bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autofluorescence imaging system to discriminate and quantify the distribution of benthic cyanobacteria and diatoms
Authors: Carreira Cátia , Staal Marc , Middelboe Mathias , Brussaard Corina P.D.
Published: October 2015

Observation of benthic photoautotrophs on sediment surfaces shows a single algal layer without distinction between photosynthetic groups. Until now it has not been possible to distinguish between benthic photosynthetic microorganisms, i.e. cyanobacteria and diatoms, at μm to mm scales using a single nondisruptive system. Chlorophyll autofluorescence can be used to distinguish different photoautotrophic groups if the correct excitation light is applied. Using this principle, a nonintrusive technique was developed to study the spatial distribution of benthic cyanobacteria and diatoms. By means of a charge coupled device camera, diatoms and cyanobacteria could be identified by blue light (470 nm) excitation and amber light (600 nm) excitation, respectively. By this approach, diatom or cyanobacterial dominance could be easily distinguished using the blue over amber ratio. We applied this method successfully to (mixed) laboratory cultures as well as natural photosynthetic microbial mats. Cultures of the diatom Nitzschia capitellata and the cyanobacterium Geitlerinema sp. showed close correlation between autofluorescence and cell abundance. This simple and cheap imaging system allows fast observations of the fine‐scale (μm–mm) spatial heterogeneities of live benthic microbial photoautotrophs both in culture and natural photosynthetic biofilms structure (e.g., microphytobenthos and photosynthetic microbial mats). © 2014 Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography
The growth of human scalp hair mediated by visible red light laser and LED sources in males
Authors: Lanzafame Raymond J. , Blanche Raymond R. , Bodian Adam B. , Chiacchierini Richard P. , Fernandez‐Obregon Adolfo , Kazmirek Eric R.
Published: October 2015

Background and Objectives

Low level laser therapy (LLLT) has been used to promote hair growth. A double‐blind randomized controlled trial was undertaken to define the safety and physiologic effects of LLLT on males with androgenic alopecia.

Methods

Forty‐four males (18–48 yo, Fitzpatrick I–IV, Hamilton–Norwood IIa–V) were recruited. A transition zone scalp site was selected; hairs were trimmed to 3 mm height; the area was tattooed and photographed. The active group received a “TOPHAT655” unit containing 21, 5 mW lasers (655 ± 5 nm), and 30 LEDS (655 ± 20 nm), in a bicycle‐helmet like apparatus. The placebo group unit appeared identical, containing incandescent red lights. Patients treated at home every other day × 16 weeks (60 treatments, 67.3 J/cm2 irradiance/25 minute treatment), with follow up and photography at 16 weeks. A masked 2.85 cm2 photographic area was evaluated by another blinded investigator. The primary endpoint was the percent increase in hair counts from baseline.

Results

Forty‐one patients completed the study (22 active, 19 placebo). No adverse events or side effects were reported. Baseline hair counts were 162.7 ± 95.9 (N = 22) in placebo and 142.0 ± 73.0 (N = 22) and active groups respectively (P = 0.426). Post Treatment hair counts were 162.4 ± 62.5 (N = 19) and 228.7 ± 102.8 (N = 22), respectively (P = 0.0161). A 39% percent hair increase was demonstrated (28.4 ± 46.2 placebo, N = 19; 67.2 ± 33.4, active, N = 22) (P = 0.001) Deleting one placebo group subject with a very high baseline count and a very large decrease, resulted in baseline hair counts of 151.1 ± 81.0 (N = 21) and 142.0 ± 73.0 (N = 22), respectively (P = 0.680). Post treatment hair counts were 158.2 ± 61.5 (N = 18) and 228.7 ± 102.8 (N = 22) (P = 0.011), resulting in a 35% percent increase in hair growth (32.3 ± 44.2, placebo, N = 18; 67.2 ± 33.4, active, N = 22) (P = 0.003).

Conclusions

LLLT of the scalp at 655 nm significantly improved hair counts in males with androgenetic alopecia. Lasers Surg. Med. 45:487–495, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hepatocellular carcinoma in patients listed for liver transplantation: Current and future allocation policy and management strategies for the individual patient
Authors: Wedd Joel P. , Nordstrom Eric , Nydam Trevor , Durham Janette , Zimmerman Michael , Johnson Thor , Thomas Purcell W. , Biggins Scott W.
Published: October 2015

Liver transplantation can provide definitive cure for patients with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) when used appropriately. Advances in the management of HCC have allowed improved control of HCC while waiting for liver transplantation and new approaches to candidate selection particularly with regard to tumor burden and downstaging protocols. Additionally, there have been recent changes in allocation policy related to HCC in the U.S. that cap the HCC MELD exception at 34 points and implement a 6‐month delay in a HCC MELD exception. This review examines the U.S. liver transplant allocation policy related to HCC, comprehensively details locoregional therapy options in HCC patients awaiting liver transplantation, and considers the impact of an increasing burden of HCC on future liver graft allocation policy. Liver Transpl 21:1543‐1552, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
THE KEY TO SUCCESS: ALIGNING LEADERSHIP AND CULTURE
Authors: Myatt Mike
Published: October 2015

Organizations need healthy cultures, and such cultures are created intentionally, by design. Myatt contrasts the old paradigm of managing culture with the new paradigm of leading culture. The former punishes failure, for instance, while the latter encourages risk. Leading a healthy culture means we must have courage; and the good news is that courage is teachable and learnable. We should consider it more a decision than a skill. Leadership should happen on a day‐to‐day basis throughout the organization, not just for those highest on the organization chart. “When in doubt,” Myatt writes, “think ubiquity not scarcity.”
THE POWER OF AND VERSUS THE TYRANNY OF OR
Authors: Howitt David
Published: October 2015

As a leader, are you limiting yourself and your organization through “and/or” thinking? Howitt thinks you probably are. What's more, this type of mind‐set separates running a financially successful organization from one that delivers value beyond the bottom line to a wide variety of stakeholders. It does not have to be this way, and indeed leaders can create a different future by being “modern‐day heroes who choose to live lives of passion and precision, artistry and analytics, intuition and intelligence.” Similarly, be careful about the term work‐life balance, which he contends is also self‐limiting, implying a false separation between life and work.
Determination of adhesion between corrosion product film and carbon steel by a scratch test
Authors: Zhu X. L. , Lu X. F. , Ling X.
Published: October 2015

A scratch test is used to measure the adhesion between corrosion product film (CPF) and carbon steel in deionized water under different pH and temperatures. The fuzzy feature model is modified to minimize errors between calculation and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results. Findings illustrate that the maximum error decreases to 11%. The adhesion between CPF and substrate increases with rising temperature and pH of deionized water. The Poisson's ratio and Young's modulus of CPF are in the ranges [0.34 and 0.45] and [0.08 and 0.11 GPa], respectively, as temperature and pH change.
The OpdQ porin of Pseudomonas aeruginosa is regulated by environmental signals associated with cystic fibrosis including nitrate‐induced regulation involving the NarXL two‐component system
Authors: Fowler Randal C. , Hanson Nancy D.
Published: October 2015

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a versatile opportunistic pathogen that causes chronic infections in immunocompromised hosts. Multiple porins modulate outer membrane permeability under various environmental conditions. The lung environment of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients is unique with changes occurring in nutrient availability, osmolarity, and oxygen content. Although P. aeruginosa gene expression is modified under these conditions, little is known about how they influence porin regulation. In this study, we evaluated the regulation of the outer membrane porin OpdQ, a member of the OprD family of porins, with regard to oxygen, nitrate, and/or NaCl levels. We demonstrated using promoter::fusion clones of P. aeruginosa PAO1 and clinical strains collected from CF patients that OpdQ was transcriptionally repressed under low oxygen but increased in the presence of nitrate. The nitrate‐induced regulation of OpdQ was found to be dependent on the transcription factor NarL via the NarXL two‐component system. In addition, NaCl‐induced osmotic stress increased OpdQ production among most of the clinical strains evaluated. In conclusion, these data identify for the first time that specific environmental cues associated with the CF microenvironment influence porin regulation, and that the nitrate‐induced regulation of OpdQ is associated with nitrate metabolism via the NarXL two‐component system of P. aeruginosa.
The reconstruction of large laryngeal defect with medial condyle femur corticoperiosteal free flap—a case report
Authors: Banaszewski Jacek , Gaggl Alexander , Buerger Heinz , Wierzbicka Malgorzata , Pabiszczak Maciej , Pastusiak Tomasz , Szyfter Witold
Published: October 2015

The larynx is a complicated organ with very important functions. Reconstructive operations of the larynx often result in some function reduction caused by scars and stenoses. The aim of this report is to present the results of the one‐stage reconstructive operation after a large excision of the chondrosarcoma of the larynx. The patient was male, aged 48 with the history of the operation of the highly mature cartilaginous sarcoma of the thyroid on the right side with tumor recurrence. The one‐stage reconstructive surgery using medial condyle femur corticoperiosteal free flap which reshaped the cartilage scaffold and restored an inner layer as the mucosa was made. The flap survived without local and systemic complications. Six months follow‐up revealed no local recurrence and good breathing results. There was no restriction of movement of the lower limbs. The patient returned to work previously performed. Results were shown in endoscopic examinations and computer tomography. The medial condyle femur corticoperiosteal free flap may be an option for reconstruction of large laryngeal defect with restoring its shape and inner layers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:157–160, 2016.
Tunable RF‐band optoelectronic oscillator and optoelectronic computer‐added design model for its simulation
Authors: Belkin Mikhail E. , Loparev Alexei V. , Semenova Yuliya , Farrell Gerald , Sigov Alexander S.
Published: October 2015

A cost‐effective tunable version of optoelectronic oscillator (OEO) that overcomes the well‐known design tradeoffs in a traditional radio frequency (RF) oscillator is proposed. To validate the technique, a simple computerized model of the proposed OEO is used on the basis of commercial optoelectronic computer‐added design tool. The model correctly simulates the phase noise close to the carrier. As an example, we demonstrate a 3‐GHz OEO with simulation results that are experimentally confirmed by prototype measurements. A parametric comparison with an advanced wideband synthesizer integrated circuits (IC) is also presented. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2474‐2477, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26304
Experimental results of an X‐band MMIC Doherty power amplifier
Authors: Colantonio P. , Giannini F. , Giofrè R. , Piazzon L.
Published: October 2015

This letter deals with a GaAs monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) Doherty power amplifier (DPA) for X‐band systems.To the best of authors' knowledge, it represents the first DPA realization in the X‐band frequency range. Experimental results showed a 30‐dBm saturated output power and a drain efficiency greater than 53% at 9.5 GHz. Moreover, in the 6‐dB power back‐off (from 18 to 24 dBm input power), an amplitude modulation (AM/AM) distortion lower than 1 dB is also demonstrated with an average efficiency greater than 50%. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2665‐2668, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26306
Studies of dielectric constant measurements at microwave frequency using mixing equations—The analyses on five rules
Authors: Sheen Jyh , Hong Zuo‐Wen , Liu Weihsing , Mao Wei‐Lung
Published: October 2015

The microwave dielectric constants of ceramic dispersions in the polyethylene matrix are studied by five well‐known mixture equations in this article. Three ceramic powders of fillers with various dielectric constants at 10 GHz are investigated. The experimental dielectric constant values of the mixtures are compared to the theoretical curves of the five mixing rules. The dielectric constants of pure ceramics are then estimated by these mixing laws from the dielectric constants of composites of various filler concentrations. The theoretical errors of estimations of rules are derived and analyzed. The most adequate mixture law(s) for measuring the dielectric constants of ceramic fillers will be recommended. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2481–2485, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26357
Antipodal linearly tapered slot antenna with reduced mutual coupling fed by substrate integrated waveguide
Authors: Ma Han‐Qing , Feng Tao
Published: October 2015

An antipodal linearly tapered slot antenna fed by substrate integrated waveguide for Ku band application is presented.To reduce the mutual coupling between elements, several slots are cut both on the radiation arms and between radiation elements to chock the coupling currents. With this approach, the measured mutual coupling levels between antenna elements are reduced to lower than −27 dB within 13–17 GHz. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2512–2515, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26368
Investigation of A Novel Dual Band‐Notched UWB Antenna by the Equivalent Circuit Model and Time Domain Characteristics
Authors: Gao Guoping , Hu Bin , Cong Xiaodong , He Lele
Published: October 2015

In this article, a dual band‐notched ultrawideband (UWB) antenna is investigated by the equivalent circuit model and time domain characteristics. Transmission line model and L‐C resonant circuit model of the antenna are presented. Transfer function and pulse waveforms are also studied to evaluate the proposed antenna. Experimental results show that the proposed antenna meets the requirement of wide working bandwidth of 3.1–10.6 GHz with voltage‐standing wave ratio <2, while avoiding the interference from WiMAX and 5‐GHz wireless local area network. Radiation patterns and antenna gain study show that the stable radiation characteristics at different frequencies are obtained. The proposed antenna has a compact size, good radiation characteristics, and UWB behaviors to satisfy the requirement of the current UWB wireless communications systems. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2993–3000, 2013
Simple Printed WWAN Monopole Slot Antenna with Parasitic Shorted Strips for Slim Mobile Phone Application
Authors: Chang Chih‐Hua , Wei Wan‐Chu , Ma Pei‐Ji , Huang Shao‐Yu
Published: October 2015

In this article, a simple printed monopole slot antenna with two parasitic shorted strips (a longer parasitic shorted strip and a shorter parasitic shorted strip) for penta‐band wireless wide area network operation in the slim mobile phone is presented. The monopole slot has a length of 40 mm only and is disposed near the bottom edge of the system ground plane of the mobile phone with a small distance of 6.5 mm. By adding longer parasitic shorted strip connected to the bottom corner edge of the system ground plane, good excitation of the monopole slot antenna at its fundamental (quarter‐wavelength) mode and chassis dipole‐type mode of the system ground plane can be obtained. The shorter parasitic shorted strip contributes additional resonant mode to the antenna. The excited resonant modes form two wide operating bands to cover the GSM850/900 operation (824–960 MHz) and GSM1800/1900/WCDMA Band I operation (1710–2170 MHz), respectively. Details of the proposed antenna are presented. The specific absorption rate results for the antenna with the presence of the head and hand phantoms are also studied. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2835–2841, 2013
A Simple and Reliable Method to Extract The Electrical Equivalent Circuits of CMOS pads
Authors: Saavedra‐Gomez H. J. , Loo‐Yau J. R. , Hernandez J. A. Reynoso , Moreno P. , del Valle‐Padilla Juan Luis
Published: October 2015

This article presents a method to extract the elements of the electrical equivalent circuit model CMOS pads using two uniform transmission lines fabricated on a lossy Si substrate. The lengths of the uniform transmission lines are different, while its characteristic impedances are equal and can be of an arbitrary value. The proposed method is useful for modeling CMOS pads that can be represented by symmetrical and reciprocal ABCD matrices, denoted as [Mpad]. Then a T‐network is used to represent the CMOS pad and its elements are determined converting [Mpad] into a Z‐parameters matrix. Experimental data from 0.4–20 GHz show a high correlation with theoretical data. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:3033–3037, 2013
Design Construction and Testing of a Compact Size Patch Antenna for RFID Applications
Authors: Islam S. , Latrach M.
Published: October 2015

This article presents the miniaturization techniques of multilayers patch antennas in the UHF frequency band for RFID applications. By embedding suitable slots in a radiating patch, enhanced impedance bandwidth can be obtained with compact size antenna. In this study, first a patch on multilayer substrate will be presented and then its miniaturized form will be presented. The miniaturized form is obtained by etching two long slots on both size of the feeding line and also two other rectangular slots at the radiation edge of the patch. Simulation and experimental results indicate that a size reduction of up to 30% is possible by using the technique. The simulation gain of the first antenna is 8.32 dB, whereas the gain of the compact antenna is 7.68 dB. The measurement results agree very well with the simulation results. The impedance bandwidth of the antennas before and after the miniaturization remains almost unchanged. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2920–2925, 2013
Double‐J Shape Thinned Core‐Based Fiber Mach–Zehnder InTerferometer
Authors: Zhu Feng , Guo Jing‐Chun , Chen Chao , Yang Rui , Wang Chuang , Xue Yang , Zhu Cong‐Cong , Zhang Xuan‐Yu , Yu Yong‐Sen
Published: October 2015

An single‐mode‐fiber Mach–Zehnder interferometer by cascading two “double‐J” shape thinned core structures for simultaneous measurement of temperature and surrounding refractive index has been achieved. The “double‐J” shape thinned core structure is fabricated by fusion splicing two sections of single‐mode fibers with large lateral offset. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:3008–3010, 2013
A New Narrow Band Frequency Selective Surface Geometry Design at the Unlicensed 2.4‐GHz ISM Band
Authors: Kartal Mesut , Pinar Sedef Kent , Doken Bora , Gungor Ismail
Published: October 2015

Wireless devices in the unlicensed instruments, scientific, and measurements (ISM) bands cause mutual interference in indoor environments. This interference degrades the system performance and compromises security. Transforming existing building walls to a band stop frequency selective surface (FSS) can be an efficient solution for such problems. This work is proposed to design FSS for interference mitigation and network security within the buildings in the unlicensed 2.4‐GHz ISM band and to provide maximum transparency at broadcast frequencies. A 2.4‐GHz ISM band is a relatively narrow band which cannot be met by a conventional FSS for a wide range of incidence angle. Whereas wireless signals in indoor environment have a wide range of incidence angle. To obtain the desired narrow band response, a new FSSs element geometry is introduced which has a stable frequency response for TE polarization when the angle of incident wave is varied from 0° to 70°. HFSS software is used for simulation and design purposes. The obtained simulation and measurement results show that desired frequency response is achieved for TE polarization successfully. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2986–2990, 2013
In intermetallische Phasen hineinschauen
Authors: Pecher Oliver , Haarmann Frank
Published: October 2015

Intermetallische Phasen sind nützlich und wissenschaftlich faszinierend — aber immer noch unverstanden. Eine Möglichkeit, um ein Verständnis von Bindungs‐Struktur‐Eigenschaftsbeziehungen zu entwickeln, sind Untersuchungen der lokalen Atomanordnungen.
Pilot für Polymere
Authors: Stühler Mathias
Published: October 2015

Pilotanlagen übertragen Laborverfahren in den Produktionsmaßstab. Wie das bei Copolymeren für Anwendungen in der Optik funktioniert, zeigt ein Technikumsbetreiber, der einen Polymerhersteller beim Scale‐up unterstützt.
Zellfabriken unter Beobachtung — NIR‐Spektroskopie im Bioprozess
Authors: Bienert Roland , Grimm Christian
Published: October 2015

Inzwischen wird ein Großteil der neu zugelassenen Medikamente biotechnisch hergestellt. Dabei erfordern neue Produktionsmethoden wie der Einsatz von Einwegkomponenten auch neue Werkzeuge der Prozessanalytik. Eines davon ist, kombiniert mit statistischen Auswertemethoden, die NIR‐Spektroskopie, die in Echtzeit Daten über den Prozessverlauf liefert.
Weak forms for modelling of rotationally symmetric, multilayered structures, including anisotropic poro‐elastic media
Authors: Östberg M. , Göransson P. , Hörlin N‐E. , Kari L.
Published: October 2015

A weak form of the anisotropic Biot's equation represented in a cylindrical coordinate system using a spatial Fourier expansion in the circumferential direction is presented. The original three dimensional Cartesian anisotropic weak formulation is rewritten in an arbitrary orthogonal curvilinear basis. Introducing a cylindrical coordinate system and expanding the circumferential wave propagation in terms of orthogonal harmonic functions, the original, geometrically rotationally symmetric three dimensional boundary value problem, is decomposed into independent two‐dimensional problems, one for each harmonic function. Using a minimum number of dependent variables, pore pressure and frame displacement, a computationally efficient procedure for vibro‐acoustic finite element modelling of rotationally symmetric three‐dimensional multilayered structures including anisotropic porous elastic materials is thus obtained. By numerical simulations, this method is compared with, and the correctness is verified against, a full three‐dimensional Cartesian coordinate system finite element model. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of the influence of red phosphorus, expansible graphite and zinc borate on flame retardancy and wear performance of glass fiber reinforced PA6 composites
Authors: Si Gaojie , Li Duxin , You Yilan , Hu Xi
Published: October 2015

The flame retarded materials were prepared which used wear‐resistant PA6 composite (PA6/GF/PTFE/UHMWPE/CG, 85/15/5/5/5 by weight) as matrix, red phosphorus (RP), expansible graphite (EG), and zinc borate (ZB) as fire retardant. The flame retarded properties were characterized by LOI and UL‐94 testing. PA6 composite with 15 wt% RP reached V0 rating and had a high LOI value (27.3 vol%). When a combination of 7 wt% ZB and 8 wt% RP was added, increases in LOI (27.9 vol%) and UL‐94 rating(V0) were both observed. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and char residue characterization showed that the combination of RP and ZB can promote the formation of char barrier, reduce the mass loss rate, and thus improve the flame retardancy of PA6 composites. The wear test showed that, the composite filled by 15 wt% RP or a combination of 7 wt% ZB and 8 wt% RP both possessed a low wear rate and a much stable friction coefficient. The presence of EG could also improve the flame retardance but was harmful to the mechanical property as well as wear performance. The results indicated that ZB and RP had synergy effect on improving both flame retardance and wear performance of PA6 composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:2090–2097, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Automation of the vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process for recreational composite yachts
Authors: Swan Sam , Yuksel Tolga , Kim Dave , Gurocak Hakan
Published: October 2015

The use of glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRP) in large primary marine structures has noticeably increased due to their favorable stiffness, strength, durability, and manufacturability. However, GFRP construction can become cost‐prohibitive at the superyacht‐scale (36–60 m) as defects and labor intensiveness increase. In this paper, we presented an automated vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process (VaRTM) that can be integrated into an existing setup for manufacturing recreational composite yachts in the 49‐meter range. The objective of automating the system is to reduce defects and labor intensity. The developed automation system consisted of a controller, resin supply lines with valves, and infrared sensors. The control software, valves and sensors were custom developed. The system automatically monitors and adjusts resin flow in the mold in real‐time to mitigate flow front variations. The system was used to run three different scenarios common in marine composites manufacturing using VaRTM; a flat plate with consistent ply sequence, a flat plate with varying ply sequence, and a scaled yacht keel section. Results indicated that use of the automated setup improved overall evenness of resin flow and limited unwanted convergence compared to the traditional manual setup. Tensile testing indicated similar mechanical performance but greater variation in the manual sample. Voids were discovered in regions of flow convergence of the manual panel and reflected slightly more varied tensile properties as compared to automated panels. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:2411–2424, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Composites based on (ethylene–propylene) copolymer and olive solid waste: Rheological, thermal, mechanical, and morphological behaviors
Authors: Khemakhem Marwa , Jaziri Mohamed
Published: October 2015

In the olive oil‐producing countries, large quantities of olive solid waste are dumped in nature causing several environmental problems. Therefore, the use of this by‐product as filler in (ethylene–propylene) matrix could be an effective way to reduce significantly the quantities of the disposed biomass and elaborate a cost‐effective material. However, the hydrophilic nature of this natural filler decreases the compatibility with the hydrophobic matrix. To improve the interfacial adhesion, maleated polypropylene was added as a compatibilizing agent. In a first step, the influence of the filler loading on the rheological, thermal, and mechanical properties was investigated. Composites with various filler contents were prepared by melt blending using a twin‐screw extruder and injection molding. The filler addition led to an increase of the viscoelastic properties and the crystallinity degree. Then, the coupling agent (MAPP) was reported to enhance the rheological, thermal, and mechanical properties of the composites up to a critical amount beyond which the plasticizing effect becomes more predominant than the reinforcing effect, a fact that could be responsible for the decrease of viscoelastic properties, crystallinity, and mechanical properties. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 56:27–35, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Solar cell efficiency tables (version 42)
Authors: Green Martin A. , Emery Keith , Hishikawa Yoshihiro , Warta Wilhelm , Dunlop Ewan D.
Published: October 2015

Consolidated tables showing an extensive listing of the highest independently confirmed efficiencies for solar cells and modules are presented. Guidelines for inclusion of results into these tables are outlined, and new entries since January 2013 are reviewed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomic analyses of the interaction between the plant‐growth promoting rhizobacterium Paenibacillus polymyxa E681 and Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kwon Young Sang , Lee Dong Yeol , Rakwal Randeep , Baek Seong‐Bum , Lee Jeom Ho , Kwak Youn‐Sig , Seo Jong‐Su , Chung Woo Sik , Bae Dong‐Won , Kim Sang Gon
Published: October 2015

Plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) facilitate the plant growth and enhance their induced systemic resistance (ISR) against a variety of environmental stresses. In this study, we carried out integrative analyses on the proteome, transcriptome, and metabolome to investigate Arabidopsis root and shoot responses to the well‐known PGPR strain Paenibacillus polymyxa (P. polymyxa) E681. Shoot fresh and root dry weights were increased, whereas root length was decreased by treatment with P. polymyxa E681. 2DE approach in conjunction with MALDI‐TOF/TOF analysis revealed a total of 41 (17 spots in root, 24 spots in shoot) that were differentially expressed in response to P. polymyxa E681. Biological process‐ and molecular function‐based bioinformatics analysis resulted in their classification into seven different protein groups. Of these, 36 proteins including amino acid metabolism, antioxidant, defense and stress response, photosynthesis, and plant hormone‐related proteins were up‐regulated, whereas five proteins including three carbohydrate metabolism‐ and one amino acid metabolism‐related, and one unknown protein were down‐regulated, respectively. A good correlation was observed between protein and transcript abundances for the 12 differentially expressed proteins during interactions as determined by qPCR analysis. Metabolite analysis using LC‐MS/MS revealed highly increased levels of tryptophan, indole‐3‐acetonitrile (IAN), indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA), and camalexin in the treated plants. Arabidopsis plant inoculated P. polymyxa E681 also showed resistance to Botrytis cinerea infection. Taken together these results suggest that P. polymyxa E681 may promote plant growth by induced metabolism and activation of defense‐related proteins against fungal pathogen.
Synthesis and characterization of physically crosslinked N‐vinylcaprolactam, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, and N,N‐dimethylacrylamide hydrogels
Authors: Gaballa Heba A. , Geever Luke M. , Killion John A. , Higginbotham Clement L.
Published: October 2015

Physically crosslinked hydrogels based on N‐vinylcaprolactam/acrylic acid and N‐vinylcaprolactam/methacrylic acid were prepared via free radical polymerization. These temperature responsive hydrogels were characterized in terms of glass transition, phase separation temperature, potentiometric titration and swelling properties. Results showed that phase transition temperature was dependent on the pH value of the solution; increasing pH led to higher lower critical solution temperature (LCST) values which was related to the dissociative behaviors of the carboxylic group of MAc in the buffered solutions. Additionally, with the incorporation of N,N‐dimethylacrylamide into the system, cloud point measurements and MDSC showed an increased in the LCST. This increase was based on hydrophilicity, the hydrophilic–hydrophobic balance was disturbed, and consequently, the LCST behavior was shifted. The pKa of the copolymers ranged between 5.6 and 6.5, while for the terpolymers pKa ranged between 5.3 and 6. At high pH (>10), the COOH group is deprotonated and negatively charged (COO−), while at low pH (1–3) the carboxylic group remains protonated which results in hydrogen bonding between the hydroxyl groups (from NaOH) and the excess of HCl. These results correlate with swelling studies where above the pKa value the hydrogels dissolved rapidly compared to below pKa they did not dissolve at all. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1555–1564
Reinforcing the role of psycho‐social oncology in global cancer prevention: applying psycho‐oncology research in programmes and practice
Authors: Dunn Jeff , Adams Cary , Holland Jimmie , Watson Maggie
Published: October 2015

Over the past decade, global action to address the emerging crisis in non‐communicable diseases (NCDs) has escalated. Central to these efforts has been the support and influence of the World Health Organisation and the United Nations with the 2000 civil societies represented by the Non‐Communicable Disease Alliance. In particular this reached expression in the world's first High Level Meeting on NCDs by the United Nations leading to the 2011 Political Declaration urging a coordinated global response to NCDs.

Where then does psycho‐oncology sit in this global context? Psycho‐oncology practitioners and their collective, the International Psycho‐Oncology Society (IPOS), have traditionally been situated within a patient focus and context. However, through linkages with community‐based and non‐government cancer organisations' agencies, psycho‐oncology research and practice has played a key role in reducing cancer risk, improving cancer survivorship, and influencing social and cultural change to eliminate disease‐related stigma. As a discipline, psycho‐oncology has contributed to widespread recognition of patient‐centred care in cancer and along with a broad acceptance and endorsement of the IPOS International Standard. However psycho‐oncology is less well accepted in nation‐state cancer plans and herein lies opportunity.

This special issue includes research across the illness continuum from cancer prevention to screening and early detection, and then to tertiary prevention with lifestyle considerations for cancer survivors. Importantly this demonstrates the capacity within psycho‐oncology to develop new understandings of cancer as not only a disease but also a context linked to individual, community, and society health and well‐being. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spectral Investigation and Color Properties of Copper(I) Halides CuX (X=F, Cl, Br, I) in Pyrotechnic Combustion Flames
Authors: Koch Ernst‐Christian
Published: October 2015

Four pyrotechnic compositions containing copper or its compounds and different halogens were tailored to produce the emitters copper(I) fluoride, CuF, copper(I) chloride, CuCl, copper(I) bromide, CuBr, and copper(I) iodide, CuI. The UV/Vis emission spectra of these compositions were measured and allow for the identification and assignment of the above species CuF, CuCl, CuBr, and CuI. Copper(I) fluoride is a poor emitter with a very narrow green band centered at λ=493 nm only. In contrast all the other copper(I) monohalides have extended band systems with boundaries ranging from about λ=400 to 540 nm. CuCl yields a blue chemiluminescence, whereas CuBr surprisingly gives a highly saturated (Σ=95 %) intense blue violet (λd=459 nm) emission. CuI displays an overall bluish green emission only due to more intense band systems λ>500 nm. The spectral properties of all the emitters and the color values of the emitters in the 1931‐CIE color diagram are presented.
Oral contraception: properties and side‐effects of COCs and POPs
Authors: MacGregor Anne
Published: October 2015

For the majority of women the Pill is a safe and effective contraceptive, but users should be counselled about potential side‐effects and the importance of adherence. Our Drug review considers the properties of both combined and progestogen‐only pills, followed by sources of further information and an analysis of the prescription data.
Current approaches to the management of tuberculosis
Authors: Venkatraman Navin , Morris Thomas , Wiselka Martin
Published: October 2015

Tuberculosis is the second leading infectious cause of death worldwide and cases are increasing in the UK. Here, the authors consider the patho genesis and recommended management of TB.
Antimicrobial Activity Against Bacteria with Dermatological Relevance and Skin Tolerance of the Essential Oil from Coriandrum sativum L. Fruits
Authors: Casetti F. , Bartelke S. , Biehler K. , Augustin M. , Schempp C. M. , Frank U.
Published: October 2015

The aim of this work was to determine the antibacterial activity of essential coriander oil (ECO) on bacteria with dermatological relevance and to assess the skin tolerance of antimicrobial effective ECO concentrations. Essential coriander oil was tested on clinical isolates of different bacteria species, all of which may cause superficial skin infections. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using a standardized macrodilution test. Essential coriander oil showed good antibacterial activity towards the majority of the bacterial strains tested, including Streptococcus pyogenes (Lancefield group A) and methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), with mean minimal inhibitory concentrations of 0.04% v/v and 0.25% v/v, respectively. The skin tolerance of a cream and a lotion containing 0.5% and 1.0% ECO was assessed in 40 healthy volunteers using the occlusive patch test. No skin irritation could be observed by sensitive photometric assessment in any of the volunteers. Because of its activity against Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA combined with excellent skin tolerance, ECO might be useful as an antiseptic for the prevention and treatment of skin infections with Gram‐positive bacteria. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sambucus Williamsii Hance Promotes MC3T3‐E1 Cells Proliferation and Differentiation via BMP‐2/Smad/p38/JNK/Runx2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yang Bingyou , Lin Xiaoying , Yang Chunli , Tan Jinyan , Li Wei , Kuang Haixue
Published: October 2015

The 50% ethanol elution fractions of root‐bark of Sambucus Williamsii Hance (rbSWH) evaluated the effect of proliferation and differentiation on preosteoblast MC3T3‐E1 cell, and the mechanism of actions. We found that rbSWH(30, 60, and 90 µg/mL) can enhance cell proliferation by MTT assay and promote alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and bone Gla protein (BGP) activities, type I collagen (Col‐I) synthesis, and mineralization nodule formation in primary cultured osteoblasts. The results showed that rbSWH can increase mRNA levels of BMP‐2 and Runx2 using real‐time reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction, whereas the BMP‐2 antagonist Noggin attenuated the increase of ALP activity induced by rbSWH, indicating that BMP‐2 expression was required for the action of rbSWH in osteoblastic. We also found that rbSWH can enhance the expressions of BMP‐2, BMPRIB, BMPRII, phosphorylation of Smad, JNK and p38, and Runx2 proteins by western blotting. In addition, pretreatment of cells with p38 inhibitor (SB203580) or JNK inhibitor (SP600125) can antagonize the elevation of BMP‐2 expression, ALP activity, and cell viability induced by rbSWH. Taken together, our results provided an evidence that rbSWH can promote MC3T3‐E1 cell proliferation and differentiation via BMP‐2/Smad/p38/JNK/Runx2 signaling pathway. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improvement of analytical method for chlorine dual‐inlet isotope ratio mass spectrometry of organochlorines
Authors: Gilevska Tetyana , Ivdra Natalija , Bonifacie Magali , Richnow Hans‐Hermann
Published: October 2015

Rationale

The development of compound‐specific chlorine isotope analysis (Cl‐CSIA) is hindered by the lack of international organochlorine reference materials with isotopic compositions expressed in the δ37Cl notation. Thus, a reliable off‐line analytical method is needed, allowing direct comparison of the δ37Cl values of molecularly different organic compounds with that of ocean‐water chloride, to refer measurement results to a Standard Mean Ocean Chloride (SMOC) scale.

Methods

The analytical method included sealed‐tube combustion of organochlorines, precipitation and subsequent conversion of formed inorganic chlorides into methyl chloride (CH3Cl) for the determination of δ37Cl values by Dual‐Inlet Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (DI‐IRMS). A sample preparation step most sensitive to the sample size – dissolution of the inorganic copper chlorides formed by combustion of organochlorines – was identified.

Results

Recovery of 94 ± 5% of chlorine was reached by applying determined optimal conditions for the dissolution, implying good external precision of δ37Cl values (–0.18 ± 0.03‰, 1σ, n = 3). Validation of the optimized method by the analysis of the produced and initial CH3Cl samples with known δ37Cl values vs SMOC resulted in a difference of 0.11 ± 0.04‰ (1σ, n = 3), confirming the external precision and accuracy of the entire method.

Conclusions

The efficiency of the sample preparation method for CH3Cl‐DI‐IRMS analysis is independent both of the chemical structure of the chlorinated compound and of the amount of chlorine in the sample. This method has the potential to be applied to a broad range of chlorinated organic compounds, e.g. reference material for the calibration of methods for Cl‐CSIA against SMOC. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rapid identification of atypical tetracyclines using tandem mass spectrometric fragmentation patterns
Authors: Šala Martin , Kočar Drago , Lukežič Tadeja , Kosec Gregor , Hodošček Milan , Petković Hrvoje
Published: October 2015

Rationale

When applying biosynthetic engineering approaches at the early stages of drug discovery, e.g. aiming to develop novel tetracycline analogues, target compounds are generally produced by engineered microorganisms in low yields. Rapid and reliable identification of metabolites with desired structural modification directly from bacterial cultures is therefore of great importance.

Methods

Structural elucidation of atypical tetracyclines was carried out by fragmentation applying electrospray ionisation tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS/MS) (triple quadrupole – linear ion trap; Applied Biosystems 4000 QTRAP) and a high‐resolution mass spectrometer (Agilent Technologies 6224 TOF). Fragmentation patterns were obtained either with direct injection or by applying separation of target compounds with high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) prior to mass spectrometry. In‐source and CID fragmentation were compared. Theoretical calculations of target structures using the Gaussian programme suite were carried out with the aim of strengthening experimental structural elucidation.

Results

Recombinant strains of Amycolatopsis sulphurea producing atypical tetracyclines chelocardin, modified chelocardin analogues (9‐demethylchelocardin and 2‐carboxyamido‐2‐deacetyl‐chelocardin (CDCHD), and anhydrotetracycline (ATC) were analysed by collision‐induced dissociation (CID) fragmentation with higher collision energies to yield structurally important fragments which were identified. We have demonstrated that ATC is more prone to fragmentation compared to its epimer, which was further supported by comparison of both structures calculated with ab initio calculations.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated that fragmentation patterns of atypical tetracyclines in CID‐MS spectra enable rapid structural elucidation of target metabolites produced by cultures of genetically engineered bacteria. This method is of significant importance for early stages of drug development considering that isolation of target metabolites produced at low concentration is challenging. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemical and Biological Reduction of PCE by Pneumatic Fracturing and Injection of ZVI in Saprolite
Authors: Lee Annie , Abrams Stewart H. , Moskal Eric , Ciambruschini Steven , Moss Daren
Published: October 2015

This article presents a case study of the source‐area treatment of tetrachloroethene (PCE) in a low‐permeability formation using zero‐valent iron (ZVI). Evidence of the stimulation of biological reduction processes within the treatment zone occurred. Pneumatic fracturing and injection of microscale ZVI slurry in the overburden and weathered bedrock zones was performed at a commercial brownfields redevelopment site in Maryland. A 20,000‐square‐foot source area impacted with PCE at concentrations greater than 15,000 µg/L was treated at depths ranging from 10 to 70 feet bgs. An average ZVI dosage of 0.0024 iron‐to‐soil mass ratio within the overburden zone led to a 75 percent decrease in PCE mass in less than one year. For the weathered bedrock zone, an average 0.0045 iron‐to‐soil mass ratio resulted in a 92 percent decrease in PCE mass during the same period. The reducing environment and hydrogen generated by the ZVI may have stimulated Dehalobacter populations, as evidenced by concentrations up to 104 cells per milliliter measured within the treatment area despite a groundwater pH as high as 9. The biological reductive dechlorination of the chlorinated ethenes explains the temporary increase in trichloroethene and cis‐1,2‐dichloroethene concentrations. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chlorinated Solvent Treatment Wetland
Authors: Bankston Jamie , Blodgett Eric , Karthikeyan Suchitra , Richard Don
Published: October 2015

A first‐of‐its‐kind wetland restoration project was completed in October 2000 to treat trichloroethene‐(TCE‐)impacted groundwater from a former manufacturing facility prior to discharge into a highly valued recreational surface water body in the upper Midwest. This article summarizes the design, construction, operation, and effectiveness of the restored wetland. The groundwater‐surface water discharge zone at the site was restored as a wetland to improve the natural degradation of TCE and subsequent degradation by‐products. For the past 11 years, the treatment wetland performance was evaluated by monitoring the wetland vegetation, wetland hydraulics, and water chemistry. Water quality data have been used to assess the wetland geochemistry, TCE and TCE‐degradation by‐product concentrations within the wetland, and the surface water quality immediately downgradient of the wetland. The treatment wetland has been performing according to design, with TCE and TCE‐degradation by‐products not exceeding surface water criteria. The monitoring results show that TCE and TCE‐degradation by‐products are entering the treatment wetland via natural hydraulic gradients and that the geochemistry of the wetland supports both reductive dechlorination (anaerobic degradation) and cometabolic degradation (aerobic degradation) of TCE and TCE‐degradation by‐products: cis‐ and trans‐1,2‐dichloroethene and vinyl chloride. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biochemical Treatment of Hydraulically Complex Hexavalent Chromium and Chlorinated Volatile Organic Plumes
Authors: Desrosiers Richard J. , Schaffner I. Richard , Brookman Gordon T.
Published: October 2015

Groundwater contaminated with hexavalent chromium (Cr+6) and chlorinated volatile organic compounds (cVOCs) presents unique in situ remedial challenges in an oxygen‐rich environment. On one hand, chemical oxidation would be effective in treating the cVOCs; however, it would not be appropriate to treat Cr+6. Biological treatment may be appropriate to treat the Cr+6; however, the cVOC degradation pathway within these mixed plumes is currently following an abiotic pathway with little to no daughter‐product production. Thus, a blended approach was needed to treat both constituents in situ in an effort to avoid a long‐term, costly pump‐and‐treat solution. This article evaluates an in situ biogeochemical stabilization/reduction strategy by injecting an inorganic carbon‐based remedial additive into the geologic and hydrogeologic environment to decrease concentrations within the commingled Cr+6 and cVOC plume. The concept involves creating favorable redox reducing conditions to shift the groundwater geochemical equilibrium from the more toxic Cr+6 to the less toxic trivalent chromium (Cr+3), with the final outcome being a conversion to chrome oxide that molecularly fixes to the soil grains. In addition, reducing conditions developed for chromium reduction should result in an increase in the available natural formation iron that should further enhance the natural abiotic reduction of cVOCs. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.