bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Welding with the Laser Beam in Vacuum
Authors: Reisgen Uwe , Olschok Simon , Jakobs Stefan , Mücke Michael
Published: April 2015

In the vehicle industry, beam welding methods are successfully applied for the joining of high‐quality parts. Here, the focus is mainly put on drive section components. Especially in component manufacturing of couplings, toothed wheel — shaft joints and drive shafts, electron beam welding using small vacuum cycle chambers is applied. The application of powerful solid‐state lasers results, however, often in negative consequences, such as soiling by process emissions or increased tendency to spatter. The application of laser beam welding in vacuum allows for the reduction of these side effects and, at the same time, for the increase of penetration depth and weld quality. This article introduces first results gained from tests made with workpieces from the vehicle industry.
Comparison between minimally invasive and open living donor hepatectomy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Berardi Giammauro , Tomassini Federico , Troisi Roberto Ivan
Published: March 2015

Living donor liver transplantation is a valid alternative to deceased donor liver transplantation, and its safety and feasibility have been well determined. Minimally invasive living donor hepatectomy (MILDH) has taken some time to be accepted because of inherent technical difficulties and the highly demanding surgical skills needed to perform the procedure, and its role is still being debated. Because of the lack of data, a systematic review and meta‐analysis comparing MILDH and open living donor hepatectomy (OLDH) was performed. A systematic literature search was performed with PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library Central. Treatment outcomes, including blood loss, operative time, hospital stay, analgesia use, donor‐recipient morbidity and mortality, and donor procedure costs, were analyzed. There were 573 articles, and a total of 11, dated between 2006 and 2014, fulfilled the selection criteria and were, therefore, included. These 11 studies included a total of 608 adult patients. Blood loss [mean difference (MD) = –46.35; 95% confidence interval (CI) = –94.04‐1.34; P = 0.06] and operative times [MD = 19.65; 95% CI = –4.28‐43.57; P = 0.11] were comparable between the groups, whereas hospital stays (MD = –1.56; 95% CI = –2.63 to −0.49; P = 0.004), analgesia use (MD = –0.54; 95% CI = –1.04 to −0.03; P = 0.04), donor morbidity rates [odds ratio (OR) = 0.62; 95% CI = 0.40‐0.98; P = 0.04], and wound‐related complications (OR = 0.41; 95% CI = 0.17‐0.97; P = 0.04) were significantly reduced in MILDH. MILDH for right liver procurement was associated with a significantly reduced hospital stay (OR = –0.92; 95% CI = 0.17‐0.97; P = 0.04). In conclusion, MILDH is associated with intraoperative results that are comparable to results for OLDH and with surgical outcomes that are no worse than those for the open procedure. Liver Transpl 21:738‐752, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Percutaneous yttrium aluminum garnet–laser lithotripsy of intrahepatic stones and casts after liver transplantation
Authors: Schlesinger Nis Hallundbæk , Svenningsen Peter , Frevert Susanne , Wettergren André , Hillingsø Jens
Published: March 2015

Bile duct stones and casts (BDSs) contribute importantly to morbidity after liver transplantation (LT). The purpose of this study was to estimate the clinical efficacy, safety, and long‐term results of percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopic lithotripsy (PTCSL) in transplant recipients and to discuss underlying factors affecting the outcome. A retrospective chart review revealed 18 recipients with BDSs treated by PTCSL laser lithotripsy with a holmium–yttrium aluminum garnet laser probe at 365 to 550 µm. They were analyzed in a median follow‐up time of 55 months. In all but 1 patient (17/18 or 94%), it was technically feasible to clear all BDSs with a mean of 1.3 sessions. PTCSL was unsuccessful in 1 patient because of multiple stones impacting the bile ducts bilaterally; 17% had early complications (Clavien II). All biliary casts were successfully cleared; 39% had total remission; 61% needed additional interventions in the form of percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography and dilation (17%), re‐PTCSL (11%), self‐expandable metallic stents (22%), or hepaticojejunostomy (6%); and 22% eventually underwent retransplantation. The overall liver graft survival rate was 78%. Two patients died during follow‐up for reasons not related to their BDS. Nonanastomotic strictures (NASs) were significantly associated with treatment failure. We conclude that PTCSL in LT patients is safe and feasible. NASs significantly increased the risk of relapse. Repeated minimally invasive treatments, however, prevented graft failure in 78% of the cases. Liver Transpl 21:831–837, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Human neonatal hepatocyte transplantation induces long‐term rescue of unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia in the Gunn rat
Authors: Tolosa Laia , López Silvia , Pareja Eugenia , Donato María Teresa , Myara Anne , Nguyen Tuan Huy , Castell José Vicente , Gómez‐Lechón María José
Published: March 2015

Crigler‐Najjar type 1 disease is a rare inherited metabolic disease characterized by high levels of unconjugated bilirubin due to the complete absence of hepatic uridine diphosphoglucuronate–glucuronosyltransferase activity. Hepatocyte transplantation (HT) has been proposed as an alternative treatment for Crigler‐Najjar syndrome, but it is still limited by the quality and the low engraftment and repopulation ability of the cells used. Because of their attachment capability and expression of adhesion molecules as well as the higher proportion of hepatic progenitor cells, neonatal hepatocytes may have an advantage over adult cells. Adult or neonatal hepatocytes were transplanted into Gunn rats, a model for Crigler‐Najjar disease. Engraftment and repopulation were studied and compared by immunofluorescence (IF). Additionally, the serum bilirubin levels, the presence of bilirubin conjugates in rat serum, and the expression of uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase 1 family polypeptide A1 (UGT1A1) in rat liver samples were also analyzed. Here we show that neonatal HT results in long‐term correction in Gunn rats. In comparison with adult cells, neonatal cells showed better engraftment and repopulation capability 3 days and 6 months after transplantation, respectively. Bilirubinemia decreased in the transplanted animals during the whole experimental follow‐up (6 months). Bilirubin conjugates were also present in the serum of the transplanted animals. Western blots and IF confirmed the presence and expression of UGT1A1 in the liver. This work is the first to demonstrate the advantage of using neonatal hepatocytes for the treatment of Crigler‐Najjar in vivo. Liver Transpl 21:801‐811, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Donation after cardiac death liver transplantation: Graft quality evaluation based on pretransplant liver biopsy
Authors: Xia Weiliang , Ke Qinghong , Wang Ye , Feng Xiaowen , Guo Haijun , Wang Weilin , Zhang Min , Shen Yan , Wu Jian , Xu Xiao , Yan Sheng , Zheng Shusen
Published: March 2015

Donation after cardiac death (DCD) liver grafts are associated with inferior clinical outcomes and high discard rates because of poor graft quality. We investigated the predictive value of DCD liver biopsy for the pretransplant graft quality evaluation. DCD liver transplants that took place between October 2010 and April 2014 were included (n = 127). Histological features of graft biopsy samples were analyzed to assess risk factors for graft survival. Macrovesicular steatosis ≥ 20% [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.973; P = 0.045] and sinusoidal neutrophilic infiltrate (HR = 6.969; P = 0.005) were confirmed as independent risk factors for graft survival; hepatocellular swelling, vacuolation, and necrosis failed to show prognostic value. Additionally, a donor serum total bilirubin level ≥ 34.2 μmol/L was also associated with a lower probability of graft survival. Our analysis indicates that macrovesicular steatosis ≥ 20% and sinusoidal neutrophilic infiltrate are novel and useful histological markers for DCD liver grafts with unacceptable quality. This finding can be used by transplant surgeons to improve DCD liver acceptance protocols. Liver Transpl 21:838–846, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Framingham score, renal dysfunction, and cardiovascular risk in liver transplant patients
Authors: Di Maira Tommaso , Rubin Angel , Puchades Lorena , Aguilera Victoria , Vinaixa Carmen , Garcia Maria , De Maria Nicola , Villa Erica , Lopez‐Andujar Rafael , San Juan Fernando , Montalva Eva , Perez Judith , Prieto Martin , Berenguer Marina
Published: March 2015

Cardiovascular (CV) events represent major impediments to the long‐term survival of liver transplantation (LT) patients. The aim of this study was to assess whether the Framingham risk score (FRS) at transplantation can predict the development of post‐LT cardiovascular events (CVEs). Patients transplanted between 2006 and 2008 were included. Baseline features, CV risk factors, and CVEs occurring after LT (ischemic heart disease, stroke, heart failure, de novo arrhythmias, and peripheral arterial disease) were recorded. In total, 250 patients (69.6% men) with a median age of 56 years (range, 18‐68 years) were included. At transplantation, 34.4%, 34.4%, and 33.2% of patients, respectively, had a low, moderate, and high FRS with a median FRS of 14.9 (range, 0.09‐30); 14.4% of LT recipients developed at least 1 CVE at a median of 2.619 years (range, 0.006‐6.945 years). In the univariate analysis, factors associated with the development of CVEs were the continuous FRS at LT (P = 0.003), age (P = 0.007), creatinine clearance [estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR); P = 0.020], and mycophenolate mofetil use at discharge (P = 0.011). In the multivariate analysis, only the eGFR [hazard ratio (HR), 0.98; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.97‐1.00; P = 0.009] and FRS (HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.02‐1.10; P = 0.002) remained in the model. Moreover, an association was also found between the FRS and overall survival (P = 0.004) with 5‐year survival rates of 82.5%, 77.8%, and 61.4% for the low‐, moderate‐, and high‐risk groups, respectively. Continuous FRS, eGFR, and hepatitis C virus infection were independent risk factors for overall mortality. In our series, the FRS and eGFR at LT were able to predict the development of post‐LT CVEs and poor outcomes. Liver Transpl 21:812‐822, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Single Molecule Studies of a Ladder Type Conjugated Polymer: Vibronic Spectra, Line Widths, and Energy Transfer
Authors: Zickler Martin F. , Feist Florian A. , Jacob Josemon , Müllen Klaus , Basché Thomas
Published: March 2015

Confocal fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy are employed to investigate single poly(ladder‐type pentaphenylene) (LPPentP) molecules dispersed in thin poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) films at 1.2 K. Emission spectra of single chains show single as well as multi­chromophore emission indicating variegated communication along the chains. The vibronic structure in the emission spectra resembles the one found for other ladder‐type polymers. Purely electronic zero‐phonon lines in emission are substantially broadened, most probably due to fast spectral diffusion. By surmounting the limitations of emission spectroscopy, nonemitting donor chromophores, which transfer their excitation energy in a radiationless manner to emitting chromophores, are accessed by excitation spectroscopy. Remarkably, by comparing the data of emitting and nonemitting chromophores a contribution to the zero‐phonon excitation line width has to be considered which places a lower limit on the estimated energy transfer time of several picoseconds between adjacent chromophores. Finally, the data indicate qualitatively a restricted flexibility of LPPentP compared to poly[2‐methoxy‐5‐(2′‐ethyl‐hexyloxy)‐1,4‐phenylene vinylene] (MEH–PPV).

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The Management of Creative Vision and the Economics of Creative Cycles
Authors: Earl Peter E. , Potts Jason
Published: March 2015

This paper proposes a new theory of variability in innovation performance in managerial firms that contract ‘creative vision’. We argue that such firms are prone to ‘creative cycles’ that arise from uncertainty‐induced systemic overshooting that can threaten the firm's financial viability, requiring managers to shift control back to risk‐averse financial controllers. But this creates opportunities for competing firms to engage in bold creative visions, threatening the firm's market viability and inducing control to shift back to newly contracted suppliers of ‘creative vision’. We discuss how this ‘principal‐agent‐agent’ mechanism plays out, the types of uncertainty that drive it, and consider the industry‐level externalities it induces. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Novel Approval for Degradation of Polybutadiene and Synthesis of Diene‐Based Telechelic Oligomers via Olefin Cross Metathesis
Authors: Jiang Bin , Wei Tian , Zou Ting‐Ting , Rempel Gary L. , Pan Qin‐Ming
Published: April 2015

Metathetic degradation of polybutadiene (PB) in presence of a ruthenium catalyst is accomplished. Well‐defined functionalized telechelic PB oligomers with a wide range of designed molecular weights (Mn) and polydispersity indexes (PDI) are achieved via the choice of chain transfer agents (CTAs), mole ratio of PB/CTA, mole ratio of PB/catalyst and the reaction time. Experiments are performed using Grubbs second generation catalyst (G2) in 1,2‐dichloromethane at 30 °C. It has been demonstrated that the degradation performance can be controllably tuned by using selected monomers. Additionally, when mono‐olefins are introduced, the Mn of metathesis products would be on order of a few hundred g mol−1 with narrow PDI (less than 1.50). The compositions and structures of the final product is determined using GC/MS analysis, which indicates that the butadiene repeating unit number of the telechelic oligomers, could be as low as two or even only one.
Complex variable analysis for stress distribution of an underwater tunnel in an elastic half plane
Authors: Fang Qian , Song Haoran , Zhang Dingli
Published: April 2015

When an underwater tunnel is excavated, the groundwater may flow into the tunnel. The seepage forces consequently induced can have important effects on the effective stresses around the tunnel. Moreover, the influences of the free surface of a shallow underwater tunnel should also be considered. In this research, an analytical solution is presented to calculate the seepage‐induced effective stresses around a shallow underwater tunnel in an elastic half plane. The solution uses the complex variable method and consists of conformally mapping the half plane with a hole onto a transformed circular ring. The coefficients of the various terms in the Laurent series expansions of the stress functions in the transformed region can be obtained from the boundary conditions. The total stress distribution around a shallow underwater tunnel can be calculated by the potentials in the half plane. The effective stress can be obtained by subtracting the pore pressure from the total stress. The analytical solution is validated by numerical simulations and can be used to perform both the short‐term and long‐term analyses. By using the proposed solution, it is found that the circumferential effective stresses around the tunnel increase greatly because of seepage, and they increase with the increase of water depth in both the undrained and drained conditions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Overcoming challenges to meaningful informed consent for whole genome sequencing in pediatric cancer research
Authors: Oberg Jennifer A. , Glade Bender Julia L. , Cohn Elizabeth G. , Morris Marilyn , Ruiz Jenny , Chung Wendy K. , Appelbaum Paul S. , Kung Andrew L. , Levine Jennifer M.
Published: April 2015

Background

Introducing whole genome sequencing (WGS) into pediatric cancer research at diagnosis poses unique challenges related to informed consent. WGS requires tissue obtained prior to initiating treatment, when families may be overwhelmed with uncertainty and fear. Motivation to participate may be high without fully understanding the range of possible results, including secondary findings. Little is known about parental knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about this type of research.

Procedure

A qualitative study was conducted to investigate parental knowledge about genetic concepts and WGS, thoughts about the informed consent process, and preferences for secondary findings. Focus groups were conducted with parents/guardians of children with cancer and semi‐structured interviews were conducted in a control group without cancer. All transcripts were analyzed using content analysis.

Results

Four focus groups included 15 participants; eight semi‐structured interviews included 10 participants. Basic knowledge about genetics was limited to heredity. Some knowledge of genomic analysis was present in 3/15 focus group participants. Major factors related to participation in WGS research were: (i) hope for their child and future children; (ii) no additional procedures; (iii) and protection of privacy. All favored a two‐step consent process, first to store extra tissue from a diagnostic biopsy/resection, followed by consenting to WGS research, one‐to‐two months later. The desire to receive secondary findings was high among both groups, but there were individuals who did not want these results, fearing increased anxiety.

Conclusions

Parents/guardians of children with cancer have limited knowledge about WGS. A two‐step consent process may improve their ability to provide meaningful informed consent. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015;62:1374–1380. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Successful Use of N‐Acetylcysteine to Treat Severe Hepatic Injury Caused by a Dietary Fitness Supplement
Authors: El Rahi Cynthia , Thompson‐Moore Nathaniel , Mejia Patricia , De Hoyos Patricio
Published: March 2015

In the absence of adequate premarketing efficacy and safety evaluations, adverse events from over‐the‐counter supplements are emerging as a public health concern. Specifically, bodybuilding products are being identified as a frequent cause of drug‐induced liver injury. We present a case of a 20‐year‐old Hispanic male who presented with acute nausea and vomiting accompanied by severe right upper quadrant abdominal pain, shivering, and shortness of breath. Laboratory data pointed to mixed cholestatic and hepatocellular damage, and after exclusion of known alternate etiologies, the patient was diagnosed with acute drug‐induced liver injury secondary to the use of “Friction,” a bodybuilding supplement. Treatment with N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) 20% oral solution was initiated empirically at a dose of 400 mg (70 mg/kg) every 4 hours and was continued once the diagnosis was made. Within 48 hours of admission to our hospital, the patient began to show clinical resolution of right abdominal pain and tolerance to oral diet associated with a significant decline toward normal in his liver function tests and coagulopathy. The WHO‐UMC causality assessment system suggested a “certain causality” between exposure to the supplement and the acute liver injury. In the event of suspected drug‐induced liver injury, treatment with NAC should be considered given its favorable risk‐benefit profile.
Shape‐memory effect in hyperbranched poly(ethyleneimine)‐modified epoxy thermosets
Authors: Santiago David , Fernández‐Francos Xavier , Ferrando Francesc , De la Flor Silvia
Published: March 2015

A series of shape‐memory epoxy thermosets were synthesized by crosslinking diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A with mixtures of commercially available hyperbranched poly(ethyleneimine) and polyetheramine. Thermal, mechanical and shape‐memory properties were studied and the effect on them of the content and structure of the hyperbranched polymer was discussed. Measurements showed that the glass transition temperature can be tailored from 60 °C to 117 °C depending on the hyperbranched polymer content, and all formulations showed an appropriate glassy/rubbery storage modulus ratio. Shape‐memory programming was carried out atTgE′ given the excellent mechanical properties of the materials, with maximum stress and failure strain up to 15 MPa and 60%, respectively. The resulting shape‐memory behavior was excellent, with maximum shape recovery and shape fixity of 98% as well as a fast shape‐recovery rate of 22%/min. The results show that hyperbranched poly(ethyleneimine) as a crosslinking agent can be used to enhance mechanical and shape‐memory properties with different effects depending on the crosslinking density. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys.2015,53, 924–933
Respiratory syncytial virus infection of airway cells: Role of microRNAs
Authors: Rossi Giovanni A. , Silvestri Michela , Colin Andrew A.
Published: April 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small single‐stranded RNA molecules involved in the regulation of gene expression at the post‐transcriptional level. In the airways, miRNAs are implicated in the modulation of antiviral defense, through modulation of both innate and adaptive immune response in inflammatory and immune effector cells but also in parenchymal cells. The first target of respiratory viruses are airway epithelial cells. Following infection, an altered expression of distinct miRNAs occurs in airway cells aimed at inhibiting viral replication and preserving the airway epithelial barrier, while at the same time viruses induce or repress the expression of other miRNAs that favor viral replication. Understanding the changes in miRNA expression profile, identification of miRNAs target genes and their contribution to the pathogenesis of the disease may help the intricate mechanisms of virus‐host interaction. Further understanding of these molecular mechanisms could lead to development of new antiviral treatments in common, high impact, respiratory disorders for which specific treatments are not available. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) airway infection is a common example of virus modifying miRNAs expression to favor immune evasion, and constitutes the salient feature of this review. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:727–732. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Autoantibodies targeting glomerular annexin A2 identify patients with proliferative lupus nephritis
Authors: Caster Dawn J. , Korte Erik A. , Merchant Michael L. , Klein Jon B. , Wilkey Daniel W. , Rovin Brad H. , Birmingham Dan J. , Harley John B. , Cobb Beth L. , Namjou Bahram , McLeish Kenneth R. , Powell David W.
Published: March 2015

Purpose

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) frequently develop lupus nephritis (LN), a complication frequently leading to end stage kidney disease. Immune complex deposition in the glomerulus is central to the development of LN. Using a targeted proteomic approach, we tested the hypothesis that autoantibodies targeting glomerular antigens contribute to the development of LN.

Experimental design

Human podocyte and glomerular proteins were separated by SDS‐PAGE and immunoblotted with sera from SLE patients with and without LN. The regions of those gels corresponding to reactive bands observed with sera from LN patients were analyzed using LC‐MS/MS.

Results

LN reactive bands were seen at approximately 50 kDa in podocyte extracts and between 36 and 50 kDa in glomerular extracts. Those bands were analyzed by LC‐MS/MS and 102 overlapping proteins were identified. Bioinformatic analysis determined that 36 of those proteins were membrane associated, including a protein previously suggested to contribute to glomerulonephritis and LN, annexin A2. By ELISA, patients with proliferative LN demonstrated significantly increased antibodies against annexin A2.

Conclusion and clinical relevance

Proteomic approaches identified multiple candidate antigens for autoantibodies in patients with LN. Serum antibodies against annexin A2 were significantly elevated in subjects with proliferative LN, validating those antibodies as potential biomarkers.
Effects and mechanisms of the secondary structure on the antimicrobial activity and specificity of antimicrobial peptides
Authors: Mai Xuan‐thanh , Huang Jinfeng , Tan Juanjuan , Huang Yibing , Chen Yuxin
Published: March 2015

A 15‐mer cationic α‐helical antimicrobial peptide HPRP‐A1 was used as the parent peptide to study the effects of peptide secondary structure on the biophysical properties and biological activities. Without changing the amino acid composition of HPRP‐A1, we designed two α‐helical peptides with either higher or lower helicity compared with the parent peptide, a β‐sheet peptide and a random coiled peptide using de novo design approach. The secondary structures were confirmed by circular dichroism spectroscopy. The three α‐helical peptides exhibited comparable antibacterial activities, but their hemolytic activity varied from extreme hemolysis to no hemolysis, which is correlated with their helicity. The β‐sheet peptide shows poor antibacterial and strong hemolytic activities. More interestingly, the random coil peptide shows no antibacterial activity against Gram‐negative bacteria, weak antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive bacteria, and extremely weak hemolytic activity. Bacterial membrane permeabilization was also testified on peptides with different secondary structures. Tryptophan fluorescence experiment revealed that the peptide binding preference to the lipid vesicles for mimicking the prokaryotic or eukaryotic membranes was consistent with their biological activities. With the de novo design approach, we proved that it is important to maintain certain contents of amphipathic secondary structure for a desirable biological activity. We believe that the de novo design approach of relocation of the amino acids within a template sequence could be an effective approach in optimizing the specificity of an antimicrobial peptide. Copyright © 2015 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optical band gap of Li8SiN4 with disordered structure as a cathode material of lithium secondary batteries
Authors: Yamashita T. , Kuwano S. , Kuriyama K. , Kushida K.
Published: March 2015

The band gap of and disordered structure in Li8SiN4 (lattice constant: a = 10.148 Å, c = 9.567 Å) are studied by optical absorption, photoacoustic spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Raman scattering spectroscopy. Li8SiN4 is a semiconductor with a band gap of 2.4 eV, suggesting the transition from the N‐2p valence band to the conduction band mainly consisting of Si‐3s and/or ‐3p orbitals. A broad Raman peak is observed at 586 cm–1, indicating the homogenously random distribution of Li and Si atoms. Li8SiN4 crystallizes in a superstructure of eight face‐centered N sublattices. In each sublattice, one Li and one Si atom are randomly and diagonally occupied at two tetrahedral sites next to N, while six Li atoms reside at the other sites next to N. The possible locations of one remaining Li atom are also discussed. Li8SiN4 is a direct transition, which is slightly larger than the d‐d electron transitions in the typical cathode materials LiMn2O4 and LiCoO2. For a 5 × 5 mm2 sized lithium secondary battery with the Li8SiN4 + acetylene black cathode/propylene carbonate + LiClO4 electrolyte/Li anode structure, the capacity for the discharge current of 10 µA is between 2.44 µAh/cm2 and 3.56 µAh/cm2 for a potential range between 2.8 V and 3.8 V. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Band gap and optical transmission in the Fibonacci type one‐dimensional A5B6C7 based photonic crystals
Authors: Simsek Sevket , Koc Husnu , Palaz Selami , Oltulu Oral , Mamedov Amirullah M. , Ozbay Ekmel
Published: March 2015

In this work, we present an investigation of the optical properties and band structure calculations for the photonic crystal structures (PCs) based on one‐dimensional (1D) photonic crystal. Here we use 1D A5B6C7(A:Sb; B:S,Se; C:I) based layers in air background. We have theoretically calculated photonic band structure and optical properties of A5B6C7(A:Sb; B:S,Se; C:I) based PCs. In our simulation, we employed the finite‐difference time domain (FDTD) technique and the plane wave expansion method (PWE) which implies the solution of Maxwell equations with centered finite‐difference expressions for the space and time derivatives. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Elemental substitution effects in multiferroic R Fe2O4 (R: rare earths)
Authors: Yoshii Kenji , Funae Takashi , Mizumaki Masaichiro , Ejiri Hiroki , Ikeda Naoshi , Saitoh Hiroyuki , Matsumura Daiju
Published: March 2015

We report the effects of elemental substitutions in multiferroic R Fe2O4 (R: Y, Ho‐Lu, In). The substitution by nonmagnetic Ga3+ at the Fe site, which has not been reported so far, shows a drastic decrease in the ferrimagnetic transition temperature (TN). This is plausibly owing to the suppression of magnetic interactions between Fe ions, based on our previous results of other substituted systems such as R FeCoO4. Dielectric constants near room temperature were comparable to those of R Fe2O4. The suppression of dielectric loss in this system is suitable to application. The R ‐site substitution was also attempted by the large R3+ ions such as Dy3+. The solubility limit was up to ∼10% of R ions. TN was raised by 5‐10 K for Dy3+ substitution. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Fabrication of visible‐light transparent solar cells composed of NiO/NixZn1‐xO/ZnO heterostructures
Authors: Kawade Daisuke , Moriyama Kazuma , Nakamura Fumika , Chichibu Shigefusa F. , Sugiyama Mutsumi
Published: March 2015

Visible‐light transparent solar cells were fabricated using p ‐type NiO and n ‐type ZnO by conventional RF reactive sputtering with NiZnO alloy as an intrinsic interlayer. The energy band diagrams of NiO/NiZnO/ZnO heterojunctions were revealed by photoelectron yield spectroscopy, and the band gap energies were estimated to be 1.2 eV for NiO/Ni0.4Zn0.6O and 0.6 eV for Ni0.4Zn0.6O/ZnO heterojunctions. By using In2O3:Sn (ITO) as a transparent electrode in NiO‐based visible‐light transparent solar cells, a small but noticeable photovoltaic effect was obtained. The short‐circuit current density (Jsc) increased from 4 μA/cm2 to 12 μA/cm2 due to the insertion of Ni0.4Zn0.6O interlayer. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Cu2SnS3 thin film solar cells prepared by thermal crystallization of evaporated Cu/Sn precursors in sulfur and tin atmosphere
Authors: Nakashima M. , Yamaguchi T. , Itani H. , Sasano J. , Izaki M.
Published: March 2015

Cu2SnS3 thin films were prepared by crystallization in sulfur and tin mixing atmosphere from the stacked Cu/Sn precursors deposited by sequential evaporation of Sn and Cu elements. From EPMA analysis, the composition of the thin film was approximately constant regardless changing Sn mole ratio in the precursor. However, the composition of inside of the thin films and Mo layer had gradation. The Raman analysis showed that the spectrum corresponded to monoclinic Cu2SnS3. Cu2SnS3 thin films were applied to the fabrication of Cu2SnS3 solar cells. The values of Voc and Isc increased with decreasing Sn mole ratio in the precursor. The largest Voc of 247.5 mV was achieved in sample of Cu/Sn mole ratio of 2/1.2, which is comparable with early reported value of Voc. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
First‐principles study of doping properties in ZnSnAs2
Authors: Ishikawa Masato , Nakayama Takashi
Published: March 2015

Doping properties in ZnSnAs2 compound semiconductors were studied by the first‐principles spin‐polarized calculation. We have shown that the Ga doping into Zn site produces an ideal n‐type system with small effective mass, not sensitive to the doping concentration, which feature merits the optical isolator application. On the other hand, the Mn doping into Sn site induces a large spin moment around S=1, which merits the spintronics application. When the Mn concentration is increased, however, Mn atoms prefer to locate nearby and the spin moment decreases by the anti‐ferromagnetic interaction between Mn atoms. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Trends in the skill of weather prediction at lead times of 1–14 days
Authors: Stern Harvey , Davidson Noel E.
Published: March 2015

Unique, multi‐year datasets of weather observations and official and experimental predictions are used to document trends in weather forecast accuracy and the current level of forecast skill specifically for Melbourne, Australia. The data are applied to quantify prediction skill out to Day‐14 for maximum and minimum temperature, and for precipitation amount and probability. An innovative statistical analysis is applied to the data. This analysis clearly demonstrates the need for long time series of forecasts in order to reliably assess long‐term trends. The accuracy of the current official Day 5–7 forecasts is found to be similar to that of Day‐1 forecasts from 50 years ago. The accuracy of experimental Day 8–10 forecasts is comparable to that of the Day 5–7 forecasts, when they were first officially provided 15 years ago. Some overall skill, albeit limited, is evident out to Day‐14 and significance testing indicates that it is unlikely that this apparent skill arose by chance. The results provide evidence of deterministic weather forecast skill out to the hypothesised 15 day limit on such predictions. However, in so doing, the results raise the possibility that the limit may be breached at some stage in the future.
Crisis and Essence of Choice: Explaining Post‐Fukushima Nuclear Energy Policy Making
Authors: Chien Herlin
Published: March 2015

After the Fukushima nuclear plant explosion in March, 2011, countless antinuclear protests were seen on street in many countries. Yet some governments maintained their original pro‐nuclear position while others announced sudden energy policy change. What accounts for this substantial variation? This research uses the synthesis of Punctuated Equilibrium Theory and Positive Political Theory to explain the crossnational variation. Three variables are identified: (i) election, (ii) past experience, and (iii) institutional setting to further our understanding on how attention of policy makers is allocated differently and thus produce variety of policy reactions in post‐crisis governance across nations. Six European country cases of different post‐crisis energy policy responses are chosen to cross‐examine these variables' explanatory power: Germany, France, Spain, Sweden, Italy, and Switzerland. The methods and findings of this study urge researchers to go beyond treating crisis as focusing event in policy change and look into the macropolitical conditions that promote or undermine the driving energy behind policy change dynamics.
The Language of Autocrats: Leaders' Language in Natural Disaster Crises
Authors: Windsor Leah C. , Dowell Nia , Graesser Art
Published: March 2015

Recent research has shown that natural disasters present political problems for societies, as these events make both citizens and leaders vulnerable. Autocratic leaders use language strategically following natural disasters to maximize their time in office. We introduce a new data set derived from using computational linguistic programs (LIWC and Coh‐Metrix) to explore language patterns in the discourse of three prominent political leaders to uncover their strategies for navigating the political and social problems created by natural disasters. Our analysis covers the speeches of Chairman Mao Tse‐Tung, Commander Fidel Castro, and President Hosni Mubarak. We show that leaders' language reveals their preferences and strategies for accommodating the social, political, and economic shocks created by natural disasters through blaming and credit‐claiming language. Our results provide insight into how autocratic leaders' language reflects these three strategies.
Impact Toughness of Medium‐Mn Transformation‐Induced Plasticity‐Aided Steels
Authors: Sugimoto Koh‐ichi , Tanino Hikaru , Kobayashi Junya
Published: April 2015

The impact toughness of 0.2% C–1.5% Si–(1.5–5.0)% Mn (mass%) transformation‐induced plasticity (TRIP)‐aided steels with bainitic ferrite and/or martensite structure matrices produced by isothermal transformation process is investigated for automotive body applications. The highest impact toughness, highest Charpy impact absorbed value (CIAV) at 298 K (130 J cm−2), and lowest ductile–brittle transformation temperature (DBTT, 203 K) is achieved in 1.5% Mn steel subjected to an isothermal transformation process at a temperature below the martensite start temperature MS − (50–100) K. An increase in the Mn content results in a small decrease in the CIAV (5–40 J cm−2) and an increase in the DBTT (20 K). The highest CIAV of 1.5% Mn steel compared with steels containing higher Mn content is mainly caused by (i) a more softened matrix structure consisting of wide lath‐martensite and bainitic ferrite, (ii) a smaller amount of the narrow‐lath martensite‐retained austenite‐like phase, and (iii) more stable retained austenite. The lowest DBTT of 1.5% Mn steel compared with the other steel compositions is mainly associated with the low Mn concentration of the matrix in this steel.
Aktiv geregelte Schwingungstilger für weitgespannte Förderbandbrücken
Authors: Weber Felix , Baader Jakob , Bitterli Kurt , Rufer Peter
Published: April 2015

Weitgespannte Förderbandbrücken werden in unzugänglichem Gelände für die Schüttgutförderung eingesetzt. Weil Förderbandbrücken aus Stahl mit sehr kleiner Dämpfung gebaut sind und große freie Längen aufweisen, sind diese schwingungsanfällig. Wegen ihrer unterschiedlichen Spannweiten und zeitlich veränderlicher Schüttgutmenge variieren ihre Modalparameter. Deshalb wird hier die Entwicklung eines aktiv geregelten Schwingungstilgers beschrieben.

Actively controlled vibration absorbers for long span belt conveyor bridges. Belt conveyor bridges with big free spans are used for the bulk material transportation if the site is difficult to access. Due to their steel construction with low inherent damping and their long free spans, belt conveyor bridges are prone to vibrations. Their modal parameters vary because of their different free lengths and time varying payload. This article therefore describes the development of an actively controlled vibration absorber.
A new class of dual support vector machine NPID controller used for predictive control
Authors: Wang Decheng , Lin Hui
Published: March 2015

A nonlinear proportional‐integral‐differential (NPID) controller used for predictive control tunes the proportional, integral, and differential gain coefficients according to the system prediction output. The prediction error has great influence on its performance. In this paper, we propose a dual support vector machine (SVM) NPID controller using an SVM prediction system output with less error. System model reflecting the system feature is constructed by SVM, based on the training dataset gained by system transfer function. The error compensation model is also constructed by SVM, based on prediction error with the above system model. The system prediction output is obtained by the aforementioned SVM models. And it is used to compute the PID gain coefficients. Simulation results of typical systems show that the proposed method has very little prediction error and high control performance. © 2015 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Application of infrared thermography and extension recognize method to intelligent fault diagnosis of distribution panels
Authors: Wang Meng‐Hui , Wu Pi‐Chu , Jiang Wei‐Jhe
Published: April 2015

Distribution panels are an important piece of equipment in power systems. Maintaining a loading panel and ensuring security are not easy because the power supply cannot be interrupted in high‐tech factories. Distribution panels need fully functional condition monitoring and fault diagnosis systems to prevent accidents and reduce maintenance costs. In this paper, a new scheme is proposed to design an auto‐diagnosis tool for electrical distribution panels using infrared thermography to build diagnostic features using the matter‐element model. The paper then presents an extension recognize method (ERM) based on extension theory to diagnose the abnormality element by using degrees of correlation between the tested pattern and the matter‐element models that have been built up. Test results show that the proposed method can not only recognize the main defect element of the tested panel but also detect useful information for future trends and multi‐defect analysis by the correlation indexes. This new approach merits more attention as a tool to be used in the defect recognition problems of distribution panels, especially in high‐tech factories in Taiwan. © 2015 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Negotiators’ Attitudes toward Signing Business Contracts: Evidence from Greece and Israel
Authors: Stefanidis Abraham , Banai Moshe , Shetach Ana
Published: April 2015

This study extends beyond negotiation process and styles, and focuses on negotiators’ tendency to sign formal contracts. Drawing on a risk mitigation perspective, it examines the influence of businesspeople's levels of horizontal and vertical individualism‐collectivism, ethical idealism, and trust propensity on their attitudes toward signing formal negotiated business contracts in Greece and in Israel. A survey questionnaire was translated from English to Greek and to Hebrew, and 649 responses were collected from employees who worked in industries such as banking, insurance, construction, manufacturing, retailing, and tourism in the Greek and Israeli private and public sectors. Our findings suggest that higher levels of horizontal individualism, horizontal collectivism, and ethical idealism increase employees’ tendency to sign formal contracts, whereas lower levels of general trust are associated with a higher propensity to sign formal contracts. Interestingly, employees’ propensity to sign formal contracts was significantly lower in Israel than in Greece. We argue that the propensity to sign formal contracts, and thus to mitigate potential agreement risks, is dependent on the individuals’ cultural and personal attributes. The study provides practitioners with a set of cultural and individual attributes that can serve as predictors of negotiators’ predisposition toward signing business contracts. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Exploring Culturally Relevant Texts With Kindergartners and Their Families
Authors: Schrodt Katie , Fain Jeanne Gilliam , Hasty Michelle
Published: April 2015

This article shares a monthly curricular model that can help teachers and families bridge the gap between home and school by using literature and response inspired from the cultures in the classroom. Integrating culturally responsive texts and family response journals into the classroom and the home can help children, their families, and peers make critical connections to the literature as well as understand diversity as a productive resource. This yearlong curriculum model took place in a diverse kindergarten classroom that included children and families representing a wide range of socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. This article focuses on three months of the curricular structure where families engaged in literature focused on adoption. Findings demonstrated that families’ responses led to expanded views of family structures and cultures and provided space for critical conversations around texts in the home and school. Authentic family and child responses are included in the article.
Structural Diversity in Manganese(II) Complexes with Multidentate N‐Donor Imino Pyridyl Ligands
Authors: Masoumi Asad , Gargari Masoumeh Servati , Mahmoudi Ghodrat , Machura Barbara , Lynch Vincent , Giester Gerald , Abedi Marjan , Hazendonk Paul
Published: March 2015

Four Mn(NCS)2 based compounds of the types [Mn(SCN)2(L1)]·EtOH (1), [Mn(SCN)2(L2)]·½EtOH (2), [Mn(SCN)2(L3)] (3), and [Mn(SCN)2(L4)2]n·3nMeCN (4) [L1 = benzilbis((pyridin‐2‐yl)methylidenehydrazone), L2 = benzilbis((acetylpyridin‐2‐yl)methylidenehydrazone, L3 = benzilbis((phenylpyridin‐2‐yl)methylidenehydrazone, and L4 = benzilbis((pyridin‐3‐yl)methylidenehydrazone)] were synthesized and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies, elemental analysis, and IR spectroscopy. The first three complexes of general formula Mn(SCN)2(L1–3) consist of discrete units, whereas the fourth one consists of one‐dimensional coordination polymer. The central metal atoms in 1–4 exhibit a distorted octahedral arrangement.
M2(H2O)[μ10‐C6H2(COO)4] (M = Ba2+, Pb2+) – Two Isotypic Three‐Dimensional Coordination Polymers with a Layer‐like Separation between Anions and Cations
Authors: Köferstein Roberto , Robl Christian
Published: March 2015

Monoclinic single crystals of Ba2(H2O)[μ10‐C6H2(COO)4] (1) and Pb2(H2O)[μ10‐C6H2(COO)4] (2) were obtained using the silica gel method [space group C2/c (no. 15), Z = 4; 1: a = 780.89(4), b = 1756.19(8), c = 914.80(5) pm, β = 114.512(5)°; 2: a = 756.70(10), b = 1772.8(2), c = 890.2(2) pm, β = 113.590(10)°]. There are two crystallographically independent M2+ ions (M = Ba, Pb). M(1) is surrounded by eight carboxylate oxygen atoms and one water molecule forming a tricapped trigonal prism. M(2) is coordinated by ten carboxylate oxygen atoms in the shape of a tetracapped octahedron. The connection between the M(1) and M(2) polyhedra leads to infinite layers parallel to (010), which are linked by [C6H2(COO)4]4– anions to form a three‐dimensional framework. The [C6H2(COO)4]4– anion adopts a μ10 coordination mode. Compound 1 reveals short Ba–Ba contacts of 426.46(2) pm, whereas the Pb–Pb distance of 411.01(6) pm in 2 is larger than twice the van der Waals radius.
Synthesis, Spectroscopy, X‐ray Crystallography, and DFT Computations of Nanosized Phosphazenes
Authors: Shariatinia Zahra , Moghadam Elnaz Jalali , Maghsoudi Narges , Mousavi Hourieh Sadat Mirhosseini , Dusek Michal , Eigner Vaclav
Published: March 2015

Nanoparticles of nine phosphazenes with general formula 4‐CH3C6H4S(O)2N=PX3 [X = Cl (A), NC4H8 (1), NC6H12 (2), NC4H8N–C(O)OC2H5 (3), NC4H8N–C(O)OC6H5 (4), NC4H8O (5), NHCH2–C4H7O (6), N(CH3)(C6H11) (7), NHCH2–C6H5 (8), and 2‐NH‐NC5H4 (9)] were synthesized using ultrasonic method and characterized by 1H, 13C, 31P NMR, FT‐IR, fluorescence, as well as UV/Vis spectroscopy and additionally with XRD, FE‐SEM, N2 sorption, and elemental analysis. The 31P NMR spectra of compounds 1–9 reveal the most up field shift δ(31P) for 9 at –11.45 ppm reflecting the most electron donation of 2‐aminopyridinyl rings through resonance to the phosphorus atom. The 1H, 13C NMR spectra of 7 exhibit two sets of signals for the hydrogen and carbon atoms of its two isomers present in the solution state in 1:4 ratio. The FE‐SEM micrographs illustrate that the nanoparticles of compounds 1–9 have spherical morphology and a size of 27–42 nm. From the XRD patterns, the crystal sizes were estimated to about 24–86 nm. The highest bandgap was measured for 3 (3.81 eV) whereas the smallest was measured for 8 (3.50 eV). The structures of two polymorphs of compound 5 (5, 5′) were determined by X‐ray crystallography at 120 K. Both of these polymorphs are triclinic with P1 space group but 5 has a doubled unit cell volume and two symmetrically independent molecules (5a and 5b). In structures 5a and 5′, the phosphorus and all endocyclic atoms of two morpholinyl rings display disorder, whereas the molecule 5b does not show disorder. The strong intermolecular O–H···O hydrogen bonds plus weak intermolecular C–H···O and C–H···N interactions create three‐dimensional polymers in the crystalline networks of 5 and 5′. The DFT computations illustrate that molecule 5b is more stable than 5a by –1.1062 and –0.9779 kcal·mol–1 at B3LYP and B3PW91 levels, respectively. The NBO calculations presented sp3d hybridization for phosphorus and sulfur atoms and sp2, sp3 hybrids for the nitrogen and oxygen atoms.