bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suppression of Acid Diffusion in Chemical Amplification Resists by Molecular Control of Base Matrix Polymers
Authors: Yoshimura Toshiyuki , Shiraishi Hiroshi , Okazaki Shinji
Published: January 2014

Suppression of acid diffusion during post-exposure baking (PEB) of chemical amplification resists is investigated from the standpoint of molecular control of base matrix polymers. Negative-type chemical amplification resists composed of cresol novolak-based matrix polymers, acid-catalyzed crosslinkers of melamine resins, and acid generators of onium salts are prepared. The molecular weight distributions of the base matrix polymers are controlled by means of a precipitation method. The resists are exposed with electron beams in isolated lines to evaluate the acid diffusion characteristics. Dependence of pattern sizes on the PEB time clearly shows that acid diffusion determines the resist pattern sizes based on Fick's law. The diffusion coefficients of resists with base matrix polymers with small polydispersities are smaller than those of resists with base matrix polymers with large polydispersities. Acid diffusion can still be suppressed by applying base matrix polymers with small weight-average molecular weights and small polydispersities. Diffusion coefficients can be further decreased by using base matrix polymers with more p-cresol components. A diffusion mechanism is proposed based on acid diffusion channels composed of active OH-groups and vacancies in the base matrix polymers.
Electron Wave Interference in Ballistic and Quasi-Ballistic Nanostructures
Authors: Ishibashi Koji , Bird Jonathan. P. , Ferry David K. , Lakrimi Mohamed , Grassie Alexander D. C. , Hutchings Keith. M. , Ochiai Yuichi , Sugano Takuo , Yoshinobu Aoyagi Yoshinobu Aoyagi
Published: January 2014

We have studied electron wave interference effects in wires and dots in ballistic and quasi-ballistic transport regimes, fabricated by using split gate, or wet etching techniques. We observe conductance fluctuations as a function of magnetic field, and we show they arise from the different origin of the scattering source for interference. It is shown experimentally that scatterings occur at the boundaries of the wall in the ballistic sample, while they occur at impurities in quasi-ballistic sample. This difference is clearly demonstrated in the temperature dependence of the fluctuation amplitude and the shape dependent negative magnetoresistance peak due to the weak localization effect. We discuss also the phase breaking time in a ballistic dot, which is very important for the interference.
The Influence of the Imaginary Part of Nonlinear Coefficient on Optical Bistability in Doped Polymer Film
Authors: Zhang Zhanxiang , Chow Y. T. , Pun E. Y. B. , Ye Peixian
Published: January 2014

The influence of the imaginary part of nonlinear coefficient on optical bistability in an A-D (Acceptor-Donor) substituted azobenzene-doped poly(methya methacrylate) (PMMA) thin film was studied theoretically and experimentally. The observations of the characteristics of the bistability were essentially consistent with the theoretical predications.
Novel Blue-to-Green Phosphor of Cu-Al-S System Sensitized with Rare-Earth Elements
Authors: Ohgoh Tsuyoshi , Sato Katsuaki , Noguchi Keiichi , Kenji Okuyama Kenji Okuyama
Published: January 2014

Single crystals with a new phase of the Cu-Al-S ternary system were grown from the starting composition of CuAl2S4 by chemical vapor transport. Transparent layered crystals were reproducibly obtained. The crystal symmetry was determined as trigonal, with lattice constants a=b=13.001±0.002 Å, c=12.043±0.002 Å, α=β=90° and γ=120°. The chemical formula of Cu2Al12S19 was suggested from electron probe microanalysis. The optical absorption edge was found to be 3.45 eV.
Crystals doped with Eu and Ce rare-earth ions were found to emit strong luminescence at 515 nm and 466 nm, respectively in the blue-to-green region at room temperature.
Electronic Regimes: Democracy and Geopolitical Strategies in Digital Networks
Authors: Santaniello Mauro , Amoretti Francesco
Published: January 2014

From the second half of the 1980s onward, Western governments have been pursuing vigorously the implementation of digitalization policies. As a result, political institutions and administrative procedures have been progressively computerized. Even non‐Western countries like China, India, and Russia have started reform processes aiming at the creation of “virtual states.” Concurrently, developments in the Internet and related technologies have affected international relations, either heightening conflict or strengthening cooperation. e‐Democracy and e‐government projects and policies have generated numerous case studies, leading to a solid research tradition investigating the extent to which politics has been transformed. However, theoretical development to understand the geopolitical strategies designed by states in order to control and regulate digital networks has lagged behind. This article analyzes the main trajectories followed by states in their digitalization processes, highlighting their constitutional and geopolitical relevance. It explores the relationships between the state and information and communication technologies and proposes a set of typologies of digital regimes.
Quasi‐dynamic versus fully dynamic simulations of earthquakes and aseismic slip with and without enhanced coseismic weakening
Authors: Thomas Marion Y. , Lapusta Nadia , Noda Hiroyuki , Avouac Jean‐Philippe
Published: January 2014

Physics‐based numerical simulations of earthquakes and slow slip, coupled with field observations and laboratory experiments, can, in principle, be used to determine fault properties and potential fault behaviors. Because of the computational cost of simulating inertial wave‐mediated effects, their representation is often simplified. The quasi‐dynamic (QD) approach approximately accounts for inertial effects through a radiation damping term. We compare QD and fully dynamic (FD) simulations by exploring the long‐term behavior of rate‐and‐state fault models with and without additional weakening during seismic slip. The models incorporate a velocity‐strengthening (VS) patch in a velocity‐weakening (VW) zone, to consider rupture interaction with a slip‐inhibiting heterogeneity. Without additional weakening, the QD and FD approaches generate qualitatively similar slip patterns with quantitative differences, such as slower slip velocities and rupture speeds during earthquakes and more propensity for rupture arrest at the VS patch in the QD cases. Simulations with additional coseismic weakening produce qualitatively different patterns of earthquakes, with near‐periodic pulse‐like events in the FD simulations and much larger crack‐like events accompanied by smaller events in the QD simulations. This is because the FD simulations with additional weakening allow earthquake rupture to propagate at a much lower level of prestress than the QD simulations. The resulting much larger ruptures in the QD simulations are more likely to propagate through the VS patch, unlike for the cases with no additional weakening. Overall, the QD approach should be used with caution, as the QD simulation results could drastically differ from the true response of the physical model considered.
A physical model of sea wave period from altimeter data
Authors: Badulin S. I.
Published: January 2014

A physical model for sea wave period from altimeter data is presented. Physical roots of the model are in recent advances of the theory of weak turbulence of wind‐driven waves that predicts the link of instant wave energy to instant energy flux to/from waves. The model operates with wave height and its spatial derivative and does not refer to normalized radar cross‐section σ0 measured by the altimeter. Thus, the resulting formula for wave period does not contain any empirical parameters and does not require features of particular satellite altimeter or any calibration for specific region of measurements. A single case study illustrates consistency of the new approach with previously proposed empirical models in terms of estimates of wave periods and their statistical distributions. The paper brings attention to the possible corruption of dynamical parameters such as wave steepness or energy fluxes to/from waves when using the empirical approaches. Applications of the new model to the studies of sea wave dynamics are discussed.
Hierarchical NiMn Layered Double Hydroxide/Carbon Nanotubes Architecture with Superb Energy Density for Flexible Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhao Jingwen , Chen Jiale , Xu Simin , Shao Mingfei , Zhang Qiang , Wei Fei , Ma Jing , Wei Min , Evans David G. , Duan Xue
Published: January 2014

A hierarchical nanostructure composed of NiMn‐layered double hydroxide (NiMn‐LDH) microcrystals grafted on carbon nanotube (CNT) backbone is constructed by an in situ growth route, which exhibits superior supercapacitive performance. The resulting composite material (NiMn‐LDH/CNT) displays a three‐dimensional architecture with tunable Ni/Mn ratio, well‐defined core‐shell configuration, and enlarged surface area. An electrochemical investigation shows that the Ni3Mn1‐LDH/CNT electrode is rather active, which delivers a maximum specific capacitance of 2960 F g–1 (at 1.5 A g–1), excellent rate capability (79.5% retention at 30 A g–1), and cyclic stability. Moreover, an all‐solid‐state asymmetric supercapacitor (SC) with good flexibility is fabricated by using the NiMn‐LDH/CNT film and reduced graphene oxide (RGO)/CNT film as the positive and negative electrode, respectively, exhibiting a wide cell voltage of 1.7 V and largely enhanced energy density up to 88.3 Wh kg–1 (based on the total weight of the device). By virtue of the high‐capacity of pseudocapacitive hydroxides and desirable conductivity of carbon‐based materials, the monolithic design demonstrated in this work provides a promising approach for the development of flexible energy storage systems.
Modulation of Biointeractions by Electrically Switchable Oligopeptide Surfaces: Structural Requirements and Mechanism
Authors: Yeung Chun L. , Wang Xingyong , Lashkor Minhaj , Cantini Eleonora , Rawson Frankie J. , Iqbal Parvez , Preece Jon A. , Ma Jing , Mendes Paula M.
Published: January 2014

Understanding the dynamic behavior of switchable surfaces is of paramount importance for the development of controllable and tailor‐made surface materials. Herein, electrically switchable mixed self‐assembled monolayers based on oligopeptides have been investigated in order to elucidate their conformational mechanism and structural requirements for the regulation of biomolecular interactions between proteins and ligands appended to the end of surface tethered oligopeptides. The interaction of the neutravidin protein to a surface appended biotin ligand was chosen as a model system. All the considerable experimental data, taken together with detailed computational work, support a switching mechanism in which biomolecular interactions are controlled by conformational changes between fully extended (“ON” state) and collapsed (“OFF” state) oligopeptide conformer structures. In the fully extended conformation, the biotin appended to the oligopeptide is largely free from steric factors allowing it to efficiently bind to the neutravidin from solution. While under a collapsed conformation, the ligand presented at the surface is partially embedded in the second component of the mixed SAM, and thus sterically shielded and inaccessible for neutravidin binding. Steric hindrances aroused from the neighboring surface‐confined oligopeptide chains exert a great influence over the conformational behaviour of the oligopeptides, and as a consequence, over the switching efficiency. Our results also highlight the role of oligopeptide length in controlling binding switching efficiency. This study lays the foundation for designing and constructing dynamic surface materials with novel biological functions and capabilities, enabling their utilization in a wide variety of biological and medical applications.
Accuracy of dental age estimation charts: Schour and Massler, Ubelaker and the London Atlas
Authors: AlQahtani S. J. , Hector M. P. , Liversidge H. M.
Published: January 2014

Dental age estimation charts are frequently used to assess maturity and estimate age. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of estimating age of three dental development charts (Schour and Massler, Ubelaker, and the London Atlas). The test sample was skeletal remains and dental radiographs of known‐age individuals (N = 1,506, prenatal to 23.94 years). Dental age was estimated using charts of Schour and Massler, Ubelaker, and The London Atlas. Dental and chronological ages were compared using a paired t‐test for the three methods. The absolute mean difference between dental and chronological age was calculated. Results show that all three methods under‐estimated age but the London Atlas performed better than Schour and Massler and Ubelaker in all measures. The mean difference for Schour and Massler and Ubelaker was −0.76 and −0.80 years (SD 1.27 year, N = 1,227) respectively and for the London Atlas was −0.10 year (SD 0.97 year, N = 1,429). Further analysis by age category showed similar accuracy for all three methods for individuals younger than 1 year. For ages 1–18, the mean difference between dental and chronological ages was significant (P < 0.05) for Schour and Massler and Ubelaker and not significant (P > 0.05) for the London Atlas for most age categories. These findings show that the London Atlas performs better than Schour and Massler and Ubelaker and represents a substantial improvement in accuracy of dental age estimation from developing teeth. Am J Phys Anthropol 154:70–78, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Near‐IR Absorbing Nickel(II) Porphyrinoids Prepared by Regioselective Insertion of Silylenes into Antiaromatic Nickel(II) Norcorrole
Authors: Fukuoka Takaki , Uchida Kenya , Sung Young Mo , Shin Ji‐Young , Ishida Shintaro , Lim Jong Min , Hiroto Satoru , Furukawa Ko , Kim Dongho , Iwamoto Takeaki , Shinokubo Hiroshi
Published: January 2014

The treatment of an antiaromatic norcorrole NiII complex with a kinetically stabilized silylene provided ring‐expansion products in excellent yields through the highly regio‐ and stereoselective insertion into the β‐β pyrrolic CC bonds. The resultant NiII porphyrinoid monoinsertion product exhibited relatively strong near‐IR absorption bands due to the small HOMO–LUMO gap in spite of the disrupted cyclic π‐conjugation by the silicon atom.
Mentoring or Monitoring: Formulating a Balance in Systemic Supervision
Authors: Shaw Elisabeth
Published: January 2014

Contemporary supervision practice has increasingly involved tasks previously associated with line management; this has been uncomfortable and unresolved for both supervisors and supervisees. Context, individual preference and circumstance can drive the relationship more into surveillance or more into support, and each will have important implications for practice. This article argues for a balance between monitoring and mentoring, both are crucial for effective supervision to occur. Supervisors need to know the boundaries of their delegated task, given that supervision can be the intervention of choice for any number of organizational difficulties. However they also need to integrate the leadership and critical appraisal tasks required, commencing supervision relationships with these components being transparent and clear, such that all participants can meet their obligations to practice competently, ethically and in the clients' interests. The systemic model provides an effective framework to conceptualise and intervene in relation to the various stakeholders, relationships, service systems and political context in which arrangements for supervision are negotiated.
Collaborative Approaches to Family Systems Supervision: Differentiation of Self
Authors: MacKay Linda , Brown Jenny
Published: January 2014

Many systems approaches speak to the importance of respectful mutual curiosity in supervision rather than linear teacher–learner didacticism. This paper provides an overview of collaborative approaches to supervision in family therapy. It then focuses on Bowen family systems and encouraging differentiation in the relationship process between supervisor and supervisee as a useful approach towards equal collaboration. The authors use case examples to illustrate what impedes and fosters mutuality in the supervision process where both supervisor and supervisee learn from each other.
Transcriptional mechanisms of cell fate decisions revealed by single cell expression profiling
Authors: Moignard Victoria , Göttgens Berthold
Published: January 2014

Transcriptional networks regulate cell fate decisions, which occur at the level of individual cells. However, much of what we know about their structure and function comes from studies averaging measurements over large populations of cells, many of which are functionally heterogeneous. Such studies conceal the variability between cells and so prevent us from determining the nature of heterogeneity at the molecular level. In recent years, many protocols and platforms have been developed that allow the high throughput analysis of gene expression in single cells, opening the door to a new era of biology. Here, we discuss the need for single cell gene expression analysis to gain deeper insights into the transcriptional control of cell fate decisions, and consider the insights it has provided so far into transcriptional regulatory networks in development.
Distinct mechanisms determine organ left‐right asymmetry patterning in an uncoupled way
Authors: Huang Sizhou , Xu Wenming , Su Bingyin , Luo Lingfei
Published: January 2014

Disruption of Nodal in the lateral plate mesoderm (LPM) usually leads to left‐right (LR) patterning defects in multiple organs. However, whether the LR patterning of organs is always regulated in a coupled way has largely not yet been elucidated. In addition, whether other crucial regulators exist in the LPM that coordinate with Nodal in regulating organ LR patterning is also undetermined. In this paper, after briefly summarizing the common process of LR patterning, the most puzzling question regarding the initiation of asymmetry is considered and the divergent mechanisms underlying the uncoupled LR patterning in different organs are discussed. On the basis of cases in which different organ LR patterning is determined in an uncoupled way via an independent mechanism or at a different time, we propose that there are other critical factors in the LPM that coordinate with Nodal to regulate heart LR asymmetry patterning during early LR patterning.

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Violent Female Youth: An Examination of Instrumental Violence, Psychopathy, and Offense Characteristics
Authors: Hutton Erin L. , Woodworth Michael
Published: January 2014

Female youth are a strikingly under‐studied population within the accumulated forensic literature, yet they represent a significant and growing population within forensic contexts. Despite research demonstrating a relationship between the presence of psychopathic traits and instrumental violence among adult offenders, researchers have only recently begun to examine this relationship among juvenile offenders. Our investigation of this potential relationship among a large sample of female offenders (N = 145) who had committed a violent offense revealed that youths with more psychopathic traits were not significantly more likely to use instrumental violence in the commission of their crimes than those with less psychopathic traits. The findings are discussed in terms of offense severity, and a comprehensive overview of female youths' specific motivations and offense characteristics are provided. Research directions and clinical implications are discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonenzymatic Electrochemical Superoxide Sensor
Authors: Nissim Rita , Compton Richard G.
Published: January 2014

The electrochemistry of nitroblue tetrazolium chloride (NBTC) was studied in aqueous solutions of pH 6.97 on a glassy carbon macroelectrode and at a carbon fibre microelectrode; values of near unity for the reduction transfer coefficient and 7.2×10−6 cm2 s−1 for the diffusion coefficient were generated. The electrochemically produced diformazan was shown to adsorb on the glassy carbon surface if the potential was held at −0.35 V [vs. saturated calomel electrode (SCE)]. A carbon paste electrode, fabricated by using dioctyl phthalate and graphite powder, was used as a nonenzymatic sensor. The sensitivity of the diformazan oxidation signal to the presence of superoxide was exploited to detect superoxide, which is voltammetrically visible at about +0.69 V (vs. SCE). The paste electrode was first immersed in aqueous superoxide solutions. It was subsequently equilibrated with NBTC by immersing it into aqueous NBTC solutions. The reduction of NBTC (by superoxide) thus took place in the paste, which allowed quantification of the superoxide in the aqueous phase by means of the diformazan oxidation signal. Values for the practical limit of detection and the sensor sensitivity, 0.059 nM and 1.79 μA nM−1 respectively, were obtained.
A two‐layer model for improving the energy efficiency of file sharing peer‐to‐peer networks
Authors: Trunfio Paolo
Published: January 2014

As peer‐to‐peer networks gather and share large sets of computing resources, their aggregate energy consumption is an important problem to be addressed, given the economic and environmental impact of energy production and use. This is particularly true for file sharing peer‐to‐peer networks, considered the vast number of nodes participating to these systems. To address such problem, this paper proposes a peer‐to‐peer file sharing model organized in two logical layers. The lower layer is composed of a set of peers providing the files to be shared. The upper layer includes a set of super peers organized to form a distributed hash table, whose purpose is indexing files and peers, including their availability status. Following a sleep‐and‐wake approach, energy saving is achieved by letting peers cyclically switch between normal and sleep modes, where the time passed in normal mode by a peer depends on the number of files it provides. An energy‐saving algorithm and an associated file search and retrieval strategy are proposed within this model. Simulation results show that more than 50% of energy can be saved using the proposed model and that more than 80% of file downloads start with no additional delay compared with a network in which all peers are always powered on. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Probing a crystal's short‐range structure and local orbitals by Resonant X‐ray Diffraction methods
Authors: Zschornak Matthias , Richter Carsten , Nentwich Melanie , Stöcker Hartmut , Gemming Sibylle , Meyer Dirk C.
Published: January 2014

Diffraction Anomalous Fine Structure (DAFS) combines the long‐range, crystallographic sensitivity of X‐ray diffraction with the short‐range sensitivity of X‐ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS). In comparison to other spectroscopic methods, DAFS can additionally distinguish phases of different translational symmetry by choice of momentum transfer, or isolate spectra from chemically identical atoms on various Wyckoff sites of a crystal's structure using crystallographic weights. The Anisotropy of Anomalous Scattering (AAS) extends the concept of isotropically scattering atoms to a more general case, where the atom's scattering characteristics depend on the polarization as well as the wavevector of the incident and scattered X‐rays. These can be written as tensors that reflect the local site symmetries of the resonant atom. Forbidden Reflection Near‐Edge Diffraction (FRED) is an elegant way to measure AAS by using reflections that are extinguished in the special case of isotropically scattering atoms. They can only be observed due to the non‐isotropic contributions at photon energies in the vicinity of an absorption edge where electronic transitions occur. Combining the site selectivity of DAFS with the information accessible through AAS allows probing the short‐range order and local orbitals of selected atoms in a crystal structure of a chosen phase. The present condensed review gives a brief overview on the pioneer work, the theory and sensitivities as well as selected recent applications of these powerful and promising Resonant X‐ray Diffraction (RXD) methods. Additionally, some recent work of the authors is included exemplarily for the model structure rutile TiO2 presenting the progress in measurement and interpretation.
Three‐Dimensional Graphitized Carbon Nanovesicles for High‐Performance Supercapacitors Based on Ionic Liquids
Authors: Peng Chengxin , Wen Zubiao , Qin Yao , Schmidt‐Mende Lukas , Li Chongzhong , Yang Shihe , Shi Donglu , Yang Jinhu
Published: January 2014

Three‐dimensional nanoporous carbon with interconnected vesicle‐like pores (1.5–4.2 nm) has been prepared through a low‐cost, template‐free approach from petroleum coke precursor by KOH activation. It is found that the thin pore walls are highly graphitized and consist of only three to four layers of graphene, which endows the material with an unusually high specific surface area (2933 m2 g−1) and good conductivity. With such unique structural characteristics, if used as supercapacitor electrodes in ionic liquid (IL) electrolytes, the graphitized carbon nanovesicle (GCNV) material displays superior performance, such as high energy densities up to 145.9 Wh kg−1 and a high combined energy‐power delivery, and an energy density of 97.6 Wh kg−1 can be charged in 47 s at 60 °C. This demonstrates that the energy output of the GCNV‐based supercapacitors is comparable to that of batteries, and the power output is one order of magnitude higher. Moreover, the synergistic effect of the GCNVs and the IL electrolyte on the extraordinary performance of the GCNV supercapacitors has been analyzed and discussed.
Interpersonal coping styles and couple relationship quality: Similarity versus complementarity hypotheses
Authors: Chow Chong Man , Buhrmester Duane , Tan Cin Cin
Published: January 2014

This study employs a dyadic approach and examines how two partners' interpersonal coping styles may independently and jointly predict their relationship quality. Hypotheses were derived on the basis of dyadic coping theory focusing on how similar versus complementary styles of interpersonal coping may be useful in explaining couples' relationship quality. On the basis of attachment theory and self‐determination theory, three interpersonal coping styles were included: dismissive, adaptive, and anxious/expressive. Data were collected from 123 romantic couples. Actor–partner interdependence models revealed that interpersonal coping styles were related to self‐perceived (actor effect) and partner‐perceived (partner effect) relationship quality. Furthermore, results also showed that relationship quality was predicted by the interactions between self's and partner's interpersonal coping styles. Findings suggest that future research should focus on understanding interpersonal coping behaviors of both partners in a relationship, especially the complex interactions between two partners' characteristics and their effects on relationship outcomes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanisms of white matter damage in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Lassmann Hans
Published: January 2014

Glia cells are mediators as well as targets of the chronic inflammatory process in the central nervous system of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. They are involved in the control of autoimmunity, in the propagation and termination of the inflammatory reaction, in the induction of demyelination and neurodegeneration, and in remyelination and scaring. Demyelination, as well as neuronal and GLIA cell damage are induced by different immunological mechanisms including components of the adaptive and innate immune system. Oxidative injury resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction is one important mechanism of tissue injury. It is in part driven by the inflammatory response and the production of oxygen radicals mainly in microglia and macrophages. With increasing age of the patients and disease progression, oxidative injury is further amplified by additional mechanisms including central nervous system damage related microglia activation, progressive mitochondrial damage, and age‐dependent iron accumulation within the human central nervous system. The inflammatory mechanisms associated with lesion formation in MS are to a large extent reflected in experimental models of inflammatory demyelination, such as autoimmune encephalomyelitis. This is not the case for the amplification mechanisms of oxidative injury, which mainly operate in the progressive stage of the disease. GLIA 2014;62:1816–1830
MALTREATMENT AND MENTAL HEALTH IN INSTITUTIONAL CARE—COMPARING EARLY AND LATE INSTITUTIONALIZED CHILDREN IN TANZANIA
Authors: Hermenau Katharin , Hecker Tobias , Elbert Thomas , Ruf‐Leuschner Martina
Published: January 2014

Research has shown the harmful potential of institutional care on young children; however, little is known about the consequences of institutional care on infants in Sub‐Saharan Africa. We compared 35 Tanzanian children who were institutionalized at birth to 4 years of age with a matched group of 35 children who were institutionalized at 5 to 14 years of age. We examined adverse childhood experiences over the course of their entire lives, in their family of origin and in institutional care, and mental health problems at primary school age, such as depressive symptoms, aggressive behavior, and internalizing and externalizing problems. Results showed that early institutionalized children reported more adverse experiences during their time in institutional care and a greater variety of mental health problems than did late institutionalized children. Moreover, maltreatment in institutional care was positively related to mental health problems only in early institutionalized children. We conclude that adverse experiences in institutional care play an important role for early institutionalized children who need special care from adequately educated caregivers. Therefore, training concepts focusing on the needs of the youngest children have to be developed, tested, and established. Countries such as Tanzania need policies that apply to all orphanages to ensure an adequate standard of quality in childcare.
Using a new photo‐reactor to promote conductive‐diamond electrochemical oxidation of dimethyl phthalate
Authors: de Lourdes Souza Fernanda , Sáez Cristina , Cañizares Pablo , de Jesus Motheo Artur , Andres Rodrigo Manuel
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

In this work, the electrolysis and photo‐electrolysis of dimethyl phthalate (DMP, a widely‐use plasticizer) using conductive‐diamond anodes are studied.

RESULTS

Electrolysis and photo‐electrolysis are suitable technologies for the removal of DMP from aqueous wastes. Within the range of current densities studied (20–120 mA cm‐2), complete mineralization is achieved. UV light irradiation appears to improve mineralization and chemical oxygen demand removal rates, but not DMP removal rates, which worsened with light. The supporting electrolyte (sulfate or chloride salt) plays an important role in the electrochemical oxidation mechanisms but not in single photolysis treatment. Electrochemical mineralization is more efficient in sulfate media due to the formation of chlorates and perchlorates with diamond electrodes in chloride media. Oxidation by photolysis, electrolysis and coupled photo‐electrolysis begins with attacks on the methyl ester groups, continues with the breakage of the aromatic ring, and forms carboxylic acids. The process conditions are very harsh, and only small concentrations of intermediates were found.

CONCLUSIONS

Electrolysis and photo‐electrolysis with conductive‐diamond anodes led to the complete mineralization of DMP with an almost negligible formation of intermediates. Light irradiation significantly improved mineralization and COD removal, but not DMP degradation. Chloride anions led to less efficient electrolysis than sulfate anions. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Efficiency of plant growth‐promoting P‐solubilizing Bacillus circulans CB7 for enhancement of tomato growth under net house conditions
Authors: Mehta Preeti , Walia Abhishek , Kulshrestha Saurabh , Chauhan Anjali , Shirkot Chand Karan
Published: January 2014

P‐solubilizing bacterial isolate CB7 isolated from apple rhizosphere soil of Himachal Pradesh, India was identified as Bacillus circulans on the basis of phenotypic characteristics, biochemical tests, fatty acid methyl esters analysis, and 16S rRNA gene sequence. The isolate exhibited plant growth‐promoting traits of P‐solubilization, auxin, 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate deaminase activity, siderophore, nitrogenase activity, and antagonistic activity against Dematophora necatrix. In vitro studies revealed that P‐solubilization and other plant growth‐promoting traits were dependent on the presence of glucose in PVK medium and removal of yeast extract had no significant effect on plant growth‐promoting traits. Plant growth‐promoting traits of isolate CB7 were repressed in the presence of KH2PO4. P‐solubilization activity was associated with the release of organic acids and a drop in the pH of the Pikovskaya's medium. HPLC analysis detected gluconic and citric acid as major organic acids in the course of P‐solubilization. Remarkable increase was observed in seed germination (22.32%), shoot length (15.91%), root length (25.10%), shoot dry weight (52.92%) and root dry weight (31.4%), nitrogen (18.75%), potassium (57.69%), and phosphorus (22.22%) content of shoot biomass over control. These results demonstrate that isolate CB7 has the promising PGPR attributes to be developed as a biofertilizer to enhance soil fertility and promote plant growth.
Multiple Deployments and Combat Trauma: Do Homefront Stressors Increase the Risk for Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms?
Authors: Interian Alejandro , Kline Anna , Janal Malvin , Glynn Shirley , Losonczy Miklos
Published: January 2014

Multiple deployments are common among military personnel who served in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom and are associated with greater posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). Homefront stressors (i.e., family, occupational problems) resulting from deployments may increase the risk of PTSS. Moreover, with multiple deployments, a new deployment may occur while still experiencing homefront stressors from previous tours. This prospective study assessed whether homefront stressors from a previous tour increased the risk of PTSS after a new deployment. It also examined the effects of homefront stressors at postdeployment. Survey data were obtained from U.S. National Guard soldiers with previous deployments prior to (Wave 1) and after (Wave 2) a new deployment to Iraq (N = 196). Homefront stressors reported at Wave 1 (β = .154, p = .015) and Wave 2 (β = .214, p = .002) were both significantly predictive of PTSS at postdeployment, even after adjusting for warzone stressors, predeployment PTSS, and other variables. A pattern of chronic homefront stressors (i.e., homefront stressors at pre‐ and postdeployment) was associated with higher levels of PTSS at postdeployment (β = .220, p = .002). Service members with multiple deployments are at greater risk for PTSS if deployed with homefront stressors from previous tours and/or face these stressors at postdeployment.
Association Between Parents’ PTSD Severity and Children's Psychological Distress: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Lambert Jessica E. , Holzer Jessica , Hasbun Amber
Published: January 2014

The authors conducted a meta‐analysis of studies on the correlation between parents’ PTSD symptom severity and children's psychological status. An extensive search of the literature yielded 550 studies that were screened for inclusion criteria (i.e., parent assessed for PTSD, child assessed for distress or behavioral problems, associations between parent PTSD and child status examined). Sixty‐two studies were further reviewed, resulting in a final sample of 42 studies. Results yielded a moderate overall effect size r = .35. The authors compared effect sizes for studies where only the parent was exposed to a potentially traumatic event to studies where both parents and children were exposed. A series of moderators related to sample characteristics (sex of parent, type of traumatic event) and study methods (self‐report vs. diagnostic interview, type of child assessment administered) were also evaluated. The only significant moderator was type of trauma; the effect size was larger for studies with parent–child dyads who were both exposed to interpersonal trauma (r = .46) than for combat veterans and their children (r = .27) and civilian parent–child dyads who were both exposed to war (r = .25). Results support the importance of considering the family context of trauma survivors and highlight areas for future research.
Exploring the Role of Productivity Propensity in Frontline Employee Performance: Its Relationship with Customer Orientation and Important Outcomes
Authors: Harris Eric G. , Brown Tom J. , Mowen John C. , Artis Andrew
Published: January 2014

Numerous studies have investigated the performance of frontline employees (FLEs) and how these employees influence organizational success. Because customer‐perceived outcomes are important, much attention has been devoted to the customer orientation (CO) construct. The weak influence of CO on external measures, however, has led to numerous research questions. The current work addresses these questions by introducing a new construct, “productivity propensity,” while examining its relationship with CO and multiple outcome measures. Results from two distinct samples suggest that the construct is a valuable addition to the FLE literature.
Covalently Linked Plasticizers: Triazole Analogues of Phthalate Plasticizers Prepared by Mild Copper‐Free “Click” Reactions with Azide‐Functionalized PVC
Authors: Earla Aruna , Braslau Rebecca
Published: January 2014

Copper‐free azide‐alkyne click chemistry is utilized to covalently modify polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Phthalate plasticizer mimics di(2‐ethylhexyl)‐1H‐triazole‐4,5 dicarboxylate (DEHT), di(n‐butyl)‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazole‐4,5‐dicarboxylate (DBT), and dimethyl‐1H‐triazole‐4,5‐dicarboxylate (DMT) are covalently attached to PVC. DEHT, DBT, and DMT have similar chemical structures to traditional plasticizers di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), di(n‐butyl) phthalate (DBP), and dimethyl phthalate (DMP), but pose no danger of leaching from the polymer matrix and forming small endocrine disrupting chemicals. The synthesis of these covalent plasticizers is expected to be scalable, providing a viable alternative to the use of phthalates, thus mitigating dangers to human health and the environment.

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Predictors of 61 unplanned readmission cases in microvascular free tissue transfer patients: Multi‐institutional analysis of 774 patients
Authors: Kim Bobby D. , Ver Halen Jon P. , Lim Seokchun , Kim John Y.S.
Published: January 2014

Background: Unplanned readmissions serve as a marker for health care quality. Risk factors associated with unplanned readmission after microvascular free tissue transfer have never been examined. In this study, we sought to identify perioperative predictors of 30‐day unplanned readmission in free flap patients. Methods: The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was retrospectively reviewed to identify all patients who underwent microvascular free tissue transfer in 2011. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to estimate independent predictors of unplanned readmission. Results: Among free flap patients, unplanned readmission rate was 7.9%. In multivariate analysis, the only factor that significantly predicted unplanned readmission (P < 0.05) was open wound/wound infection (odds ratio [OR] 2.71). Postoperative variables significantly associated with unplanned readmission included surgical complications (OR 5.43), medical complications (OR 5.62), and unplanned reoperation (OR 3.94). Flap failure was not associated with unplanned readmission. Conclusions: In our study, the presence of either open wound/wound infection, development of surgical complications, medical complications, and unplanned reoperations were associated with unplanned readmissions. Further research in predictive factors is suggested to avoid costly, unnecessary, and preventable readmissions. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 35:13–20, 2015.
A Gibbs‐energy‐barrier‐based computational micro‐sphere model for the simulation of martensitic phase‐transformations
Authors: Ostwald Richard , Bartel Thorsten , Menzel Andreas
Published: January 2014

We introduce a material model for the simulation of polycrystalline materials undergoing solid‐to‐solid phase‐transformations. As a basis, we present a scalar‐valued phase‐transformation model where a Helmholtz free energy function depending on volumetric and deviatoric strain measures is assigned to each phase. The analysis of the related overall Gibbs energy density allows for the calculation of energy barriers. With these quantities at hand, we use a statistical‐physics‐based approach to determine the resulting evolution of volume fractions. Though the model facilitates to take into account an arbitrary number of solid phases of the underlying material, we restrict this work to the simulation of phase‐transformations between an austenitic parent phase and a martensitic tension and compression phase. The scalar model is embedded into a computational micro‐sphere formulation in view of the simulation of three‐dimensional boundary value problems. The final modelling approach necessary for macroscopic simulations is accomplished by a finite element formulation, where the local material behaviour at each integration point is governed by the response of the micro‐sphere model.Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular dynamics simulation of mechanical properties and interaction energy of polythiophene/polyethylene/poly(p‐phenylenevinylene) and CNTs composites
Authors: Zaminpayma Esmaeil
Published: January 2014

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have very important applications in ultrastrong lightweight materials. CNTs can improve mechanical properties of polymer matrix such as breaking stress and Young's modulus. In this article, we studied the interaction between polythiophene (PT)/polyethylene (PE)/poly(p‐phenylenevinylene) (PPV) and CNTs by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation based on a reactive force field (ReaxFF). We studied the influence of CNT diameter, polymer type, and temperature on interaction energy. We found that a large radius CNT at low temperature shows the strongest interaction energy with PT. In addition, we computed the mechanical properties of CNTs‐polymer composites such as the breaking stress, breaking strain, and Young's modulus. Our results show that there is a direct relation between mechanical properties and interaction energy. We found that the mechanical properties of CNTs‐PT composite are better than CNTs‐PPV and CNTs‐PE and it is a good candidate for ultrastrong lightweight materials. We studied the influence of temperature on the mechanical properties. Our results show that CNTs‐polymer composites show stronger mechanical properties at low temperature. We found that ReaxFF can reproduce the other force fields results and it is a very powerful force field to study the various properties of CNTs‐polymer composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:2261–2268, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation of thermal resistant gas barrier chitosan nanobiocomposites
Authors: Swain Sarat K. , Kisku Sudhir K. , Sahoo Gyanaranjan
Published: January 2014

Nanobiocomposites of chitosan/clay were prepared by solution method using CuSO4/glycine chelate complex as the catalyst with variable percentage of clay loading. The chemical interaction of chitosan and clay was studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The structure of chitosan and clay nanobiocomposites was investigated by X‐ray diffraction and high resolution transmission electron microscopy. From thermogravimetric analysis, it was found that chitosan/clay nanobiocomposites were more thermally stable as compared to pure chitosan. A substantial reduction in oxygen permeability was obtained from the gas permeameter with increase in clay concentrations by which the synthesized nanocomposites materials may be used for packaging applications. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:2324–2328, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
A Simple, Scalable Process for the Production of Porous Polymer Microspheres by Ink‐Jetting Combined with Thermally Induced Phase Separation
Authors: Go Dewi P. , Harvie Dalton J. E. , Tirtaatmadja Nicolin , Gras Sally L. , O'Connor Andrea J.
Published: January 2014

Porous microspheres capable of delivering high payloads of biomolecules with suitable biodegradability and biocompatibility would be valuable in delivery systems to aid tissue regeneration. This study describes a facile, scalable technique to produce biodegradable porous microspheres by combining continuous ink‐jetting through a piezoelectric nozzle with thermally induced phase separation (TIPS). A selection of biomaterials is investigated to suit delivery in tissue engineering, the synthetic polyesters poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA), and poly caprolactone (PCL) and a natural polymer, gelatin. The parameters governing the microsphere production are determined experimentally and compared to theoretical predictions derived from the fluid mechanics and heat transfer during the ink‐jetting process. The microspheres produced have open interconnected pores with mean particle diameters of 80–200 μm and no significant skin region. The physical properties, such as the mean particle diameter, pore size, and surface area could be controlled by varying production parameters including the ink‐jetting pressure, nozzle height, and the size and oscillation frequency of the nozzle. The technique is demonstrated to successfully encapsulate a model hydrophobic molecule during microsphere production with uniform distribution. Porous PLGA microspheres are also used to achieve much higher adsorption capacities of a short peptide than non‐porous microspheres of the same material.