bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Generic Synthetic Approach to Large‐Scale Pristine‐Graphene/Metal‐Nanoparticles Hybrids
Authors: Wang Xiujuan , Meng Guowen , Zhu Chuhong , Huang Zhulin , Qian Yiwu , Sun Kexi , Zhu Xiaoguang
Published: June 2013

The homogeneous attachment of metal‐nanoparticles (metal‐NPs) on pristine‐graphene surface to construct pristine‐graphene/metal‐NPs hybrids is highly expected for application in many fields such as transparent electrodes and conductive composites. However, it remains a great challenge since the pristine‐graphene is highly hydrophobic. Here, an environmentally friendly generic synthetic approach to large‐scale pristine‐graphene/metal‐NPs hybrids is presented, by a combinatorial process of exfoliating expanded graphite in N‐methyl pyrrolidone via sonication and centrifugation to achieve the pristine‐graphene, and attaching pre‐synthesized metal‐NPs on the pristine‐graphene in ethanol via van der Waals interactions between the metal‐NPs and the pristine‐graphene. Nanoparticles of different metals (such as Ag, Au, and Pd) with various morphologies (such as sphere, cube, plate, multi‐angle, and spherical‐particle assembling) can be homogeneously attached on the defect‐free pristine‐graphene with controlled packing densities. Both the pristine‐graphene and the metal‐NPs preserve their original intrinsic structures. The as‐synthesized pristine‐graphene/Ag‐NPs hybrids show very high surface‐enhanced Raman scattering activity due to the combined effects of large surface area of the pristine‐graphene to adsorb more target molecules and the electromagnetic enhancement of the Ag‐NPs. This large‐scale synthesis of the pristine‐graphene/metal‐NPs hybrids with tunable shape and packing density of metal‐NPs opens up opportunities for fundamental research and potential applications ranging from devices to transparent electrodes and conductive composites.
Mortality from solid tumors among workers in formaldehyde industries: An update of the NCI cohort
Authors: Beane Freeman Laura E. , Blair Aaron , Lubin Jay H. , Stewart Patricia A. , Hayes Richard B. , Hoover Robert N. , Hauptmann Michael
Published: June 2013

Background

Formaldehyde, a widely used chemical, is considered a human carcinogen.

Methods

We extended follow‐up of the largest industrial cohort of workers in formaldehyde industries (n = 25,619) by 10 years through 2004. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) and rate ratios (RRs) were calculated for deaths from solid tumors using quantitative formaldehyde exposure estimates.

Results

During 998,239 person‐years, 13,951 deaths occurred. With one additional death, previously observed excesses for nasopharyngeal cancer (n = 10) persisted for peak, average intensity and cumulative exposure; RRs in the highest exposure categories were 7.66 (95% CI: 0.94, 62.34), P‐trend = 0.005, 11.54 (95% CI: 1.38, 96.81), P‐trend = 0.09, and 2.94 (95% CI: 0.65, 13.28), P‐trend = 0.06, respectively. For all cancer, solid tumors and lung cancer, SMRs among exposed workers were elevated, but internal analyses revealed no positive associations with formaldehyde exposure.

Conclusions

Consistent with previous analyses of this cohort, this update continues to suggest a link between formaldehyde exposure and nasopharyngeal cancer. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:1015–1026, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Luminescent Cyclometalated Alkynylplatinum(II) Complexes with a Tridentate Pyridine‐Based N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Ligand: Synthesis, Characterization, Electrochemistry, Photophysics, and Computational Studies
Authors: Leung Sammual Yu‐Lut , Lam Elizabeth Suk‐Hang , Lam Wai Han , Wong Keith Man‐Chung , Wong Wing‐Tak , Yam Vivian Wing‐Wah
Published: June 2013

A new class of luminescent alkynylplatinum(II) complexes with a tridentate pyridine‐based N‐heterocyclic carbene (2,6‐bis(1‐butylimidazol‐2‐ylidenyl)pyridine) ligand, [PtII(C^N^C)(CCR)][PF6], and their chloroplatinum(II) precursor complex, [PtII(C^N^C)Cl][PF6], have been synthesized and characterized. One of the alkynylplatinum(II) complexes has also been structurally characterized by X‐ray crystallography. The electrochemistry, electronic absorption and luminescence properties of the complexes have been studied. Nanosecond transient absorption (TA) spectroscopy has also been performed to probe the nature of the excited state. The origin of the absorption and emission properties has been supported by computational studies.
Mechanistic Insight into the Catalytic Oxidation of Cyclohexane over Carbon Nanotubes: Kinetic and In Situ Spectroscopic Evidence
Authors: Yang Xixian , Wang Hongjuan , Li Jing , Zheng Wenxu , Xiang Rong , Tang Zikang , Yu Hao , Peng Feng
Published: June 2013

As some of the most interesting metal‐free catalysts, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and other carbon‐based nanomaterials show great promise for some important chemical reactions, such as the selective oxidation of cyclohexane (C6H12). Due to the lack of fundamental understanding of carbon catalysis in liquid‐phase reactions, we have sought to unravel the role of CNTs in the catalytic oxidation of C6H12through a combination of kinetic analysis, in situ spectroscopy, and density functional theory. The catalytic effect of CNTs originates from a weak interaction between radicals and their graphene skeletons, which confines the radicals around their surfaces. This, in turn, enhances the electron‐transfer catalysis of peroxides to yield the corresponding alcohol and ketone.
Arylation with Unsymmetrical Diaryliodonium Salts: A Chemoselectivity Study
Authors: Malmgren Joel , Santoro Stefano , Jalalian Nazli , Himo Fahmi , Olofsson Berit
Published: June 2013

Phenols, anilines, and malonates have been arylated under metal‐free conditions with twelve aryl(phenyl)iodonium salts in a systematic chemoselectivity study. A new “anti‐ortho effect” has been identified in the arylation of malonates. Several “dummy groups” have been found that give complete chemoselectivity in the transfer of the phenyl moiety, irrespective of the nucleophile. An aryl exchange in the diaryliodonium salts has been observed under certain arylation conditions. DFT calculations have been performed to investigate the reaction mechanism and to elucidate the origins of the observed selectivities. These results are expected to facilitate the design of chiral diaryliodonium salts and the development of catalytic arylation reactions that are based on these sustainable and metal‐free reagents.
The role of person and organizational variables in the three component model of occupational commitment
Authors: Lin Shu‐Huei , Huang Liang‐Chih , Chang Chiung‐Chuan , Lin Chiou‐Shiu , Chang Po‐Chien , Chen Pei‐Fan
Published: June 2013

We add to the small number of studies that have used the Meyer, Allen, and Smith (1993) three component model to better understand occupational commitment. A series of demographic (age, education), dispositional (emotional intelligence), and organizational variables (human resources practices and perceived organizational support) were examined for their relationship to occupational commitment. Our relatively small set of variables, from 431 debt‐collection employees and their supervisors at 34 banks in Taiwan, accounted for substantial variance in each of the commitment facets. In the context of the entire set of variables, perceived organizational support was the strongest predictor across all three forms of occupational commitment. Other variables (e.g., age, emotional intelligence) were of predictive value for a subset of the components only. Copyright © 2013 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Beyond clusters: How regional geographic signature affects firm value and risk
Authors: Bell Geoffrey G. , Deng Saiying
Published: June 2013

Existing studies examining how geography affects firm outcomes primarily consider how clusters affect performance. We examine how regional geographic signature—industry clusters, regional economic diversity, region size, and regional innovativeness—affects firm value and systematic and unsystematic risk using a sample of publicly traded American bank holding companies. After controlling for endogeneity of clusters, we find that locating in large and innovative regions enhances firm value, while locating in clusters and diversifying into many regions reduces value. Clusters reduce systematic risk and increase unsystematic risk, while economic diversity and innovativeness increase systematic risk. Thus, geographic locales exert multifaceted influences on value and risk, and we need to consider more than industry clusters and geographic diversification when considering geographic influence. Copyright © 2013 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recent Developments of 19‐Nor‐1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 Analogues
Authors: Zhang Can‐Fei , Wan Ren‐Zhong , Liu Zhao‐Peng
Published: June 2013

The vitamin D hormone, 1α,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25‐(OH)2D3], exerts its hormonal effects predominantly on intestine, bone, and kidney, where it plays a crucial role in calcium and phosphorus homeostasis and bone mineralization. In addition to its classical actions, 1,25(OH)2D3 exerts pleiotropic effects in a wide variety of target tissues and cell types, often in an autocrine/paracrine fashion. These biological activities of 1,25(OH)2D3 have suggested a multitude of potential therapeutic applications for the vitamin D hormone in the treatment of hyperproliferative disorders (e.g. cancer and psoriasis), immune dysfunction (autoimmune diseases), and endocrine disorders (e.g. hyperparathyroidism). However, the calcemic effects induced by 1,25(OH)2D3—hypercalcemia, increased bone resorption, and soft tissue calcification—limit the use of the natural ligand in these clinical applications. Therefore, numerous 1,25(OH)2D3 analogues have been synthesized with the intent of producing therapeutic agents devoid of hypercalcemic and hyperphosphatemic side effects. To this aim, much attention has been focused on the development of 19‐nor‐vitamin D3 derivatives that lack the ring‐A exocyclic methylene group (C19). In this review, the 19‐nor‐1,25(OH)2D3 analogues are classified according to modifications made at the A‐ring, the side chain, or both the A‐ring and side chain, as well as other positions. The biological activities of these 19‐nor‐1,25(OH)2D3 analogues are summarized and their structure–activity relationships and binding features with the vitamin D receptor (VDR) are discussed.
Accelerating virtual high‐throughput ligand docking: current technology and case study on a petascale supercomputer
Authors: Ellingson Sally R. , Dakshanamurthy Sivanesan , Brown Milton , Smith Jeremy C. , Baudry Jerome
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we give the current state of high‐throughput virtual screening. We describe a case study of using a task‐parallel Message Passing Interface version of AutoDock4 to run a virtual high‐throughput screen of one million compounds on the Jaguar Cray XK6 Supercomputer at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. We include a description of scripts developed to increase the efficiency of the predocking file preparation and postdocking analysis. A detailed tutorial, scripts, and source code for this Message Passing Interface version of AutoDock4 are available online at http://www.bio.utk.edu/baudrylab/autodockmpi.htm. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrochemistry of Single Metalloprotein and DNA‐Based Molecules at Au(111) Electrode Surfaces
Authors: Salvatore Princia , Zeng Dongdong , Karlsen Kasper K. , Chi Qijin , Wengel Jesper , Ulstrup Jens
Published: June 2013

We have briefly overviewed recent efforts in the electrochemistry of single transition metal complex, redox metalloprotein, and redox‐marked oligonucleotide (ON) molecules. We have particularly studied self‐assembled molecular monolayers (SAMs) of several 5′‐C6‐SH single‐ (ss) and double‐strand (ds) ONs immobilized on Au(111) electrode surfaces via AuS bond formation, using a combination of nucleic acid chemistry, electrochemistry and electrochemically controlled scanning tunnelling microscopy (in situ STM). Ds ONs stabilized by multiply charged cations and locked nucleic acid (LNA) monomers have been primary targets, with a view on stabilizing the ds‐ONs and improving voltammetric signals of intercalating electrochemical redox probes. Voltammetric signals of the intercalator anthraquinone monosulfonate (AQMS) at ds‐DNA/Au(111) surfaces diluted by mercaptohexanol are significantly sharpened and more robust in the presence than in the absence of [Co(NH3)6]3+. AQMS also displays robust Faradaic voltammetric signals specific to the ds form on binding to similar LNA/Au(111) surfaces, but this signal only evolves after successive voltammetric scanning into negative potential ranges. Triply charged spermidine (Spd) invokes itself a strong voltammetric signal, which is specific to the ds form and fully matched sequences. This signal is of non‐Faradaic, capacitive origin but appears in the same potential range as the Faradaic AQMS signal. In situ STM shows that molecular scale structures of the size of Spd‐stabilized ds‐ONs are densely packed over the Au(111) surface in potential ranges around the capacitive peak potential.
Testing potential selective agents acting on leaf shape inIpomoea hederacea: predictions based on an adaptive leaf shape cline
Authors: Campitelli Brandon E. , Stinchcombe John R.
Published: June 2013

Leaf shape is a highly variable phenotype, and is likely influenced by many sources of selection.Ipomoea hederaceaexhibits an adaptive latitudinal cline in leaf shape, which is controlled by a singleMendelian locus: lobed individuals dominate the north with entire‐shaped individuals mostly in the south. We test if the following candidate selective agents, suggested by the literature, are responsible for the cline: differential insect herbivory, genetic correlations with other clinal traits like flowering time and growth rate, and thermoregulatory differences. We planted 1680 F3individuals, segregating for leaf shape, in the north ofI. hederacea'srange, where we expected lobed genotypes to have higher fitness. Individuals were assigned to insect removal or control treatments, and we scored herbivory, flowering time, growth rate, leaf temperature, and fitness (seed number). Herbivory, flowering, and growth rate had significant fitness effects, but none differed between leaf shapes. Lobed leaves were consistently warmer at night, but no performance advantage was detected. Finally, we detected no overall fitness differences between leaf shape genotypes, whether we controlled for other traits under selection or not. Our data suggest these candidate selective agents may not be important contributors to the cline, and alternative approaches to understanding the mechanisms maintaining the leaf shape cline inI. hederaceamay be necessary.
Mechanism of Shaft End‐to‐End Voltage Generation by Asymmetry in an Inverter‐Driven Motor
Authors: Asakura Yusuke , Akagi Hirofumi
Published: June 2013

This paper deals with the shaft end‐to‐end voltage resulting from asymmetric stray capacitances in an inverter‐driven motor. The origin of the voltage can be any of the following: a ground leakage current, dielectric breakdown in the bearings, and asymmetric stray capacitances on the stator windings. The third origin seems to be related to the differential‐mode current, but the details of the relationship have not been clarified. In this study, differential‐mode tests are carried out on an ungrounded motor rated at 400 V and 15 kW, and shaft end‐to‐end voltage generation by the asymmetric stray capacitances is theoretically discussed. Finally, a winding model is presented for the purpose of understanding the mechanism responsible for the shaft end‐to‐end voltage. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 185(1): 48–56, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.22415
Disposable on‐chip microfluidic system for buccal cell lysis, DNA purification, and polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Cho Woong , Maeng Joon‐Ho , Ahn Yoomin , Hwang Seung Yong
Published: June 2013

This paper reports the development of a disposable, integrated biochip for DNA sample preparation and PCR. The hybrid biochip (25 × 45 mm) is composed of a disposable PDMS layer with a microchannel chamber and reusable glass substrate integrated with a microheater and thermal microsensor. Lysis, purification, and PCR can be performed sequentially on this microfluidic device. Cell lysis is achieved by heat and purification is performed by mechanical filtration. Passive check valves are integrated to enable sample preparation and PCR in a fixed sequence. Reactor temperature is needed to lysis and PCR reaction is controlled within ±1°C by PID controller of LabVIEW software. Buccal epithelial cell lysis, DNA purification, and SY158 gene PCR amplification were successfully performed on this novel chip. Our experiments confirm that the entire process, except the off‐chip gel electrophoresis, requires only approximately 1 h for completion. This disposable microfluidic chip for sample preparation and PCR can be easily united with other technologies to realize a fully integrated DNA chip.
Thermophysical properties of polyurethane foams and their melts
Authors: Pau D. S. W. , Fleischmann C. M. , Spearpoint M. J. , Li K. Y.
Published: June 2013

The thermal conductivity (λ) and the specific heat (cp) of seven polyurethane foam formulations and their melts are obtained using a transient plane source technique called the Hot Disk experiment. In the experiment, the Hot Disk sensor is sandwiched by the samples and acts as both a heat source and a temperature sensor. The fundamental assumption is that throughout the experiment, the heat from the sensor does not penetrate beyond the boundaries of the sample. The suitable sample dimensions and sensor radius are determined from the preliminary calculations. Through sensitivity analysis, the appropriate measuring time and output power for the experiments are established. For polyurethane foams, λ ranges from 0.048 to 0.050 W/m K, and cp ranges from 2359 to 2996 J/kg K. For melts, λ ranges from 0.186 to 0.200 W/m K, and cp ranges from 1958 to 2076 J/kg K. When foam decomposes into melts, the changes in thermophysical properties shows λ increases by approximately 300%, whereas cp decreases by approximately 20%. On the basis of these changes, the collapse of the foam structure into melt appears to improve the heat transfer through the material. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mixed‐polarization phenotype of ascites‐associated macrophages in human ovarian carcinoma: Correlation of CD163 expression, cytokine levels and early relapse
Authors: Reinartz Silke , Schumann Tim , Finkernagel Florian , Wortmann Annika , Jansen Julia M. , Meissner Wolfgang , Krause Michael , Schwörer Anne‐Marie , Wagner Uwe , Müller‐Brüsselbach Sabine , Müller Rolf
Published: June 2013

Ovarian cancer is typically accompanied by the occurrence of malignant ascites containing large number of macrophages. It has been suggested that these tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) are skewed to alternative polarization (M2) and thereby play an essential role in therapy resistance and metastatic spread. In our study, we have investigated the nature, regulation and clinical correlations of TAM polarization in serous ovarian cancer. Macrophage polarization markers on TAMs and ascites cytokine levels were analyzed for 30 patients and associated with relapse‐free survival (RFS) in a prospective study with 20 evaluable patients. Surface expression of the M2 marker CD163 on TAMs was inversely associated with RFS (p < 0.01). However, global gene expression profiles determined for 17 of these patients revealed a mixed‐polarization phenotype unrelated to the M1/M2 classification. CD163 surface expression also correlated with the ascites levels of IL‐6 and IL‐10 (p < 0.05), both cytokines induced CD163 expression, and their ascites levels showed a clear inverse association with RFS (p < 0.01). These findings define a subgroup of patients with high CD163 expression, high IL‐6 and/or IL‐10 levels and poor clinical outcome.
Can resveratrol in wine protect against the carcinogenicity of ethanol? A probabilistic dose‐response assessment
Authors: Lachenmeier Dirk W. , Godelmann Rolf , Witt Barbara , Riedel Kerstin , Rehm Jürgen
Published: June 2013

Resveratrol, which may occur in wine, was suggested to act as a chemopreventive agent against the carcinogenic effects of ethanol. The assumption was based on data from experimental animals, which have shown that resveratrol above certain thresholds may reduce the incidence of tumours in several of the alcohol‐related cancer sites (colon, liver and female breast). Using a probabilistic Monte Carlo type methodology, we estimated daily intake based on chemical analysis of resveratrol (n = 672) and ethanol (n = 867). Benchmark dose (BMD)‐response modelling was conducted for resveratrol based on eight animal experiments, whereas BMD data for ethanol were taken from the literature. The margin of exposure (MOE) was calculated for both substances as an indicator if the intake may reach effective dosages. For intake of one 100‐mL glass of wine, the average MOE was found to be 4.1 for ethanol and 459,937 for resveratrol. In the best‐case scenario for resveratrol (e.g., very high contents and assuming a low effective dosage), the minimum MOE would be 111, which means that 111 glasses of wine need to be consumed daily to reach the BMD. The MOE ratio between resveratrol and ethanol is 166,128 on average, meaning that per glass of wine, ethanol is more than 100,000 times more potent than resveratrol. As resveratrol intake may not optimally reach the effective dosage, our study excludes a preventive effect of this substance on alcohol‐related cancer. Commercial information about cancer‐preventive or ‐protective effects of resveratrol in wine is misleading and must be prohibited.
IPS‐1 plays a dual function to directly induce apoptosis in murine melanoma cells by inactivated Sendai virus
Authors: Zhang Quan , Xu Xiaoshuang , Yuan Yan , Gong Xiaocheng , Chen Zedong , Xu Xiangming
Published: June 2013

Inactivated Sendai virus (HVJ‐E) directly kills cancer cells by inducing apoptosis through a mechanism mediated by Janus kinases/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathways. However, whether other signaling pathways are involved remain largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism underlying HVJ‐E–induced apoptosis in murine B16F10 melanoma cells. We found that HVJ‐E induced B16F10 cell apoptosis via the caspase pathway, particularly caspase‐9, which mediates the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway activation also contributed to HVJ‐E–induced apoptosis. Whereas caspase pathway involvement depended on both IFN‐β promoter stimulator‐1 (IPS‐1) and type I interferon (IFN), MAPK pathway activation was independent of type I IFN but involved IPS‐1. In addition, intratumoral HVJ‐E treatment displayed a direct oncolytic effect in an in vivo BALB/c nude mouse melanoma model. Collectively, our data provides new insights into the mechanism underlying HVJ‐E–induced apoptosis in tumor cells.
An evaluation of WRF's ability to reproduce the surface wind over complex terrain based on typical circulation patterns
Authors: Jiménez P. A. , Dudhia J. , González‐Rouco J. F. , Montávez J. P. , García‐Bustamante E. , Navarro J. , Vilà‐Guerau de Arellano J. , Muñoz‐Roldán A.
Published: June 2013

The performance of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to reproduce the surface wind circulations over complex terrain is examined. The atmospheric evolution is simulated using two versions of the WRF model during an over 13 year period (1992 to 2005) over a complex terrain region located in the northeast of the Iberian Peninsula. A high horizontal resolution of 2km is used to provide an accurate representation of the terrain features. The multiyear evaluation focuses on the analysis of the accuracy displayed by the WRF simulations to reproduce the wind field of the six typical wind patterns (WPs) identified over the area in a previous observational work. Each pattern contains a high number of days which allows one to reach solid conclusions regarding the model performance. The accuracy of the simulations to reproduce the wind field under representative synoptic situations, or pressure patterns (PPs), of the Iberian Peninsula is also inspected in order to diagnose errors as a function of the large‐scale situation. The evaluation is accomplished using daily averages in order to inspect the ability of WRF to reproduce the surface flow as a result of the interaction between the synoptic scale and the regional topography. Results indicate that model errors can originate from problems in the initial and lateral boundary conditions, misrepresentations at the synoptic scale, or the realism of the topographic features.
Asymmetric thermal evolution of the Moon
Authors: Laneuville M. , Wieczorek M. A. , Breuer D. , Tosi N.
Published: June 2013

The Moon possesses a clear dichotomy in geological processes between the nearside and farside hemispheres. The most pronounced expressions of this dichotomy are the strong concentration of radioactive heat sources on the nearside in a region known as the Procellarum KREEP Terrane (PKT) and the mare basaltic lava flows that erupted in or adjacent to this terrane. We model the thermochemical evolution of the Moon using a 3‐D spherical thermochemical convection code in order to assess the consequences of a layer enriched in heat sources below the PKT on the Moon's global evolution. We find that in addition to localizing most of the melt production on the nearside, such an enriched concentration of heat sources in the PKT crust has an influence down to the core‐mantle boundary and leaves a present‐day temperature anomaly within the nearside mantle. Moderate gravitational and topographic anomalies that are predicted in the PKT, but not observed, may be masked either by crustal thinning or gravitational anomalies from dense material in the underlying mantle. Our models also predict crystallization of an inner core for sulfur concentrations less than 6 wt %.
Successful single‐session endosonography‐based endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography without fluoroscopy in pregnant patients with suspected choledocholithiasis: a case series
Authors: Vohra Sheba , Holt Edward W. , Bhat Yasser M. , Kane Steve , Shah Janak N. , Binmoeller Kenneth F.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Same session endosonography (EUS) immediately prior to scheduled endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) may eliminate the need for ERCP and its associated risks in pregnant patients with no evidence of choledocholithiasis on EUS. In patients with choledocholithiasis, EUS provides information regarding the location, size and number of stones present, which helps guide biliary interventions and confirm stone clearance without the use of fluoroscopy.

Methods

We retrospectively identified 10 pregnant patients referred to our tertiary endoscopy center for suspected choledocholithiasis between June 2008 and January 2012. All patients underwent same‐session EUS‐based ERCP.

Results

Of 10 pregnant patients managed with EUS‐guided ERCP, six were found to have common bile duct stones and went on to ERCP. Four patients with no evidence of choledocholithiasis on EUS did not undergo ERCP. Patients with confirmed choledocholithiasis underwent ERCP without the use of fluoroscopy using the additional information provided by EUS.

Conclusions

Same‐session EUS immediately prior to scheduled ERCP may eliminate the need for ERCP and its risks in pregnant patients with no evidence of choledocholithiasis on EUS. In patients with confirmed choledocholithiasis, EUS provided additional information regarding the location, number and size of bile duct stones, which enabled the successful clearance of the bile duct without the use of fluoroscopy.
On the cyclic material stability of shape memory polymer
Authors: Mogharebi S. , Kazakeviciute‐Makovska R. , Steeb H. , Eggeler G. , Neuking K.
Published: June 2013

This paper presents the experimental study of a Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) based Shape Memory Polymer (SMP) produced from granulates of commercially available EstaneTM ETE75DT3 NAT022 (Oevel Westerlo, Belgium). This polymer is characterized by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Dynamic Mechanical Thermal Analysis (DMTA). The experimental procedure was designed to study the functional properties (shape fixity and shape recovery) of this shape memory polymer in multiple programming/shape‐recovery cycles at three different programming temperatures. The results are displayed in the temperature‐stress‐strain space with focus on parameters which characterize the functional fatigue and material stability of the tested polymer during consecutive cycles. These results give a better understanding of this material class that has a potential for actuator applications in engineering.
Experimental testing of wood‐concrete and steel‐concrete composite elements in comparison with numerical testing
Authors: Smilovic M. , Cubela D. , Radnic J. , Harapin A.
Published: June 2013

The paper presents the results of experimental tests with a numerical comparison of some typical composite element systems. Two different kinds of elements were tested: composite steel‐concrete and composite wood‐concrete elements. Deflections at midspan under monotonously increasing static load on simply supported beams were measured. The affects of different types of composite connections on the results were researched. In numerical tests the structure was modeled with two‐dimensional plane elements. The composite surface was modeled with two‐dimensional contact (interface) elements for the continuous connection simulation and modified beam elements for the discrete connection simulation. The applied material models include the most important nonlinear effects of concrete, steel and wood behavior, as well as the nonlinear behavior of the composite surface at the connection. The achieved results of the developed numerical model were compared with the results obtained through the experimental test.
Biodegradable and thermosensitive micelles of amphiphilic polyaspartamide derivatives containing aromatic groups for drug delivery
Authors: Ma Yingying , Jiang Xulin , Zhuo Renxi
Published: June 2013

The preparation, characterization, release, and in vitro cytotoxicity of a biodegradable polymeric micellar formulation of paclictaxel (PTX) were investigated. The micelles based on thermosensitive and degradable amphiphilic polyaspartamide derivatives containing pendant aromatic structures (phe‐g‐PHPA‐g‐mPEG) were prepared by a quick heating method without using toxic organic solvent. Dynamic light‐scattering results show that the micelles are stable upon dilution under physiological conditions and the destabilization of the micelles is pH‐dependent and the phe‐g‐PHPA‐g‐mPEG polymers are biodegradable. PTX was loaded into the phe‐g‐PHPAs‐g‐mPEG micelles with encapsulation efficiency of >90%, resulting in a high drug loading content (up to 29%). PTX‐loaded micelles had a mean size around 70 nm with narrow size distribution (polydispersity index, <0.1). The PTX‐loaded micelles showed sustained drug release and obvious anticancer activity similar to Taxol against HepG2 cells, whereas blank micelles were nontoxic. The present results suggest that the thermosensitive and biodegradable phe‐g‐PHPA‐g‐mPEG micelles are a promising delivery system for the hydrophobic drugs. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2013, 51, 3917–3924
Kinetic topology‐selective encapsulation and mixture separation by a nanocapsule with hyperbranched polyethylenimine as core and polystyrene as shell
Authors: Jin Ming , Liu Honghai , Pu Hongting , Wan Decheng
Published: June 2013

Topology‐selective encapsulation of a guest is generally exclusively achieved by a well‐defined host. In this article, a macromolecular reverse micelle (PEI@PS), with a hyperbranched polyethylenimine (PEI) as core and polystyrenes (PSs) as shell, is prepared and shown with excellent encapsulation and separation abilities. It is found that the encapsulation and phase transfer is kinetically dependent on the size of the dyes, creating a time window for the separation of dyes. All the experimental results show that the thickness and density of shell plays the most important roles in guest selectivity. In addition, highly size‐selective release is also found. This macromolecular reverse micelle (PEI@PS) can find useful applications in the liquid–liquid or solid–liquid extraction separation, especially for the latter.© 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1273–1281
Mechanically Robust, Electrically Conductive Biocomposite Films Using Antimicrobial Chitosan‐Functionalized Graphenes
Authors: Yadav Santosh Kumar , Jung Yong Chae , Kim Jin Hee , Ko Yong‐Il , Ryu Hee Jeong , Yadav Mukesh Kumar , Kim Yoong Ahm , Cho Jae Whan
Published: June 2013

An effective way of covalently functionalizing graphene with a chitosan polymer via a nitrene chemistry is demonstrated. The biofunctionalized graphene is prepared by the chemical reduction of graphene oxide using a nitrene chemistry, and then covalently grafting chitosan to the graphene surface. The effectiveness of the biofunctionalized graphene as a reinforcing filler (4 wt%) in a chitosan polymer matrix is verified by the dramatic enhancement of the mechanical properties (breaking stress = 330%, Young's modulus = 243%) and the electrical conductivity (0.3 S m−1) without much loss in the elongation‐at‐break. The reinforcing effect can be explained by both the homogeneous dispersion of graphene within the matrix and the strong bond arising from the intrinsically intimate contact between the graphene and the matrix. The high antimicrobial activity of the biofunctionalized graphene compared with graphene oxide and chemically reduced graphene may be because of the presence of chitosan polymer on the edges of the graphene. The strong, antimicrobial graphene‐filled composite film can be used for food packaging and for coating various biomedical devices, where bacterial surface colonization is undesirable.
Formation of Sn@C Yolk–Shell Nanospheres and Core–Sheath Nanowires for Highly Reversible Lithium Storage
Authors: Ni Wei , Wang Yabo , Xu Rong
Published: June 2013

As one promising anode material with high theoretical capacity, metallic tin has attracted much research interest in the field of lithium‐ion batteries. Here, two types of tin/carbon (Sn@C) core–shell nanostructures with inner buffering voids are fabricated from SnO2 hollow nanospheres via a facile chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. The crystallinity and surface topography of SnO2 hollow nanospheres are found to affect the morphology of resultant Sn@C materials. Sn@C yolk–shell nanospheres and core–sheath nanowires are obtained from the as‐prepared SnO2 and high‐temperature annealed SnO2 nanospheres, respectively. The unique Sn@C nanostructures can mitigate the agglomeration/pulverization of Sn nanoparticles and electrical disconnection from the current collector caused by the large volume change during the lithium alloying/dealloying process. Both Sn@C yolk–shell and core–sheath nanostructures show stable cycling performance up to 500 cycles with specific capacities of ca. 430 and 520 mA h g−1, respectively.
Preparation and Properties Study of Core‐Shell CL‐20/TATB Composites
Authors: Yang Zhijian , Li Jinshan , Huang Bing , Liu Shijun , Huang Zhong , Nie Fude
Published: June 2013

The insensitive high explosive 1,3,5‐triamino‐2,4,6‐trinitrobenzene (TATB) was selected for coating and desensitization of hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL‐20), another high explosive, after surface modification. About 2 wt‐% polymer binder was adopted in the preparation process to further maintain the coating strength and fill the voids among energetic particles. The structure, sensitivity, polymorph properties, and thermal behavior of CL‐20/TATB by coating and physical mixing were studied. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results indicate that submicrometer‐sized TATB was compactly coated onto the CL‐20 surface with coverage close to 100 %. The core‐shell structure of CL‐20/TATB was confirmed by observation of hollow TATB shell from the CL‐20 core dissolved sample. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that the polymorph of CL‐20 maintained ε form during the whole preparing process. Thermal properties were studied by thermogravimetry (TG) and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), showing effects of TATB coating on the polymorph thermal stability and exothermic decomposition of CL‐20. Both the impact and friction sensitivities were markedly reduced due to the cushioning and lubricating effects of TATB shell. The preparation of explosive composites with core‐shell structure provides an efficient route for the desensitization of high explosives, such as CL‐20 in this study.
Physical mechanisms of the thermally driven cross‐basin circulation
Authors: Lehner Manuela , David Whiteman C.
Published: June 2013

The physical mechanisms responsible for the formation of a thermally driven cross‐basin circulation in a basin with asymmetric heating of opposite mountain sidewalls are investigated. A large‐eddy simulation is performed with the Weather Research and Forecasting model for an idealized basin based on the topography of Arizona's Meteor Crater. The individual components of the horizontal momentum and thermodynamic balance equations are analyzed to determine their respective contributions in forcing the cross‐basin circulation.

A cross‐basin pressure gradient, with higher pressure on the less irradiated sidewall, leads to the development of a cross‐basin flow near the basin floor. A weak opposing return flow develops above this cross‐basin flow as a result of a reversed cross‐basin pressure gradient. The reversed cross‐basin pressure gradient is caused by cold‐air advection by upslope winds in the stable morning atmosphere on the sunlit sidewall and warm‐air advection by downslope winds on the still shaded sidewall, as this reverses the cross‐basin temperature gradient, producing a higher temperature on the less sunlit sidewall.
A comparison of ensemble post‐processing methods for extreme events
Authors: Williams R. M. , Ferro C. A. T. , Kwasniok F.
Published: June 2013

Ensemble post‐processing methods are used in operational weather forecasting to form probability distributions that represent forecast uncertainty. Several such methods have been proposed in the literature, including logistic regression, ensemble dressing, Bayesian model averaging and non‐homogeneous Gaussian regression. We conduct an imperfect model experiment with the Lorenz 1996 model to investigate the performance of these methods, especially when forecasting the occurrence of rare extreme events. We show how flexible bias‐correction schemes can be incorporated into these post‐processing methods, and that allowing the bias correction to depend on the ensemble mean can yield considerable improvements in skill when forecasting extreme events. In the Lorenz 1996 setting, we find that ensemble dressing, Bayesian model averaging and non‐homogeneous Gaussian regression perform similarly, while logistic regression performs less well.
Modelling of local length‐scale dynamics and isotropizing deformations
Authors: Pannekoucke O. , Emili E. , Thual O.
Published: June 2013

The correlation length‐scale which characterizes the shape of the correlation function is often used to parametrize correlation models. This article describes how the length‐scale dynamics can be employed to estimate a spatial deformation (coordinate transformation). Of particular interest is the isotropizing deformation, which transforms anisotropic correlation functions into quasi‐isotropic ones. The evolution of the length‐scale field under a simple advection dynamics is described in terms of the local metric tensor. This description leads to a quadratic constraint satisfied by the isotropizing deformation and from which a system of Poisson‐like partial differential equations is deduced. The isotropizing deformation is obtained as the solution of a coupled system of Poisson‐like partial differential equations. This system is then solved with a pseudo‐diffusion scheme, where the isotropizing deformation is the steady‐state solution. The isotropization process is illustrated within a simulated 2D setting. The method is shown to provide an accurate estimation of the original deformation used to build the anisotropic correlations in this idealized framework.

Applications in data assimilation are discussed. First, the isotropization procedure can be useful for background‐error covariance modelling. Secondly, the length‐scale dynamics provides a way to simulate the dynamics of covariances for the transport of passive scalars, as encountered in chemical data assimilation.
Navigated vs arthroscopic‐guided drilling for reconstruction of acromioclavicular joint injuries: accuracy and feasibility
Authors: Stübig Timo , Jähnisch Torsten , Reichelt Angela , Krettek Christian , Citak Musa , Meller Rupert
Published: June 2013

Background

Anatomical reconstruction of the coracoclavicular ligaments is a relatively new technique for acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries.

Methods

Eighteen procedures (nine non‐navigated, nine navigated) of anatomical reconstruction were performed minimally invasively, using the Tight Rope system, on cadaveric shoulders. Two Kirschner wires were placed, freehand under fluoroscopic control (non‐navigated) or 3D C‐arm navigated. The insertion point on the clavicle as well as the position of the K‐wire in the coracoid were measured in the axial and coronal planes; points were assigned for different zones. For statistical analysis, the significance level was set to p = 0.05.

Results

The accuracy of the entry point in the clavicle was significantly more accurate for the conoidal (p = 0.022) and trapezoidal ( p = 0.0062) drillings. The positioning in the coronal (p = 0.037) and axial (p = 0.0416) planes also showed higher accuracy for the navigated procedures.

Conclusion

The accuracy of anatomical AC joint reconstruction can be improved using 3D C‐arm flat detector navigation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Heart of China revisited: II Early Paleozoic (ultra)high‐pressure and (ultra)high‐temperature metamorphic Qinling orogenic collage
Authors: Bader Thomas , Franz Leander , Ratschbacher Lothar , de Capitani Christian , Webb A. Alexander G. , Yang Zhao , Pfänder Jörg A. , Hofmann Mandy , Linnemann Ulf
Published: June 2013

Orogens with multiple (ultra)high‐pressure ((U)HP) and (ultra)high‐temperature ((U)HT) metamorphic events provide a complex but telling record of oceanic and continental interaction. The Early Paleozoic history of the “Heart of China,” the Qinling orogenic collage, offers snapshots of at least three (U)HP and two (U)HT metamorphic events. The preservation of remnants of both oceanic and continental domains together with a ≥110 Myr record of magmatism allows the reconstruction of the processes that resulted in this disparate metamorphism. Herein, we first illuminate the pressure‐temperature‐time (P‐T‐t) evolution of the Early Paleozoic (U)HP and (U)HT events by refining the petrographic descriptions and P‐T estimates, assess published, and employ new U/Th‐Pb zircon, monazite, and titanite, and40Ar‐39Ar phengite geochronology to date the magmatic and metamorphic events. Then we explore how the metamorphic and magmatic events are related tectonically and how they elucidate the affinities among the various complexes in the Qinling orogenic collage. We argue that a Meso‐Neoproterozoic crustal fragment—the Qinling complex—localized subduction‐accretion events that involved subduction, oceanic‐arc formation, and back‐arc spreading along its northern margin, and mtantle‐wedge exhumation and spreading‐ridge subduction along its southern margin.
Supply Chain Sustainability: Compliance‐ and Performance‐Based Tools
Authors: Lee Terry , Kashmanian Richard M.
Published: June 2013

Company sustainability efforts reach deep into supply chains
Information‐guided communications in MIMO systems with channel state impairments
Authors: Yang Yuli , Aïssa Sonia
Published: June 2013

Information‐guided channel hopping (IGCH) is a promising technique for high‐data‐rate communications using multiple antennas for information mapping at the transmitter and optional antenna diversity at the receiver. Compared with some popular multi‐antenna techniques, the advantage of this scheme is proven in ideal channel conditions, where the channel is spatially white and the perfect channel state information is assumed available at the receiver. The main objective of this paper is to present an information theoretical study on IGCH in realistic propagation environments with channel degeneracy due to spatial correlation and keyhole phenomena as well as imperfect channel estimation. It is proven that good performance promised by IGCH can be achieved in a variety of non‐ideal channel conditions. Moreover, the analysis in this paper provides a convenient tool for the corresponding system design in practical operating environments. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Relation of respiratory muscle strength, cachexia and survival in severe chronic heart failure
Authors: Habedank Dirk , Meyer F. Joachim , Hetzer Roland , Anker Stefan D. , Ewert Ralf
Published: June 2013

Background

Respiratory muscle (RM) function predicts prognosis in non‐cachectic patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). We hypothesized that weakness of RM (maximum inspiratory mouth occlusion pressure, Pimax) is a function of body mass index, and that outcome is more a function of BMI than of Pimax or ventilatory drive (P0.1).

Subjects and methods

We enrolled 249 CHF patients (11.2 % female, median age 54.2 years) at the German Heart Institute Berlin. Patients were in NYHA classes I/II/III/IV by n = 16/90/108/35. All patients underwent tests of pulmonary function, RM (Pimax, P0.1), cardiopulmonary exercise testing (peakVO2, VE/VCO2‐slope), and right heart catheterization.

Results

Mean follow‐up time was 18 (1–36) months, 47 patients (18.9 %) died or underwent cardiac assist implantation. Pimax correlated weakly with BMI (r = 0.19), peakVO2 (r = 0.15), and FEV1 (r = 0.34, all p < 0.02), and was lower in females compared to males (3.9 ± 1.7 vs. 6.6 ± 2.7 kPa; p < 0.001). P0.1 correlated with pulmonary pressure (rho = 0.2; p < 0.01) and peakVO2 (rho = −0.14; p < 0.02). Neither Pimax [hazard ratio (HR) 0.98; confidence interval (CI) 0.88–1.08] nor P0.1 (HR 0.52; 0.06–4.6) predicted survival. Multivariate regression analysis revealed gender, BMI, and FEV1 as cofactors of Pimax, with only BMI (HR 0.87; CI 0.80–0.95) predicting survival independently. The lowest quintile in BMI had the worst outcome (log‐rank χ² = 13.5, p = 0.009).

In CHF patients including cachexia and NYHA IV, Pimax does not predict survival. Pimax depends on gender, BMI, FEV1, and peakVO2, with only BMI and peakVO2 predicting survival. The impaired Pimax in CHF might be a result of catabolism and weight loss and is not a predictive factor in itself.