bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetism and Photomagnetism of Prussian Blue Analogue Nanoparticles Embedded in Porous Metal Oxide Ordered Nanostructures
Authors: Fornasieri Giulia , Bordage Amélie , Bleuzen Anne
Published: September 2017

Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) are key compounds in the field of molecular magnetism and photomagnetism. In parallel to the strong development of this class of compounds, many efforts have been devoted to produce PBAs in various shapes and sizes. In this microreview we focus on works reporting the use of porous metal oxide nanostructures as hard templates for controlling the size, shape and solid‐state organization of magnetic and photomagnetic PBA nanoparticles. The oxide matrices that have so far been developed and their characteristics are presented first. Then, the approaches that have been successfully used to control PBA formation within the pores of the matrices are described, as well as the morphology and environment of the functional nanoparticles. Lastly, the magnetic and photomagnetic properties of the nanocomposites are reviewed.
Effects of S 38093, an antagonist/inverse agonist of histamine H3 receptors, in models of neuropathic pain in rats
Authors: Chaumette T. , Chapuy E. , Berrocoso E. , Llorca‐Torralba M. , Bravo L. , Mico J.A. , Chalus M. , Eschalier A. , Ardid D. , Marchand F. , Sors A.
Published: September 2017

Background

Histamine H3 receptors are mainly expressed on CNS neurons, particularly along the nociceptive pathways. The potential involvement of these receptors in pain processing has been suggested using H3 receptor inverse agonists.

Methods

The antinociceptive effect of S 38093, a novel inverse agonist of H3 receptors, has been evaluated in several neuropathic pain models in rat and compared with those of gabapentin and pregabalin.

Results

While S 38093 did not change vocalization thresholds to paw pressure in healthy rats, it exhibited a significant antihyperalgesic effect in the Streptozocin‐induced diabetic (STZ) neuropathy model after acute and chronic administration and, in the chronic constriction injury (CCI) model only after chronic administration, submitted to the paw‐pressure test. Acute S 38093 administration at all doses tested displayed a significant cold antiallodynic effect in a model of acute or repeated administration of oxaliplatin‐induced neuropathy submitted to cold tail immersion, cold allodynia being the main side effect of oxaliplatin in patients. The effect of S 38093 increased following chronic administration (i.e. twice a day during 5 days) in the CCI and STZ models except in the oxaliplatin models where its effect was already maximal from the first administration The kinetics and size of effect of S 38093 were similar to gabapentin and/or pregabalin. Finally, the antinociceptive effect of S 38093 could be partially mediated by α2 adrenoreceptors desensitization in the locus coeruleus.

Conclusions

These results highlight the interest of S 38093 to relieve neuropathic pain and warrant clinical trials especially in chemotherapeutic agent‐induced neuropathic pain.

Significance

S 38093, a new H3 antagonist/inverse agonist, displays antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic effect in neuropathic pain, especially in oxaliplatin‐induced neuropathy after chronic administration. This effect of S 38093 in neuropathic pain could be partly mediated by α2 receptors desensitization in the locus coeruleus.
Development of an Electrochemical Sensor Based on Covalent Molecular Imprinting for Selective Determination of Bisphenol‐A
Authors: Güney Sevgi , Güney Orhan
Published: September 2017

In this study, an electrochemical sensor was developed and used for selective determination of bisfenol‐A (BPA) by integrating sol‐gel technique and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) modified paste electrode. BPA bounded by covalently to isocyanatopropyl‐triethoxy silane (ICPTS) was synthesized as a new precursor (BPA‐ICPTS) and then BPA‐imprinted polymer (BPA‐IP) sol‐gel was prepared by using tetramethoxysilane (TMOS) and BPA‐ICPTS. Non‐imprinted polymer (NIP) sol‐gel was obtained by using TMOS and (3‐Aminopropyl) triethoxysilane. Both BPA‐IP and NIP sol‐gels were characterized by nitrogen adsorption‐desorption analysis, FTIR, SEM, particle size analyzer and optical microscope. Carbon paste sensor electrode was fabricated by mixing the newly synthesized BPA‐IP with MWCNTs, graphite powder and paraffin oil. The electrochemical characterization of the sensor electrode was achieved with cyclic and differential pulse voltammetric techniques. The response of the developed sensor under the most proper conditions was linear in BPA concentration range from 4.0×10−9 to 1.0×10−7 mol L−1 and 5.0×10−7 to 5.0×10−5 mol L−1 and the detection limit was 4.4×10−9 mol L−1. The results unclosed that the proposed sensor displayed high sensitivity and selectivity, superior electrochemical performance and rapid response to BPA.
Energy‐efficient multiperiod planning of optical core network to support 5G networks
Authors: Li Bingbing , Peng Limei , Hao Yixue , Miao Yiming , Hassan Mohammad Mehedi
Published: September 2017

With the rapid growth of traffic and power consumption in information and communication technology industry for decades, improving energy efficiency has become a challenging issue in recent years. Especially, the pervasive access to Internet via mobile devices will cause wireless traffic volume increment by 1000+ times in near future, which is expected to be carried by the fifth generation ultradense cellular network. Following this trend, the core network where optical fibers are deployed to deliver aggregated traffic needs upgrading to accommodate the increasing traffic volume. To match with the traffic growth rate, we should conduct efficient network planning over multiple time periods. Moreover, considering the heterogeneity in the bandwidth requirements among various network services, flexible mixed line rate scheme is adopted in network provisioning. In this paper, we study the long‐term multiperiod planning of optical core network by considering the traffic growth with the objective of high energy‐efficiency. Three planning strategies, say All‐period, Incremental, and End‐of‐Life, respectively, are studied and formulated as mixed integer linear programming models with the objective to minimize power consumption of optical core network. Given the estimation on the reduction of power consumed by various network devices, we can deploy network devices flexibly in each period through the optimization models. Performance of the proposed models is also evaluated and compared via case studies.
Motivation of the nurses in pre‐hospital emergency and educational hospitals emergency in the southeast of Iran
Authors: Sheikhbardsiri Hojjat , Khademipour Gholamreza , Nekoei‐Moghadam Mahmoud , Aminizadeh Mohsen
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Nurses, as the largest human resource element of health care systems, have a major role in providing ongoing, high‐quality care to patients. Therefore, due to the importance of this issue, this study aimed to determine job motivation of the nurses in pre‐hospital and educational hospitals emergency in the southeast of Iran.

Methods

In this study, a cross‐sectional method was used, and it was conducted in educational hospitals and pre‐hospital emergencies under supervision of the Kerman University of Medical Sciences in 2017. Using a valid and reliable questionnaire, we assessed job motivation of the nurses using a census method (N = 275). Data were analyzed by implementing descriptive statistics including mean and standard deviation (SD), and analytical statistics such as Kolmogorov‐Smirnov, ANOVA, t‐test, X2, Pearson, and multivariate regression tests using SPSS 16 and P ≤ 0.05.

Results

Among the pre‐hospital emergency nurses, the average of the educational factors was 25.33, financial factors was 6.34, psychological factors was 20.07, welfare factors was 0.63, and administrative factors was 8.16. Among the nurses of the educational hospitals emergency, these factors were 25.33, 6.51, 20.34, 16.55, and 8.39, respectively. Two group's nurses were at the intermediate level of the job motivation.

Conclusion

Dynamic and predetermined goals of emergency include providing services as soon as possible and stabilizing patient's condition during the golden and vital time of rescue. Findings suggest that national and local policies in Iran may need to examine factors that contribute to the promotion of the motivation as well as focusing on how to improve them.
The contribution of toll‐like receptor signaling to the development of liver fibrosis and cancer in hepatocyte‐specific TAK1‐deleted mice
Authors: Song Isabelle Jingyi , Yang Yoon Mee , Inokuchi‐Shimizu Sayaka , Roh Yoon Seok , Yang Ling , Seki Ekihiro
Published: September 2017

Hepatocyte death is associated with liver inflammation, fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Damaged cells trigger inflammation through activation of Toll‐like receptors (TLRs). Although the role of TLR4 in HCC development has been reported, the role of TLR9 in the development of HCC remains elusive. To investigate the role of TLR4 and TLR9 signaling in liver inflammation‐fibrosis‐cancer axis, we took advantage of mice with hepatic deletion of transforming growth factor‐β‐activated kinase 1 (Tak1ΔHep) that develop spontaneous liver injury, inflammation, fibrosis, and HCC, recapitulating the pathology of human HCC. We generated double knockout mice lacking genes of our interest with hepatic Tak1. Tak1ΔHep mice and Tlr4‐deficient Tak1ΔHep mice had similar serum ALT levels, but Tlr4‐deficient Tak1ΔHep mice exhibited significantly reduced macrophage infiltration, myofibroblast activation and tumor formation. Ablation of TLR9 reduced spontaneous liver injury, inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer development in Tak1ΔHep mice. In addition, the common adaptor, myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)‐deficient Tak1ΔHep mice also attenuated liver injury, macrophage recruitment, collagen deposition, and tumor growth compared with control Tak1ΔHep mice. Genetic ablation of TNF receptor type I (TNFR) in Tak1ΔHep mice remarkably reduced liver inflammation‐fibrosis‐cancer axis. Surprisingly, disruption of interleukin‐1 receptor (IL‐1R) had no effect on liver injury and tumor formation, although Il1r‐deficient Tak1ΔHep showed attenuated macrophage infiltration and collagen deposition. In conclusion, TLR4‐ and TLR9‐MyD88 are driving forces of progression to HCC accompanied by liver inflammation and fibrosis in Tak1ΔHep mice. Importantly, TLR4 and TLR9 downstream TNFR, but not IL‐1R signaling is crucial for the development of HCC in Tak1ΔHep mice.
Biocompatibility assessment of cyclic olefin copolymers: Impact of two additives on cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammatory reactions, and hemocompatibility
Authors: Bernard Mélisande , Jubeli Emile , Bakar Joudi , Tortolano Lionel , Saunier Johanna , Yagoubi Najet
Published: September 2017

This work reports the biocompatibility evaluation of cyclic olefin copolymers (COC) as candidates for implantable medical devices. The focus was to establish the influence of two major additives (antioxidant and lubricant) on the overall biocompatibility.

The cytotoxicity was evaluated according to ISO 10993‐5 guidelines using L929 fibroblasts, HUVEC, and THP‐1‐derived macrophages. Oxidative stress (ROS, GSH/GSSG, and SOD analysis) and pro‐inflammatory cytokines (Il‐6 and TNF‐α secretion) were quantified using THP‐1 cells in direct contact with films. Hemocompatibility was assessed through haemolysis testing, dynamic blood coagulation, platelet adhesion, and activation (membranous P‐selectin expression).

Results show that the different types of COC have successfully passed the in vitro biocompatibility tests. The presence of antioxidant induces however a slight decrease in ROS production in correlation with a high SOD activity and a modification in blood coagulation profile probably linked to antioxidant recrystallization phenomenon on the surface of COC. The lubricant presence reduced haemolysis, fibrinogen adhesion, and platelet activation.

Surface nanotopography of COC highlights different types of needles and globules according to the present additive. Those primary results indicate that COC are promising biomaterial. However, additives influenced some biological parameters pointing out the necessity of a global approach of risk analysis for biocompatibility evaluation. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 3333–3349, 2017.
Dominating induced matchings in graphs containing no long claw
Authors: Hertz Alain , Lozin Vadim , Ries Bernard , Zamaraev Viktor , de Werra Dominique
Published: September 2017

An induced matching M in a graph G is dominating if every edge not in M shares exactly one vertex with an edge in M. The dominating induced matching problem (also known as efficient edge domination) asks whether a graph G contains a dominating induced matching. This problem is generally NP‐complete, but polynomial‐time solvable for graphs with some special properties. In particular, it is solvable in polynomial time for claw‐free graphs. In the present article, we provide a polynomial‐time algorithm to solve the dominating induced matching problem for graphs containing no long claw, that is, no induced subgraph obtained from the claw by subdividing each of its edges exactly once.
Infinitely many planar cubic hypohamiltonian graphs of girth 5
Authors: Goedgebeur Jan , Zamfirescu Carol T.
Published: September 2017

A graph G is hypohamiltonian if G is non‐hamiltonian and for every vertex v in G, the graph is hamiltonian. McKay asked in [J. Graph Theory 85 (2017) 7–11] whether infinitely many planar cubic hypohamiltonian graphs of girth 5 exist. We settle this question affirmatively.
Oxaliplatin‐induced increase in splenic volume; irreversible change after adjuvant FOLFOX
Authors: Iwai Takuma , Yamada Takeshi , Koizumi Michihiro , Shinji Seiichi , Yokoyama Yasuyuki , Takahashi Goro , Takeda Kohki , Hara Keisuke , Ohta Keiichiro , Uchida Eiji
Published: September 2017

Background and Objectives

Oxaliplatin can cause hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS). SOS can cause chemotherapy‐related adverse effects or morbidity after liver resection. Conventionally, SOS is diagnosed using liver biopsy. Recently, it was reported that increased splenic volume (SV) can be used to detect SOS. In this study, we evaluated the changes in SV during adjuvant chemotherapy.

Methods

We enrolled 103 consecutive patients with stage III and high‐risk stage II colorectal cancer treated with mFOLFOX6 (n = 37) or oral fluorouracil and leucovorin (n = 66) after curative surgery. SV was measured three times; pre‐operatively, after chemotherapy, and 1 year after chemotherapy.

Results

SV was higher after mFOLFOX6 (median 135.89 mL) than pre‐operatively (105.75 mL) (P < 0.001); SV at 1‐year after finishing mFOLFOX6 (114.16 mL) returned to the same level as before surgery (P = 0.0015). SV increased in 28 patients (75.7%) treated with mFOLFOX6 (95%CI, 61.8‐89.5), but had not recovered in 12 of these cases (42.9%) 1 year after finishing treatment (95%CI, 17.3‐47.5). In contrast, oral fluorouracil and leucovorin did not change SV.

Conclusions

SV increased after adjuvant mFOLFOX6, and had not recovered in almost half of cases 1‐year after finishing chemotherapy. This increase may indicate continuous SOS, which can adversely affect treatment after recurrence.
Ionic Liquid Approach Toward Manufacture and Full Recycling of All‐Cellulose Composites
Authors: Spörl Johanna M. , Batti Fabio , Vocht Marc‐Phillip , Raab Raphael , Müller Alexandra , Hermanutz Frank , Buchmeiser Michael R.
Published: September 2017

All‐cellulose composites (ACCs) are prepared from high‐strength rayon fibers and cellulose pulp. The procedure comprises the use of a pulp cellulose solution in the ionic liquid (IL) 1‐ethyl‐3‐methyl imidazolium acetate ([EMIM][OAc]) as a precursor for the matrix component. High‐strength rayon fibers/fabrics are embedded in this solution of cellulose in the IL followed by removal of the IL. Different concentrations of cellulose in the IL are investigated and the mechanical properties of the final ACCs are determined via tensile, bending, and impact testing. ACCs prepared in this study show mechanical properties comparable to thermoplastic glass fiber‐reinforced plastics. Apart from being bio‐based, they possess several advantages such as biodegradability and full recyclability. The recycling of ACCs is successfully demonstrated in several cycles by using the recycled cellulose for subsequent matrix preparation.
Multiplicity results for a class of quasilinear equations with exponential critical growth
Authors: Alves Claudianor O. , de Freitas Luciana R.
Published: September 2017

In this work, we prove the existence and multiplicity of positive solutions for the following class of quasilinear elliptic equations:
urn:x-wiley:0025584X:media:mana201500371:mana201500371-math-0001where is the N‐Laplacian operator, , f is a function with exponential critical growth, μ and ε are positive parameters and A is a nonnegative continuous function verifying some hypotheses. To obtain our results, we combine variational arguments and Lusternik–Schnirelman category theory.
Analysis on the local structures for 3d1 impurities (Ti3+ and V4+) in KTiPO4
Authors: Ding C.C. , Wu S.Y. , Zhang L.J. , Xu Y.Q. , Zhang Z.H. , Wu M.H. , Teng B.H.
Published: September 2017

Making use of the perturbation formulae for 3d1 ions (Ti3+ and V4+) under orthorhombically compressed octahedra, the spin Hamiltonian parameters (g factors: gx, gy, gz and hyperfine structure constants: Ax, Ay, Az) and local structures of the 3d1 impurity centres C1, C2, and C3 in KTiOPO4 crystals are theoretically analyzed in a consistent way. The remarkable local distortions (i.e., the relative axial compression ratios 11.2%, 7.0%, and 5.5% along Z axis and the relative planar bond length variation ratios 15.9%, 7.0%, and 6.0%) are obtained for the [Ti2O6]9− cluster on Ti2 site and [VO6]8− clusters on Ti1 and Ti2 sites, respectively, in view of the Jahn–Teller effect. The above local orthorhombic distortion parameters in the impurity centres are found to be more significant than the host Ti1 and Ti2 sites in pure KTiOPO4. The sequences (C1 > C2 > C3) of the local orthorhombic distortion parameters ρ and τ are in accordance with those of the axial and perpendicular anisotropies Δg and δg of g factors, respectively.
Genetic modifiers of Duchenne and facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophies
Authors: Hightower Rylie M. , Alexander Matthew S.
Published: September 2017

Muscular dystrophy is defined as the progressive wasting of skeletal muscles that is caused by inherited or spontaneous genetic mutations. Next‐generation sequencing has greatly improved the accuracy and speed of diagnosis for different types of muscular dystrophy. Advancements in depth of coverage, convenience, and overall reduced cost have led to the identification of genetic modifiers that are responsible for phenotypic variability in affected patients. These genetic modifiers have been postulated to explain key differences in disease phenotypes, including age of loss of ambulation, steroid responsiveness, and the presence or absence of cardiac defects in patients with the same form of muscular dystrophy. This review highlights recent findings on genetic modifiers of Duchenne and facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophies based on animal and clinical studies. These genetic modifiers hold great promise to be developed into novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of muscular dystrophies. Muscle Nerve 57: 6–15, 2018
In vivo assessment of muscle membrane properties in the sodium channel myotonias
Authors: Tan S. Veronica , Z'Graggen Werner J. , Hanna Michael G. , Bostock Hugh
Published: September 2017

Introduction

The gain‐of‐function mutations that underlie sodium channel myotonia (SCM) and paramyotonia congenital (PMC) produce differing clinical phenotypes. We used muscle velocity recovery cycles (MVRCs) to investigate membrane properties.

Methods

MVRCs and responses to trains of stimuli were compared in patients with SCM (n = 9), PMC (n = 8), and normal controls (n = 26).

Results

The muscle relative refractory period was reduced in SCM, consistent with faster recovery of the mutant sodium channels from inactivation. Both SCM and PMC showed an increased early supernormality and increased mean supernormality following multiple conditioning stimuli, consistent with slowed sodium channel inactivation. Trains of fast impulses caused a loss of amplitude in PMC, after which only half of the muscle fibers recovered, suggesting that the remainder stayed depolarized by persistent sodium currents.

Discussion

The differing effects of mutations on sodium channel function can be demonstrated in human subjects in vivo using this technique. Muscle Nerve 57: 586–594, 2018
Sonoanatomy of sensory branches of the ulnar nerve below the elbow in healthy subjects
Authors: Kim Ki Hoon , Lee Seok Jun , Park Byung Kyu , Kim Dong Hwee
Published: September 2017

Introduction

We identify sensory branches of the ulnar nerve—palmar ulnar cutaneous nerve (PUCN), dorsal ulnar cutaneous nerve (DUCN), and superficial sensory branch—using ultrasonography.

Methods

In 60 forearms of 30 healthy adult volunteers, the origin and size of the PUCN, DUCN, and superficial sensory branch were measured by ultrasonography. The relative pathway of the DUCN to the ulnar styloid process was also investigated.

Results

The PUCN was observed in 47 forearms (78%), and the DUCN was observed in all forearms. Average distances from the pisiform to the origin of the PUCN and DUCN were 11.9 ± 1.4 and 7.0 ± 1.0 cm, respectively. Superficial and deep divisions split 0.9 ± 0.3 cm distal to the pisiform. Cross‐sectional areas of the PUCN, DUCN, and superficial sensory branch were 0.3 ± 0.1, 1.5 ± 0.5, and 3.9 ± 1.0 mm2, respectively.

Discussion

Sensory branches of the ulnar nerve can be visualized by ultrasonography, helping to differentiate ulnar nerve injury originating at either wrist or elbow. Muscle Nerve 57: 569–573, 2018
β‐Deuterium Isotope Effects on Firefly Luciferase Bioluminescence
Authors: Pirrung Michael C. , Dorsey Allyson , Howitt Natalie De , Liao Jiayu
Published: September 2017

A 5,5‐d2‐luciferin was prepared to measure isotope effects on reactions of two intermediates in firefly bioluminescence: emission by oxyluciferin and elimination of a putative luciferyl adenylate hydroperoxide to dehydroluciferin. A negligible isotope effect on bioluminescence provides further support for the belief that the emitting species is the keto‐phenolate of oxyluciferin and rules out its excited‐state tautomerization, one potential contribution to a bioluminescence quantum yield less than unity. A small isotope effect on dehydroluciferin formation supports a single‐electron‐transfer mechanism for reaction of the luciferyl adenylate enolate with oxygen to form the hydroperoxide or dehydroluciferin. Partitioning between the dioxetanone intermediate (en route to oxyluciferin) and dehydroluciferin is determined, not by the fate of the hydroperoxide, but by that of the radical formed from luciferyl adenylate, and the kinetic isotope effect (KIE) reflects H‐atom abstraction by superoxide.
Refractive index increase of acrylate‐based polymers by adding soluble aromatic guest‐molecules
Authors: Gleißner Uwe , Bonaus Sebastian , Megnin Christof , Hanemann Thomas
Published: September 2017

The article from this special issue was previously published in Polymers for Advanced Technologies, Volume 28, Issue 4, 2017. For completeness we are including the title page of the article below. The full text of the article can be read in Issue 28:4 on Wiley Online Library: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/pat.3920/full
Treatment of plasminogen deficiency patients with fresh frozen plasma
Authors: Kızılocak Hande , Ozdemir Nihal , Dikme Gürcan , Koç Begüm , Atabek Ayşe Ayzıt , Çokuğraş Haluk , İskeleli Güzin , Dönmez‐Demir Buket , Christiansen Nina Merete , Ziegler Maike , Ozdağ Hilal , Schuster Volker , Celkan Tiraje
Published: September 2017

Congenital plasminogen (Plg) deficiency leads to the development of ligneous membranes on mucosal surfaces. Here, we report our experience with local and intravenous fresh frozen plasma (FFP). We retrospectively reviewed medical files of 17 patients and their eight first‐degree relatives. Conjunctivitis was the main complaint. Thirteen patients were treated both with intravenous and conjunctival FFP. Venous thrombosis did not develop in any. Genetic evaluation revealed heterogeneous mutations as well as polymorphisms. Diagnosis and treatment of Plg deficiency is challenging; topical and intravenous FFP may be an alternative treatment.
Parametric study and optimization of multiwalled carbon nanotube filled friction composite materials using taguchi method
Authors: Singh Tej , Chauhan Ranchan , Patnaik Amar , Gangil Brijesh , Nain Ramesh , Kumar Anil
Published: September 2017

In this article, multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) filled and lapinus‐Kevlar fiber reinforced friction composite material have been fabricated and characterized for their chemical, physico‐mechanical and tribological properties. The experimental results indicated that the density, hardness, impact energy, tensile, and flexural strengths decreases, whereas compressibility, void, and ash content of the friction composites increases with increase in MWCNT content. Further, Taguchi design of experiment technique was applied to study the tribological properties of the fabricated friction composites by taking four input parameter at‐a‐time such as composition, speed, distance and load, respectively, by using a pin on disc machine. An orthogonal array L16 has been applied to optimize the parameter settings to get performance output such as: coefficient of friction (COF) and specific wear rate (WR). The study reveals that the composition contributes mainly towards COF and WR with contribution ratio (CR) of 55.16 and 30.18% followed by speed with CR of 24.16 and 29.30%, respectively. Finally, confirmation experiment has been performed to verify the experimental results and is strongly correlated with the predicted results. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1109–E1117. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
High strength reversible adhesive closures
Authors: King Daniel R. , Bartlett Michael D. , Nalbach Martin , Irschick Duncan J. , Crosby Alfred J.
Published: September 2017

Closures such as buttons, clasps, zippers, and hook‐and‐loops find widespread use in daily life, and all work by mechanical interlocking. However, these traditional closures are often rigid, lose performance with age, and can produce a harsh sound during use. Here high strength (>50 N cm−2), reusable, and nearly silent closure devices are fabricated based on recently developed fibril‐less gecko‐inspired adhesives. Guided by a reversible adhesion scaling law, the closure force capacity is tuned by modifying the closure materials and geometry. A simple analytical model is presented which accurately predicts system performance, based on the reversible adhesion scaling parameter. The force capacity of these adhesive closures is measured and compared to commercially‐available hook‐and‐loop closures, and it is found that the adhesive closures sustain forces that are 4.4 times greater for comparable geometry. The sound of release is also quantified and shown to be minimal for adhesive closures. This work provides motivation to develop new high strength, reusable closures for commercial and industrial applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2017, 55, 1783–1790
Comparison of linear intrascan and interscan dynamic ranges of Orbitrap and ion‐mobility time‐of‐flight mass spectrometers
Authors: Kaufmann Anton , Walker Stephan
Published: September 2017

Rationale

The linear intrascan and interscan dynamic ranges of mass spectrometers are important in metabolome and residue analysis. A large linear dynamic range is mandatory if both low‐ and high‐abundance ions have to be detected and quantitated in heavy matrix samples. These performance criteria, as provided by modern high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), were systematically investigated.

Methods

The comparison included two generations of Orbitraps, and an ion mobility quadrupole time‐of‐flight (QTOF) system In addition, different scan modes, as provided by the utilized instruments, were investigated. Calibration curves of different compounds covering a concentration range of five orders of magnitude were measured to evaluate the linear interscan dynamic range. The linear intrascan dynamic range and the resulting mass accuracy were evaluated by repeating these measurements in the presence of a very intense background.

Results

Modern HRMS instruments can show linear dynamic ranges of five orders of magnitude. Often, however, the linear dynamic range is limited by the detection capability (sensitivity and selectivity) and by the electrospray ionization. Orbitraps, as opposed to TOF instruments, show a reduced intrascan dynamic range. This is due to the limited C‐trap and Orbitrap capacity. The tested TOF instrument shows poorer mass accuracies than the Orbitraps. In contrast, hyphenation with an ion‐mobility device seems not to affect the linear dynamic range.

Conclusions

The linear dynamic range of modern HRMS instrumentation has been significantly improved. This also refers to the virtual absence of systematic mass shifts at high ion abundances. The intrascan dynamic range of the current Orbitrap technology may still be a limitation when analyzing complex matrix extracts. On the other hand, the linear dynamic range is not only limited by the detector technology, but can also be shortened by peripheral devices, where the ionization and transfer of ions take place.
Single‐incision robotic cholecystectomy is associated with a high rate of trocar‐site infection
Authors: Lim Chetana , Bou Nassif Georges , Lahat Eylon , Hayek Mohamad , Osseis Michael , Gomez‐Gavara Concepcion , Moussalem Toufic , Azoulay Daniel , Salloum Chady
Published: September 2017

Background

Single‐incision robotic cholecystectomy has been developed to decrease post‐operative pain and improve cosmetic results.

Methods

Thirty‐seven patients underwent single‐site robotic cholecystectomy between 2014 and 2015. Postoperative outcomes and costs were compared to reported outcomes for laparoscopic cholecystectomy using the configuration of suprapubic trocars.

Results

The median age was comparable between the two groups (46 years in the robotic group vs. 47 years in the laparoscopic group). The operative time was longer in the robotic group (132 minutes) than in the laparoscopic group (53 minutes). The average length of stay was 1 day in the robotic group and 1.7 days in the laparoscopic group. Costs were higher in the robotic group (2229.46 €) than in the laparoscopic group (1141 €). In the robotic group, the trocar‐site infection rate was 13.5%.

Conclusion

The robotic approach does not seem to offer additional benefit in terms of surgical outcomes.
Dynamic option hedging with transaction costs: A stochastic model predictive control approach
Authors: Graf Plessen Mogens , Puglia Laura , Gabbriellini Tommaso , Bemporad Alberto
Published: September 2017

This paper proposes stochastic model predictive control as a tool for hedging derivative contracts (such as plain vanilla and exotic options) in the presence of transaction costs. The methodology combines stochastic scenario generation for the prediction of asset prices at the next rebalancing interval with the minimization of a stochastic measure of the predicted hedging error. We consider 3 different measures to minimize in order to optimally rebalance the replicating portfolio: a trade‐off between variance and expected value of hedging error, conditional value at risk, and the largest predicted hedging error. The resulting optimization problems require solving at each trading instant a quadratic program, a linear program, and a (smaller‐scale) linear program, respectively. These can be combined with 3 different scenario generation schemes: the lognormal stock model with parameters recursively identified from data, an identification method based on support vector regression, and a simpler scheme based on perturbation noise. The hedging performance obtained by the proposed stochastic model predictive control strategies is illustrated on real‐world data drawn from the NASDAQ‐100 composite, evaluated for a European call and a barrier option, and compared with delta hedging.
Experimental study on frame structures with recycled aggregate concrete under lateral cyclic loads
Authors: Guo Zhanggen , Chen Chen , Fan Bingjie , Lehman Dawn E. , Sun Weimin
Published: September 2017

This paper presents an experimental study on the seismic behavior of frame structures made with recycled aggregate concrete (RAC). Three 1:2 scaled frame specimens were tested under lateral cyclic loads and constant vertical load. One of these frames was conventional concrete frame, while the remaining two frames were RAC frames with a recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) replacement percentage of 25 and 50%, respectively. The structural performances, in terms of the failure pattern and mechanism, ultimate lateral load capacity, hysteretic response, backbone curve, ductility capacity, energy dissipation capacity and stiffness degradation were analyzed in detail. The effect of RCA replacement percentage on the seismic performance of RAC frames was investigated carefully. The experimental results indicate that the seismic performance of RAC frame is similar to that of conventional concrete frame and not significantly affected by the incorporation of RCA. All of the tested frames behaved with the same failure pattern, which is a ductile failure mechanism. The average value of the ductility coefficient and the equivalent viscous damping ratio of the RAC frame are 3.55 and 0.089, respectively. The RAC frame structure with an RCA replacement percentage of 50% still has adequate capabilities of ultimate strength, deformation and energy dissipation and is able to withstand an earthquake attack.
Object contour scanning using elastically supported technical vibrissae
Authors: Will Christoph , Behn Carsten , Steigenberger Joachim
Published: September 2017

Rodents, like mice and rats, use tactile hairs in the snout region (mystacial vibrissae) to acquire information about their environment, e.g., the shape or contour of obstacles. For this, the vibrissa is used for the perception of stimuli due to an object contact. Mechanoreceptors are processing units of these stimuli measured in the compliant support (follicle‐sinus complex). We use this behavior from biology as an inspiration to set up a mechanical model for object contour scanning. In a plane, an elastic bending beam sweeps a rigid obstacle while the beam's foot passes by below the object. Prescribing a contour and a list of optional contact points on it, we apply Bernoulli's bending theory for large deformations in order to determine in a first step the elastic lines of the beam and the corresponding reactions of the support (the only observables in biology and technology). Taking these reaction values as data of a bending problem, an initial‐value problem re‐determines (within certain “measuring noise”) the starting contact points. This theoretical one‐sweep scanning process is demonstrated by several examples, and their outcomes are compared to experimental results. The current confinements in theory and experimental setup and their removal are explained. A somewhat new topic could be to allow for rotationally elastic bearings of the beam instead of the usually preferred clamp. In contrast to other papers in this field, we deal with nonlinear theory throughout, follow analytical ways as far as possible, and use numerics only to find solutions of final finite equations.
Three‐dimensional simulation of nonwoven fabrics using a greedy approximation of the distribution of fiber directions
Authors: Gramsch Simone , Kontak Max , Michel Volker
Published: September 2017

An elementary algorithm is used to simulate the industrial production of a fiber of a 3‐dimensional nonwoven fabric. The algorithm simulates the fiber as a polyline where the direction of each segment is stochastically drawn based on a given probability density function (PDF) on the unit sphere. This PDF is obtained from data of directions of fiber fragments which originate from computer tomography scans of a real nonwoven fabric. However, the simulation algorithm requires numerous evaluations of the PDF. Since the established technique of a kernel density estimator leads to very high computational costs, a novel greedy algorithm for estimating a sparse representation of the PDF is introduced. Numerical tests for a synthetic and a real example are presented. In a realistic scenario, the introduced sparsity ansatz leads to a reduction of the computation time for 100 fibers from around 80 days to 2.5 hours.
Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens) forests as a significant carbon sink? A case study based on 4‐year measurements in central Taiwan
Authors: Lin Meng‐Yin , Hsieh I‐Fang , Lin Po‐Hsuan , Laplace Sophie , Ohashi Mizue , Chen Tsai‐Huei , Kume Tomonori
Published: September 2017

The aggressive expansion of Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens) forest into adjacent ecosystems which might alter the carbon balance replacement, has been noted recently in East Asian countries such as Taiwan. Moso bamboo has a biennial growth cycle that causes significant inter‐annual variations in net primary productivity (NPP) and net ecosystem productivity (NEP). To our knowledge, only one study has investigated NPP covering biennial cycles in a Moso bamboo forest. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to clarify the NPP and NEP in a Moso bamboo forest in Taiwan by considering above‐ and below‐ground processes over a 4‐year experimental period. The estimated NPP and NEP showed considerable inter‐annual variations (coefficient of variation of 39 and 79%, respectively). Averaged over the 4 years, the NPP and NEP were 8.86 ± 3.46 and 4.32 ± 3.35 Mg C ha−1 year−1, respectively, which were within the ranges (6.53–14.36 and 3.59–7.98 Mg C ha−1 year−1, respectively) reported for Moso bamboo forests in East Asian countries. A global comparison of NPP and NEP among forest ecosystems using data from published literature indicated that the estimated NPP and NEP in the present study, as well as those in Moso bamboo forests from East Asian countries, were within the upper range of the values reported for other forest ecosystem. The results indicate that Moso bamboo forests may have high potential as a carbon sink among forests ecosystems.
Soldiers and Gentlemen
Authors: Westerman William
Published: September 2017

Soldiers and Gentlemen: Australian Battalion Commanders in the Great War, 1914–1918 is the first book to examine the background, role and conduct of Australian commanding officers during the First World War. Though they held positions of power, commanding officers inhabited a leadership no man's land - they exerted great influence over their units, but they were also largely excluded from the decision-making process and faced the same risks as junior officers on the battlefield. A soldier's well-being and success in battle was heavily dependent on a commanding officer's competence, but little is known about the men who filled these roles. In his groundbreaking book, William Westerman explores the stories of the vitally important, yet often forgotten, commanding officers. Theirs is a story of the timeless challenges of military leadership, and this book prevents them from slipping from the public memory to enhance our knowledge of the conflict.
Photo-Electro-Thermal Theory for LED Systems
Authors: Hui Ron
Published: September 2017

Gain a solid understanding of Light-Emitting Diode (LED) Systems Theory with this unique book. Written by a leading expert in LED lighting, it links together the photometric, electrical, thermal and chromatic elements of LED systems into a single, unified framework, and explores their complex interactions with one another. • Get to grips with chromatic, photometric and thermal modelling of LED systems • Discover new techniques for precise dimming and colour control • Learn methods for determining system parameters and internal variables • Gain insight into advanced applications for LED system design and optimization Providing straightforward and intuitive explanations, this is an ideal guide for professional engineers, graduate students and researchers working on solid-state lighting systems and smart lighting, and those taking advanced courses on LED devices and systems.
Audiatur et Altera Pars: The Polish Record of the Działyński Embassy of 1597
Authors: Bałuk-Ulewiczowa Teresa
Published: September 2017

The mission of Ambassador Paweł Działyński to Queen Elizabeth in the summer of 1597, conducted on behalf of Sigismund III, King of Poland, and the City of Gdańsk, is usually presented by scholars relying exclusively on English records as an embarrassment to Poland-Lithuania. However, the Polish point of view, expounded at length in the Ambassador’s account of the embassy, gives an entirely different picture and interpretation of the events, far more consistent with the practical outcome for relations between the two states in the following years. The full original manuscript of Mercurius Sarmaticus survives in a major Polish library, and copies are extant elsewhere in Europe. Of particular interest are Działyński’s observations on Elizabeth and the religious situation in her realm. Mercurius Sarmaticus also throws light on the Isle of Dogs incident in the history of the Elizabethan theatre and may be regarded as a Shakespeare source. This article will provide an introduction to the manuscript source, a synopsis of its content, and English translations of selected passages.
Catholic politics and creating trust in eighteenth-century England
Authors: Brown Carys
Published: September 2017

In eighteenth-century law and print, English Catholics were portrayed as entirely untrustworthy, and their exclusion from all aspects of English society encouraged. Yet, as many local studies have shown, there were numerous individual cases of relatively peaceful coexistence between Protestants and Catholics in this period. This article explores why this was the case by examining how Catholics overcame labels of untrustworthiness on a local level. Using the remarkable political influence of one high-status Catholic in the first half of the eighteenth century as a case study, it questions the utility of “pragmatism” as an explanation for instances of peaceful coexistence in this period. Instead it focuses on the role that deliberate Catholic resistance to legal disabilities played in allowing them to be considered as trustworthy individuals in their localities. The resulting picture of coexistence points towards a moderation of the historiographical emphasis on mutual compromise between confessions in favour of attention to the determined resilience of minority groups. In explaining this, this article makes the broader point that the influence of trust, long important in studies of early modern economic, political, and social relationships, is ripe for exploration in the context of interconfessional relations.
Highly separated axisymmetric step shock-wave/turbulent-boundary-layer interaction
Authors: Chandola Gaurav , Huang Xin , Estruch-Samper David
Published: September 2017

The unsteadiness of a shock-wave/turbulent-boundary-layer interaction induced by an axisymmetric step (cylinder/$90^{\circ }$-disk) is investigated experimentally at Mach 3.9. A large-scale separation of the order of previously reported incoming turbulent superstructures is induced ahead of the step ${\sim}30\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FF}_{o}$ and followed by a downstream separation of ${\sim}10\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FF}_{o}$ behind it, where $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FF}_{o}$ is the incoming boundary-layer thickness. Narrowband high-frequency instabilities shift gradually to more moderate frequencies along the upstream separation region exhibiting a strong predominance of shear-induced disturbance levels – arising between the outer high-speed flow and the subsonic bubble. Through spectral/time-resolved analysis of this high Reynolds number and large-scale separation, results offer new insights into the shear layer’s inception and evolution (convection, growth and instability) and its influence on interaction unsteadiness.
Early Network Events in the Later Success of Chinese Entrepreneurs
Authors: Burt Ronald S. , Opper Sonja
Published: September 2017

We trace the social networks around Chinese entrepreneurs back to their firm's founding to learn about the role early events play in the later success of a business. We use name generator questions paired with career history questions to identify ‘event contacts’ missed by the usual focus on current business. We draw four conclusions from interviews with a large, stratified random sample of entrepreneurs: (1) Relations with event contacts stand out forguanxiqualities of high trust relatively independent of the surrounding network structure, and are critical to distinguishing more successful entrepreneurs from the less successful. (2) The substance of a significant event matters less than the fact that the entrepreneur deems it significant. (3) When family is turned to for support it is most likely at founding, but family is not the usual source of support at founding. Rather, entrepreneurs turn to people they have known for many years, typically people beyond the entrepreneur's family. (4) The transition from founding to first significant event stands out as distinctly consequential for later success. Entrepreneurs who turn for help on their first significant event to a person separate from, but especially close to, the founding contact are more successful in their business development. That early move is not visible in the later network around the entrepreneur.
Predictors and correlates of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations in young women: results from the Safe-D study
Authors: Callegari Emma T. , Garland Suzanne M. , Gorelik Alexandra , Reavley Nicola J. , Wark John D.
Published: September 2017

Vitamin D deficiency is a global public health concern. Studies of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) determinants in young women are limited and few include objective covariates. Our aims were to define the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and examine serum 25(OH)D correlates in an exploratory study of women aged 16–25 years. We studied 348 healthy females living in Victoria, Australia, recruited through Facebook. Data collected included serum 25(OH)D assayed by liquid chromatography-tandem MS, relevant serum biochemistry, soft tissue composition by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, skin melanin density, Fitzpatrick skin type, sun exposure using UV dosimeters and lifestyle factors. Mean serum 25(OH)D was 68 (sd27) nmol/l and 26 % were vitamin D deficient (25(OH)D <50 nmol/l). The final model explained 56 % of 25(OH)D variance. Serum sex hormone-binding globulin levels, creatinine levels, sun exposure measured by UV dosimeters, a positive attitude towards sun tanning, typically spending >2 h in the sun in summer daily, holidaying in the most recent summer period, serum Fe levels, height and multivitamin use were positively associated with 25(OH)D. Fat mass and a blood draw in any season except summer was inversely associated with 25(OH)D. Vitamin D deficiency is common in young women. Factors such as hormonal contraception, sun exposure and sun-related attitudes, as well as dietary supplement use are essential to consider when assessing vitamin D status. Further investigation into methods to safely optimise vitamin D status and to improve understanding of the impact of vitamin D status on long-term health outcomes is required.