contexts has serious implications for health intervention outcomes and sustainability. An evaluation of theElluam Tungiinun(Towards Wellness) Project aimed to explore the experience of a Yup'ik Alaska Native community engaged within a CBPR process and describe the effects of CBPR process implementation from an indigenous community member perspective. CBPR is acknowledged as an effective strategy for engaging American Indian and Alaska Native communities in research process, but we still know very little about the experience from a local, community member perspective. What are the perceived outcomes of participation in CBPR from a local, community member perspective? Qualitative methods were used to elicit community member perspectives of participation in a CBPR process engaged with one Yup'ik community in southwest Alaska. Results focus on community member perceptions of CBPR implementation, involvement in the process and partnership, ownership of the project with outcomes observed and perceived at the community, family and individual levels, and challenges. A discussion of findings demonstrates how ownership of the intervention arose from a translational and indigenizing process initiated by the community that was supported and enhanced through the implementation of CBPR. Community member perspectives of their participation in the research reveal important process points that stand to contribute meaningfully to implementation science for interventions developed by and for indigenous and other minority and culturally diverse peoples.
Application of random forest algorithm for studying habitat selection of colonial herons and egrets in human‐influenced landscapes
Authors: Carrasco Luis , Mashiko Miyuki , Toquenaga Yukihiko
Published: April 2014

Understanding the mechanisms of habitat selection is fundamental to the construction of proper conservation and management plans for many avian species. Habitat changes caused by human beings increase the landscape complexity and thus the complexity of data available for explaining species distribution. New techniques that assume no linearity and capable to extrapolate the response variables across landscapes are needed for dealing with difficult relationships between habitat variables and distribution data. We used a random forest algorithm to study breeding‐site selection of herons and egrets in a human‐influenced landscape by analyzing land use around their colonies. We analyzed the importance of each land‐use variable for different scales and its relationship to the probability of colony presence. We found that there exist two main spatial scales on which herons and egrets select their colony sites: medium scale (4 km) and large scale (10–15 km). Colonies were attracted to areas with large amounts of evergreen forests at the medium scale, whereas avoidance of high‐density urban areas was important at the large scale. Previous studies used attractive factors, mainly foraging areas, to explain bird‐colony distributions, but our study is the first to show the major importance of repellent factors at large scales. We believe that the newest non‐linear methods, such as random forests, are needed when modelling complex variable interactions when organisms are distributed in complex landscapes. These methods could help to improve the conservation plans of those species threatened by the advance of highly human‐influenced landscapes.