bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Catalysis by Metal Carbides and Nitrides
Authors: Nash Connor , Yung Matt , Chen Yuan , Carl Sarah , Thompson Levi , Schaidle Josh
Published: August 2017

Early transition metal carbides and nitrides (ETMCNs), materials in which carbon or nitrogen occupies interstitial sites within a parent metal lattice, possess unique physical and chemical properties that motivate their use as catalysts. Specifically, these materials possess multiple types of catalytic sites, including metallic, acidic, and basic sites, and as such, exhibit reactivities that differ from their parent metals. Moreover, their surfaces are dynamic under reaction conditions. This chapter reviews recent (since 2010) experimental and computational investigations into the catalytic properties ofETMCNmaterials for applications including biomass conversion, syngas andCO2upgrading, petroleum and natural gas refining, and electrocatalytic energy conversion, energy storage, and chemicals production, and attempts to link catalyst performance to active site identity/surface structure in order to elucidate the present level of understanding of structure–function relationships for these materials. The chapter concludes with a perspective on leveraging the unique properties of these materials to design and develop improved catalysts through a dedicated, multidisciplinary effort.
Nanoporous Metals with Structural Hierarchy: A Review
Authors: Juarez Theresa , Biener Juergen , Weissmüller Jörg , Hodge Andrea M.
Published: August 2017

Nanoporous (np) metals have generated much interest since they combine several desirable material characteristics, such as high surface area, mechanical size effects, and high conductivity. Most of the research has been focused on np Au due to its relatively straightforward synthesis, chemical stability, and many promising applications in the fields of catalysis and actuation. Other materials, such as np‐Cu, Ag, and Pd have also been studied. This review discusses recent advances in the field of np metals, focusing on new research areas that implement and leverage structural hierarchy while using np metals as their base structural constituents. First, we focus on single‐element porous metals that are made of np metals at the fundamental level, but synthesized with additional levels of porosity. Second, we discuss the fabrication of composite structures, which use auxiliary materials to enhance the properties of np metals. Important applications of these hierarchical materials, especially in the fields of catalysis and electrochemistry, are also reviewed. Finally, we conclude with a discussion about future opportunities for the advancement and application of np metals.
High Energy and High Power Lithium‐Ion Capacitors Based on Boron and Nitrogen Dual‐Doped 3D Carbon Nanofibers as Both Cathode and Anode
Authors: Xia Qiuying , Yang Hai , Wang Min , Yang Mei , Guo Qiubo , Wan Liming , Xia Hui , Yu Yan
Published: August 2017

High energy density at high power density is still a challenge for the current Li‐ion capacitors (LICs) due to the mismatch of charge‐storage capacity and electrode kinetics between capacitor‐type cathode and battery‐type anode. In this work, B and N dual‐doped 3D porous carbon nanofibers are prepared through a facile method as both capacitor‐type cathode and battery‐type anode for LICs. The B and N dual doping has profound effect in tuning the porosity, functional groups, and electrical conductivity for the porous carbon nanofibers. With rational design, the developed B and N dual‐doped carbon nanofibers (BNC) exhibit greatly improved electrochemical performance as both cathode and anode for LICs, which greatly alleviates the mismatch between the two electrodes. For the first time, a 4.5 V “dual carbon” BNC//BNC LIC device is constructed and demonstrated, exhibiting outstanding energy density and power capability compared to previously reported LICs with other configurations. In specific, the present BNC//BNC LIC device can deliver a large energy density of 220 W h kg−1 and a high power density of 22.5 kW kg−1 (at 104 W h kg−1) with reasonably good cycling stability (≈81% retention after 5000 cycles).
Geotechnische Aspekte beim Bau der Großforschungsanlage FAIR
Authors: Kissel Wolfgang , Toker Engin , Reul Oliver
Published: August 2017

In Darmstadt entsteht derzeit mit dem neuen Teilchenbeschleuniger FAIR eine der weltweit größten Forschungsanlagen. Herzstück von FAIR ist ein großer, unterirdischer Ringbeschleuniger von 1,1 km Länge, an den sich 24 Gebäude und Tunnelabschnitte anschließen, die Raum bieten für 3,5 km Strahlführung, für Experimentier‐ und Speicherringe sowie für riesige Teilchendetektoren. Wegen der Anforderungen des Strahlenschutzes sind die Wände und Decken der Bauwerke, deren Gründungssohle sich z. T. bis 21 m unter der Geländeoberfläche befindet, bis zu 8 m dick.

Um die In‐situ‐Verformungseigenschaften des Baugrunds, i. W. kompressible Ablagerungen des Pliozän und Miozän, besser einschätzen zu können, wurde eine Probeschüttung aufgebracht sowie Pfahlprobebelastungen und Ankerzugversuche durchgeführt. Auf Grundlage dieser Untersuchungen sowie von 3D‐Finite‐Elemente‐Berechnungen wurden als Gründungen für die setzungsempfindlichen Bauwerke Kombinierte Pfahl‐Plattengründungen gewählt, mit denen die Setzungen und die Winkelverdrehungen auf ein verträgliches Maß reduziert werden. In der ersten Bauphase wurden bereits ca. 1 350 Gründungspfähle mit einer Gesamtbohrlänge (inkl. Leerbohrungen) von rd. 60 000 m und max. Bohrlängen von bis zu 62 m hergestellt.

Im Rahmen dieses Beitrags werden die Ergebnisse der Probebelastungen präsentiert sowie geotechnische Aspekte bei der Planung der tiefen Baugruben und der Gründung im Hinblick auf die außergewöhnlichen Projektrandbedingungen diskutiert.
Arterial supply of the thumb: Systemic review
Authors: Miletin J. , Sukop A. , Baca V. , Kachlik D.
Published: August 2017

We offer a complete systemic review of the anatomy of arteries of the thumb, including their sources in the first web space. Eleven studies were selected from the PubMed, Medline, Embase, Scopus and Ovid databases. Data about each artery of the thumb were obtained; in particular, the incidence and dominance of each of these arteries were calculated. The ulnopalmar digital artery of the thumb (UPDAT) was found in 99.63%, the radiopalmar digital artery of the thumb (RPDAT) in 99.26%, the ulnodorsal digital artery of the thumb (UDDAT) in 83.39%, and the radiodorsal digital artery of the thumb (RDDAT) in 70.38%. The sources for the thumb arteries are the first palmar metacarpal artery (for UPDAT in 63.15%, for RPDAT in 78.88%, for UDDAT in 56.95% and for RDDAT in 41.48%), the first dorsal metacarpal artery (for UPDAT in 20.54%, for RPDAT 2.53%, for UDDAT in 20.62%, and for RDDAT in 4.81%) and the superficial palmar arch, either complete or incomplete (for UPDAT in 25.57%, for RPDAT in 23.04%, for UDDAT in 0%, and for RDDAT in 5.19%). The dominant source could be identified in 88.2% of cases: the first palmar metacarpal artery (66.2%), the first dorsal metacarpal artery (15.5%) and the superficial palmar arch, complete or incomplete (8.2%). Four arteries usually supply the thumb. Any artery in the first web space can be a source for the thumb arteries. We propose a new classification of the arteries of the hand, dividing them into three systems (superficial palmar, deep palmar and dorsal system), and suggest that the term “princeps pollicis artery” be reconsidered and systemic anatomical terms of the thumb arteries preferred. Clin. Anat. 30:963–973, 2017. ©2017 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Getting down and dirty: An exploration of participation in the field of obstacle challenges
Authors: Maguire Louise
Published: August 2017

This paper examines the contemporary phenomenon of obstacle challenges and why people participate in events that result in them getting soaking wet, freezing cold, and dirtier than they have ever been while also getting shot with pellets and receiving “electric shocks.” Many participants in these challenges have taken part numerous times and keep coming back for more. Using multiple research methods including questionnaires, participant observation where the author completed one of Ireland's more well‐known and “toughest physical and mental endurance challenges,” and also depth interviews with challenge participants has resulted in a rich and detailed account of the obstacle challenge experience. These events are so much more than a few hours of strenuous and muddy physical exercise. The sense of community and camaraderie that people experience during these challenges could be described as “transformative” with participants in many cases more rewarded and moved by this collaborative aspect than the gruelling physical endeavour that they undertake. The escapism provided by the experience is also one its main rewards, relief from the quotidian and the chance to just “be.” The servicescape proves to be critically important to the experience but in ways that are largely incompatible with research in this area to date in that the comfort and cleanliness expected of more traditional servicescapes are spurned and physical hardship is welcomed. As this is an exploratory and novel research topic, suggestions for further research are plentiful.
Expression analysis of cellulose synthase and main cytoskeletal protein genes in flax (Linum usitatissimum L.)
Authors: Galinousky Dmitry , Padvitski Tsimafei , Bayer Galina , Pirko Yaroslav , Pydiura Nikolay , Anisimova Natallia , Nikitinskaya Tatyana , Khotyleva Liubov , Yemets Alla , Kilchevsky Aleksandr , Blume Yaroslav
Published: August 2017

Fiber flax is an important source of natural fiber and a comprehensive model for the plant fiber biogenesis studies. Cellulose‐synthase (CesA) and cytoskeletal genes are known to be important for the cell wall biogenesis in general and for the biogenesis of flax fibers in particular. Currently, knowledge about activity of these genes during the plant growth is limited. In this study, we have investigated flax fiber biogenesis by measuring expression of CesA and cytoskeletal genes at two stages of the flax development (seedlings and stems at the rapid growth stage) in several flax subspecies (elongatum, mediterraneum, crepitans). RT‐qPCR has been used to quantify the expression of LusСesA1, LusСesA4, LusСesA7, LusСesA6, Actin, and α‐Tubulin genes in plant samples. We report that CesA genes responsible for the secondary cell wall synthesis (LusCesA4, LusCesA7) have different expression pattern compared with CesA genes responsible for the primary cell wall synthesis (LusCesA1, LusCesA6): an average expression of LusCesA4 and LusCesA7 genes is relatively high in seedlings and further increases in stems at the rapid growth stage, whereas an average expression of LusCesA1 and LusCesA6 genes decreases. Interestingly, LusCesA1 is the only studied gene with different expression dynamics between the flax subspecies: its expression decreases by 5.2–10.7 folds in elongatum and mediterraneum but does not change in crepitans subspecies when the rapid growth stage and seedlings are compared. The expression of cytoskeleton genes (coding actin and α‐tubulin) is relatively stable and significantly higher than the expression of cellulose‐synthase genes in all the studied samples.
Electrode‐Resolved Monitoring of the Ageing of Large‐Scale Lithium‐Ion Cells by using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Heins Tom Patrick , Schlüter Nicolas , Schröder Uwe
Published: August 2017

The ageing of large‐scale lithium‐ion batteries due to prolonged cycling was investigated by means of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The resulting spectra were analyzed by using the method of the distribution of relaxation times. Thereby, the number of distinguishable polarization processes that contribute to the overall cell electrochemistry was determined. The physical meaning of these polarization processes was clarified by the assessment of their temperature dependences as well as by comparative measurements in three‐electrode setup cells. In this way, electrode‐resolved interpretation of impedance spectra of large‐scale lithium‐ion cells without any kind of reference electrode was achieved. Based on this electrode resolution, the origin of the cell degradation due to cycling could be elucidated.
Bayes factor biases for non‐nested models and corrections
Authors: Susko Edward
Published: August 2017

With the advent of simulation‐based methods to obtain samples from posteriors and due to increases in computational power, Bayesian methods are increasingly applied to complex problems, sometimes providing the only available methods where likelihood implementations are difficult. As a consequence a large body of research in science and social science increasingly utilizes Bayesian tools, often applying them with default settings. A fundamental problem of interest is model selection, and Bayes factors provide a natural approach to Bayesian model selection. Using Laplace approximations and illustrative examples we demonstrate that Bayes factors can have strong biases toward particular models even in non‐nested settings with the same number of parameters. Several easily implemented corrections are shown to provide effective cross‐checks to default Bayes Factors.The Canadian Journal of Statistics45: 290–309; 2017 © 2017 Statistical Society of Canada
Interface Engineering of Perovskite Solar Cells with Air Plasma Treatment for Improved Performance
Authors: Ma Xiao , Tang Peng , Liu Dong , Zhang Jingquan , Feng Lianghuan , Wu Lili
Published: August 2017

For high‐efficiency perovskite solar cells (PSCs), interface engineering becomes critical for carrier collection from the active perovskite material to the transport layer. To enhance the power conversion efficiency (PCE), herein we demonstrate a novel method named surface plasma treatment on a mesoporous TiO2 electron‐transport layer (ETL) to improve electron extraction and transport properties at the perovskite/TiO2 interface. According to the XPS results, the plasma treatment induced a partial reduction of Ti4+ to Ti3+ within the TiO2 lattice and increased the concentration of oxygen vacancies on the TiO2 surface. Ultraviolet photoelectron spectra (UPS) show that the Fermi level of TiO2 upshifts about 0.2 eV which may effectively promote carrier separation and transfer at the perovskite/TiO2 interface. In addition, these created donor levels of Ti3+ and oxygen vacancies donate extra electrons, increasing the conductivities of TiO2 films and which could further promote transport. The time‐resolved photoluminescence spectra (TRPL) confirm that the decay time decreases dramatically from 656 ns to 235 ns after 90 s plasma treatment, which indicates a more efficient electron‐transfer process. Based on all the above‐mentioned results, a remarkable enhancement in cell efficiency was obtained, such that the average efficiency was improved from 11.5 % to 14.3 % under AM 1.5G irradiation (100 mW cm−2).
Does Confinement Always Lead to Thermodynamically and/or Kinetically Favorable Reactions? A Case Study using Diels–Alder Reactions within ExBox+4 and CB[7]
Authors: Chakraborty Debdutta , Das Ranjita , Chattaraj Pratim Kumar
Published: August 2017

The front cover artwork is provided by the group of Prof. Pratim K. Chattaraj (IIT Kharagpur). The image shows a Diels–Alder reaction occurring between 1,3‐butadiene and ethylene within ExBox+4 and Cucurbit[7]uril. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/cphc.201700308.
Miocene depositional environments, processes, and depositional elements in the southern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Gutiérrez Paredes Hilda Clarisa , Catuneanu Octavian , Hernández Romano Ulises
Published: August 2017

Detailed stratigraphic and facies analyses were conducted and combined with seismic facies and 3D seismic‐derived plan view images to interpret the depositional environments, processes and depositional elements during the Miocene for an area located in the southern Gulf of Mexico.

The results showed that deposition during the Miocene mainly occurred in a slope setting, with bathymetric changes associated with highs and mini‐basins related to salt features. From the sedimentological interpretation, 13 sedimentary facies were identified. The abundant lithofacies were structureless (massive) sandstone and massive mudstone. Ripple‐ , parallel and cross‐laminated sandstone and siltstone were found in minor proportions. The main depositional processes were related to turbidity currents, including high‐density and low‐density currents; debris flows (mud flows and grain flows) were of secondary importance, as was deposition from fallout of suspended hemipelagic mud particles.

The vertical and lateral distributions of facies revealed seven facies associations linked to depositional environments. These facies associations were the building blocks that were used to characterize the depositional elements recognized on seismic data. The main depositional elements identified were mass‐transport complexes, submarine channels, and frontal splays.

Finally, interpretations from different data sets enabled the conclusion that, during the Miocene in this area were submarine fans deposited on an irregular paleotopography, with topographic lows and highs controlled by salt tectonics.
Structural analysis of ductile shear zones in the North Qinling Orogen and its implications for the evolution of the Proto‐Tethys Ocean
Authors: Zhao Shujuan , Li Sanzhong , Li Xiyao , Somerville Ian , Cao Huahua , Liu Xin , Wang Pengcheng
Published: August 2017

The ductile shear zones in the North Qinling Orogen, such as the Luonan‐Luanchuan, Guanpo‐Qiaoduan, Zhuyangguan‐Xiaguan, and Shangdan shear zones, play an important role in the preclosure and postclosure evolution of the Proto‐Tethys Ocean. On the basis of detailed macrostructural/microstructural analysis and quartz C‐axis electron backscattered diffraction fabric analysis, the sense and formation environment of the 4 shear zones have been obtained. The Luonan‐Luanchuan and Guanpo‐Qiaoduan shear zones mainly present as dextral and sinistral shearing under low temperature, respectively. The Zhuyangguan‐Xiaguan shear zone mainly presents as dextral shearing under medium temperature. The Shangdan shear zone underwent an early dextral shearing under medium temperature and a late sinistral shearing under low temperature. The Qinling Group and the Taibai region were intensively affected by the late sinistral shearing of the Shangdan shear zone. According to published metamorphic ages, the 4 shear zones should have been formed during the collision between the North China Block and the South China Block. Due to the opening of the Mianlue and the Paleo‐Tethys oceans since ~380 Ma, the North China Block and the South China Block departed from northern Gondwanaland and drifted northward along transform faults, which led to the arrangement between the North China Block and the South China Block that transited from an east–west direction to a north–south direction. Since ~320 Ma, the scissors‐type closure between the North China Block and the South Qinling Terrane led to the westward extrusion of the North Qinling Orogen, and the dextral shearing of the Luonan‐Luanchuan and the Zhuyangguan‐Xiaguan shear zones and the sinistral shearing of the Guanpo‐Qiaoduan and the Shangdan shear zones.
Optimal cyclic quaternary constant‐weight codes of weight three
Authors: Lan Liantao , Chang Yanxun
Published: August 2017

A cyclic code is a cyclic q‐ary code of length n, constant weight w and minimum distance d. Let denote the largest possible size of a cyclic code. The pure and mixed difference method plays an important role in the determination of upper bound on . By analyzing the distribution of odd mixed and pure differences, an improved upper bound on is obtained for . A new construction based on special sequences is provided and the exact value of is almost completely determined for all d and n except when and . Our constructions reveal intimate connections between cyclic constant weight codes and special sequences, particularly Skolem‐type sequences.
High prevalence of syphilis, HBV, and HCV co‐infection, and low rate of effective vaccination against hepatitis B in HIV‐infected patients in West China hospital
Authors: Yang Tingting , Chen Qixia , Li Dongdong , Wang Tingting , Gou Yu , Wei Bin , Tao Chuanmin
Published: August 2017

To investigate the epidemiological features and risk factors of HBV, HCV, and syphilis infection among HIV‐infected patients in West China Hospital. A retrospective study was conducted with HIV‐infected patients from 2014 to 2016 in West China hospital, SCU. Serum makers for HBV, HCV, and syphilis were detected. Among 894 HIV‐infected patients, the prevalence of HIV/HBV, HIV/HCV, HIV/syphilis co‐infections was 14.4%, 5.7%, and 18.9% respectively. HIV/HBV/HCV, HIV/HCV/syphilis, and HIV/HBV/syphilis triple co‐infection was 7 (0.7%), 12(1.3%), 29(3.2%) respectively. The rate of effective vaccination against HBV was only 7.7% in HIV‐infected patients. Age (OR = 0.243 95% CI: 0.114 −0.518), ethnicity (OR = 3.654 95% CI: 1.849‐7.218) and education level (OR = 0.140 95% CI: 0.033‐0.606) are risk factors affecting HIV/HCV co‐infection. A high prevalence of HIV/syphilis, HIV/HBV, and HIV/ HCV co‐infection can be observed in west China. The rate for HIV‐infected patients who were effectively vaccinated against HBV was fewer than 10%.
Trace elements and radiocesium in game species near contaminated sites
Authors: Oldenkamp Ricki E. , Bryan Albert L. , Kennamer Robert A. , Leaphart James C. , Webster Sarah C. , Beasley James C.
Published: August 2017

Mercury (Hg), Selenium (Se), and Arsenic (As) found in coal combustion wastes (CCW) and radionuclides released from anthropogenic activities present potential environmental and human health concerns. Despite the widespread harvest and consumption of wildlife by recreational hunters, game species are not subject to the same safety testing as commercially marketed livestock; thus, there are few data available regarding contaminant concentrations in many commonly harvested wildlife. We sampled feral pigs (Sus scrofa; invasive wild pigs), gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis), and waterfowl from relatively uncontaminated habitats and areas of contamination to quantify levels of trace elements and radiocesium (137Cs) in muscle and liver tissues for assessment of potential human health risks from the consumption of game. Species collected at a CCW ash basin consistently had levels of selected trace elements, particularly Se, above concentrations considered toxic to waterfowl, suggesting CCW may be an important pathway for wildlife, and subsequently human exposure to this element. Similarly, we observed elevated concentrations of 137Cs in wildlife collected in or near aquatic ecosystems with histories of operational releases of radionuclides. The majority of tissue samples analyzed were below elemental levels known to adversely affect wildlife health and 137Cs levels were below European Economic Community limits for human consumption established following the 1986 Chernobyl accident. Waterfowl, however, had levels of several elements of interest (Se and Hg) that could be of health concern to the birds, especially individuals collected from areas with known contamination, or human consumers of the birds. Given the high levels of trace element burdens we observed in waterfowl collected from ash basins, and the common occurrence of similar surface impoundments throughout much of the globe, wide‐scale sampling for contaminants in waterfowl within or across migratory flyways appear to be greatly needed to better understand routes of contaminant movement and potential areas (or species) with elevated contamination risk to waterfowl and hunters. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
Genetic control of complex traits, with a focus on reproduction in pigs
Authors: Zak Louisa J. , Gaustad Ann Helen , Bolarin Alfonso , Broekhuijse Marleen L. W. J. , Walling Grant A. , Knol Egbert F.
Published: August 2017

Reproductive traits are complex, and desirable reproductive phenotypes, such as litter size or semen quality, are true polygenetic traits determined by multiple gene regulatory pathways. Each individual gene contributes to the overall variation in these traits, so genetic improvements can be achieved using conventional selection methodology. In the past, a pedigree‐based‐relationship matrix was used; this is now replaced by a combination of pedigree‐based‐ and genomic‐relationship matrices. The heritability of reproductive traits is low to moderate, so large‐scale data recording is required to identify specific, selectable attributes. Male reproductive traits—including ejaculate volume and sperm progressive motility—are moderately heritable, and could be used in selection programs. A few high‐merit artificial‐insemination boars can impact many sow populations, so additional knowledge about male reproduction—specifically pre‐pubertal detection of infertility and the technologies of semen cryopreservation and sex sorting—should further improve global breeding efforts. Conversely, female pig reproduction is currently a limiting factor of genetic improvement. Litter size and farrowing interval are the main obstacles to increasing selection intensity and to reducing generation interval in a breeding program. Age at puberty and weaning‐to‐estrus interval can be selected for, thereby reducing the number of non‐productive days. The number of piglets born alive and litter weights are also reliably influenced by genetic selection. Characterization of genotype‐environment interactions will provide opportunities to match genetics to specific farm systems. Continued investment to understand physiological models for improved phenotyping and the development of technologies to facilitate pig embryo production for genetic selection are warranted to ensure optimal breeding in future generations.
Multiple pilomatrixomas in a survivor of WNT‐activated medulloblastoma leading to the discovery of a germline APC mutation and the diagnosis of familial adenomatous polyposis
Authors: Bendelsmith Charles R. , Skrypek Mary M. , Patel Sachin R. , Pond Dinel A. , Linabery Amy M. , Bendel Anne E.
Published: August 2017

Because children diagnosed with WNT‐activated medulloblastoma have a 10‐year overall survival rate of 95%, active long‐term follow‐up is critically important in reducing mortality from other causes. Here, we describe an 11‐year‐old adopted female who developed multiple pilomatrixomas 3 years after diagnosis of WNT‐activated medulloblastoma, an unusual finding that prompted deeper clinical investigation. A heterozygous germline APC gene mutation was discovered, consistent with familial adenomatous polyposis. Screening endoscopy revealed numerous precancerous polyps that were excised. This case highlights the importance of long‐term follow‐up of pediatric cancer survivors, including attention to unexpected symptoms, which might unveil an underlying cancer predisposition syndrome.
Regret about surgical decisions among early‐stage breast cancer patients: Effects of the congruence between patients' preferred and actual decision‐making roles
Authors: Wang Ashley Wei‐Ting , Chang Su‐Mei , Chang Cheng‐Shyong , Chen Shou‐Tung , Chen Dar‐Ren , Fan Fang , Antoni Michael H. , Hsu Wen‐Yau
Published: August 2017

Objective

Early‐stage breast cancer patients generally receive either a mastectomy or a lumpectomy, either by their own choice or that of their surgeon. Sometimes, there is regret about the decision afterward. To better understand regret about surgical decisions, this study examined 2 possibilities: The first is that women who take a dominant or collaborative role in decision making about the surgery express less regret afterward. The second is that congruence between preferred role and actual role predicts less regret. We also explored whether disease stage moderates the relationship between role congruence and decisional regret.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional design, 154 women diagnosed with breast cancer completed a survey assessing decisional role preference and actual decisional role, a measure of post‐decision regret, and a measure of disturbances related to breast cancer treatment. Hierarchical regression was used to investigate prediction of decisional regret.

Results

Role congruence, not actual decisional role, was significantly associated with less decisional regret, independent of all the control variables. The interaction between disease stage and role congruence was also significant, showing that mismatch relates to regret only in women with more advanced disease.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that cancer patients could benefit from tailored decision support concerning their decisional role preferences in the complex scenario of medical and personal factors during the surgical decision.
Reinventing refills: guidelines for design
Authors: Lofthouse Vicky , Trimingham Rhoda , Bhamra Tracy
Published: August 2017

This paper draws on the findings of a Department for Environment and Rural Affairs funded collaborative research project run by the Loughborough Design School in collaboration with Boots Alliance GmbH and presents guidelines for design teams regarding the design of successful, sustainable, refillable packaging. The study focused on “body wash” products in the area of personal care.

A broad range of qualitative methods were used to create a background framework, develop design concepts, and test the viability of the design solutions. Two concepts were turned into high‐fidelity prototypes and tested in multi‐activity user focus groups. The prototypes were also evaluated from an environmental perspective using the Eco Indicator 99.

Discussion is focused around general findings regarding refillable packing and also on specific findings related to “concentrates mixed in the parent pack.” The findings from this study have dramatically increased levels of understanding about the potential implications of refillable packaging and how it might be successfully used by business. A range of guidelines for the design of refills have been identified, which help to build a clearer picture of the requirements of successful refillable packaging design. Additionally, a much more detailed understanding of consumer perceptions, business challenges/opportunities, and environmental savings associated with “concentrated refills that are mixed in the parent pack,” has been identified.

It has been seen that to be successful refills must perform for the consumer, the environment, and business, and although this may sound unsurprising, it is challenging to achieve. It means they must offer good quality; be very easy to use and appropriately delivered; be clearly communicated; be offered through a brand consumers like; and represent good value, whilst radically reducing the amount of packaging manufactured and distributed. Incorporating carefully considered consumer and environmental needs into the brief is critical to the successful development of refillable packaging.
An integrated preventive maintenance and production planning model with sequence‐dependent setup costs and times
Authors: Liu Xuejuan , Wang Wenbin , Peng Rui
Published: August 2017

This paper considers the integration of preventive maintenance and tactical production planning in a multiproduct production system, where setup costs and times are sequence dependent. A set of products needs to be produced in lots during a finite planning horizon, where preventive maintenance is conducted periodically at the end of some production periods and corrective maintenance is always performed when there is a failure. The system downtime—as caused by maintenance and setup—affects the system's available production capacity. We use a sequence‐oriented method to search for the optimal setup sequence and develop some steps to prune the searching tree. Our objective is to find the optimal preventive maintenance interval, production lot size, and production sequence in every period, by minimizing the sum of maintenance, production, inventory, and setup costs within the planning horizon. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate our model.
New Generation Fuel Cell Membrane Using Swift Heavy Ions
Authors: Jana Karun K. , Tiwari Vimal K. , Avasthi Devesh K. , Paine Tapan K. , Maiti Pralay
Published: August 2017

In this review, we focus on the effect of high energy swift heavy ion irradiation on fluoropolymers and their nanohybrids, prepared through dispersion of few weight percentage of organically modified nanoclay in polymer matrix, for the fabrication of new generation fuel cell membrane. A variety of chemical, physical and structural changes are revealed with superior properties in nanohybrid. In addition, radiation resistant nature of the polymer has been discussed with improved properties including formation of nanopores and high proton conductivity of the functionalized nanopores having sufficient mechanical strength which are essential requirements for any fuel cell membrane. Membrane electrode assembly has been demonstrated having very good power density and the developed membrane has the potential to replace the expensive Nafion as standard membrane currently being used in fuel cell membrane. Further, nanoclay induced piezoelectricity in polymer matrix is attractive for the fabrication of a smart membrane using swift heavy ions.
Review of Hydrogen Production by Catalytic Aqueous‐Phase Reforming
Authors: Vaidya Prakash D. , Lopez‐Sanchez Jose A.
Published: August 2017

Catalytic aqueous‐phase reforming (APR) produces higher quality hydrogen (with less carbon monoxide) and carbon dioxide from weak solutions of bio‐carbohydrates in a single reactor at low temperatures. It provides a good opportunity for the effective valorisation of biomass‐derived products. It is advantageous than steam reforming because it saves energy by avoiding vaporization of the biofeed and lowers cost by precluding an extra water gas shift reactor. As evident from the numerous published works during the past decade, there is growing academic and industrial interest in the APR process. This review updates recent literature on APR of many biomass surrogates such as glycerol, ethylene glycol, sorbitol, ethanol and glucose. Most works focused on the development of efficient catalysts for selective hydrogen production and they were deliberated comprehensively. Key insights into improved catalysts and reaction conditions were highlighted. New inferences on the thermodynamic, kinetic and reactor engineering aspects of the APR process were analysed too. This thorough appraisal of the current literature, which is hitherto missing, will surely contribute to the development of the next generation of catalysts and reactors for commercial applications of the APR process.
Fossil travertines and quasi-travertine in the Minusa basin (West Siberia): structure, composition, and comparative analysis
Authors: Fedoseev G.S. , Vorontsov A.A. , Orekhov A.A.
Published: August 2017

We study a carbonate body looking like a classical fossil travertine which was discovered in the Chebaki–Balakhta basin within the Minusa trough (Khakassia, Russia) and called quasi-travertine. It is a thin layer sandwiched between a basalt–dolerite sill and calcareous siltstone. Comprehensive studies of the quasi-travertine and its comparison with Devonian fossil travertines located a few kilometers away in terms of structure and composition have made the basis for its formation model. According to this model, the quasi-travertine has had a two-stage history: deposition and subsequent hydrothermal metasomatism. Laminated limestone coexisting with calcareous siltstone of the Early Devonian Shunet Formation formed during the first stage and then experienced hydrothermal metasomatism with precipitation of secondary calcite, prehnite, and pyrobitumen (kerite).
Farmers Market Locations and Their Determinants: An Empirical Analysis in New England
Authors: Bonanno Alessandro , Berning Joshua , Etemaadnia Hamideh
Published: August 2017

After a strong expansion across the United States, farmers markets’ (FMs) growth rate has declined in spite of policymakers’ interest in promoting them. In this study we model farmers’ participation in FMs and investigate what market factors affect FMs’ location using zip-code-level data for the New England states. Our results suggest that market size, education, presence of children in the household and SNAP participation lend to the establishment of FMs, more than income per se. Farming activities has a positive association with the likelihood of FMs, while proxies for establishment costs and the presence of traditional distribution channels may play a limiting role in their formation.
Effect of pomegranate extract on blood pressure and anthropometry in adults: a double-blind placebo-controlled randomised clinical trial
Authors: Stockton A. , Farhat G. , McDougall Gordon J. , Al-Dujaili E. A. S
Published: August 2017

Pomegranate (Punica granatum), a polyphenol-rich fruit, has been suggested to reduce cardiovascular risk due to its antioxidant properties. Hypertension and obesity are the most preventable cardiovascular risk factors. Few studies on blood pressure and/or body-weight status have been conducted in human subjects. Previous investigations have tended to focus on pomegranate juice. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of pomegranate extract (PE) on blood pressure and anthropometric measures in adults with no symptomatic disease. A total of fifty-five participants enrolled in a randomised double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial where they were assigned to either PE capsules or placebo capsules for 8 weeks. Blood pressure, body weight, waist circumference, waist:hip ratio (WHR) and body composition (lean body mass, body fat) were measured at baseline, week 4 and week 8. Results showed a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure after 8 weeks (by 2·79 (sd 5·32) mmHg; P < 0·05), while the decrease in systolic blood pressure did not reach statistical significance (2·57 (sd 7·4) mmHg; P > 0·05). Body fat percentage, lean body mass, waist circumference and WHR did not significantly differ between groups at the end of the intervention. Results suggest that PE may reduce blood pressure and possibly prevent hypertension in the normotensive population. Further large trials are required to elucidate this effect.
Syntactic methods for topic-independent authorship attribution
Authors: BJÖRKLUND JOHANNA , ZECHNER NIKLAS
Published: August 2017

The efficacy of syntactic features for topic-independent authorship attribution is evaluated, taking a feature set of frequencies of words and punctuation marks as baseline. The features are ‘deep’ in the sense that they are derived by parsing the subject texts, in contrast to ‘shallow’ syntactic features for which a part-of-speech analysis is enough. The experiments are made on two corpora of online texts and one corpus of novels written around the year 1900. The classification tasks include classical closed-world authorship attribution, identification of separate texts among the works of one author, and cross-topic authorship attribution. In the first tasks, the feature sets were fairly evenly matched, but for the last task, the syntax-based feature set outperformed the baseline feature set. These results suggest that, compared to lexical features, syntactic features are more robust to changes in topic.
Demoralization in medical illness: Feasibility and acceptability of a pilot educational intervention for inpatient oncology nurses
Authors: Brewer Benjamin W. , Caspari Jennifer M. , Youngwerth Jean , Nathan Leigh , Ripoll Izaskun , Heru Alison
Published: August 2017

Objective:

Demoralization is a common problem among medical inpatients with such serious health problems as cancer. An awareness of this syndrome, a knowledge of what defines it, and a plan for how to intervene are limited among nursing teams. Nurses are uniquely poised to efficiently provide brief interventions that address demoralization in their patients. To our knowledge, there are no interventions that train nurses to distinguish and treat demoralization in their patients. The objective of the present study was to determine the acceptability, feasibility, and impact of a novel educational intervention for nurses.

Method:

An educational training video was created and delivered to staff nurses (N = 31) at oncology staff meetings to test the feasibility and acceptability of this intervention. Assessments of nurses' knowledge about demoralization and intervention methods were administered immediately before and after the training intervention and through a web-based survey 6 weeks post-intervention. McNemar's test for dependent categorical data was utilized to evaluate change in survey responses at the three timepoints.

Results:

Nurses' understanding of the concept of demoralization and appropriate interventions significantly improved by 30.3% from pre- to posttest (p ≤ 0.0001). These improvements persisted at 6 weeks post-intervention (p ≤ 0.0001). At 6-week follow-up, 74.2% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that the training had positively changed their nursing practice, 96.8% reported that this training benefited their patients, and 100% felt that this training was important for the professional development of nurses.

Significance of results:

This pilot intervention appeared feasible and acceptable to nurses and resulted in increased understanding of demoralization, improved confidence to intervene in such cases, and an enhanced sense of professional satisfaction among inpatient oncology floor nurses.
Does growth restriction increase the vulnerability to acute ventilation-induced brain injury in newborn lambs? Implications for future health and disease
Authors: Allison B. J. , Hooper S. B. , Coia E. , Jenkin G. , Malhotra A. , Zahra V. , Sehgal A. , Kluckow M. , Gill A. W. , Yawno T. , Polglase G. R. , Castillo-Melendez M. , Miller S. L.
Published: August 2017

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) and preterm birth are frequent co-morbidities, both are independent risks for brain injury. However, few studies have examined the mechanisms by which preterm FGR increases the risk of adverse neurological outcomes. We aimed to determine the effects of prematurity and mechanical ventilation (VENT) on the brain of FGR and appropriately grown (AG, control) lambs. We hypothesized that FGR preterm lambs are more vulnerable to ventilation-induced acute brain injury. FGR was surgically induced in fetal sheep (0.7 gestation) by ligation of a single umbilical artery. After 4 weeks, preterm lambs were euthanized at delivery or delivered and ventilated for 2 h before euthanasia. Brains and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were collected for analysis of molecular and structural indices of early brain injury. FGRVENT lambs had increased oxidative cell damage and brain injury marker S100B levels compared with all other groups. Mechanical ventilation increased inflammatory marker IL-8 within the brain of FGRVENT and AGVENT lambs. Abnormalities in the neurovascular unit and increased blood–brain barrier permeability were observed in FGRVENT lambs, as well as an altered density of vascular tight junctions markers. FGR and AG preterm lambs have different responses to acute injurious mechanical ventilation, changes which appear to have been developmentally programmed in utero.
Observation of the unexpected morphology of graphene wrinkle on copper substrate
Authors: Wang Wen , Yang Shudu , Wang Ashu
Published: August 2017

Graphene, a two-dimensional material, has a wide range of unique properties and could be used in the development of varieties of mechanic, electronic and photonic devices, therefore methods to synthesis large-area high-quality graphene films are urgently required. Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) has been of particular interest recently due to its simplicity and low cost. However, because of the mismatch of thermal expansion coefficients, high densities of wrinkles are commonly observed. Despite their prevalence and potential impact on large-scale graphene properties, relatively little is known about their structural morphology and formation mechanism. In this article, morphologies of graphene obtained by CVD are experimentally investigated by an atomic force microscope (AFM) and results show that the profiles of wrinkles are much larger than they should be. By using theoretical methods and molecular dynamics simulations (MD), we find internal molecules created during CVD process which supply additional pressure is the main mechanism.
Coherent tunneling in an AlGaN/AlN/GaN heterojunction captured through an analogy with a MOS contact
Authors: Baines Yannick , Buckley Julien , Biscarrat Jérôme , Garnier Gennie , Charles Matthew , Vandendaele William , Gillot Charlotte , Plissonnier Marc
Published: August 2017

Due to their wide band gaps, III-N materials can exhibit behaviors ranging from the semiconductor class to the dielectric class. Through an analogy between a Metal/AlGaN/AlN/GaN diode and a MOS contact, we make use of this dual nature and show a direct path to capture the energy band diagram of the nitride system. We then apply transparency calculations to describe the forward conduction regime of a III-N heterojunction diode and demonstrate it realizes a tunnel diode, in contrast to its regular Schottky Barrier Diode designation. Thermionic emission is ruled out and instead, a coherent electron tunneling scenario allows to account for transport at room temperature and higher.
Application of galangin, an active component of Alpinia officinarum Hance (Zingiberaceae), for use in drug-eluting stents
Authors: Lee Jung-Jin , Lee Ji-Hye , Yim Nam-Hui , Han Joo-Hui , Ma Jin Yeul
Published: August 2017

In clinical pathology, stent interposition is used to treat vascular disease but can lead to restenosis. Drug-eluting stents (DES) are most commonly used to suppress restenosis but can also have side effects. Therefore, we investigated the anti-proliferative effect and its possible target in vitro and in vivo. We found that Alpinia officinarum Hance (AO) extract efficiently inhibited VSMC proliferation by arresting the transition from the G0/G1 to the S phase via the up-regulation of p27KIP1 expression. Galangin (GA) was determined to be a significant component of this extract, with the same anti-proliferative activity as the raw extract. Immunoblotting and immunofluorescence staining showed that both the AO extract and GA targeted the up-regulation of p27KIP1 expression. Therefore, we next examined the effect of these compounds in a cuff-injured neointimal hyperplasia model in vivo. In this animal model, both the AO extract and GA completely suppressed the neointima formation, and this inhibitory effect was also demonstrated to target the up-regulation of p27KIP1, including the suppression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression. Our findings indicate that AO extract and GA have a potent anti-proliferative activity, targeting the up-regulation of p27 expression. Thus, GA may represent an alternative medicine for use in DES.