bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of vinyl chloride conversion below critical micelle concentration: A response surface analysis
Authors: Pakdel Amir Saeid , Rezaei Behbahani Mohammad , Saeb Mohammad Reza , Khonakdar Hossein Ali , Abedini Hossein , Moghri Mehdi
Published: July 2014

Utilizing response surface methodology, the conversion of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) was monitored when the polymerization temperature, the type of surfactant, and the weight ratio of water‐to‐monomer (W/M) were taken as the emulsion polymerization variables. Because the homogeneous nucleation was found to be the dominant mechanism in VCM emulsion polymerization, irrespective of the surfactant concentration, the whole experiments have been carried out below critical micelle concentration of the used surfactants. Among all the studied variables, the polymerization temperature appeared as the most effective parameter; moreover, its interactive effect with W/M caused different trends in the alteration of final conversion being observed. Also, depending on the reaction temperature, the VCM conversion would be affected by the type of the surfactant used. Contrarily, simultaneous change in the type of surfactant and W/M revealed an insignificant effect on the evolution of VCM conversion. The optimization of final conversion of VCM was also accessible through contour plots of response surface methodology. It is worth noting that, taking a conventional approach into consideration, the alteration of VCM conversion seemed to be a monotonic function of temperature. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 21:157–165, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Detailed study on fusion characteristics of rigid poly(vinyl chloride) nanocomposites: The comparison of using multiple regression analysis and artificial neural network
Authors: Moghri M. , Shamaee H. , Tavana R. , Madic M. , Shukla D.K.
Published: July 2014

Fusion behavior of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) compounds plays an important role in the development of physical properties of processed material. The fusion characteristics in PVC processing are governed by material variables that affect the fusion with some interactions. In this research, the aim was to characterize the effects of formulation ingredients on fusion characteristics of PVC. Four material parameters, including the contents of nanoclay (NC), azodicarbonamide, calcium stearate, and processing aid, are proposed as affecting variables. The fusion time (FT) as well as fusion factor (FF) are considered fusion indicators and are experimentally determined in some different levels of affecting parameters. The multivariable regression analysis (MRA) and the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) modeling are considered as two analytical methods. The regression analysis result for the FT denotes, in part, significant linear and quadratic effects of NC and also its significant interactions with azodicarbonamide and calcium stearate, whereas that of FF indicates only a linear effect of NC. ANN modeling is performed with a three‐layer (input, hidden, and output) neural network. The results of the comparison of the MRA and ANN predictions with experimental values are reported as the correlation coefficient (R2), mean‐square error, and mean absolute percentage error for both FF and FT parameters. The obtained values clearly denote that the ANN results are more precise and especially more general than those of MRA. However, in the case of FT, improvement of the ANN modeling is much greater than that of FF. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 21:147–155, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of Polycarboxylate Coligands from Linear to V‐shaped CuII Coordination Polymers Based on a Rigid Tripodal Ligand
Authors: Wang Hao , Li Xiao‐Dong , Yi Fei‐Yan , Tian Wan‐Guo , Li Yun‐Hui , Gao Ying , Yang Xiu‐Yun , Yao Shuang
Published: July 2014

The layered CuII coordination polymer {[Cu(tib)2(H2O)2](NO3)2} (1) based on the rigid tripodal 1,3,5‐tris(1‐imidazolyl)benzene (tib) ligand was synthesized by hydrothermal methods. By introducing different polycarboxylate coligands from linear 4,4′‐biphthalic acid (H4L1) to V‐shaped thiophene‐2,5‐dicarboxylic acid (H2L2), two new copper(II) compounds were obtained, namely, {Cu(tib)(H2L1)(H2O)·3H2O} (2) and {Cu(tib)(L2)·3H2O} (3). X‐ray diffraction analyses reveal that compound 2 displays a hydrogen‐bonded three‐dimensional (3D) supramolecular structure, in which protonated {H2L1}2– ligands occupy some coordination sites around the metal atoms to form one‐dimensional (1D) chain by blocking the formation of two‐dimensional (2D) Cu‐tib layer as in compound 1. Interestingly, compound 3 features a rare twofold interpenetrating binodal seh‐3,5‐P43212 topological network by synergistic effect of V‐shaped carboxylate group and functionally complementary N‐donor ligand. These compounds were characterized by elemental analyses, thermogravinetric analyses, and photoluminescent spectroscopy.
Impact of Team Familiarity in the Operating Room on Surgical Complications
Authors: Kurmann A. , Keller S. , Tschan‐Semmer F. , Seelandt J. , Semmer N. K. , Candinas D. , Beldi G.
Published: July 2014

Background

The quality of surgical performance depends on the technical skills of the surgical team as well as on non‐technical skills, including teamwork. The present study evaluated the impact of familiarity among members of the surgical team on morbidity in patients undergoing elective open abdominal surgery.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed to compare the surgical outcomes of patients who underwent major abdominal operations between the first month (period I) and the last month (period II) of a 6‐month period of continuous teamwork (stable dyads of one senior and one junior surgeon formed every 6 months). Of 117 patients, 59 and 58 patients underwent operations during period I and period II, respectively, between January 2010 and June 2012. Team performance was assessed via questionnaire by specialized work psychologists; in addition, intraoperative sound levels were measured.

Results

The incidence of overall complications was significantly higher in period I than in period II (54.2 vs. 34.5 %; P = 0.041). Postoperative complications grade <3 were significantly more frequently diagnosed in patients who had operations during period I (39.0 vs. 15.5 %; P = 0.007), whereas no between‐group differences in grade ≥3 complications were found (15.3 vs. 19.0 %; P = 0.807). Concentration scores from senior surgeons were significantly higher in period II than in period I (P = 0.033). Sound levels during the middle third part of the operations were significantly higher in period I (median above the baseline 8.85 dB [range 4.5–11.3 dB] vs. 7.17 dB [5.24–9.43 dB]; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Team familiarity improves team performance and reduces morbidity in patients undergoing abdominal surgery.
Determinants of Caragana microphylla density distribution in the Mongolian steppe
Authors: Narantsetseg Amartuvshin , Kang Sinkyu , Lkhamsuren Bolor‐Erdene , Ko Dongwook W.
Published: July 2014

Regional differences in Caragana microphylla density in the Mongolian steppes were explained by considering multiple abiotic and biotic factors collectively, including aridity gradients, grazing regimes, fire disturbance, and interspecific interactions. In the central and eastern Mongolian steppes, we collected vegetation data from 127 sites. Along 250‐m line transects, the hit frequencies of C. microphylla and tall‐grass species were recorded. Ancillary data included weather information, livestock populations, fire occurrence maps, and herder camp locations. Based on the steppe types and disturbance regimes, the sites were classified into 12 sub‐groups. The data were statistically analyzed at the site, county, and sub‐group levels. The natural C. microphylla density decreased with climatic aridity from forb‐steppes to semi‐desert steppes, but this pattern was not observed at grazed and burned sites. Livestock grazing decreased C. microphylla density, but this effect was considerably confounded by aridity effects, especially in the central steppes, making the relationship between C. microphylla and livestock densities complex. Although fire appeared to be an important factor in the eastern steppes, the mechanism of its effect on C. microphylla density was unclear, because the fire–shrub interaction is influenced by the tall‐grass recovery process after fire. Based on our results, we propose that two different confounding effects, namely aridity versus grazing and fire versus interspecific interactions, play important roles in determining the spatial distribution of C. microphylla density in the central and eastern Mongolian steppes, respectively.
Prenatal Diagnosis of Lysosomal Storage Disorders by Enzymes Study Using Chorionic Villus and Amniotic Fluid
Authors: Sheth Jayesh , Mistri Mehul , Sheth Frenny , Datar Chaitanya , Godbole Koumudi , Kamate Mahesh , Patil Kamal
Published: July 2014

The reported prevalence of lysosomal storage disorder (LSD) is 1:5,000–7,000 live births and with the limited availability of therapeutic option; prenatal diagnosis (PD) remains the only preventable cure for storage disorders. One hundred forty pregnancies having confirmed diagnosis of LSDs in index case were selected for enzymes study during PD from uncultured and/or cultured chorionic villus (CV/CCV) and cultured amniotic fluid (CAF) cells. In seven pregnancies, molecular analysis was additionally carried out where mutation was known in an index case. Of 140 pregnancies, 60 (42.9 %) were diagnosed as affected, 13 (9.3 %) had an intermediate enzyme activity and 67 (47.8 %) had normal enzyme activity. Results were confirmed in 83 cases whereas 57 cases were lost from the follow-up. In one case, enzyme β-galactose-6 sulphate sulphatase specific for Morquio-A disorder [mucopolysaccharidosis-IVA (MPS-IVA)] had shown 30 % reduced activity in CV cells and the case was diagnosed as carrier for MPS-IVA while it delivered an affected child. Further molecular analysis in seven cases that included six with Tay-Sachs and one with Gaucher disease, confirmed the results obtained by enzymatic study during PD. PD of LSDs can be carried out by enzymes study from CV/CCV and CAF with an accuracy of molecular method. However, in cases of MPS and mucolipidosis, Amniotic fluid (AF) is preferred over CV/CCV. In addition, special care is needed while interpreting enzyme results encompassing carrier status and they need to be further evaluated by molecular studies.
Determination of Chorionicity in Twins: Feasibility at a Tertiary Care Centre and Audit of Current Practice in the Community
Authors: Pilli M. L. , Balusamy S. L. , Ramesh J. , Suresh I. , Seshadri S. , Sairam S.
Published: July 2014

To assess the feasibility and to audit the practice of determining chorionicity in twin pregnancies in South India. Sonographic findings from first trimester scans of twin pregnancies were retrospectively analysed to evaluate the feasibility of determining chorionicity in the first visit to the unit. In addition, an audit was carried out on all twin pregnancies referred to the authors in the second trimester to ascertain whether chorionicity had been established prior to referral. It was feasible to determine chorionicity at the first visit in 100 % of the 611 twin pregnancies that were seen at 11–14 weeks in the unit. However, the audit revealed that only 40 % of the referred population had a diagnosis of chorionicity prior to referral. Whilst it is feasible to determine chorionicity in all twin pregnancies in the first trimester, the practice is not widespread in the referring community in South India and this needs to be addressed.
Utility of Prefrontal Space Ratio to Screen for Trisomy 21 in a Racially Diverse Population: A Pilot Study
Authors: Suskin Barrie , Roe Anne-Marie , Bajaj Komal
Published: July 2014

To evaluate the prefrontal space (PFS) ratio of fetuses of African descent without Down syndrome and compare it to the PFS ratio previously established in a homogeneous Caucasian population to determine whether there is a difference in the ratio in these two groups. The PFS ratio was calculated retrospectively from stored 2D images of 100 African, African-American and African-Caribbean fetuses in the second and third trimester performed at the authors’ center. Other data including the maternal age, gestational age, and ethnicity were collected. An unpaired T test was used to compare the previously published Caucasian mean, 0.97 (SD 0.29) with the mean established for the black population 1.37 (SD 0.44). The difference between these two PFS ratios was found to be significant (p < 0.0001). This pilot study suggests a significant difference in the PFS in the non-Caucasian population. In order to use the PFS as a sonographic screening tool for Down syndrome, it will be important to determine normal values in different ethnic populations.
Clinical, functional and morphologic evaluation of patients undergoing lateral sphincterotomy for chronic anal fissure treatment. Identification of factors that can interfere with fecal continence
Authors: Fernandes Graziela Olivia da Silva , Murad-Regadas Sthela Maria , Regadas Francisco Sérgio Pinheiro , Rodrigues Lusmar Veras , Dealcanfreitas Iris Daiana , de Jesus Rosa Pereira Jacyara , de Carvalho Holanda Erico , Regadas Filho Francisco Sérgio Pinheiro
Published: July 2014

Objective Evaluate clinical, functional and morphologic outcomes of lateral sphincterotomy for chronic anal fissure treatment, and correlate the findings with factors that influence in the anal continence.

Method In a prospective study, female patients treated by lateral sphincterotomy for chronic anal fissure were assessed using Wexner's incontinence score and grouped according to score: group I (score = 0) and group 2 (score ≥1) and evaluated with anal manometry and anorectal 3D ultrasonography.

Results Thirty-six womens were included, 33% had vaginal delivery. Seventeen patients were included in group I and 19 in group II. We found no difference in age, parity and mode of delivery between groups. A significant difference with respect to percentage reduction in resting pressures was noted, when comparing group 1 versus group 2. The anal sphincter muscle length was similar in both groups. However, the length and percentage of transected internal anal sphincter was significantly greater in group II.

Conclusion There was a correlation between fecal incontinence symptoms after sphincterotomy with the percentage of resting pressure reduction, length and percentage of transected internal anal sphincter.
Successful endoscopic treatment of fecalith blocking sinus in a patient with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis
Authors: Ma Jessica , Zhang Brook , Wu Xian-rui , Shen Bo
Published: July 2014

Background Ulcerative colitis patients who underwent restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis can develop various mechanical complications. Among them is presacral sinus resulting from chronic anastomotic leak.

Methods We present a symptomatic patient with a large fecalith blocking the sinus which was successfully treated with Doppler ultrasound guided endoscopic needle knife sinusotomy along with fecalith extraction.

Results A 67-year-old female presented with a 4-month history of perianal pain and urgency. Pouchocopy showed a 3-cm deep wide-mouthed anastomotic sinus, the orifice of which was blocked by a large hard fecalith. Removal of the fecalith using RothNet, Tripod, or Basket were made but failed. Then needle knife was applied to cut the orifice to enlarge the opening of the sinus. One month later, the patient returned and the fecalith was successfully removed with two Baskets and two Rothnets. Six months after fecalith extraction, pouchoscopy showed a compartalized distal pouch sinus with two cavities, which was treated by two sessions of Doppler ultrasound guided endoscopic needle knife sinusotomy. Six months following the treatment, the sinus was completed healed. The patient tolerated all procedures well without any complication.

Conclusion Fecalith blocking pouch anastomotic sinus is a rare complication in patients with restorative proctocolectomy. In our case, this surgical complication was successfully treated with a carefully planned, stepwise endoscopy approach.
Metabolic, Cardiopulmonary, and Gait Profiles of Recently Injured and Noninjured Runners
Authors: Peng Lucinda , Seay Amanda N. , Montero Cindy , Barnes Leslie L. , Vincent Kevin R. , Conrad Bryan P. , Chen Cong , Vincent Heather K.
Published: July 2014

Objective

To examine whether runners recovering from a lower body musculoskeletal injury have different metabolic, cardiopulmonary, and gait responses compared with healthy runners.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Research laboratory at an academic institution.

Methods

Healthy runners (n = 50) were compared with runners who were recently injured but had returned to running (n = 50). Both groups were participating in similar cross‐training modalities such as swimming, weight training, biking, and yoga. Running gait was analyzed on a treadmill using 3‐dimensional motion capture, and metabolic and cardiopulmonary measures were captured simultaneously with a portable metabolic analyzer.

Main Outcome Measures

Rate of oxygen consumption, heart rate, ventilation, carbohydrate and fat oxidation values, gait temporospatial parameters and range of motion measures (ROM) in the sagittal plane, energy expenditure, and vertical displacement of the body's center of gravity (COG).

Results

The self‐selected running speed was different between the injured and healthy runners (9.7 ± 1.1 km/h and 10.6 ± 1.1 km/h, respectively; P = .038). No significant group differences were noted in any metabolic or cardiopulmonary variable while running at the self‐selected or standard speed (13.6 km/h). The vertical displacement of the COG was less in the injured group (8.4 ± 1.4 cm and 8.9 ± 1.4, respectively; P = .044). ROM about the right ankle in the sagittal plane at the self‐selected running speed during the gait cycle was less in the injured runners compared with the healthy runners (P < .05).

Conclusions

Runners with a recent lower body injury who have returned to running have similar cardiopulmonary and metabolic responses to running as healthy runners at the self‐selected and standard speeds; this finding may be due in part to participation in cross‐training modes that preserve cardiopulmonary and metabolic adaptations. Injured runners may conserve motion by minimizing COG displacement and ankle joint ROM during a gait cycle.
Gait and Physical Impairments in Patients With Acute Ankle Sprains Who Did Not Receive Physical Therapy
Authors: Punt Ilona M. , Ziltener Jean‐Luc , Laidet Magali , Armand Stéphane , Allet Lara
Published: July 2014

Objective

To assess ankle function 4 weeks after conservative management and to examine the correlation of function with gait.

Design

A prospective comparison study.

Patients

Thirty patients with grade I or II acute ankle sprains were followed up after 4 weeks of conservative management not involving physical therapy.

Methods

Participants underwent a clinical assessment and had to walk at a normal self‐selected walking speed. Their results were compared with the data of 15 healthy subjects.

Main Outcome Measures

Participants' joint swelling, muscle strength, passive mobility, and pain were assessed. In addition, patients' temporal‐spatial, kinematic, and kinetic gait data were measured while walking.

Results

Muscle strength and passive mobility were significantly reduced on the injured side compared with the noninjured side (P < .001). During gait analysis, patients with ankle sprains showed slower walking speed, shorter step length, shorter single support time, reduced and delayed maximum plantar flexion, decreased maximum power, and decreased maximum moment (P < .050) compared with healthy persons. Decreased walking speed was mainly correlated with pain (R = −0.566, P = .001) and deficits in muscle strength of dorsiflexors (R = 0.506, P = .004).

Conclusion

Four weeks after an ankle sprain, patients who did not receive physical therapy showed physical impairments of the ankle that were correlated with gait parameters. These findings might help fine‐tune rehabilitation protocols.
Bioefficacy of a mono-component protease in the diets of pigs and poultry: a meta-analysis of effect on ileal amino acid digestibility
Authors: Cowieson Aaron J. , Roos Franz F.
Published: July 2014

A meta-analysis of the effect of a mono-component bacterial protease (RONOZYME® ProAct) on the apparent ileal digestibility of amino acids in poultry and swine diets was conducted to examine functional patterns, mean effects and variability of response. A total of 25 independently-conducted experiments were included comprising a total of 804 datapoints. The mean response to protease was +3.74% (SE 1.1%, P < 0.001) and this ranged from +5.6% for Thr (SE 1.2%, P < 0.001) to +2.7% for Glu (SE 1.2%, P < 0.05). For the most economically critical amino acids (Lys, Cys, Met and Thr) the mean response was 4.5%. The effect of protease was independent of geography, animal species and diet composition (P > 0.05). However, the inherent digestibility of amino acids in the control diet as a single explanatory term explained around 47% of the variance (P < 0.001) in effect. When the inherent digestibility of amino acids in the control diet was less than 70% protease addition improved amino acid digestibility in 90% of cases with a mean improvement of around 10%. When the inherent digestibility of amino acids in the control diet was more than 90% there was a protease-mediated improvement in digestibility in only 60% of cases with a mean improvement of around 2%. It can be concluded that the inherent digestibility of amino acids in the diet without protease supplementation is the primary explanatory term for the efficacy of this exogenous protease, demonstrating that it is highly effective in improving the digestibility of amino acids across a wide range of feed ingredients. Benchmarking diets or feed ingredients as to their relative nutritional value would enhance the ability of nutritionists to determine the likely return on investment on use of bacterial proteases in their operation.
Numerical simulations of self-propelled jumping upon drop coalescence on non-wetting surfaces
Authors: Liu Fangjie , Ghigliotti Giovanni , Feng James J. , Chen Chuan-Hua
Published: July 2014

Coalescing drops spontaneously jump out of plane on a variety of biological and synthetic superhydrophobic surfaces, with potential applications ranging from self-cleaning materials to self-sustained condensers. To investigate the mechanism of self-propelled jumping, we report three-dimensional phase-field simulations of two identical spherical drops coalescing on a flat surface with a contact angle of 180°. The numerical simulations capture the spontaneous jumping process, which follows the capillary–inertial scaling. The out-of-plane directionality is shown to result from the counter-action of the substrate to the impingement of the liquid bridge between the coalescing drops. A viscous cutoff to the capillary–inertial velocity scaling is identified when the Ohnesorge number of the initial drops is around 0.1, but the corresponding viscous cutoff radius is too small to be tested experimentally. Compared to experiments on both superhydrophobic and Leidenfrost surfaces, our simulations accurately predict the nearly constant jumping velocity of around 0.2 when scaled by the capillary–inertial velocity. By comparing the simulated drop coalescence processes with and without the substrate, we attribute this low non-dimensional velocity to the substrate intercepting only a small fraction of the expanding liquid bridge.
Time-dependent Taylor–Aris dispersion of an initial point concentration
Authors: Vedel Søren , Hovad Emil , Bruus Henrik
Published: July 2014

Based on the method of moments, we derive a general theoretical expression for the time-dependent dispersion of an initial point concentration in steady and unsteady laminar flows through long straight channels of any constant cross-section. We retrieve and generalize previous case-specific theoretical results, and furthermore predict new phenomena. In particular, for the transient phase before the well-described steady Taylor–Aris limit is reached, we find anomalous diffusion with a dependence of the temporal scaling exponent on the initial release point, generalizing this finding in specific cases. During this transient we furthermore identify maxima in the values of the dispersion coefficient which exceed the Taylor–Aris value by amounts that depend on channel geometry, initial point release position, velocity profile and Péclet number. We show that these effects are caused by a difference in relaxation time of the first and second moments of the solute distribution and may be explained by advection-dominated dispersion powered by transverse diffusion in flows with local velocity gradients.
Artefacts of Cognition: the Use of Clay Tokens in a Neo-Assyrian
Provincial Administration
Authors: MacGinnis John , Willis Monroe M. , Wicke Dirk , Matney Timothy
Published: July 2014

The study of clay tokens in the Ancient Near East has focused, for the most part,
on their role as antecedents to the cuneiform script. Starting with Pierre Amiet
and Maurice Lambert in the 1960s the theory was put forward that tokens, or
calculi, represent an early cognitive attempt at recording. This theory was
taken up by Denise Schmandt-Besserat who studied a large diachronic corpus of
Near Eastern tokens. Since then little has been written except in response to
Schmandt-Besserat's writings. Most discussions of tokens have generally focused
on the time period between the eighth and fourth millennium bc with the
assumption that token use drops off as writing gains ground in administrative
contexts. Now excavations in southeastern Turkey at the site of Ziyaret Tepe
— the Neo-Assyrian provincial capital Tušhan —
have uncovered a corpus of tokens dating to the first millennium bc. This is a
significant new contribution to the documented material. These tokens are found
in association with a range of other artefacts of administrative culture
— tablets, dockets, sealings and weights — in a manner
which indicates that they had cognitive value concurrent with the cuneiform
writing system and suggests that tokens were an important tool in Neo-Assyrian
imperial administration.
Mental Templates and Ceramic Manufacture at Neolithic An Son, Southern Vietnam
Authors: Sarjeant Carmen
Published: July 2014

The 1000-year Neolithic occupation of An Son in southern Vietnam consists of ceramics that belong to a tradition that was potentially ancestral to those in many other regions of mainland Southeast Asia. The forms, dimensions, modes of decoration and fabrics of the An Son ceramics throughout the site's occupation have been studied in detail. The morphological dimensions were analysed with coefficient of variation (CV) calculations and the fabrics were characterized using scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM-EDX), in conjunction with statistical applications such as principal components analysis (PCA), cluster analysis and canonical variate analysis (CVA). The results suggest that a coherent method of manufacture and a mental template was applied in the manufacture of each major rim form that existed throughout the occupation of An Son. These vessel forms had a continuous evolution with evidence for conservatism in the shape and raw materials, while innovation and variation was observed in the decorative variables. The established mental templates indicate that the organization of ceramic production at An Son was linked to tradition and function in the community.
Investigating risk reporting practices in the global insurance
industry
Authors: Klumpes P. , Kumar A. , Dubey R.
Published: July 2014

This paper investigates incentives and disincentives for risk reporting
practices by global insurance companies. We examine various arguments for
and against risk reporting, whether voluntary or compliance in nature. An
important issue is whether reporting is dominated by shareholder, regulatory
or managerial incentives. We evaluate whether current reporting practices
are consistent with either political visibility, cultural effects or
idiosyncratic managerial incentives. Our empirical analysis is based on (1)
a content analysis of disclosures contained in annual reports of a sample of
European, Asian and US global top 25 insurers between 2006 and 2012 and (2)
a survey of internal business reporting practices. We re-characterise a
disclosure index from prior research to examine the relation between the
extent of risk disclosure and various managerial, agency and other
characteristics. We predict that the extent and nature of risk disclosures
depends on cultural imperatives and managerial incentives.
Wenn der Berg auf den Magen schlägt: Magen-Darm-Funktion in der Höhe
Authors: Frühauf Heiko
Published: July 2014

Ein Aufenthalt im Hochgebirge führt bei nicht akklimatisierten Personen oft zu Symptomen der Höhenkrankheit wie Kopfschmerzen, Atemnot und verminderter Leistungsfähigkeit. Aber auch Übelkeit und Appetitlosigkeit sind häufige Symptome der akuten Bergkrankheit und können zu reduzierter Kalorienzufuhr und Gewichtsverlust führen. Über 4000 m sind 50–80% der Bergsteiger von Symptomen betroffen. Schon nach kurzer Höhenexposition können gastrointestinale Schleimhautläsionen auftreten, die zu Magen-Darm-Blutungen führen können und zu einem verminderten Hungergefühl beitragen. Patienten mit einer vorbestehenden chronisch-entzündlichen Darmerkrankung können einen akuten Schub erleiden. Ferner kommt es höhenbedingt zur Induktion zahlreicher Stoffwechselvorgänge u. a. auch der Eisenaufnahme. Während die Pathophysiologie der hypobaren Hypoxie für die Atmung und das Herz-Kreislauf-System schon länger gut dokumentiert ist, fasst der vorliegende Mini-Review die bisher bekannte Datenlage zur Magen-Darm-Funktion in der Höhe zusammen.
Geometrisches Handeln von Kindern in mathematischen Spiel- und Erkundungssituationen
Authors: Vogel Rose
Published: July 2014

In der Längsschnittstudie „erStMaL“ (early Steps in Mathematics Learning; ein Projekt im IDeA-Zentrum, Frankfurt am Main) werden mit Kindergartenkinder mathematische Spiel- und Erkundungssituationen durchgeführt. Diese bilden den Rahmen für die Beobachtung mathematischen Handelns von Kindern und der Beschreibung von Entwicklungslinien mathematischen Denkens. Im Zentrum des vorliegenden Artikels steht das Handeln von Kindern im Bereich der ebenen und räumlichen geometrischen Figuren. Die Beobachtung von Kindern über mehrere Jahre zeigt, dass sich die Rekonstruktion zweidimensionaler und dreidimensionaler Objekte des Alltags und der Mathematik durch Kinder über die Zeit verändert. Außerdem wird deutlich in welcher Weise multimodale Impulse durch die begleitende erwachsene Person und das Material-Raum-Arrangement mathematisches Handeln von Kindern in verschiedenen Erkundungs- und Lernarrangements rahmen und beeinflussen können.
Suicide Prevention via the Internet
Authors: Jacob Nina , Scourfield Jonathan , Evans Rhiannon
Published: July 2014

Background: While concerns abound regarding the impact of the Internet on suicidal behaviors, its role as a medium for suicide prevention remains underexplored. Aims: The study examines what is currently known about the operation and effectiveness of Internet programs for suicide and self-harm prevention that are run by professionals. Method: Systematic searches of scholarly databases and suicide-related academic journals yielded 15 studies that presented online prevention strategies. Results: No professional programs with a sole focus on nonsuicidal self-harm were identified, thus all studies reviewed focused on suicide prevention. Studies were predominantly descriptive and summarized the nature of the strategy and the target audience. There was no formal evaluation of program effectiveness in preventing suicide. Studies either presented strategies that supported individuals at risk of suicide (n = 8), supported professionals working with those at risk (n = 6), or attempted to improve website quality (n = 1). Conclusion: Although the Internet increasingly serves as an important medium for suicidal individuals, and there is concern about websites that both promote and encourage suicidal activity, there is lack of published evidence about online prevention strategies. More attention is needed in the development and evaluation of such preventative approaches.
Caloric Restriction Impedes Age-Related Decline of Mitochondrial Function and Neuronal Activity
Authors: Lin Ai-Ling , Coman Daniel , Jiang Lihong , Rothman Douglas L , Hyder Fahmeed
Published: July 2014

Caloric restriction (CR) prolongs lifespan and retards many detrimental effects of aging, but its effect on brain mitochondrial function and neuronal activity—especially in healthy aging—remains unexplored. Here we measured rates of neuronal glucose oxidation and glutamate–glutamine neurotransmitter cycling in young control, old control (i.e., healthy aging), and old CR rats using in vivo nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. We found that, compared with the young control, neuronal energy production and neurotransmission rates were significantly reduced in healthy aging, but were preserved in old CR rats. The results suggest that CR mitigated the age-related deceleration of brain physiology.
A Dual-Labeled Annexin A5 is not Suited for SPECT Imaging of Brain Cell Death in Experimental Murine Stroke
Authors: Zille Marietta , Harhausen Denise , De Saint-Hubert Marijke , Michel Roger , Reutelingsperger Chris P , Dirnagl Ulrich , Wunder Andreas
Published: July 2014

Cell death is one of the pathophysiological hallmarks after stroke. Markers to image cell death pathways in vivo are highly desirable. We previously showed that fluorescently labeled Annexin A5 (An×A5), which binds specifically to phosphatidylserine (PS) on dead/dying cells, can be used in experimental stroke for monitoring cell death with optical imaging. Here we investigated whether dual-labeled An×A5 (technetium and fluorescence label) can be used for single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) of cell death in the same model. C57Bl6/N mice were subjected to 60-minute middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and underwent SPECT imaging at 24, 48, and 72 hours afterwards. They were injected intravenously with either PS-binding An×A5 or the nonfunctional An×A5 (negative control), labeled with 99mTc and Alexa Fluor 568, respectively. After SPECT imaging, brain sections were cut for autoradiography and fluorescence microscopy. Ethanol-induced cell death in the femur muscle was used as positive control. We detected dual-labeled An×A5 in the model of ethanol-induced cell death in the femur muscle, but not after MCAO at any time point, either with SPECT or with ex vivo autoradiography or fluorescence microscopy. Dual-labeled An×A5 appears to be unsuited for visualizing death of brain cells in this MCAO model.
Cellulose Nanofiber Paper as an Ultra Flexible Nonvolatile Memory
Authors: Nagashima Kazuki , Koga Hirotaka , Celano Umberto , Zhuge Fuwei , Kanai Masaki , Rahong Sakon , Meng Gang , He Yong , De Boeck Jo , Jurczak Malgorzata , Vandervorst Wilfried , Kitaoka Takuya , Nogi Masaya , Yanagida Takeshi
Published: July 2014

On the development of flexible electronics, a highly flexible nonvolatile memory, which is an important circuit component for the portability, is necessary. However, the flexibility of existing nonvolatile memory has been limited, e.g. the smallest radius into which can be bent has been millimeters range, due to the difficulty in maintaining memory properties while bending. Here we propose the ultra flexible resistive nonvolatile memory using Ag-decorated cellulose nanofiber paper (CNP). The Ag-decorated CNP devices showed the stable nonvolatile memory effects with 6 orders of ON/OFF resistance ratio and the small standard deviation of switching voltage distribution. The memory performance of CNP devices can be maintained without any degradation when being bent down to the radius of 350 μm, which is the smallest value compared to those of existing any flexible nonvolatile memories. Thus the present device using abundant and mechanically flexible CNP offers a highly flexible nonvolatile memory for portable flexible electronics.
Effects of hydrogen-rich water on aging periodontal tissues in rats
Authors: Tomofuji Takaaki , Kawabata Yuya , Kasuyama Kenta , Endo Yasumasa , Yoneda Toshiki , Yamane Mayu , Azuma Tetsuji , Ekuni Daisuke , Morita Manabu
Published: July 2014

Oxidative damage is involved in age-related inflammatory reactions. The anti-oxidative effects of hydrogen-rich water suppress oxidative damage, which may aid in inhibiting age-related inflammatory reactions. We investigated the effects of drinking hydrogen-rich water on aging periodontal tissues in healthy rats. Four-month-old male Fischer 344 rats (n = 12) were divided into two groups: the experimental group (hydrogen-rich water treatment) and the control group (distilled water treatment). The rats consumed hydrogen-rich water or distilled water until 16 months of age. The experimental group exhibited lower periodontal oxidative damage at 16 months of age than the control group. Although protein expression of interleukin-1β did not differ, gene expression of Nod-like receptor protein 3 inflammasomes was activated in periodontal tissues from the experimental group as compared with the control group. Drinking hydrogen-rich water is proposed to have anti-aging effects on periodontal oxidative damage, but not on inflammatory reactions in healthy rats.
Localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) biosensing using gold nanotriangles: detection of DNA hybridization events at room temperature
Authors: Soares Leonor , Csáki Andrea , Jatschka Jacqueline , Fritzsche Wolfgang , Flores Orfeu , Franco Ricardo , Pereira Eulália
Published: July 2014

Hybridization of target DNA to AuNT-probes causes LSPR to red-shift.
Roxithromycin degradation by acidic hydrolysis and photocatalysis
Authors: Kwiecień Anna , Krzek Jan , Żmudzki Paweł , Matoga Urszula , Długosz Maciej , Szczubiałka Krzysztof , Nowakowska Maria
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this work was to study two methods of degradation of roxithromycin: acidic hydrolysis and photocatalytic degradation under illumination with near-UV light in the presence of the TiO2photosensitizer.
A high-performance aptasensor for mercury(ii) based on the formation of a unique ternary structure of aptamer–Hg2+–neutral red
Authors: Gao Cai , Wang Qingxiang , Gao Feng , Gao Fei
Published: July 2014

An Hg2+aptasensor was developed based on the formation of a ternary complex, mercury(ii) specific aptamer–Hg2+–neutral red.
Diffraction of helium on MgO(100) surface calculated from first-principles
Authors: Martinez-Casado Ruth , Usvyat Denis , Mallia Giuseppe , Maschio Lorenzo , Casassa Silvia , Ellis John , Schütz Martin , Harrison Nicholas M.
Published: July 2014

In this work we simulate the diffraction peak intensities of He beams scattered on the MgO(100) surface using hierarchical protocol, based on periodic and finite-cluster quantum-chemical calculations.
Probing surface states in PbS nanocrystal films using pentacene field effect transistors: controlling carrier concentration and charge transport in pentacene
Authors: Park Byoungnam , Whitham Kevin , Bian Kaifu , Lim Yee-Fun , Hanrath Tobias
Published: July 2014

We used a bilayer field effect transistor (FET) consisting of a thin PbS nanocrystals (NCs) film interfaced with vacuum-deposited pentacene to probe trap states in NCs.
A model study on the photochemical isomerization of isothiazoles and thiazoles
Authors: Su Ming-Der
Published: July 2014

The mechanisms for photochemical isomerization reactions are studied theoretically using three model systems: 3-methylisothiazole, 4-methylisothiazole and 5-methylisothiazole.
On the performance of the Kohn–Sham orbital approach in the calculation of electron transfer parameters. The three state model
Authors: Butchosa C. , Simon S. , Blancafort L. , Voityuk A. A.
Published: July 2014

The electron transfer parameters for the 3-state G⋯Ind system can be obtained using an efficient Kohn–Sham orbital based scheme.
Design, crystal structures and magnetic properties of anionic salts containing fullerene C60 and indium(iii) bromide phthalocyanine radical anions
Authors: Konarev Dmitri V. , Kuzmin Alexey V. , Khasanov Salavat S. , Otsuka Akihiro , Yamochi Hideki , Saito Gunzi , Lyubovskaya Rimma N.
Published: July 2014

Salts containing fullerene C60 and indium(iii) bromide phthalocyanine (Pc) radical anions, (TBA+)3(C60˙−){InIII(Br)(Pc)˙−}(Br−)·C6H4Cl2 (1) and (TEA+)2(C60˙−){InIII(Br)(Pc)˙−}·C6H4Cl2·C6H14 (2), have been obtained and their structures, optical and magnetic properties are discussed.
Transitioning organic synthesis from organic solvents to water. What's your E Factor?
Authors: Lipshutz Bruce H. , Ghorai Subir
Published: July 2014

A review, highlighting use of nanoreactors in water composed of “designer” surfactants as alternatives to organic solvents.
Comprehensive mass analysis for chemical processes, a case study on l-Dopa manufacture
Authors: Li Tao , Li Xuan
Published: July 2014

A new algorithm is developed to estimate the PMI for each contributing chemical and E factor for every component of waste effluents.
Modeling metabolism and stage-specific growth of Plasmodium falciparum HB3 during the intraerythrocytic developmental cycle
Authors: Fang Xin , Reifman Jaques , Wallqvist Anders
Published: July 2014

We developed a metabolic network model that maps hourly gene expression to time-dependent metabolism and stage-specific growth, allowing us to link specific metabolites or pathways to specific physiological functions.
Evaluation of the biological effect of Ti generated debris from metal implants: ions and nanoparticles
Authors: Soto-Alvaredo J. , Blanco E. , Bettmer J. , Hevia D. , Sainz R. M. , López Cháves C. , Sánchez C. , Llopis J. , Sanz-Medel A. , Montes-Bayón M.
Published: July 2014

Metallic implants placed in humans exhibit wear and corrosion that result in the liberation of metal-containing by-products.
3-NO2-5,10,15-triarylcorrolato-Cu as a versatile platform for synthesis of novel 3-functionalized corrole derivatives
Authors: Stefanelli M. , Mancini M. , Raggio M. , Nardis S. , Fronczek F. R. , McCandless G. T. , Smith K. M. , Paolesse R.
Published: July 2014

By way of a β-acylated copper corrolate, a novel corrole derivative bearing an alkyl azide group on the peripheral positions was obtained and successfully exploited in click chemistry reactions.
An effective technique for removal and recovery of uranium(vi) from aqueous solution using cellulose–camphor soot nanofibers
Authors: Nitesh Singh Nitesh Singh , Balasubramanian K.
Published: July 2014

Speciation and recovery of U(vi) ions from nuclear wastewater is a heavy challenge for various nuclear centers and research organizations.
Engineering of coloration responses of porous WO3 gasochromic films by ultraviolet irradiation
Authors: Gao Guohua , Zhang Zenghai , Wu Guangming , Jin Xiaobo
Published: July 2014

The coloration response of gasochromic films is crucial for gas sensors and solar energy cells.
Cooperative fabrication of ternary nanofibers with remarkable solvent and temperature resistance by electrospinning
Authors: Liu Chang , Wu Yi-nan , Yu Aimin , Li Fengting
Published: July 2014

PVA/PAA/SiO2ternary organic–inorganic composite nanofibrous mats are successfully prepared by a cooperative fabricationviaelectrospinning. The reaction between PVA, PAA and hydrolytic TEOS are proposed to endow the ternary nanofibers with remarkable solvent and temperature resistance, as well as the great mechanical property.
Effect of oxidative treatment on the secondary structure of decoloured bloodmeal
Authors: Hicks Talia , Verbeek Casparus J. R. , Lay Mark C. , Bier James M.
Published: July 2014

Synchrotron-based Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to assess the effect of peracetic acid decolouring on the spatial distribution of secondary structures within particles of bloodmeal.
A simple model for the behavior of multisite receptors in photochemical processes
Authors: Bernal Eva , Lebrón José Antonio , Burgos Francisco Sanchez , Lopez-Lopez Manuel
Published: July 2014

Two cyclodextrins producing a decrease ofKSVonce they form a mixture can produce an increase.
Switching selectivity between Pb2+and Hg2+ions through variation of substituents at xanthene end; ‘turn-on’ signalling responses by FRET modulation
Authors: Biswal Biswonath , Bag Bamaprasad
Published: July 2014

Substitution at amino groups attached to the xanthene core modulates the stereo-electronic situation to switch selectivity; a FRET mediated signalling with a distinctive coupling of fluorophores.
Temperature-related reaction kinetics of the vanadium(iv)/(v) redox couple in acidic solutions
Authors: Wang Wenjun , Fan Xinzhuang , Liu Jianguo , Yan Chuanwei , Zeng Chaoliu
Published: July 2014

Two diffusion equations for both VO2+and VO2+ions in practical electrolyte (1.2 M V + 3.0 M H2SO4) have been established, which can be expressed byDVO2+= 4 × 10−5 exp(−4240/RT) andDVO2+= 0.18861 exp(−25 200/RT) (cm2s−1).
pH-dependent redox mechanism and evaluation of kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of a novel anthraquinone
Authors: Ahmad Khurshid , Shah Aamir Hassan , Adhikari Bimalendu , Rana Usman Ali , uddin Syed Noman , Vijayaratnam Chandrika , Muhammad Niaz , Shujah Shaukat , Rauf Abdur , Hussain Hidayat , Badshah Amin , Qureshi Rumana , Kraatz Heinz-Bernhard , Shah Afzal
Published: July 2014

The pH-dependent oxidation of a novel anthraquinone was investigated and several important kinetic and thermodynamic parameters were determined.
Facile synthesis of well-defined cyclodextrin-pendant polymer via ATRP for nanostructure fabrication
Authors: Zhang Mingming , Xiong Qingqing , Shen Wei , Zhang Qiqing
Published: July 2014

PEG-b-PCD block copolymer could be synthesized by ATRP of a new methacrylate–CD monomer, and self-assembled into advanced nanostructures with various guest molecules.
Simultaneously improving the thermal stability, flame retardancy and mechanical properties of polyethylene by the combination of graphene with carbon black
Authors: Gong Jiang , Niu Ran , Liu Jie , Chen Xuecheng , Wen Xin , Mijowska Ewa , Sun Zhaoyan , Tang Tao
Published: July 2014

A novel combination of GNS with CB was demonstrated to improve thermal stability, flame retardancy and mechanical properties of LLDPE.
γ-irradiation induced one-step synthesis of electromagnetic functionalized reduced graphene oxide–Ni nanocomposites
Authors: Zhao Hongtao , Li Zhigang , Zhang Nan , Du Yunchen , Li Siwei , Shao Lin , Gao Deyu , Han Xijiang , Xu Ping
Published: July 2014

We here demonstrate a facile one-step synthesis of RGO–Ni hybrid materials, where Ni2+ ions and GO are simultaneously reduced by γ-irradiation. RGO–Ni, with Ni nanoparticles well dispersed on the RGO surface, shows a more enhanced EM absorption ability than the individuals.
Dicyanopyrazine-derived push–pull chromophores for highly efficient photoredox catalysis
Authors: Zhao Yu , Zhang Chenhao , Chin Kek Foo , Pytela Oldřich , Wei Guo , Liu Hongjun , Bureš Filip , Jiang Zhiyong
Published: July 2014

Here, we report dicyanopyrazine (DPZ)-derived push–pull chromophores, easily prepared and tunable organic compounds, as new kinds of photoredox catalysts.
Electric double layer capacitors of high volumetric energy based on ionic liquids and hierarchical-pore carbon
Authors: Huang Hsin-Chieh , Huang Cheng-Wei , Hsieh Chien-Te , Teng Hsisheng
Published: July 2014

Incorporating high-voltage ionic liquids with activated mesophase pitch containing hierarchical pores can assemble electrochemical capacitors of ultrahigh stack volumetric energy.
A facile one-step hydrothermal synthesis of α-Fe2O3nanoplates imbedded in graphene networks with high-rate lithium storage and long cycle life
Authors: Liu Shuangke , Chen Zhongxue , Xie Kai , Li Yujie , Xu Jing , Zheng Chunman
Published: July 2014

We demonstrate a facile one-step hydrothermal strategy to build a nanostructure of α-Fe2O3nanoplates imbedded in graphene networks with high rate lithium storage and long cycle life as anode material.