bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of streambank fencing and river access for cattle on riparian zone soils adjacent to the Lower Little Bow River in southern Alberta, Canada
Authors: Miller J. J. , Curtis T. , Chanasyk D. S. , Willms W. D.
Published: February 2014

Miller, J. J., Curtis, T., Chanasyk, D. S. and Willms, W. D. 2014. Influence of streambank fencing and river access for cattle on riparian zone soils adjacent to the Lower Little Bow River in southern Alberta, Canada. Can. J. Soil Sci. 94: 209–222. Cattle grazing in riparian pastures adjacent to rivers may increase soil compaction and increase soil nutrients, such as N and P. We conducted a 4-yr study with sampling in 3 yr (2009, 2010, 2012) of riparian zone soils adjacent to fenced and unfenced reaches of the Lower Little Bow River in southern Alberta. We examined the effect of grazing, access of cattle to the river (access versus no-access), and distance (0.25, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 m) from the river on surface soil bulk density, volumetric water content, NH4-N, NO3, and soil test P. Penetration depth was also measured in 2012. The three grazing treatments consisted of one fenced reach (ungrazed treatment), one unfenced and grazed reach with high cattle impact (high-impact grazed treatment), and one unfenced and grazed reach with low cattle impact (low-impact grazed treatment). We hypothesized that soil compaction would be greater, soil nutrients would be enriched, and soil water content would be lower for grazed compared with ungrazed treatments, and that this same trend would occur for access compared with no-access locations. The soil properties in our study were generally significantly (P≤0.05) influenced by grazing, access, and distance from the riverbank. However, treatment effects were generally dependent on two- or three-way interactions with the other factors. Soil bulk density in 2009 and 2012 was 8 to 20% greater at access compared with no-access locations within 2 m of the riverbank, suggesting soil compaction by cattle was confined close to the wetter riverbank soils. Most soil properties generally supported our hypothesis of greater soil compaction and nutrient enrichment for unfenced compared with fenced reaches, as well as for access compared with no-access locations. The exceptions were soil water content and soil test P results that did not support the grazing hypothesis, and soil water content and NH4-N results that did not support the cattle-access hypothesis.
Nitrogen budget for fertilized carrot cropping systems in a Quebec organic soil
Authors: Caron Jean , Rancourt Guillaume Théroux , Bélec Carl , Tremblay Nicolas , Parent Léon-Étienne
Published: February 2014

Caron, J., Rancourt, G. T., Bélec, C., Tremblay, N. and Parent, L.-É. 2014. Nitrogen budget for fertilized carrot cropping systems in a Quebec organic soil. Can. J. Soil Sci. 94: 139–148. After reclamation, organic soils tend to shift from net N immobilization to net N mineralization. The N amounts mineralized annually can be sufficient to cover the N needs of the crop, reducing the need for supplemental N fertilization. The objective of this study was to assess N budgets and to infer the apparent N mineralization in fertilized and unfertilized carrot (Daucus carota L.) crops in an organic soil in southwestern Quebec. Five pre-plant N fertilization treatments (0, 25, 50, 75, and a split 25+25 kg N ha−1) were applied over a 3-yr period to non-irrigated carrots. Crop yield and plant and soil N contents were measured. Apparent net N mineralization was an important source of N, averaging 117 kg N ha−1yr−1. Crop yield was not affected by the N fertilization rate, by splitting of the fertilizer application or by the previous year’s crop. Increasing the N fertilizer rate increased the soil nitrate content below the root zone (∼40 cm below the surface), enhancing the risk of nitrate leaching. Thus, because soil N mineralization was sufficient for the carrots’ requirements in this organic soil, supplemental N fertilization was found to be unnecessary and could exacerbate the environmental risk of nitrate leaching.
Identification and Preservation of External Branch of Superior Laryngeal Nerve in Thyroidectomy
Authors: Bokare Bhagyashree D , Athavale Poorva K , Ekhar Vipin R , Mahore Devendra Meghraj
Published: February 2014

The basic principle of head and neck surgery is based on the identification and preservation of important structures, rather than avoidance. This principle is also applicable to identification and preservation of external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve (EBSLN) as a standard routine in all thyroid surgeries. During thyroid surgery, the EBSLN is clearly at risk due to its close proximity to the superior thyroid artery (STA) and its branches that need to be ligated during dissection of the superior pole of the thyroid gland. Injury is detrimental to the patient by causing paralysis of the cricothyroid muscle which is the main tensor and pitch controlling mechanism of the vocal folds. Injury to the EBSLN during surgery can result in the voice changes, loss of upper range and easy fatigability of voice, the severity of which varies according to the vocal demand of the patient.

Total 45 cases of thyroid swellings were treated with surgery, in the Department of ENT at a tertiary care hospital during the period from 1st October 2009 to 30th October 2010. Hemithyroidectomy was the most common operative procedure implemented in 24 patients (53.33%) in which right sided was common. Next common procedure performed was that of total thyroidectomy in 14 patients (31.11%). Four patients underwent total thyroidectomy with neck dissection. The position of EBSLN was classified according the Cernea et al classification. In our study we found the EBSLN to be type I in 46.66%, type IIa in 73.33% and type IIb in 02.22%. The anatomical landmark taken into consideration to identify EBSLN was the Joll's triangle with its relation to the superior pole of the thyroid gland and STA.

How to cite this article

Athavale PK, Bokare BD, Ekhar VR, Mahore DM. Identification and Preservation of External Branch of Superior Laryngeal Nerve in Thyroidectomy. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2013;3(2):39-41.
Resurgence of Diphtheria: Are We ready to treat?
Authors: Murthy GSN , Bhimeswar R , Kumar M Veera , Prasad P Krishna
Published: February 2014

Objectives

To create awareness amongst the medical faculty about a forgotten fatal disease (diphtheria). To determine the age distribution, immunization status, presenting features, prognosis with respect to duration after which they took medication and effect of ADS on recovery in cases of faucial and laryngeal diphtheria. To stress on the importance of DTP immunization to control diphtheria.

Study method

In this study, 15 patients who presented to the Government general hospital between July and September 2013 with membranous tonsillitis were enrolled. In every diphtheriaproven case, we administrated antidiphtheric serum (ADS) as early as possible along with injection crystalline penicillin (CP) and oral erythromycin. Tracheostomy was done in two cases who presented with stridor. Patient variables and their correlation with recovery were studied.

Results

Out of 15 cases of membranous tonsillitis, nine tested positive for diphtheria; eight, smear positive and one, culture positive. Of these nine cases, eight were between 9 and 13 years old and one was a 50-year-old man. While tracing immunization status, it was found that three children (33%) were not immunized, four children (22%) had not taken booster doses, and in one child and the adult, immunization history was unknown. Clinical presentation of two of the unimmunized cases was late (on 8th day of fever), with stridor due to laryngeal diphtheria. The third child presented with bull neck, and developed myocarditis. These three cases proved fatal. Six cases which presented early and were managed in time recovered fully.

Conclusion

Unimmunized children as well as adults are susceptible to diphtheria. High immunization coverage is the only tool to control this infection. Booster doses are needed to control disease in adults. It was found that early diagnosis with high index of suspicion and early administration of ADS along with good supportive therapy carried good prognosis. Every otolaryngologist, pediatrician as well as general practitioner should be ready to manage the cases of diphtheria. Government should be prepared to manage and control epidemics effectively.

How to cite this article

Murthy GSN, Bhimeswar R, Kumar MV, Prasad PK. Resurgence of Diphtheria: Are We ready to treat? Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2013;3(2):42-45.
Combined Recurrent Laryngeal and Phrenic Nerve Paralysis due to Aortic Arch Aneurysm
Authors: Joseph TK , Nair Reshmi M
Published: February 2014

Idiopathic left recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy is a relatively common entity. However, very occasionally, a sinister mediastinal cause is diagnosed on investigation. Even more rare is the situation where the same lesion also causes a phrenic nerve palsy.

We present such an interesting case where an aortic arch aneurysm, in an elderly male with renal disease, led to both recurrent laryngeal and phrenic nerve palsies. The clinical features, management options and related literature are discussed.

How to cite this article

Joseph TK, Nair RM. Combined Recurrent Laryngeal and Phrenic Nerve Paralysis due to Aortic Arch Aneurysm. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2013;3(2):58-60.
Precipitation isoscape of high reliefs: interpolation scheme designed and tested for monthly resolved precipitation oxygen isotope records of an Alpine domain
Authors: Kern Z. , Kohán B. , Leuenberger M.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Stable oxygen isotope composition of atmospheric precipitation (δ18Op) was scrutinized from 39 stations distributed over Switzerland and its border zone. Monthly amount-weighted δ18Op values averaged over the 1995–2000 period showed the expected strong linear altitude dependence (−0.15 to −0.22‰ per 100 m) only during the summer season (May–September). Steeper gradients (~ −0.56 to −0.60‰ per 100 m) were observed for winter months over a low elevation belt, while hardly any altitudinal difference was seen for high elevation stations. This dichotomous pattern could be explained by the characteristically shallower vertical atmospheric mixing height during winter season and provides empirical evidence for recently simulated effects of stratified atmospheric flow on orographic precipitation isotopic ratios. This helps explain "anomalous" deflected altitudinal water isotope profiles reported from many other high relief regions. Grids and isotope distribution maps of the monthly δ18Op have been calculated over the study region for 1995–1996. The adopted interpolation method took into account both the variable mixing heights and the seasonal difference in the isotopic lapse rate and combined them with residual kriging. The presented data set allows a point estimation of δ18Op with monthly resolution. According to the test calculations executed on subsets, this biannual data set can be extended back to 1992 with maintained fidelity and, with a reduced station subset, even back to 1983 at the expense of faded reliability of the derived δ18Op estimates, mainly in the eastern part of Switzerland. Before 1983, reliable results can only be expected for the Swiss Plateau since important stations representing eastern and south-western Switzerland were not yet in operation.
Interactions of local climatic, biotic and hydrogeochemical processes facilitate phosphorus dynamics along an Everglades forest-marsh gradient
Authors: Troxler T. G. , Coronado-Molina C. , Rondeau D. N. , Krupa S. , Newman S. , Manna M. , Price R. M. , Sklar F. H.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Ecosystem nutrient cycling is often complex because nutrient dynamics within and between systems are mediated by the interaction of biological and geochemical conditions operating at different temporal and spatial scales. Vegetated patches in semiarid and wetland landscapes have been shown to exemplify some of these patterns and processes. We investigated biological and geochemical factors suggested to contribute to phosphorus (P) movement and availability along a forest-marsh gradient in an Everglades tree island. Our study illustrated processes that are consistent with the chemohydrodynamic nutrient (CHNT) hypothesis and the trigger-transfer, pulse-reserve (TTPR) model developed for semiarid systems. Comparison with the TTPR model was constructive as it elaborated several significant patterns and processes of the tree island ecosystem including: (1) concentration of the limiting resource (P) in the source patch (High Head which constitutes the reserve) compared with the resource-poor landscape, (2) soil zone calcite precipitation requiring strong seasonality for evapotranspiration to promote conditions for secondary soil development and calcium phosphate reprecipitation, (3) rewetting of previously dry soils by early wet season precipitation events, and (4) antecedent conditions of the source patch, including landscape position that modulated the effect of the precipitation trigger. Thus, our study showed how water availability drives soil water P dynamics and, potentially, stability of mineral soil P in this tree island ecosystem. In landscapes with extensive water management, these processes can be asynchronous with the seasonality of hydrologic dynamics, tipping the balance between a sink and source of a limiting nutrient.
Revision of the geological context of the Port-au-Prince, Haiti, metropolitan area: implications for seismic microzonation
Authors: Terrier M. , Bialkowski A. , Nachbaur A. , Prépetit C. , Joseph Y. F.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. A geological study has been conducted in the framework of the microzonation of Portau- Prince, Haiti. It reveals the deposit of Miocene and Pliocene formations in a marine environment and the impact on these deposits of the Enriquillo-Plantain Garden N80° E fault system and of N110° E faults. The tectonic and morphological analysis indicates motion during the Quaternary along several mapped reverse left-lateral N110° E faults affecting the capital. Assessing ground-movement hazards represents an integral component of seismic microzonation. The geological results have provided essential groundwork for this assessment. Seismic microzonation aims to take seismic risk more fully into account in the city's urbanization and development policies. To this end, assumptions are made as to risks induced by surface rupture and ground movement from active faults.
Five Yards for Delay of Game
Authors: Roberson J. Alan
Published: February 2014

With gridlock in Congress, the sequestration budget cuts in January 2013, and the federal government shutdown in October 2013, the US Environmental Protection Agency's regulatory development game has been delayed. Some regulatory actions that were anticipated in early 2013 to be completed by the end of 2013 have slipped to 2014; others have slipped to 2015, or possibly later. Roberson offers a clear overview of the current situation regarding regulatory issues.
After the Deal Is Done: How to Make Acquisitions Work
Authors: Maxwell Steve
Published: February 2014

In the last Market Outlook column Maxwell discussed various issues and strategic options around ownership transition and important items to evaluate when buying or selling a company. In this column he discusses the all‐important aspects of post‐transaction planning and integration to ensure that the transaction is ultimately successful for both buyer and seller.
An unmet actin requirement explains the mitotic inhibition of clathrin-mediated endocytosis
Authors: Kaur Satdip , Fielding Andrew B , Gassner Gisela , Carter Nicholas J , Royle Stephen J
Published: February 2014

Clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) is the major internalisation route for many different receptor types in mammalian cells. CME is shut down during early mitosis, but the mechanism of this inhibition is unclear. In this study, we show that the mitotic shutdown is due to an unmet requirement for actin in CME. In mitotic cells, membrane tension is increased and this invokes a requirement for the actin cytoskeleton to assist the CME machinery to overcome the increased load. However, the actin cytoskeleton is engaged in the formation of a rigid cortex in mitotic cells and is therefore unavailable for deployment. We demonstrate that CME can be ‘restarted’ in mitotic cells despite high membrane tension, by allowing actin to engage in endocytosis. Mitotic phosphorylation of endocytic proteins is maintained in mitotic cells with restored CME, indicating that direct phosphorylation of the CME machinery does not account for shutdown.
miR-146a promotes the initiation and progression of melanoma by activating Notch signaling
Authors: Forloni Matteo , Dogra Shaillay Kumar , Dong Yuying , Conte Darryl , Ou Jianhong , Zhu Lihua Julie , Deng April , Mahalingam Meera , Green Michael R , Wajapeyee Narendra
Published: February 2014

Oncogenic mutations in BRAF and NRAS occur in 70% of melanomas. In this study, we identify a microRNA, miR-146a, that is highly upregulated by oncogenic BRAF and NRAS. Expression of miR-146a increases the ability of human melanoma cells to proliferate in culture and form tumors in mice, whereas knockdown of miR-146a has the opposite effects. We show these oncogenic activities are due to miR-146a targeting the NUMB mRNA, a repressor of Notch signaling. Previous studies have shown that pre-miR-146a contains a single nucleotide polymorphism (C>G rs2910164). We find that the ability of pre-miR-146a/G to activate Notch signaling and promote oncogenesis is substantially higher than that of pre-miR-146a/C. Analysis of melanoma cell lines and matched patient samples indicates that during melanoma progression pre-miR-146a/G is enriched relative to pre-miR-146a/C, resulting from a C-to-G somatic mutation in pre-miR-146a/C. Collectively, our results reveal a central role for miR-146a in the initiation and progression of melanoma.
Low-cost and scalable embedded nonvolatile memory using quasi-planar bulk transistor with standard CMOS gate stacks
Authors: Ota Kensuke , Saitoh Masumi , Tanaka Chika , Matsushita Daisuke , Numata Toshinori
Published: February 2014

We propose a low-cost and highly scalable embedded nonvolatile memory using a quasi-planar bulk transistor fabricated with a standard CMOS process. Program and erase operation was achieved by hot-electron injection into the gate dielectric and drain-assisted hot-hole injection and/or electron ejection, respectively. Thanks to the electric field concentration at the channel corners in quasi-planar bulk transistor, not only the program efficiency, but also the erase efficiency was enhanced with the decrease in channel width. Scaling of gate length also improved the program and erase characteristics. As a result, a threshold voltage window of more than 0.3 V was repeatedly attained. Moreover, 300 program and erase cycles and 10-year data retention were experimentally demonstrated. Thus, quasi-planar bulk Tr. memory was found to be highly suitable for nonvolatile memory embedded with low-power scaled CMOS.
Professional Closure Beyond State Authorization
Authors: Harrits Gitte Sommer
Published: February 2014

For decades, the Weberian approach to the study of professions has been strong, emphasizing state authorization and market monopolies as constituting what is considered a profession. Originally, however, the Weberian conception of closure, or the ways in which a profession is constituted and made separate, was broader. This article suggests a revision of the closure concept, integrating insights from Pierre Bourdieu, and conceptualizing professional closure as the intersection of social, symbolic and legal closure. Based on this revision, this article demonstrates how to apply such a concept in empirical studies. This is done by exploring social, symbolic and legal closure across sixteen professional degree programs. The analyses show a tendency for some overlap between different forms of closure, with a somewhat divergent pattern for legal closure. Results support the argument that we need to study these processes as an intersection of different sources of closure, including capital, lifestyles and discourse
Potential future dynamics of carbon fluxes and pools in New England forests and their climatic sensitivities: A model‐based study
Authors: Tang Guoping , Beckage Brian , Smith Benjamin
Published: February 2014

Projections of terrestrial carbon (C) dynamics must account for interannual variation in ecosystem C exchange associated with climate change, increasing atmospheric CO2concentration, and species dynamics. We used a dynamic ecosystem model to (i) project the potential dynamics of C in New England forests under nine climate change scenarios (CCSs) for the 21st century and (ii) examine the sensitivity of potential C dynamics to changes in climate and atmospheric CO2concentration. Our results indicated that forest net primary productivity (NPP) and soil heterotrophic respiration (RH) averaged 428 and 279 gC/m2/yr and New England forests sequestered CO2by 149 gC/m2/yr in the baseline period (1971–2000). Under the nine future CCSs, NPP and RH were modeled to increase by an average rate of 0.85 and 0.56 gC/m2/yr2during 1971–2099. The asymmetric increase in NPP and RH resulted in New England forests sequestering atmospheric CO2at a net rate of 0.29 gC/m2/yr2with increases in vegetation and soil C. Simulations also indicated that climate warming alone decreases NPP, resulting in a net efflux of C from forests. In contrast, increasing precipitation by itself stimulates CO2sequestration by forests. At the individual cell level, however, changes in temperature or precipitation can either positively or negatively affect consequent C dynamics. Elevation of CO2levels was found to be the biggest driver for modeled future enhancement of C sequestration. Without the elevation of CO2levels, climate warming has the potential to change New England forests from C sinks to sources in the late 21st century.
Seismic structure of the north‐central Chilean convergent margin: Subduction erosion of a paleomagmatic arc
Authors: Contreras‐Reyes Eduardo , Becerra Juan , Kopp Heidrun , Reichert Christian , Díaz‐Naveas Juan
Published: February 2014

We study the erosive convergent margin of north‐central Chile (at ~31°S) by using high‐resolution bathymetric, wide‐angle refraction, and multichannel seismic reflection data to derive a detailed tomographic 2‐D velocity‐depth model. In the overriding plate, our velocity model shows that the lowermost crustal velocities beneath the upper continental slope are 6.0–6.5 km/s, which are interpreted as the continental basement composed by characteristic metamorphic and igneous rocks of the Coastal Cordillera. Beneath the lower and middle continental slope, however, the presence of a zone of reduced velocities (3.5–5.0 km/s) is interpreted as the outermost fore arc composed of volcanic rocks hydrofractured as a result of frontal and basal erosion. At the landward edge of the outermost fore arc, the bathymetric and seismic data provide evidence for the presence of a prominent trenchward dipping normal scarp (~1 km offset), which overlies a strong lateral velocity contrast from ~5.0 to ~6.0 km/s. This pronounced velocity contrast propagates deep into the continental crust, and it resembles a major normal listric fault. We interpret this seismic discontinuity as the volcanic‐continental basement contact of the submerged Coastal Cordillera characterized by a gravitational collapse of the outermost fore arc. Subduction erosion has, most likely, caused large‐scale crustal thinning and long‐term subsidence of the outermost fore arc.
Future Developments and New Directions in Modeling and Monitoring Volcanic Ash Clouds
Authors: Bonadonna Costanza
Published: February 2014

Worldwide, about 20 volcanoes are erupting at any given time, posing a potential hazard to aviation. Several recent eruptions are a stark reminder of the need to plan for and be able to respond effectively to future eruptions to minimize disruption to air transport and protect human safety.
No climate‐erosion feedback system in the western Himalayas
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: February 2014

As water‐laden air climbs up and over the Garhwal Himalayas, a subregion of the Himalayas found in northern India, orographic effects cause rain to fall out in two major bands. The water, primarily stemming from the summer monsoon, falls more heavily over the lower‐altitude low Himalayas, with a second, lighter rain band at the border between the low and high Himalayas. Aside from being a major source of water—and flooding—this seasonal water also contributes to the erosion of the Himalayas.
Cusp observation at Saturn's high‐latitude magnetosphere by the Cassini spacecraft
Authors: Jasinski J. M. , Arridge C. S. , Lamy L. , Leisner J. S. , Thomsen M. F. , Mitchell D. G. , Coates A. J. , Radioti A. , Jones G. H. , Roussos E. , Krupp N. , Grodent D. , Dougherty M. K. , Waite J. H.
Published: February 2014

We report on the first analysis of magnetospheric cusp observations at Saturn by multiple in situ instruments onboard the Cassini spacecraft. Using this we infer the process of reconnection was occurring at Saturn's magnetopause. This agrees with remote observations that showed the associated auroral signatures of reconnection. Cassini crossed the northern cusp around noon local time along a poleward trajectory. The spacecraft observed ion energy‐latitude dispersions—a characteristic signature of the terrestrial cusp. This ion dispersion is “stepped,” which shows that the reconnection is pulsed. The ion energy‐pitch angle dispersions suggest that the field‐aligned distance from the cusp to the reconnection site varies between ∼27 and 51 RS. An intensification of lower frequencies of the Saturn kilometric radiation emissions suggests the prior arrival of a solar wind shock front, compressing the magnetosphere and providing more favorable conditions for magnetopause reconnection.
Grain Boundary Plane Distributions in a Hot Rolled 5A06 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Yuan Xiaokun , Gao Kunyuan , Rohrer Gregory S. , Fang Xiaoying
Published: February 2014

To investigate the preferential distribution of grain boundary planes in a hot rolled aluminum alloy, the electron backscattered diffraction approach and five‐parameter analysis method are used to characterize the grain boundary plane distributions in a hot rolled 5A06 aluminum alloy, and the results show that the orientations of grain boundary planes are textured. Grain boundary planes favor the {111} orientation at the center of the specimen, and their population is 56% higher than that in a random distribution, whereas grain boundary planes favor the {110} orientation on the surface of the specimen, and their population is 69% higher than that in a random distribution. Moreover, this anisotropic distribution of grain boundary planes occurs at all misorientation angles. The study suggests a new understanding of the pathway to evaluate the crystallographic orientation dependent performances.
Contribution to the Laser Welding of Wrought and Spray‐Compacted Aluminum Alloys and the Impact of the Alloy Composition on the Welding Microstructure
Authors: Gietzelt Thomas , Eichhorn Lutz , Wunsch Torsten , Gerhards Uta , Przeorski Thomas , Weiss Holger , Dittmeyer Roland
Published: February 2014

Cw‐laser weldings at different power, focal position, and welding velocity were performed on hypereutectic spray‐compacted aluminum alloys and AlMg3. Two light‐conducting cables, 0.1 and 0.4 mm in diameter were used. For AlMg3 shrink pores were observed for a broad range of parameters. However, for a narrow window pore free weldings seem possible. For comparison, the spray‐compacted hypereutectic aluminum alloys (AlSi17Fe4Cu2.5MgZr, AlSi20Fe5Ni2, and AlSi35Fe2Ni) were welded in extruded condition. The metallographic microstructure is very different and may support crack free weld seams. The results emphasize the impact of the energy density. Since for aluminum even small amounts of alloying elements change the heat conductivity drastically, all parameters have to be adjusted carefully.
Solution‐Processible 2,2′‐Dimethyl‐biphenyl Cored Carbazole Dendrimers as Universal Hosts for Efficient Blue, Green, and Red Phosphorescent OLEDs
Authors: Wang Xingdong , Wang Shumeng , Ma Zhihua , Ding Junqiao , Wang Lixiang , Jing Xiabin , Wang Fosong
Published: February 2014

A series of solution‐processible 2,2′‐dimethyl‐biphenyl cored dendrimers, namely G1MP, G2MP, and G3MP, is designed and synthesized by tuning the generation of periphery carbazole dendron. The resulting dendrimers all show excellent solubility in common organic solvents, and their high‐quality thin films can be formed via spin‐coating with a root‐mean‐square roughness in the range of 0.38–0.54 nm. G3MP, which contains the third‐generation carbazole dendron, has the greatest potential among those made here as an ideal universal host for multicolored triplet emitters. G3MP exhibits good thermal stability, with a glass transition temperature of 368 °C, a triplet energy as high as 2.85 eV enough to prevent the loss of triplet excitons, and suitable HOMO/LUMO levels of –5.30/–2.11 eV to facilitate both hole and electron injection and transport. When using G3MP as the host, highly efficient deep‐blue, blue, green, and red phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes (PhOLEDs) are successfully demonstrated, revealing a maximum luminous efficiency up to 18.2, 28.2, 54.0, and 12.7 cd A–1 with the corresponding Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage (CIE) coordinates of (0.15, 0.23), (0.15, 0.35), (0.38, 0.59), and (0.64, 0.34), respectively. The state‐of‐art performance indicates that dendritic hosts have a favorable prospect of applications in solution‐processed white PhOLEDs and full‐color displays.
A Supermolecular Photosensitizer with Excellent Anticancer Performance in Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Liang Ruizheng , Tian Rui , Ma Lina , Zhang Lele , Hu Yanli , Wang Jian , Wei Min , Yan Dan , Evans David G. , Duan Xue
Published: February 2014

A supermolecular photosensitizer with excellent anticancer behavior when used for photodynamic therapy (PDT) is fabricated by the incorporation of zinc phthalocyanines (ZnPc) into the gallery of a layered double hydroxide (LDH). The composite material possesses uniform particle size (hydrodynamic diameter ∼120 nm), and the host–guest and guest–guest interactions result in a high dispersion of ZnPc in a monomeric state in the interlayer region of the LDH matrix, with high singlet oxygen production efficiency. In vitro tests performed with HepG2 cells reveal a satisfactory PDT effectiveness of the ZnPc(1.5%)/LDH composite photosensitizer: a cellular damage as high as 85.7% is achieved with a rather low dosage of ZnPc (10 μg/mL). An extraordinarily high specific efficacy is demonstrated (31.59 μg−1 (J/cm2)−1), which is over 185.5% enhancement compared with the previously reported photosensitizers under similar test conditions. Furthermore, an in vivo study of the ZnPc(1.5%)/LDH demonstrates excellent PDT performance with an ultra‐low dose (0.3 mg/kg) and a low optical fluence rate (54 J/cm2). In addition, the ZnPc/LDH photosensitizer displays high stability, good biocompatibility, and low cytotoxicity, which would guarantee its practical application. Therefore, this work provides a facile approach for design and fabrication of inorganic–organic supermolecular materials with greatly enhanced anticancer behavior.
Strain‐Responsive Polyurethane/PEDOT:PSS Elastomeric Composite Fibers with High Electrical Conductivity
Authors: Seyedin Mohammad Ziabari , Razal Joselito M. , Innis Peter C. , Wallace Gordon G.
Published: February 2014

It is a challenge to retain the high stretchability of an elastomer when used in polymer composites. Likewise, the high conductivity of organic conductors is typically compromised when used as filler in composite systems. Here, it is possible to achieve elastomeric fiber composites with high electrical conductivity at relatively low loading of the conductor and, more importantly, to attain mechanical properties that are useful in strain‐sensing applications. The preparation of homogenous composite formulations from poly­urethane (PU) and poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) that are also processable by fiber wet‐spinning techniques are systematically evaluated. With increasing PEDOT:PSS loading in the fiber composites, the Young's modulus increases exponentially and the yield stress increases linearly. A model describing the effects of the reversible and irreversible deformations as a result of the re‐arrangement of PEDOT:PSS filler networks within PU and how this relates to the electromechanical properties of the fibers during the tensile and cyclic stretching is presented.
Nanostructural Systems Developed with Positive Charge Generation to Drug Delivery
Authors: An Fei‐Fei , Cao Weipeng , Liang Xing‐Jie
Published: February 2014

The surface charge of a nanostructure plays a critical role in modulating blood circulation time, nanostructure–cell interaction, and intracellular events. It is unfavorable to have positive charges on the nanostructure surface before arriving at the disease site because positively charged nanostructures interact strongly with blood components, resulting in rapid clearance from the blood, and suboptimal targeted accumulation at the tumor site. Once at the tumor site, however, the positive charge on the nanostructure surface accelerates uptake by tumor cells and promotes the release of payloads from the lysosomes to the cytosol or nucleus inside cells. Thus, the ideal nanocarrier systems for drug delivery would maintain a neutral or negatively charged surface during blood circulation but would then generate a positive surface charge after accumulation at the tumor site or inside the cancer cells. This Progress Report focuses on the design and application of various neutral or negatively charged nanostructures that can generate a positive charge in response to the tumor microenvironment or an external stimulus.
Enzyme‐Responsive Cell‐Penetrating Peptide Conjugated Mesoporous Silica Quantum Dot Nanocarriers for Controlled Release of Nucleus‐Targeted Drug Molecules and Real‐Time Intracellular Fluorescence Imaging of Tumor Cells
Authors: Li Jinming , Liu Fang , Shao Qing , Min Yuanzeng , Costa Marianne , Yeow Edwin K. L. , Xing Bengang
Published: February 2014

Here, a set of novel and personalized nanocarriers are presented for controlled nucleus‐targeted antitumor drug delivery and real‐time imaging of intracellular drug molecule trafficking by integrating an enzyme activatable cell penetrating peptide (CPP) with mesoporous silica coated quantum dots nanoparticles. Upon loading of antitumor drug, doxorubicin (DOX) and further exposure to proteases in tumor cell environment, the enzymatic cleavage of peptide sequence activates oligocationic TAT residues on the QDs@mSiO2 surface and direct the DOX delivery into cellular nucleus. The systematic cell imaging and cytotoxicity studies confirm that the enzyme responsive DOX‐loaded CPP‐QDs@mSiO2 nanoparticles can selectively release DOX in the tumor cells with high cathepsin B enzyme expression and greatly facilitate DOX accumulation in targeted nucleus, thus exhibiting enhanced antitumor activity in these cells. As contrast, there is limited nuclear‐targeted drug accumulation and lower tumor cytotoxicity observed in the cells without enzyme expression. More importantly, significant antitumor DOX accumulation and higher tumor inactivation is also found in the drug resistant tumor cells with targeted enzyme expression. Such simple and specific enzyme responsive mesoporous silica‐QDs nanoconjugates provide great promise for rational design of targeted drug delivery into biological system, and may thus greatly facilitate the medical theranostics in the near future.
Prognostic factors in emergency patients aged 90 years and older
Authors: Ishihara Koichi , Hagiwara Shuichi , Aoki Makoto , Murata Masato , Kaneko Minoru , Kanbe Masahiko , Oshima Kiyohiro
Published: February 2014

Aim

We evaluated the relation between general status on arrival and prognosis in patients aged 90 years and older who were admitted to our department through the emergency room, with the aim of assisting the development of a treatment policy for elderly people.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed patients aged 90 years and older who were admitted to our department from January 2006 to September 2013. Patients were divided into two groups, patients who were discharged from our hospital or transferred to another hospital, and patients who died in our hospital. Comparisons of the patients' general status and the results of blood examinations were carried out between the two groups. Independent parameters to predict prognosis were also evaluated.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 93.2 ± 3.4 years (range, 90–106 years). Forty‐five patients (77.6%) were discharged from our hospital (group A), and 13 patients (22.4%) died (group B). The percentage of patients with the inability to walk independently was significantly higher in group B. Mean arterial pressure, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), PaO2/FiO2 ratio, and serum albumin level on arrival were significantly better in group A. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that the inability to walk independently (odds ratio, 22.4; 95% confidence interval, 4.4–113.1; P < 0.0001) and GCS (odds ratio, 7.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.8–27.7; P = 0.003) were the parameters to predict prognosis.

Conclusion

The inability to walk independently and GCS (consciousness status) are the most sensitive predictors of prognosis in emergency patients aged 90 years and older.
From topological gels to slide‐ring materials
Authors: Noda Yumiki , Hayashi Yuki , Ito Kohzo
Published: February 2014

A novel type of gel, called a topological gel, has been recently developed with a supramolecular architecture with topological characteristics. In the topological gel, polymer chains with bulky end groups are neither covalently crosslinked as in chemical gels nor attractively interacting as in physical gels but are topologically interlocked by figure‐eight shaped crosslinks. Hence, these crosslinks can pass along the polymer chains freely to equalize the tension of the threading polymer chains similarly to pulleys; this is called the pulley effect. This concept can be applied not only to gels but also to a wide variety of polymeric materials without solvents. Then, polymeric materials with movable crosslinks are referred to as slide‐ring materials (SRMs) in a wider sense. Here, we review the synthesis, structure, physical properties, and applications of topological gels and SRMs. In particular, slide‐ring elastomers show remarkable scratch‐proof properties for application to coating materials for automobiles, cell phones, mobile computers, golf clubs, and so on. © 2014 The Authors Journal of Applied Polymer Science Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40509.
New biomaterial based on cotton with incorporated Biomolecules
Authors: Gomes Ana P. , Mano João F. , Queiroz João A. , Gouveia Isabel C.
Published: February 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate a method of embedding l‐cysteine (l‐cys), an antimicrobial agent, between layers of chitosan (CH) and sodium alginate (ALG) onto cotton samples obtained via a layer‐by‐layer electrostatic deposition technique via several embedding methods. The results show that the best way to incorporate l‐cys into the layers was the one that used the property of gelling ALG. To monitor the l‐cys embedding into the CH/ALG multilayer film, different methods were used: energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometry analysis to assess the presence of sulfur on the sample, Ellman's reagent method to analyze l‐cys release from the sample, and attenuated total reflectance (ATR) Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to compare the ATR–FTIR spectra of the pure l‐cys and l‐cys embedded in the CH/ALG multilayer film to study the interaction between the l‐cys and the CH/ALG multilayer films. Functionalized CH/ALG cotton samples were also investigated for their antibacterial properties toward Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumonia with the Japanese Industrial Standard method JIS L 1902:2002, and the results show an enhancement of the antibacterial effect due to the presence of l‐cys. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40519.
Curing characteristics, morphology, thermal stability, mechanical properties, and irradiation resistance of methylethylsilicone/methylphenylsilicone rubber blends
Authors: Ma Depeng , Tan Jinglin , Li Yuling , Bian Chao , Wang Guogang , Feng Shengyu
Published: February 2014

Methylethylsilicone rubber (MESR)/methylphenylsilicone rubber (MPSR) blends were cured with 2,5‐dimethyl‐2,5‐di(tert‐butylperoxy)hexane. The curing characteristics, morphology, thermal behaviors, mechanical properties at different temperatures, radiation resistance, and thermal aging resistance of the MESR/MPSR blends were investigated. The results show that a high MPSR content could decrease the optimum curing time and improve the scorch safety. Dynamic mechanical analysis revealed that the glass‐transition temperature of the blends increased slightly with the addition of MPSR. Scanning electron microscopy showed that MESR and MPSR had good compatibility in the blends. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that the thermal stability of the blends increased with increasing quantity of MPSR. The blends had excellent mechanical properties at low temperatures. However, these properties were significantly reduced when the temperature was increased. Moreover, changes in the mechanical properties decreased with increasing MPSR content at high temperatures, especially at temperatures higher than 100°C. In addition, the radiation resistance and thermal aging resistance of the blends increased with increasing MPSR content. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40529.
Enhancing expanded poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (ePTFE) for biomaterials applications
Authors: Cassady A. Ian , Hidzir Norsyahidah Mohd , Grøndahl Lisbeth
Published: February 2014

Poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE), a fully fluorinated linear thermoplastic polymer, and in particular the porous form expanded PTFE (ePTFE) has found widespread use in biomaterials application due to its properties of high toughness, non‐adhesiveness and hydrophobicity. While it performs ideally for many applications, some challenges have been identified for its use in small diameter vascular grafts and as a tissue space‐filler for cosmetic reconstructions where the implant interfaces with bone. For these applications modification of the surface of ePTFE has been investigated as a means to enhance its performance. This review will focus on the applications listed above and will detail methods of evaluating the biological response, methods used to enhance the surface properties of ePTFE, and how the modified materials have performed in their intended applications. This review will focus on work published from 2004 onwards. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40533.
Electrical Resistivity Tomography for the Modelling of Cultural Deposits and Geomophological Landscapes at Neolithic Sites: a Case Study from Southeastern Hungary
Authors: Papadopoulos Nikos G. , Sarris Apostolos , Parkinson William A. , Gyucha Attila , Yerkes Richard W. , Duffy Paul R. , Tsourlos Panagiotis
Published: February 2014

A large‐scale electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) survey was undertaken around the Neolithic tell of Szeghalom‐Kovácshalom in southeast Hungary, covering an area of almost 6 ha. High‐resolution ERT data were collected along 28 uniformly distributed transects of variable length using the roll‐along technique. A recently presented two‐dimensional fast non‐linear resistivity inversion algorithm was used to invert the ERT data and recover the true subsurface resistivity distribution along the specific cross‐sections. The algorithm calculates and stores in an efficient manner the part of the Jacobian matrix that is actually important within the inversion procedure, thus rendering it almost 4.8 times faster than the algorithm that calculates the complete Jacobian matrix, without losing quality. The algorithm was further modified to account for any non‐standard electrode configuration. A recently established iterative algorithm for sparse least squares problems (LSMR) was incorporated for the first time into the algorithm to solve the inverse resistivity problem. The effectiveness and robustness of the LSMR solver was highlighted through the processing of all the ERT lines. The processing and evaluation of the ERT data made it possible to map the thickness of the anthropogenic layer below the surface of the tell, to outline the horizontal and vertical dimensions of the palaeochannel adjacent to the tell, and to determine the general stratigraphy of geological layers up to 10 m below the ground surface. The ERT results also were used to update an older topographic map of the site showing the course of the palaeochannel around the tell. A synthetic model verified and enhanced the conclusions based on the field data. This study illustrates the added value that a systematic ERT survey can provide in reconstructing the ancient fluvial geomorphology of a microregion as well as the depth and horizontal extent of deposits associated with human habitation at archaeological sites. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stability of Neutral Impulsive Nonlinear Stochastic Evolution Equations with Time Varying Delays
Authors: Zhang Lei , Ding Yongsheng , Wang Tong , Hu Liangjian , Hao Kuangrong
Published: February 2014

In this paper, we consider the stability of mild solutions to neutral impulsive nonlinear stochastic evolution equations with time varying delays. With the non‐Lipschitz condition, the Lipschitz condition being taken as a special case, on the impulsive term, the existence, uniqueness and sufficient conditions for the exponential stability in the pth moment and the almost sure exponential stability of the mild solutions are derived by employing a fixed point approach. An example is provided to illustrate the efficiency of the obtained theorems.
Taxis in road pricing zone: should they pay the congestion charge?
Authors: Zhu Jincheng , Xiao Feng , Liu Xiaobo
Published: February 2014

This study aims at investigating the impact and feasibility of charging taxis with toll fee in the pricing zone when designing congestion pricing scheme. A bi‐level programming model is developed to compare the maximum social welfares before and after the congestion charge is imposed on taxis. The lower level is a combined network equilibrium model formulated as a variational inequality program, which considers the logit‐based mode split, route choice, elastic demand, and vacant taxi distributions. The upper level is to maximize the social welfare when toll rates vary. The bi‐level problem can be solved by the genetic algorithm, whereas the lower level is solved by the block Gauss–Seidel decomposition approach together with the method of successive averages and diagonalization algorithm. An application with numerical examples is conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model and algorithm and to reveal some interesting findings. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.