bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐Strength, Thermally Activated Shape Memory Hydrogels Based on Hydrogen Bonding between MAAc and NVP
Authors: Xu Chao , Tang Quan , Yang Haiyang , Peng Kang , Zhang Xingyuan
Published: April 2018

Herein, a facile and novel method is reported for fabricating tough hydrogen‐bonded hydrogels through the photoinitiated copolymerization of methacrylic acid (MAAc), N‐vinyl pyrrolidone (NVP), and poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (PEGMA) in an aqueous solution. PEGMA acts as a temporary hydrogen‐bonding shielding monomer to prevent the phase separation of MAAc and NVP in an aqueous solution. During polymerization, the shielding effect of the PEGMA weakens, and the stable MAAc–NVP hydrogen‐bonding domains, strengthened by the hydrophobic α‐methyl moieties of MAAc and the five‐membered N‐heterocycle of NVP, form in situ, endowing the hydrogels with high tensile strength (up to 3.9 MPa), extensibility (up to 600%), and toughness (up to 9 MJ m−3). In particular, due to the dynamic nature and temperature sensitivity of hydrogen bonds, the hydrogels also exhibit a fast 100% self‐recovery ability and thermally activated shape memory properties. Based purely on the “single‐fold” hydrogen‐bonding interactions, a tough supramolecular hydrogel with fascinating properties is successfully developed. These findings may be essential to either the design or practical application of the purely physical hydrogels with high mechanical strength and thermally activated shape memory properties.
Star‐Like Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) and Poly(ethylene glycol) Copolymers Self‐Arranged in Newfound Single Crystals and Associated Novel Class of Polymer Brush Regimes with V‐Type Tethers
Authors: Mahmoudi Mojgan , Agbolaghi Samira , Mozaffari Zahra , Abbaspoor Saleheh , Massoumi Bakhshali , Sarvari Raana , Hosseinzadeh Nasrin
Published: April 2018

Linear poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)‐block‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) and star‐like three‐arm PEG‐star‐(PNIPAM)2 copolymers having one PEG and two PNIPAM blocks are synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). Single crystals of these block copolymers are grown from amyl acetate and toluene dilute solutions. To recognize PNIPAM and PEG thicknesses, small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) is applied. V‐type brushes behave differently from linear brushes because doubly grafted PNIPAM blocks from a common point onto PEG substrate exert a higher osmotic pressure, leading to a thinner crystal. In addition to three ordinary regimes, a fourth or extremely stretched regime is detected for V‐type PNIPAM brushes. Although in PEG5000‐star‐(PNIPAM)2 single crystals with overall PNIPAM molecular weight of 37 000 g/mol, each PNIPAM arm is shorter than PNIPAM grafts in linear PEG5000‐block‐PNIPAM26000 single crystals, their switching point from second to third regime is significantly lower (22 vs 33 °C). The V‐type configuration of PNIPAM brushes cause them to be entered into the extremely stretched or fourth regime, which has not been previously detected for coily brushes. The boundary between third and fourth regimes for PEG5000‐star‐(PNIPAM)2 single crystals is verified at 31.5 and 23.5 °C in amyl acetate and toluene, respectively.
Optically Active Precision Aliphatic Polyesters via Cross‐Metathesis Polymerization
Authors: Zeng Fu‐Rong , Ma Ji‐Mei , Sun Lin‐Hao , Zeng Zhen , Jiang Hong , Li Zi‐Long
Published: April 2018

Precision synthesis of optically active poly(lactic‐alt‐caprolactic acid) is realized using cross‐metathesis polymerization (CMP) and hydrogenation. Enantiopure monomers ML and MD are generated through two consecutive esterification reactions. CMP of these two monomers in different feed ratios, followed by hydrogenation, afford saturated polymers HPL, HPD, and HPDL comprising L‐lactic and/or D‐lactic acid and ε‐caprolactone‐derived motifs with alternating sequences. CMP kinetic analysis by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is performed by employing a racemic monomer Mrac. Enantiomeric polyesters HPL and HPD display opposite rotation values and mirror‐imaged cotton effects in circular dichroism (CD) spectra, whereas HPDL derived from equimolar ML and MD shows inactive optical rotation and no CD response. Stereocomplex HPD+HPL is obtained by equimolar mixing of HPL and HPD, since this specimen is the only one to exhibit a sharp melting peak on differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) curve at 45.7 °C. Hence, an amorphous, enantiomerically pure polyester becomes crystalline via stereocomplexation with its complementary enantiomer.
Thermoresponsive Antibacterial Surfaces Switching from Bacterial Adhesion to Bacterial Repulsion
Authors: Wang Qian , Feng Yunbo , He Min , Huang Yanping , Zhao Weifeng , Zhao Changsheng
Published: April 2018

Herein, ene‐functionalized dopamine is first coated onto a polyether sulfone membrane surface to introduce double bonds as anchoring sites for hydrogel film. Then, a hydrogel film is synthesized and simultaneously attached onto the membrane via photoinduced crosslinking copolymerization of N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm) and methacryloxyethyltrimethyl ammonium chloride. The thickness of the hydrogel film can be well‐controlled ranging from the nanometer to micrometer scales, which can retain the permeability of the membrane. Water contact angle and swelling tests demonstrate that the modified membrane shows thermoresponsive surface wettability. The quaternary ammonium salts in the hydrogel film can kill the attached bacteria efficiently and the dead bacteria can be detached by reducing the temperature below the lower critical solution temperature of poly(NIPAAm). The modified membrane also shows improved hemocompatibility, confirmed by prolonged clotting time and low hemolysis ratio. Hence, the designed thermoresponsive antibacterial hydrogel film with enhanced hemocompatibility has great potential to be applied in biomedical areas.
Microfluidic‐Spinning‐Directed Conductive Fibers toward Flexible Micro‐Supercapacitors
Authors: Tong Yu‐Long , Xu Bin , Du Xia‐Fang , Cheng Heng‐Yang , Wang Cai‐Feng , Wu Guan , Chen Su
Published: April 2018

The large‐scale fabrication of the flexible fiber‐shaped micro‐supercapacitors has received major attention from both industrial and academic researchers. Herein, conductive and robust polyaniline‐wrapped multiwall carbon tubes reduced graphene oxide/thermoplastic polyurethane (PANI/MCNTs‐rGO/TPU) composite fibers are successfully fabricated on a large scale via the combination of facile microfluidic‐spinning process and in situ polymerization of aniline. Initially, MCNTs‐rGO/TPU fibers are formed in a T‐shape microfluidic chip, relying on the fast material diffusion and exchange in the microfluidic channel. Then, PANI/MCNTs‐rGO/TPU hybrid fibers are synthesized through an in situ chemical oxidative polymerization of aniline. With the assistance of polyaniline, these PANI/MCNTs‐rGO/TPU hybrid fibers exhibit enhanced electrochemical properties in comparison with pure MCNTs‐rGO/TPU fibers, especially in high specific capacitance, which is dramatically increased from 42.1 to 155.5 mF cm−2. Moreover, the PANI/MCNTs‐rGO/TPU hybrid fibers can endure various blending stresses, contributing to its outperforming flexibility and weavability. The best of the excellent electrochemical and mechanical properties of these conductive fibers is made to construct the flexible supercapacitors and various complicated functional fabrics.
Betrayal in buyer–seller relationships: Exploring its causes, symptoms, forms, effects, and therapies
Authors: Leonidou Leonidas C. , Aykol Bilge , Hadjimarcou John , Palihawadana Dayananda
Published: April 2018

Building on literature in social psychology that discussed betrayal in interpersonal relationships, this article explored betrayal in buyer–seller relationships using data collected from a survey conducted among 109 buyers and 115 sellers in the United States. The results indicated that betrayal was a complex, multifarious, and dynamic phenomenon, consisting of a sequence of phases, namely causes, symptoms, forms, consequences, and therapies, with multiple issues being involved at each phase. Our study also revealed that the views of buyers differed from those of sellers in terms of how various relational characteristics contributed to the emergence of betrayal episodes, what behavior and attitudes helped to diagnose partner betrayal, in which forms the betrayal acts were manifested, how the victims of betrayal felt, and how betrayal problems could be handled in a working relationship. In fact, the various dimensions in each of the betrayal phases examined were consistently more frequently mentioned by buyers than sellers.
American Eel Fecundity and Ovary Maturation in Relation to Body Size and Geographic Distribution
Authors: Jessop B. M.
Published: April 2018

Fecundity, in relation to body length and weight, of migrating, sexually maturing female American Eels Anguilla rostrata differed significantly among sites between the upper St. Lawrence River (USLR) and south to Chesapeake Bay along the Atlantic coast of North America. Fecundity–size relations from two of four American Eel studies may be underestimated, affecting the interpretation of fecundity relations with size and distance from the spawning area and between Atlantic anguillid species. Body condition and ovary condition varied widely within and among sites. Condition at continental departure may have no geographic trend. The declines in condition during downstream migration within the St. Lawrence River and with increasing distance from the spawning area along the Atlantic coast may be statistical artifacts. Ovary condition increased for eels migrating downstream between the USLR and its middle estuary but showed no geographic trend at estuarine and coastal departure. Decreased relative fecundity with increasing size implies that the loss of large, fecund females from areas such as the USLR may have less of an effect on population fecundity than previously hypothesized but may be important for genetic and other reasons. Increased size and tissue lipid levels and decreased relative fecundity may be traits that aid American Eels migrating longer distances to spawn successfully. American Eels depart freshwaters with a higher fecundity and gonad development and lower tissue lipid levels and ova diameters than do similarly sized European Eels A. anguilla. Standardized methods and adequate sample sizes are needed to enhance the comparability and interpretation of fecundity studies. A better understanding of the relations among geographic differences in eel size, reproductive traits, and abundance is essential to effectively manage the American Eel population.
Eelgrass as Valuable Nearshore Foraging Habitat for Juvenile Pacific Salmon in the Early Marine Period
Authors: Kennedy Laura A. , Juanes Francis , El-Sabaawi Rana
Published: April 2018

The early marine period is a critical life history stage for growth and survival of anadromous juvenile Pacific salmon. The integrity of nearshore ecosystems where juvenile salmon reside and the capacity of these habitats to provide prey can thus influence overall salmon returns. Eelgrass Zostera marina beds in particular are considered critical nearshore habitat. By examining how juvenile salmon use this habitat during their early marine life, we gain insight into the trophic dynamics in these ecosystems and help gauge the effects of accelerating eelgrass loss and nearshore habitat development on juvenile salmon. This project investigated the role of eelgrass as juvenile salmon foraging habitat. We compared juvenile Chum Salmon Oncorhynchus keta and juvenile Chinook Salmon O. tshawytscha diets to prey availability in zooplankton tows and in epifaunal eelgrass samples across a gradient of eelgrass density in the Comox Estuary, British Columbia. Harpacticoid copepods dominated the diets of both juvenile Chum Salmon and Chinook Salmon and were found in abundance in eelgrass blades. We complemented diet analysis with carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) stable isotope analysis to examine the relative contribution of zooplankton, eelgrass epifaunal invertebrates, and terrestrial invertebrates to the diet of juvenile Chum Salmon. Juvenile Chum Salmon isotope ratios closely reflected those of eelgrass invertebrates, suggesting that eelgrass invertebrates made up approximately 80% of the diets of juvenile Chum Salmon. Our results highlight the value of eelgrass in providing nearshore foraging opportunities for juvenile salmon and suggest that eelgrass habitat protection and restoration may provide critical support for growth, thereby easing the transition of juvenile salmon from freshwater to the marine environment.
Assessing Indices of Growth for Field Studies of Juvenile Salmon: An Experiment and Synthesis
Authors: Duguid William D. P. , Iwanicki Thomas W. , Journey Meredith L. , Noel Amanda L. , Beckman Brian R. , Juanes Francis
Published: April 2018

The hypothesis that size-selective mortality in the first marine year is a major regulator of recruitment in Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp. has led to interest in assessing the recent growth of field-caught fish. Understanding differences in relative growth across years, regions, habitats, and prey fields may provide insights into factors influencing survival. Plasma insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), muscle RNA : DNA ratio (RD), and scale circulus spacing have all been used as indices of recent growth in juvenile salmonids. We concurrently assessed these growth rate indices in a laboratory study of postsmolt, young-of-the-year, ocean-type Chinook Salmon O. tshawytscha. We synthesized results with previous work to inform selection of appropriate growth rate indices for field studies on juvenile salmonids. Muscle samples suitable for RD analysis were obtained nonlethally and without subsequent growth impacts, even for very small juvenile salmon (75–99 mm FL). Plasma IGF1 concentration was strongly correlated with growth rate (R2 = 0.79), while loge(RD) and mean spacing of the outer two circuli were moderately correlated with growth rate (R2 = 0.47 and 0.44, respectively). Relationships between the two biochemical indices and growth rate were independent of body size at the start of the experiment. Conversely, initially larger fish formed wider circuli for a given growth rate. Insulin-like growth factor 1 and RD responded to a change in growth conditions within 4 and 6 d, respectively. Rate of circulus formation varied positively with growth rate, meaning that outer circulus spacing indexed shorter periods of growth in faster-growing fish. Our results confirm the value of plasma IGF1 as an index of recent growth in juvenile salmon. Although scales (marginal circulus spacing) and white muscle (RD) can both be sampled nonlethally, scale sampling presents a number of practical advantages.
Using Limited Data to Identify Optimal Bag and Size Limits to Prevent Overfishing
Authors: Moreau C. M. , Matthias B. G.
Published: April 2018

Bag and size limits are commonly used in recreational fisheries management, but these regulations are often treated as separate management tools. This effectively overlooks how bag and size limits can be simultaneously used to achieve multiple management outcomes (e.g., reduce exploitation, prevent overfishing, maximize angler acceptance, etc.). Our objectives were to combine data-limited stock assessment methods with an angler catch simulation and a yield-per-recruit model to assess the effectiveness of bag and size limits to decrease exploitation rates and improve the spawning potential ratio (SPR). We then applied these methods to the Kipawa Lake Walleye Sander vitreus fishery that has experienced overfishing and poor fishing quality. Using data-limited assessment methods, the exploitation rate was estimated at 0.45 (95% CI = 0.32–0.59) and the population was overfished (mean SPR = 0.06; 95% CI = 0.02–0.13). Bag limits significantly reduced total harvest when extremely restrictive (i.e., reduced to one fish per angler from the current limit of six), but changes in bag limits alone were not sufficient to prevent overharvest because SPR remained below 0.35. Size limits could be used to prevent overharvest with narrow harvest slots (up to a 14-cm slot range with a minimum harvestable size greater than 32 cm) or large minimum size limits (>52 cm) at the current bag limit of six. When bag limits were reduced to one or two fish per day, harvest windows could be 3–13 cm larger and minimum length limits could be 3–12 cm lower to prevent overharvest. This analysis outlines a relatively simple and effective method that can be applied using data commonly collected in annual agency surveys to predict which regulatory combinations can be used to prevent overharvest, reduce exploitation rates, and maximize angler satisfaction and acceptance of regulations. Finally, the data and model code are included in the Supplement and can be easily applied to other data limited fisheries.
Use of an In‐line Digestive Cartridge With Enteral Nutrition Improves the Weight Trajectory of 2 Children With Cystic Fibrosis Complicated by Another Medical Diagnosis
Authors: Giguere‐Rich Catherine , Mathew Amy , Reid Elizabeth , Autore Kimberly , Guill Margaret F.
Published: April 2018

This clinical observation describes the enteral nutrition (EN) management of 2 toddlers at high nutrition risk due to cystic fibrosis (CF), exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, and comorbid medical conditions. The first case report describes a boy with severe malabsorption after intestinal resection. The second case report reviews a boy with CF and neuroblastoma. When pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy with EN was not effective or appropriate, use of an in‐line digestive cartridge was initiated. While using the digestive cartridge, both children showed improvements in their anthropometric measures. This observation reviews the nutrition management throughout their clinical course and describes the use of a digestive cartridge with EN.
Perron‐based algorithms for the multilinear PageRank
Authors: Meini Beatrice , Poloni Federico
Published: April 2018

We consider the multilinear PageRank problem, studied in a 2015 paper by Gleich, Lim and Yu, which is a system of quadratic equations with stochasticity and nonnegativity constraints. We use the theory of quadratic vector equations to prove several properties of its solutions and suggest new numerical algorithms. In particular, we prove the existence of a certain minimal solution, which does not always coincide with the stochastic one that is required by the problem. We use an interpretation of the solution as a Perron eigenvector to devise new fixed‐point algorithms for its computation and pair them with a continuation strategy based on a perturbative approach. The resulting numerical method is more reliable than the existing alternatives, being able to solve a larger number of problems.
Solving time‐periodic fractional diffusion equations via diagonalization technique and multigrid
Authors: Wu Shu‐Lin , Zhang Hui , Zhou Tao
Published: April 2018

This paper addresses numerical computation of time‐periodic diffusion equations with fractional Laplacian. Time‐periodic differential equations present fundamental challenges for numerical computation because we have to consider all the discrete solutions once in all instead of one by one. An idea based on the diagonalization technique is proposed, which yields a direct parallel‐in‐time computation for all the discrete solutions. The major computation cost is therefore reduced to solve a series of independent linear algebraic systems with complex coefficients, for which we apply a multigrid method using the damped Richardson iteration as the smoother. Such a linear solver possesses mesh‐independent convergence factor, and we make an optimization for the damping parameter to minimize such a constant convergence factor. Numerical results are provided to support our theoretical analysis.
Topology optimization of particle‐matrix composites for optimal fracture resistance taking into account interfacial damage
Authors: Da Daicong , Yvonnet Julien , Xia Liang , Li Guangyao
Published: April 2018

This paper presents a topology optimization framework for optimizing the fracture resistance of two‐phase composites considering interfacial damage interacting with crack propagation through a redistribution of the inclusions phase. A phase field method for fracture capable of describing interactions between bulk brittle fracture and interfacial damage is adopted within a diffuse approximation of discontinuities. This formulation avoids the burden of remeshing problem during crack propagation and is well adapted to topology optimization purpose. Efficient design sensitivity analysis is performed by using the adjoint method, and the optimization problem is solved by an extended bidirectional evolutionary structural optimization method. The sensitivity formulation accounts for the whole fracturing process involving crack nucleation, propagation, and interaction, either from the interfaces and then through the solid phases, or the opposite. The spatial distribution of material phases are optimally designed using the extended bidirectional evolutionary structural optimization method to improve the fractural resistance. We demonstrate through several examples that the fracture resistance of the composite can be significantly increased at constant volume fraction of inclusions by the topology optimization process.
Optimal error estimate of a conformal Fourier pseudo‐spectral method for the damped nonlinear Schrödinger equation
Authors: Jiang Chaolong , Cai Wenjun , Wang Yushun
Published: April 2018

In this article, a Fourier pseudospectral method, which preserves the conforal conservation la, is proposed for solving the damped nonlinear Schrödinger equation. Based on the energy method and the semi‐norm equivalence between the Fourier pseudospectral method and the finite difference method, a priori estimate for the new method is established, which shows that the proposed method is unconditionally convergent with order ofin the discrete‐norm, whereis the time step andis the number of collocation points used in the spectral method. Some numerical results are addressed to confirm our theoretical analysis.
Analysis of a decoupled time‐stepping algorithm for reduced MHD system modeling magneto‐convection
Authors: Ravindran Sivaguru S.
Published: April 2018

In this article, we analyze the stability and error estimate of a decoupled algorithm for a magneto‐convection problem. Magneto‐convection is assumed to be modeled by a coupled system of reduced magneto‐hydrodynamic (RMHD) equations and convection‐diffusion equation. The proposed algorithm applies the second‐order backward difference formula in time and finite element in space. To obtain a noniterative decouple algorithm from the fully discrete nonlinear system, we use a second‐order extrapolation in time to the nonlinear terms such that their skew symmetry properties are preserved. We prove the stability of the algorithm and derive error estimates without assuming any stability conditions. The algorithm is unconditionally stable and requires the solution of one RMHD problem and one convection‐diffusion equation per time step. Numerical test is presented that illustrates the accuracy and efficiency of the algorithm.
Periodontitis in the historical population of Radom (Poland) from the 11th to 19th centuries
Authors: Tomczyk J. , Myszka A. , Borowska‐Strugińska B. , Zalewska M. , Turska‐Szybka A. , Olczak‐Kowalczyk D.
Published: April 2018

Periodontitis can be an excellent indirect source of data on the general and oral health, dietary habits, and hygiene of past populations. This study assessed periodontitis in the population of Radom from the 11th century up to the industrial revolution in the 19th century. The dental material was divided into 3 historical series: the Early Medieval (EMP; 11th century), Late Medieval (LMP; 14th–17th century), and Modern (MP; 18th–19th century) periods. A total of 256 adult individuals of both sexes were examined with a total of 4,579 teeth. Four diagnostic criteria were used to diagnose the disease. Periodontitis affected 54% of the individuals from the Early Medieval Period, 71% of those from the Late Medieval Period, and 74% of those from the Medieval Period. In all chronological periods, the prevalence and severity of periodontitis were higher among males. The youngest (17–25 years) age class had the lowest prevalence of periodontitis. In subsequent age classes there are an increase the disease. The results indicate that the “environmental conditions” were different in these chronological periods. Possible differences could be related to diet, but oral hygiene, unhealthy habits, and psychological stress cannot be ruled out. Different levels of sex hormones could explain the difference in the prevalence of periodontitis between sexes.
A novel histochemistry assay to assess and quantify focal cytochrome c oxidase deficiency
Authors: Simard Marie‐Lune , Mourier Arnaud , Greaves Laura C , Taylor Robert W , Stewart James B
Published: April 2018

Defects in the respiratory chain, interfering with energy production in the cell, are major underlying causes of mitochondrial diseases. In spite of this, the surprising variety of clinical symptoms, disparity between ages of onset, as well as the involvement of mitochondrial impairment in ageing and age‐related diseases continue to challenge our understanding of the pathogenic processes. This complexity can be in part attributed to the unique metabolic needs of organs or of various cell types. In this view, it remains essential to investigate mitochondrial dysfunction at the cellular level. For this purpose, we developed a novel enzyme histochemical method that enables precise quantification in fresh‐frozen tissues using competing redox reactions which ultimately lead to the reduction of tetrazolium salts and formazan deposition in cytochrome c oxidase‐deficient mitochondria. We demonstrate that the loss of oxidative activity is detected at very low levels – this achievement is unequalled by previous techniques and opens up new opportunities for the study of early disease processes or comparative investigations. Moreover, human biopsy samples of mitochondrial disease patients of diverse genotypic origins were used and the successful detection of COX‐deficient cells suggests a broad application for this new method. Lastly, the assay can be adapted to a wide range of tissues in the mouse and extends to other animal models, which we show here with the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. Overall, the new assay provides the means to quantify and map, on a cell‐by‐cell basis, the full extent of COX deficiency in tissues, thereby expending new possibilities for future investigation. © 2018 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Risk of stroke associated with use of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs during acute respiratory infection episode
Authors: Wen Yao‐Chun , Hsiao Fei‐Yuan , Lin Zhen‐Fang , Fang Cheng‐Chung , Shen Li‐Jiuan
Published: April 2018

Background

Previous studies suggested that acute respiratory infection (ARI) could trigger stroke and that use of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) was associated with increased risk of stroke. In many countries, NSAIDs have been widely used among patients with ARI or common cold for pain and fever relief. However, studies evaluating whether NSAIDs use during ARI episodes may further increase the risk of stroke were very limited.

Methods and Results

During 2007 to 2011, 29 518 patients with an incident hospitalization of stroke were identified. The date of admission was defined as the index date. Using case‐crossover design, we compared the following exposure status between the case period (1‐ to 7‐d period before the index date) and matched control period (366‐ to 372‐d period before the index date): NSAIDs use during ARI episodes, ARI episodes without NSAIDs use, NSAIDs use only, or no exposure. Multivariable conditional regression models were used to estimate odds ratios adjusting potential confounders. The results suggested that NSAIDs use during ARI episodes was associated with a 2.3‐fold increased risk of stroke (ischemic: adjusted odds ratio, aOR 2.27, 95% confidence interval, 95% CI, 2.00‐2.58; hemorrhagic: aOR 2.28, 95% CI, 1.71‐3.02). We also determined that parenteral NSAIDs were associated with much higher risk of stroke in patients with ARI.

Conclusions

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs use during ARI episodes, especially parenteral NSAIDs use, was associated with a further increased risk of stroke.
A tool for assessment of heart failure prescribing quality: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: El Hadidi Seif , Darweesh Ebtissam , Byrne Stephen , Bermingham Margaret
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Heart failure (HF) guidelines aim to standardise patient care. Internationally, prescribing practice in HF may deviate from guidelines and so a standardised tool is required to assess prescribing quality. A systematic review and meta‐analysis were performed to identify a quantitative tool for measuring adherence to HF guidelines and its clinical implications.

Methods

Eleven electronic databases were searched to include studies reporting a comprehensive tool for measuring adherence to prescribing guidelines in HF patients aged ≥18 years. Qualitative studies or studies measuring prescription rates alone were excluded. Study quality was assessed using the Good ReseArch for Comparative Effectiveness Checklist.

Results

In total, 2455 studies were identified. Sixteen eligible full‐text articles were included (n = 14 354 patients, mean age 69 ± 8 y). The Guideline Adherence Index (GAI), and its modified versions, was the most frequently cited tool (n = 13). Other tools identified were the Individualised Reconciled Evidence Recommendations, the Composite Heart Failure Performance, and the Heart Failure Scale. The meta‐analysis included the GAI studies of good to high quality. The average GAI‐3 was 62%. Compared to low GAI, high GAI patients had lower mortality rate (7.6% vs 33.9%) and lower rehospitalisation rates (23.5% vs 24.5%); both P ≤ .05. High GAI was associated with reduced risk of mortality (hazard ratio = 0.29, 95% confidence interval, 0.06‐0.51) and rehospitalisation (hazard ratio = 0.64, 95% confidence interval, 0.41‐1.00). No tool was used to improve prescribing quality.

Conclusion

The GAI is the most frequently used tool to assess guideline adherence in HF. High GAI is associated with improved HF outcomes.
Comprehensive study of potential‐induced degradation in silicon heterojunction photovoltaic cell modules
Authors: Yamaguchi Seira , Yamamoto Chizuko , Ohdaira Keisuke , Masuda Atsushi
Published: April 2018

Accelerated tests were used to study potential‐induced degradation (PID) in photovoltaic (PV) modules fabricated from silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells containing tungsten‐doped indium oxide (IWO) transparent conductive films on both sides of the cells and a rear‐side emitter. A negative bias of −1000 V was applied to a module with respect to the cover glass surface in a chamber maintained at 85°C, which significantly reduced the cell's short‐circuit current density (Jsc) within several days. Based on dark current density‐voltage and external quantum efficiency measurements, the reduction in the Jsc was attributed to optical losses rather than carrier recombination. X‐ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy showed the formation of metallic indium (In) in the IWO layers of a degraded cell, which suggests that the root cause of the optical loss was a darkening of the front IWO layers caused by the precipitation of metallic In. In extremely severe PID tests, the SHJ PV modules exhibited not only a further reduction in the Jsc but also a moderate reduction in the open‐circuit voltage (Voc). These Jsc and Voc reductions were probably caused by sodium being introduced into the base region of the cells. A comparison of the PID test results of the SHJ PV modules with those of other types of PV modules indicates that SHJ PV modules have a relatively high resistance to PID. As a module with an ionomer encapsulant exhibited little degradation, their high resistances to PID may be further improved by using encapsulants with high electrical resistances.
Light and durable: Composite structures for building‐integrated photovoltaic modules
Authors: Martins Ana C. , Chapuis Valentin , Sculati‐Meillaud Fanny , Virtuani Alessandro , Ballif Christophe
Published: April 2018

In several countries, building‐integrated photovoltaics solutions could prospectively contribute to the growth of total installed photovoltaic (PV) capacity as they enable electricity production with minimal impact on free land. However, in some circumstances, the relatively high weight (≥15 kg/m2) of existing glass/glass building‐integrated photovoltaics modules may constitute a barrier to the diffusion of PV in the built environment. With the aim of limiting the weight while preserving excellent mechanical stability and durability properties, we propose a new design for lightweight crystalline‐silicon (c‐Si) PV modules in which the conventional polymer backsheet (or glass) is replaced by a composite sandwich structure, and the frontsheet by a transparent polymer foil. Since sandwich structures are generally realized using epoxy as a gluing material, requiring long processing times, we further investigate (1) the possibility of using standard polymers used in the solar industry as alternative adhesives in the sandwich and (2) the possibility to considerably simplify manufacturing, using conventional lamination processes. Mini‐modules are produced, characterized, and submitted to accelerated aging tests (thermal cycling and damp‐heat) to assess the stability of the product against environmental degradation. We show that, by using the reference epoxy adhesive, it is possible to manufacture a lightweight (~5 kg/m2) mini‐module in a 2‐step process, which successfully passes a selection of industry qualification tests, including thermal cycling, damp‐heat, and hail test. We further show that, by replacing epoxy by a PV adhesive, we are able to considerably simplify the manufacturing process, while preserving excellent mechanical and durability properties.
Band gap engineering of atomic layer deposited ZnxSn1‐xO buffer for efficient Cu(In,Ga)Se2 solar cell
Authors: Agbenyeke Raphael Edem , Song Soomin , Park Bo Keun , Kim Gun Hwan , Yun Jae Ho , Chung Taek‐Mo , Kim Chang Gyoun , Han Jeong Hwan
Published: April 2018

Ternary zinc tin oxide (ZTO) is one of the few environmental compatible buffer materials with the potential of replacing the n‐CdS buffer in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells and other photovoltaic systems once its properties are fully understood and optimized. In this work, ZTO films were grown by atomic layer deposition and were logically characterized with the aim of understanding the correlations between compositional changes and film properties. The ZnO:SnO2 pulse ratio significantly affected the growth rate, crystal structure, morphology, and band gap of the ZTO films. By controlling the Sn/(Sn + Zn) atomic ratio, the optical band gap of the ZTO films was tuned between 3.05 and 3.36 eV. Integrating the ZTO films as buffer layers in CIGS solar cells, we observed that films with Sn concentrations of 9 to 16 at.% yielded photo‐conversion efficiency close to 14%, which was very comparable to efficiency attained with the commonly used CdS buffer. Furthermore, using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis, we correlated the current‐voltage behavior of the cells to the conduction band offset at the ZTO/ CIGS interface.
PSA‐alpha‐2‐macroglobulin complex is enzymatically active in the serum of patients with advanced prostate cancer and can degrade circulating peptide hormones
Authors: Kostova Maya B. , Brennen William Nathaniel , Lopez David , Anthony Lizamma , Wang Hao , Platz Elizabeth , Denmeade Samuel R.
Published: April 2018

Background

Prostate cancer cells produce high levels of the serine protease Prostate‐Specific Antigen (PSA). PSA is enzymatically active in the tumor microenvironment but is presumed to be enzymatically inactive in the blood due to complex formation with serum protease inhibitors α‐1‐antichymotrypsin and α‐2‐macroglobulin (A2M). PSA‐A2M complexes cannot be measured by standard ELISA assays and are also rapidly cleared from the circulation. Thus the exact magnitude of PSA production by prostate cancer cells is not easily measured. The PSA complexed to A2M is unable to cleave proteins but maintains the ability to cleave small peptide substrates. Thus, in advanced prostate cancer, sufficient PSA‐A2M may be in circulation to effect total A2M levels, levels of cytokines bound to A2M and hydrolyze small circulating peptide hormones.

Methods

Total A2M levels in men with advanced prostate cancer and PSA levels above 1000 ng/mL were measured by ELISA and compared to controls. Additional ELISA assays were used to measure levels of IL‐6 and TGF‐beta which can bind to A2M. The ability of PSA‐A2M complexes to hydrolyze protein and peptide substrates was analyzed ± PSA inhibitor. Enzymatic activity of PSA‐A2M in serum of men with high PSA levels was also assayed.

Results

Serum A2M levels are inversely correlated with PSA levels in men with advanced prostate cancer. Il‐6 Levels are significantly elevated in men with PSA >1000 ng/mL compared to controls with PSA <0.1 ng/mL. PSA‐A2M complex in serum of men with PSA levels >1000 ng/mL can hydrolyze small fluorescently labeled peptide substrates but not large proteins that are PSA substrates. PSA can hydrolyze small peptide hormones like PTHrP and osteocalcin. PSA complexed to A2M retains the ability to degrade PTHrP.

Conclusions

In advanced prostate cancer with PSA levels >1000 ng/mL, sufficient PSA‐A2M is present in circulation to produce enzymatic activity against circulating small peptide hormones. Sufficient PSA is produced in advanced prostate cancer to alter total A2M levels, which can potentially alter levels of a variety of growth factors such as IL‐6, TGF‐beta, basic FGF, and PDGF. Alterations in levels of these cytokines and proteolytic degradation of small peptide hormones may have profound effect on host‐cancer interaction.
Editorial introduction: Situated agency in the context of research on children, migration, and family in Asia
Authors: Choi Susanne Y.P. , Yeoh Brenda S.A. , Lam Theodora
Published: April 2018

Given far less attention than adult members in the burgeoning migration scholarship, children (and their parents) are brought to the foreground in this themed section as agentic subjects whose lives are linked to and impacted by migration processes operating across borders. In tandem with this focus, this special‐themed section situates the agency of children and their parents within broader socio‐economic structures of regional inequalities, local economic stagnation and cross‐border demand for low‐waged labour, state policy failures, ethnic group disparities, technological advances that facilitate cross‐border mobility, and the transnational performance of familyhood. By incorporating children's relationships with people and places nearby and afar and situating their agency within broader socio‐economic and political contexts, we hope that the analytical framework of “situated agency” developed in this themed section will encourage more studies linking macro structures with micro interpersonal dynamics and actions in growing Asia‐based research related to migration and mobility across space and place.
Topological Phases of Chalcogenide Glasses Encoded in the Melt Dynamics
Authors: Boolchand Punit , Bauchy Mathieu , Micoulaut Matthieu , Yildirim Can
Published: April 2018

Select Raman scattering and modulated differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) experiments on specially homogenized binary GexSe100–x and GexS100–x chalcogenide glasses, supported by ab initio MD simulations are undertaken. In both chalcogenides, the glasses exhibit a super‐strong behavior (with a melt fragility index, m(x) < 20) in the 20(1)% < x < 26(1)% composition range, defining the fragility window, and with m(x) > 20 as one goes away from the fragility window. Remarkably, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations confirm the existence of the fragility window. Furthermore, in both chalcogenide glasses, the enthalpy of relaxation at Tg, ΔHnr(x), becomes minuscule (≈0) in the 20(1)% < x < 26(1)% range, defining the reversibility window, and with ΔHnr(x) increasing by an order magnitude abruptly with x outside that window. Thus, super‐strong melts formed in the fragility window give rise to isostatically rigid glasses in the reversibility window and fragile melts formed at x < 20(1)% and at x > 26(1)% give rise to flexible‐ and stressed‐rigid glasses, respectively. Melt dynamics for the examined glass systems unequivocally encode the nature of the glass topological phases.
A global coupled ensemble data assimilation system using the Community Earth System Model and the Data Assimilation Research Testbed
Authors: Karspeck Alicia R. , Danabasoglu Gokhan , Anderson Jeffrey , Karol Svetlana , Collins Nancy , Vertenstein Mariana , Raeder Kevin , Hoar Tim , Neale Richard , Edwards Jim , Craig Anthony
Published: April 2018

This paper presents a description of the CESM/DART ensemble coupled data assimilation (DA) system based on the Community Earth System Model (CESM) and the Data Assimilation Research Testbed (DART) assimilation software. The CESM/DART should be viewed as a flexible system to support the DA needs of the CESM research community and not as a static reanalysis product.

In this implementation of the CESM/DART, conventional insitu observations of the ocean and atmosphere are assimilated into the respective component models of the CESM using a 30‐member ensemble adjustment Kalman filter (EAKF). CESM/DART is run in a “weakly coupled” configuration wherein observations native to each climate system component only directly impact the state vector for that component. Information is passed between components indirectly through the short‐term coupled model forecasts that provide the EAKF background ensemble. This system leverages previous ensemble DA development for the Community Atmosphere Model and Parallel Ocean Program models using the DART EAKF. The CESM/DART project is a step towards providing increasingly useful DA capabilities for the CESM research community.

Results are presented for our prototype 12‐year reanalysis, run from 1970 to mid 1982. Multiple lines of evidence demonstrate that the system is capable of constraining the CESM coupled model to simulate the historical variability of the climate system in the well‐observed Northern Hemisphere. A collection of monthly average variables, climate mode indices, observation diagnostics and snapshots of synoptic weather in the ocean and atmosphere are compared to established datasets, showing especially good agreement in the Northern Hemisphere. A discussion of the CESM/DART as a modular, community facility and the benefits and challenges associated with this vision is also included.
Derivative of electron repulsion integral using accompanying coordinate expansion and transferred recurrence relation method for long contraction and high angular momentum
Authors: Hayami Masao , Seino Junji , Nakai Hiromi
Published: April 2018

In this study, an early‐working algorithm is designed to evaluate derivatives of electron repulsion integrals (DERIs) for heavy‐element systems. The algorithm is constructed to extend the accompanying coordinate expansion and transferred recurrence relation (ACE‐TRR) method, which was developed for rapid evaluation of electron repulsion integrals (ERIs) in our previous article (M. Hayami, J. Seino, and H. Nakai, J. Chem. Phys. 2015, 142, 204110). The algorithm was formulated using the Gaussian derivative rule to decompose a DERI of two ERIs with the same sets of exponents, different sets of contraction coefficients, and different angular momenta. The algorithms designed for segmented and general contraction basis sets are presented as well. Numerical assessments of the central processing unit time of gradients for molecules were conducted to demonstrate the high efficiency of the ACE‐TRR method for systems containing heavy elements. These heavy elements may include a metal complex and metal clusters, whose basis sets contain functions with long contractions and high angular momenta.
Substituted Aroylhydrazone Based Polycatenars: Tuning of Liquid Crystalline Self‐Assembly
Authors: Singh Hemant K. , Pradhan Balaram , Singh Sachin K. , Nandi Rajib , Rao Doddamane S. Shankar , Prasad Subbarao K. , Achalkumar Ammathnadu S. , Singh Bachcha
Published: April 2018

A systematic investigation on mesomorphic properties of two new classes of substituted‐aroylhydrazones having semi‐flexible ester (ester based polycatenars) and flexible ether linker (ether based polycatenars) with variable alkoxy chain length (n=6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16) are described. The members of each series with six soft alkoxy chains formed columnar self‐assembly as confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry analysis, polarized optical microscopy and powder X‐ray diffraction studies. For the ester based polycatenar scaffolds, the mesophase of lower alkoxy chain members exhibited columnar oblique phase which further transformed to columnar hexagonal phase with the increase in the chain length and thus showing a mesophase crossover phenomenon. In the case of ether based polycatenars, the presence of ether link provides significant stabilization of the columnar oblique phase for all the members except the lower homologues. The driving forces for the appearance of columnar self‐assembly are the intermolecular hydrogen‐bonding interactions between the amide groups (‐C=O⋅⋅⋅H‐N‐) of aroylhydrazone core, which was confirmed by the temperature dependent IR studies. In addition, both the series of compounds exhibit good gelation properties, which is assisted by the intermolecular hydrogen bonding.
High Capacity, Dendrite‐Free Growth, and Minimum Volume Change Na Metal Anode
Authors: Zhao Yang , Yang Xiaofei , Kuo Liang‐Yin , Kaghazchi Payam , Sun Qian , Liang Jianneng , Wang Biqiong , Lushington Andrew , Li Ruying , Zhang Huamin , Sun Xueliang
Published: April 2018

Na metal anode attracts increasing attention as a promising candidate for Na metal batteries (NMBs) due to the high specific capacity and low potential. However, similar to issues faced with the use of Li metal anode, crucial problems for metallic Na anode remain, including serious moss‐like and dendritic Na growth, unstable solid electrolyte interphase formation, and large infinite volume changes. Here, the rational design of carbon paper (CP) with N‐doped carbon nanotubes (NCNTs) as a 3D host to obtain Na@CP‐NCNTs composites electrodes for NMBs is demonstrated. In this design, 3D carbon paper plays a role as a skeleton for Na metal anode while vertical N‐doped carbon nanotubes can effectively decrease the contact angle between CP and liquid metal Na, which is termed as being “Na‐philic.” In addition, the cross‐conductive network characteristic of CP and NCNTs can decrease the effective local current density, resulting in uniform Na nucleation. Therefore, the as‐prepared Na@CP‐NCNT exhibits stable electrochemical plating/stripping performance in symmetrical cells even when using a high capacity of 3 mAh cm−2 at high current density. Furthermore, the 3D skeleton structure is observed to be intact following electrochemical cycling with minimum volume change and is dendrite‐free in nature.