bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A hybrid downscaling model for winter temperature over northeast China
Authors: Dai Haixia , Fan Ke , Tian Baoqiang
Published: December 2017

A hybrid downscaling model is established to forecast the winter temperature at 182 stations over northeast China based on the year‐to‐year increment approach (differences in variables between the current and previous year). As winter temperature over China is related to general circulation and oceanic circulation signals, the three most suitable predictors at specific regions are ultimately considered in our model after analysing the physical processes involved. Accordingly, winter sea level pressure (SLP) from version 2 of the NCEP's Climate Forecast System (CFSv2) is used as a current‐year predictor, along with two other previous‐year predictors – sea surface temperature (SST) in August and sea‐ice concentration (SIC) in November, from observation. Four separate downscaling schemes are then proposed, three of which involve just one predictor (i.e. SLP‐scheme, SST‐scheme, and SIC‐scheme), and the fourth involves all of the predictors [i.e. hybrid downscaling (HD)‐scheme]. We evaluate the schemes, through cross‐validation, by examining the spatial and temporal anomaly correlation coefficients (ACCs) and reduction in root‐mean‐square error percentage (RMSEP). Considerable evidence is found that all of the schemes improve the skill in predicting winter temperature over northeast China, especially the HD‐scheme, as compared with real‐time CFSv2 forecasting. The 33‐year spatial ACC average for the HD‐scheme rises approximately from −0.017 to 0.30, which is much larger than the threshold value of 0.19, showing statistical significance at the 99% confidence level. Additionally, the temporal RMSEP (i.e. the difference between the RMSE of the CFSv2 outputs and the downscaling results) decreases by more than 30% for all four schemes. Moreover, the cold winter temperature pattern over northeast China in 2013 is reproduced well by the HD‐scheme.
Crosstalk between substance P and calcitonin gene‐related peptide during heterotopic ossification in murine Achilles tendon
Authors: Tuzmen Ceren , Verdelis Kostas , Weiss Lee , Campbell Phil
Published: December 2017

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is abnormal bone formation within soft tissue, usually predisposed by neurogenic or musculoskeletal trauma. Inflammation resulting from trauma is considered to be the main trigger for HO by eliciting changes within the injury site, including elevation of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). Recent research, however, has also associated changes in sensory neuropeptide expression with HO. Substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) are two of those neuropeptides that have been implicated with various aspects of HO, including regulation of inflammation and BMP signaling. Despite discoveries associating SP and CGRP with soft tissue HO, it remains unclear whether SP and CGRP have a direct role in the induction of HO. Here, we investigated the effect of SP and CGRP in vivo with the aid of inkjet‐based biopatterning technology to controllably deliver these neuropeptides onto a murine Achilles tendon. While we did not observe any significant effect with CGRP, SP alone promoted HO in vivo with increased expression of BMP2. Remarkably, when SP and CGRP were delivered together, CGRP counteracted the effect of SP and essentially blocked SP‐induced HO. This report contributes to the understanding of the complex problem of HO pathophysiology and warrants more study to better elucidate the interplay between SP and CGRP in the induction of HO. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1444–1455, 2018.
Influence of graded EDTA applications on mobilization and translocation of trace elements—a soil column experiment
Authors: Bloem Elke , Vogler Iris
Published: December 2017

Increasing concerns about potential environmental effects of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) accumulation in soils require better understanding of its behavior and its effect on trace element mobilization. In this study we investigated the effect of EDTA on soil trace element mobilization in undisturbed soil columns taken from a heavy metal contaminated field. The columns were leached by EDTA solutions of different concentrations under unsaturated, steady‐state conditions. The transport of trace elements (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sn, Zn) and EDTA was monitored by regularly collecting the leachates. After the termination of the leaching experiment the soil columns were divided into 5 layers to determine trace elements and EDTA concentrations in the soil. The results revealed that the soil analysis alone was not suitable to infer mobilization or immobilization patterns in relation to the EDTA concentration, as the mobilized fraction was too small in relation to the total trace metal concentrations in the soil. Analysis of the leachates displayed that after 2–4 pore volumes the EDTA output concentration reached about 80% of the input concentration. The trace element concentrations in the leachates showed that some elements were mobilized by EDTA (Cd, Cu, Fe, Pb, Co, Ni, Zn) while others were immobilized (Mn, Cr, Mo, Sn) in the soil columns after EDTA application.
Neoadjuvant systemic therapy for regionally advanced melanoma
Authors: Jakub James W. , Racz Jennifer M. , Hieken Tina J. , Gonzalez Alexandra B. , Kottschade Lisa A. , Markovic Svetomir N. , Yan Yiyi , Block Mathew S.
Published: December 2017

Background

Patients with regionally advanced melanoma are at high risk of distant failure and unlikely to be cured by surgery alone. Neoadjuvant therapy may provide benefit in these patients.

Objectives

To evaluate our experience with neoadjuvant systemic therapy in high‐risk stage III patients.

Methods

Retrospective review of patients with advanced stage III disease who received neoadjuvant therapy between August 2009 and August 2016 at Mayo Clinic Rochester.

Results

Twenty‐three cases met our inclusion criteria, 16 with resectable disease and 7 with unresectable disease. No patients with resectable disease and one patient with borderline resectable disease progressed regionally, prohibiting surgical resection. Five of seven patients with unresectable disease were down‐staged to a resectable state. Six of twenty‐three (26%) had a CR and five are alive at last follow‐up. Fifteen of twenty three patients (65%) progressed with a median progression free survival of 11 months; however, the 5 year overall survival estimate was 84%.

Conclusions

Neoadjuvant systemic therapy is a reasonable approach for patients with advanced but resectable/borderline resectable disease and the risk of losing regional control is low. Our data also suggest some patients with unresectable disease will be converted to resectable and a complete clinical response to treatment can be obtained in approximately one quater of patients.
Imaging of liposarcomas for clinicians: Characteristic features and differential considerations
Authors: Teniola Oluwadamilola , Wang Kevin Yuqi , Wang Wei‐Lien , Tseng William W. , Amini Behrang
Published: December 2017

Liposarcoma (LPS) is a malignancy of fat and one of the most common soft tissue sarcomas. There are three major subtypes of LPS: Well‐differentiated / dedifferentiated, myxoid, and pleomorphic. We review the imaging features of LPS in the abdomen and extremities, describe features that help differentiate the subtypes, and provides alternative considerations for fat‐containing lesions (many benign) that can mimic LPS.
Magnetic iron(III)‐based framework composites for the magnetic solid‐phase extraction of fungicides from environmental water samples
Authors: Huang Yan‐Feng , Liu Qiao‐Huan , Li Kang , Li Ying , Chang Na
Published: December 2017

We adopted a facile hydrofluoric acid‐free hydro‐/solvothermal method for the preparation of four magnetic iron(III)‐based framework composites (MIL‐101@Fe3O4‐COOH, MIL‐101‐NH2@Fe3O4‐COOH, MIL‐53@Fe3O4‐COOH, and MIL‐53‐NH2@Fe3O4‐COOH). The obtained four magnetic iron(III)‐based framework composites were applied to magnetic separation and enrichment of the fungicides (prochloraz, myclobutanil, tebuconazole, and iprodione) from environmental samples before high‐performance liquid chromatographic analysis. MIL‐101‐NH2@Fe3O4‐COOH showed more remarkable pre‐concentration ability for the fungicides as compared to the other three magnetic iron(III)‐based framework composites. The extraction parameters affecting enrichment efficiency including extraction time, sample pH, elution time, and the desorption solvent were investigated and optimized. Under the optimized conditions, the standard curve of correlation coefficients were all above 0.991, the limits of detection were 0.04–0.4 μg/L, and the relative standard deviations were below 10.2%. The recoveries of two real water samples ranged from 71.1–99.1% at the low spiking level (30 μg/L). Therefore, the MIL‐101‐NH2@Fe3O4‐COOH composites are attractive for the rapid and efficient extraction of fungicides from environmental water samples.
Early Stage olfactory neuroblastoma and the impact of resecting dura and olfactory bulb
Authors: Mays Ashley C. , Bell Diana , Ferrarotto Renata , Phan Jack , Roberts Dianna , Fuller Clifton D. , Frank Steven J. , Raza Shaan M. , Kupferman Michael E. , DeMonte Franco , Hanna Ehab Y. , Su Shirley Y.
Published: December 2017

Objective

Compare outcomes of patients with olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) without skull base involvement treated with and without resection of the dura and olfactory bulb.

Methods

Retrospective review of ONB patients treated from 1992 to 2013 at the MD Anderson Cancer Center (The University of Texas, Houston, Texas, U.S.A.). Primary outcomes were overall and disease‐free survival.

Results

Thirty‐five patients were identified. Most patients had Kadish A/B. tumors (97%), Hyams grade 2 (70%), with unilateral involvement (91%), and arising from the nasal cavity (68%). Tumor involved the mucosa abutting the skull base in 42% of patients. Twenty‐five patients (71%) received surgery and radiation, whereas the remainder had surgery alone. Five patients (14%) had bony skull base resection, and eight patients (23%) had resection of bony skull base, dura, and olfactory bulb. Surgical margins were grossly positive in one patient (3%) and microscopically positive in four patients (12%). The 5‐ and 10‐year overall survival were 93% and 81%, respectively. The 5‐ and 10‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) were 89% and 78%, respectively. Bony cribriform plate resection was associated with better DFS (P = 0.05), but dura and olfactory bulb resection was not (P = 0.11). There was a trend toward improved DFS in patients with negative resection margins (P = 0.19). Surgical modality (open vs. endoscopic) and postoperative radiotherapy did not impact DFS.

Conclusion

Most Kadish A/B ONB tumors have low Hyams grade, unilateral involvement, and favorable survival outcomes. Resection of the dura and olfactory bulb is not oncologically advantageous in patients without skull base involvement who are surgically treated with negative resection margins and cribriform resection.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:1274–1280, 2018
Smaller Counter Cation for Higher Transconductance in Anionic Conjugated Polyelectrolytes
Authors: Schmidt Martina M. , ElMahmoudy Mohammed , Malliaras George G. , Inal Sahika , Thelakkat Mukundan
Published: December 2017

Conjugated polyelectrolytes (CPEs) are a focus of research because combine their inherent electrical conductivity and the ability to interact with ions in aqueous solutions or biological systems. However, it is still not understood to what degree the counter ion in CPEs influences the properties of the CPE itself and the performance of electronic transducers. In order to investigate this, three different conjugated polyelectrolytes, poly(6‐(thiophen‐3‐yl)hexane‐1‐sulfonate)s (PTHS−X+), are synthesized, which have the same polythiophene backbone but different X+ counter ions: the bulky tetrabutylammonium (TBA+), tetraethylammonium (TEA+), and the smallest tetramethylammonium (TMA+). At the interface with biological systems, thin CPE films have to be stable in an aqueous environment and should allow the inward and outward flow of ions from the electrolyte. Since the studied PTHS−X+ have different solubilities in water, the optical properties of pristine PTHS−X+ as well as of crosslinked PTHS−X+ via UV–vis absorption spectroscopy are investigated additionally. PTHS−TMA+ exhibits better aggregation, fast interdiffusion of ions, and fast recovery from the oxidized state. Additionally, spectroelectrochemical and cyclic voltammetric as well as electrochemical capacitance investigations show that PTHS−TMA+ can be oxidized to a higher degree. This leads to a better performance of PTHS−TMA+‐based organic electrochemical transistors.
Nanofishing of a Single Polymer Chain: Temperature‐Induced Coil–Globule Transition of Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) Chain in Water
Authors: Liang Xiaobin , Nakajima Ken
Published: December 2017

The nanofishing of a telechelic thiol‐terminated poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) single polymer chain from an Au (111) substrate in aqueous solution is investigated by atomic force microscopy. The obtained force–extension curves show two typical profiles: one is in good agreement with a so‐called worm‐like chain model, whereas the other is characterized by a Rayleigh–Plateau constant force. The appearance of the force plateau region is in agreement with the theoretical predictions of a pearl‐necklace model. For the first time, the temperature‐dependent interfacial free energy is obtained between PNIPAM and water, and it is found that it is the cause of the lower‐critical‐solution‐temperature‐type phase transition seen in PNIPAM/water system.
Networks Based on “Core‐First” Star Polymers End‐Linked Using a Degradable Ketal Cross‐Linker: Synthesis, Characterization, and Cleavage
Authors: Kepola Eleni J. , Patrickios Costas S.
Published: December 2017

Sequential group transfer polymerization of cross‐linker, monomer (methyl methacrylate), and cross‐linker again is used to prepare cleavable polymer networks based on interconnected “core‐first” star polymers. By employing a degradable and a nondegradable cross‐linker, four networks are prepared. While cleavage of the degradable cross‐linker residues leads to complete polymer network dissolution, the degradation products do not always display the expected molecular weight features. These products are the expected in the case of the network prepared using only the degradable cross‐linker (monomodal size distribution with expected low molecular weight) and also in the case of the network prepared using first the degradable and then the nondegradable cross‐linker (bimodal size distribution including high molecular weight star polymers), but not so in the case of the network prepared using first the nondegradable and then the degradable cross‐linker, where the expected high molecular weight star polymer component is missing due to star recombination after hydrolysis.
A Solvent‐Resistant and Biocompatible Self‐Healing Supramolecular Elastomer with Tunable Mechanical Properties
Authors: Liu Ling , Zhu Liang , Zhang Liqun
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this work is to demonstrate a new design strategy to produce a self‐healing supramolecular elastomer with solvent resistance and biocompatibility and tunable mechanical properties. This aim is successfully achieved by synthesizing a lignin‐based supramolecular elastomer (LSE) through branching amide molecular chains on the lignin. The use of lignin effectively reduces the glass transition temperature and the degree of crystallinity of LSEs and generates urea‐modified hydrogen bond groups to obtain self‐healing capability. The synthesized LSEs behave as rubber and exhibit spontaneous self‐healing behavior at room temperature without external stimuli. The mechanical and self‐healing properties are closely related to the content of lignin. The elongation at break of the LSE‐3 is 172% and tensile strength is 1.12 MPa, and achieves full recovery after a healing time of 48 h. The LSE material demonstrates insolubility in common polar solvents and is essentially noncytotoxic and potentially biocompatible for biomedical applications.
Living Anionic Polymerization of 4‐(1‐Adamantyl)‐α‐Methylstyrene
Authors: Kobayashi Shingo , Kataoka Hiroshi , Goseki Raita , Ishizone Takashi
Published: December 2017

Anionic polymerization of a novel α‐methylstyrene derivative para‐substituted with a bulky and rigid adamantyl group, 4‐(1‐adamantyl)‐α‐methylstyrene (AdαMS) is carried out with sec‐butyllithium (sec‐BuLi) in tetrahydrofuran (THF) at −78 °C. The polymerizations of AdαMS quantitatively proceed to afford the polymers possessing controlled molecular weights and narrow molecular weight distributions (Mw/Mn = 1.03–1.16). The propagating carbanion of poly(AdαMS) is stable and undergoes depolymerization at room temperature due to the low ceiling temperature. The resulting poly(AdαMS) has a significantly high glass transition temperature (Tg) at 274 °C. The Tg values of random copolymers of AdαMS and α‐methylstyrene can be controlled by changing the feed molar ratio of the comonomers from 167 to 274 °C.
Crystallization/Melting Kinetics and Morphological Analysis of Polyphenylene Sulfide
Authors: Furushima Yoshitomo , Nakada Masaru , Yoshida Yuki , Okada Kazuyuki
Published: December 2017

Crystallization and melting kinetics of polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) are determined using fast scanning calorimetry. The temperature dependence of half‐time crystallization of isothermally melt‐crystallized PPS shows a downward convex curve with a minimum at 160 °C. The minimum crystallization half‐time is about 3 s. The analysis of heating rate dependence of the melting temperature reveals a zero‐entropy‐production melting temperature of the sample. The microstructure of the sample, which is prepared by fast scanning calorimetry, is investigated by small‐angle X‐ray scattering and polarizing optical microscopy. The crystallinity and lamellar thickness of the sample annealed for 400 s decrease with decreasing crystallization temperature. The size of spherulites becomes small as the isothermal temperature is decreased. Transcrystalline morphology is observed near the surface between the sample and nitrogen gas at a crystallization temperature of 120 °C. The thickness of the transcrystalline layer disappears as the isothermal temperature is increased.
Adding Nonconnected Monomers to Manage the Layering Crystallization of Polymers on Athermal Substrate
Authors: Yang Huan , Cao Xue‐Zheng , Zhou Bin , Liu Yong‐Song , Wu Chen‐Xu
Published: December 2017

Layering crystallization of polymers has extensive interests for achieving multifunctional materials with tailored applications. However, it is difficult to form polymer crystal on athermal substrate due to the conformational entropy loss of polymer chains if they are flattened against the substrate surface. Using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, it is confirmed that layering crystallization of polymers can be intrigued after blending the polymers with nonconnected monomers in between two athermal parallel substrates. The layering crystal area of polymers extends as increasing the bulk volume fraction of nonconnected monomers. It is proposed that the conformational entropy loss of the crystallized polymers is compensated by an increase of the translational entropy of nonconnected monomers. The thickness of the layering crystal of polymers is verified to be targetedly controllable through tuning the bulk volume fraction of nonconnected monomers. This study leads to a simulation and theory basis for the experimental design of thickness‐desired layering crystal of polymers without incorporating an enthalpical contribution of polymer‐substrate attraction.
Protective effect of platelet‐rich plasma on urethral injury model of male rats
Authors: Tavukcu Hasan H. , Aytaç Ömer , Atuğ Fatih , Alev Burçin , Çevik Özge , Bülbül Nurdan , Yarat Ayşen , Çetinel Şule , Şener Göksel , Kulaksızoğlu Haluk
Published: December 2017

Aims

Urethral stricture (US) formation is caused by fibrosis after excessive collagen formation following an injury or trauma to the urethra. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) on a urethral injury (UI) model of male rats.

Methods

A UI model was used by applying a coagulation current to the urethras of male rats. There were four groups with six rats in each: control group, PRP applied to naive urethra, UI group, and UI with PRP application. PRP was applied to the urethra after a coagulation current‐induced injury as soon as possible. On the 14th day, all rats were sacrificed and urethral tissues were investigated for collagen type I, collagen type III, platelet‐derived growth factor‐α, platelet‐derived growth factor‐β, and transforming growth factor‐β using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. The effect of urethral damage and healing was evaluated for collagen type I‐to‐collagen type III ratio.

Results

The collagen type I‐to‐collagen type III ratio was significantly higher in UI group (P < 0.05) than in the others, while UI with PRP application group had comparable results with the control group (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The results of this study show that PRP has a preventive effect on stricture formation in a UI model of rats, as shown by its effect on collagen synthesis. Further studies that eventually show the effects of PRP on human tissues are necessary and promising.
Comparison of outcomes between postpartum and non‐postpartum women with stress urinary incontinence treated with conservative therapy: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Sun Zhi‐Jing , Zhu Lan , Liang Mao‐Lian , Xu Tao , Lang Jing‐He
Published: December 2017

Aim

This study aimed to compare the outcomes of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) between postpartum and non‐postpartum women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and to detect potential factors that may influence these outcomes.

Methods

A total of 54 and 79 participants were recruited into postpartum (PP group) and non‐postpartum (non‐PP group) groups, respectively. A physiotherapist treated the participants twice a week for 6‐8 weeks. At baseline and 6 and 12 months after treatment, the 1‐h pad weight test (PWT), vaginal contraction pressure (VCP), and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire Short Form (IIQ‐7) were assessed by an evaluator or physiotherapist. The primary outcome was PWT improvement. The participants whose PWT improvement reached a >50% reduction relative to baseline were considered responders. Secondary outcomes included VCP, IIQ‐7 score, and patient satisfaction rate.

Results

The PWT improvement was 87.04% (95%CI: 0.78, 0.96) in the PP group at 1‐year follow‐up, which was significantly better than the 72.15% improvement (95%CI: 0.62, 0.82) in the non‐PP group (OR = 2.591, 95%CI: 1.018, 6.595, P = 0.041). Changes in VCP and BMI were significant predictors of responders in the regression analysis. As the change in VCP increased by 1 cmH2O, the efficiency increased by 4.2% (OR = 1.042, 95%CI: 1.010, 1.070). The change in BMI increased by 1 kg/m2, and the efficiency decreased 23.0% (OR = 0.770, 95%CI: 0.633, 0.937).

Conclusions

The outcome of PFMT in postpartum participants with SUI was better than that in non‐postpartum participants. Women with more improvements in VCP and weight loss showed better amelioration of SUI symptoms after PFMT.
Precise, Flexible Manufacturing of Optical Fiber Components
Authors: Theeg Thomas , Neumann Jörg
Published: December 2017

Fiber‐based laser and light guiding systems offer many advantages in terms of efficiency, beam quality preservation, stability, beam guiding flexibility and laser safety as compared to free‐beam optics. At present, however, fiber‐optic components are still very standardized.
Listening to Ultrasound with a Laser
Authors: Preißer Stefan , Fischer Balthasar , Panzer Nils
Published: December 2017

Ultrasound is widely used in applications ranging from non‐destructive testing of materials to medical imaging or even surgical interventions. As diverse as these applications may seem, they have a common interest: a precise measurement of the ultrasonic signals. Exact quantification is necessary to ensure proper performance of equipment as well as, sometimes, human safety. A new highly sensitive and broadband ultrasound detector is presented to fulfill the diverging demands of various ultrasound applications. In contrast to conventional sensors, it listens to ultrasound with a laser.
Diode Lasers Enable Diverse Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Neukum Jörg , Schulze Matthias
Published: December 2017

Lasers are widely used throughout medicine, from diagnostic imaging and clinical testing, to surgical treatments and the latest aesthetic procedures. For therapeutic medical procedures, in particular, diode lasers have now become the dominant laser type in use. This is because these workhorse devices provide lower cost of ownership, a wider choice of output wavelength and power, compact rugged packaging, and superior (semiconductor) reliability as compared to other laser types. In this article, we briefly examine the main features and advantages of typical diode laser types, and then survey some of the leading therapeutic applications that currently rely on them.
Detecting Cardiac Infarction Risk Reliably Using Fast Laser Pulses
Authors: Wu Min
Published: December 2017

Photoacoustic imaging based on laser pulses is a promising method for clinical detection of vulnerable arterial plaque that is a potential trigger for cardiac infarction. With a custom‐designed combination of pulse laser and OPO (optical parametric oscillator), Elforlight and AMS Technologies contribute to substantial acceleration of this imaging method's intravascular application.
Development of cellulose nanocrystal‐reinforced polylactide: A comparative study on different preparation methods
Authors: Bagheriasl Davood , Safdari Fatemeh , Carreau Pierre J. , Dubois Charles , Riedl Bernard
Published: December 2017

A masterbatch of polylactide (PLA) containing cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) prepared via a solution‐cast method was further diluted with neat PLA in the melt state using either a twin‐screw extruder or an internal batch mixer to reach a final CNC content of 4 wt%. For the sake of comparison, a direct melt mixing method was employed to prepare PLA–CNC composites. Then, the efficiency of the preparation methods was assessed by comparing the morphological, rheological and thermomechanical properties of the compounded samples. Scanning electron microscopy showed the disappearance of large agglomerates when using the PLA–CNC masterbatch. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the existence of well‐dispersed CNCs within the PLA matrix at a nanoscale for masterbatch‐based nanocomposites. The rheological properties of the nanocomposites containing the PLA–CNC masterbatch were significantly increased for both steady and small‐amplitude oscillatory shear flow fields, compared to the composites prepared via direct melt mixing. In addition, the masterbatch‐based nanocomposites exhibited pronounced overshoots in the transient start‐up viscosity. The crystalline content of the PLA in the nanocomposites and the crystallization temperature increased when the CNCs were well dispersed, which showed the nucleating effect of the CNCs. In dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, the storage modulus of the nanocomposites increased up to 41 and 128% in the glassy and rubbery regions, respectively. These results show that hydrophilic CNCs can be well dispersed and reinforce PLA using efficient preparation methods. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E342–E349, 2019. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
A novel technique for in‐situ manufacturing of functionally graded materials based polymer composite spur gears
Authors: Singh Akant Kumar , Siddhartha
Published: December 2017

The authors propose a different manufacturing process developed to fabricate functionally graded material (FGM) based thermoplastic gear. FGM and homogeneous gears are manufactured by means of an especially designed mould and a punch. The punch acts as an integral rotating member of the mould and has a cavity carved in the shape of gear where the material is filled to produce gears. The punch rotates at 1,800 rpm for 2 min to force at segregation of fibers towards the periphery of the punch cavity because of the centrifugal force in action. Polypropylene (PP) filled with 15 and 30 wt% glass fibers is used to fabricate FGM and homogeneous gears. Unfilled PP gear is also fabricated for comparative study. Gradation in FGM gear is verified by Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis and Shore D hardness measured in three different locations of the fabricated FGM gears. Gradation in FGM gear is also verified by ignition loss test method. Continuous gradation is observed in FGM gear by SEM and confirmed by hardness test and ignition loss test. In this work, transmission efficiency of unfilled, homogeneous and FGM PP gears during operation is also investigated and compared. A polymer gear test rig is used for experimental work. This route shows a promising potential for fabrication of FGM based thermoplastics gears which otherwise is difficult to manufacture because of their fast solidification properties at room temperature. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:523–535, 2019. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Behavior Bingo: The effects of a culturally relevant group contingency intervention for students with EBD
Authors: Collins Tai A. , Hawkins Renee O. , Flowers Emily M. , Kalra Hilary D. , Richard Jessie , Haas Lauren E.
Published: December 2017

Students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) have difficulty with academic engagement during independent seatwork tasks. The goal of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Behavior Bingo, a novel interdependent group contingency intervention, on the academic engagement, off‐task, and disruptive behavior of students with EBD during independent seatwork in an urban alternative high school setting. During the intervention, the class collaborated to fill in a posted Bingo board contingent on demonstrating appropriate behavior. Using an ABAB withdrawal design in two classrooms, the Behavior Bingo intervention showed promise as a feasible and effective classroom management intervention. Given the urban setting and diverse sample of participants, implications for culturally relevant and responsive intervention are discussed, including the role of peers in culturally responsive intervention, the use of randomization and uncertainty, preference assessment, and engaging intervention components.
Breast and gynecological cancer patients' risk factors associated with biopsychosocial problem‐related distress
Authors: Bergerot Cristiane Decat , Clark Karen Lynn , Obenchain Richard , Philip Errol J. , Loscalzo Matthew
Published: December 2017

Objectives

Inequalities exist between breast and gynecological cancer patients' experiences, leading to high levels of distress throughout the cancer journey. The present study aims to identify differences in source of biopsychosocial problem‐related distress between women diagnosed with breast or gynecological cancers.

Methods

From 2009 to 2016, women with breast (n = 2111) and gynecological (n = 641) cancers were screened using the core items of the instrument You, Your Family, and City of Hope are a Team. This is a touch screen–based instrument that assess problem‐related distress due to physical, practical, functional, emotional, and other problems and identifies types of assistance requested. Data were analyzed using the linear regression model.

Results

A significant difference in overall biopsychosocial problems rated as high distress was found between breast (M = 5.0) and gynecological (M = 6.2) cancer patients (P < .001). Gynecological cancer patients endorsed a greater number of problems to talk with a member of the team (alone or with written information), while both cancer groups requested written information equally. Gynecological cancer was associated with higher physical, functional, emotional, and total distress. Younger patients, non‐Asian, and those with lower education and lower household income also reported greater distress.

Conclusions

Gynecological cancer patients represent a high‐risk group, reporting greater problem‐related distress and higher levels of requested assistance. Age, education, race/ethnicity, and income were found to be potential risk factors. Findings highlight the importance of considering characteristics and special needs related to specific types of cancer to assist in the effective treatment of distress throughout the continuum of care.
Doping of Fullerene‐Like MoS2 Nanoparticles with Minute Amounts of Niobium
Authors: Rosentsveig Rita , Yadgarov Lena , (Isai) Feldman Yishay , Shilstein Sana , Popovitz‐Biro Ronit , Visic Bojana , Sedova Anastasiya , Cohen Sidney R. , Li Yuanyuan , Frenkel Anatoly I. , Tenne Reshef
Published: December 2017

Inorganic fullerene‐like closed‐cage nanoparticles of MoS2 and WS2 (IF‐MoS2; IF‐WS2), are synthesized in substantial amounts and their properties are widely studied. Their superior tribological properties led to large scale commercial applications as solid lubricants in numerous products and technologies. Doping of these nanoparticles can be used to tune their physical properties. In the current work, niobium (Nb) doping of the nanoparticles is accomplished to an unprecedented low level (≤0.1 at%), which allows controlling the work function and the band gap. The Nb contributes a positive charge, which partially compensates the negative surface charge induced by the intrinsic defects (sulfur vacancies). The energy diagram and position of the Fermi level on the nanoparticles surface is determined by Kelvin probe microscopy and optical measurements. Some potential applications of these nanoparticles are briefly discussed.
Synergistic Effect of Photothermal Therapy and Chemotherapy Using Camptothecin‐Conjugated Gold Nanorods
Authors: Yang Soojung , Palanikumar L. , Jeong Sundo , Kim Kibeom , Lee Jungmin , Jeoung Eunhee , Kim Chaekyu , Ryu Ja‐Hyoung , Park Myoung‐Hwan
Published: December 2017

A combinatorial treatment comprising thermal therapy and chemotherapy offers synergistic effects by inducing localized heat to targeted tumor sites and simultaneously delivering anticancer drugs to minimize systemic side effects and enhance the cytotoxic effect. In this study, a novel platform is developed for combining photothermal therapy and chemotherapy using drug‐conjugated gold nanorods (GNRs). Camptothecin (CPT), a model anticancer drug, is chemically conjugated onto GNRs through hydrolytic ester bonding. Upon near‐infrared (NIR) irradiation, localized heat from GNRs in target areas starts to destroy tissues and cells via photothermal therapy, and the elevated temperature accelerates hydrolysis of ester linkage, rapidly releasing drugs for chemotherapy. This combined NIR triggered thermal therapy and chemotherapy with CPT‐functionalized GNRs (CPT‐GNRs) presents a synergistic effect that has high efficacy in in vitro tests, thus providing a robust platform for efficient cancer treatments.
Detection of the Human Anti‐ActRII Antibody Bimagrumab in Serum by Means of Affinity Purification, Tryptic Digestion, and LC‐HRMS
Authors: Walpurgis Katja , Thomas Andreas , Dellanna Frank , Schänzer Wilhelm , Thevis Mario
Published: December 2017

Purpose

Inhibitors of the ActRII signaling pathways represent promising therapeutics for the treatment of muscular diseases, but also pose risks as performance‐enhancing agents in sports. Bimagrumab is a human anti‐ActRII antibody which was found to increase muscle mass and function by blocking ActRII signaling. As it has considerable potential for being misused as doping agent in sports, the aim of this study was to develop a mass spectrometric detection assay for doping control serum samples.

Experimental design

Within this study, a detection method for Bimagrumab in human serum was developed, which combines ammonium sulfate precipitation and affinity purification with proteolytic digestion and LC‐HRMS. To facilitate the unambiguous identification of the diagnostic peptides, an orthogonal IM separation was additionally performed.

Results

The assay was successfully validated and the analysis of clinical samples demonstrated its fitness for purpose for an application in routine doping control analysis.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Although no myostatin inhibitors have obtained clinical approval yet, the proactive development of detection methods for emerging doping agents represents a key aspect of preventive doping research. The presented approach will expand the range of available tests for novel protein therapeutics and can readily be modified to include further target analytes.
Metabolite profiling and isolation of biologically active compounds from Scadoxus puniceus, a highly traded South African medicinal plant
Authors: Naidoo Devashan , Slavětínská Lenka Poštová , Aremu Adeyemi O. , Gruz Jiri , Biba Ondrej , Doležal Karel , Van Staden Johannes , Finnie Jeffrey F.
Published: December 2017

Scadoxus puniceus (Amaryllidaceae), a medicinal plant of high value in South Africa, is used as a component of a traditional herbal tonic prescribed to treat several ailments. Ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry quantified the phenolic compounds in different organs of S. puniceus. Gravity column chromatography was used to separate fractions and active compounds. The structure of these compounds was determined using 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectroscopic techniques. A microplate technique was used to determine the acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of the pure compounds. Metabolite profiling revealed a greater profusion of hydroxycinnamic acids (69.5%), as opposed to hydroxybenzoic acids (30.5%). Chlorogenic acid was the most abundant (49.6% of hydroxycinnamic acids) compound. In addition to chlorogenic acid, the study is the first to report the presence of sinapic, gallic, and m‐hydroxybenzoic acids in the Amaryllidaceae. Chromatographic separation of S. puniceus led to the isolation of haemanthamine (1), haemanthidine (2), and a rare chlorinated amide, metolachlor (3), the natural occurrence of which is described for the first time. Haemanthamine, haemanthidine, and metolachlor displayed strong acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity (IC50; 23.1, 23.7, and 11.5 μM, respectively). These results substantiate the frequent use of S. puniceus as a medicinal plant and hold much promise for further pharmaceutical development.
Entropy production due to subgrid‐scale thermal fluxes with application to breaking gravity waves
Authors: Gassmann Almut
Published: December 2017

Numerical formulations of turbulent heat fluxes must lead to positive energy dissipation of energy contained in the resolved scales and positive internal entropy production. Current parametrization approaches deliver positive dissipation rates only for free convection, not for forced convection. This contribution explains how positive dissipation rates are achieved by a new formulation of subgrid‐scale terms in the case of stable stratification. This is of importance for the numerical realization of the breakdown of gravity waves. A turbulent atmosphere tends to an isentropic stratification, because in addition to turbulent heat diffusion, pressure work leads to expansion when air is rising and contraction when air is sinking. This pressure work remains completely subgrid‐scale when the atmosphere is unstably stratified. When the atmosphere is stably stratified, this pressure work has to be done by the outer environment. Therefore, a turbulent pressure gradient term is introduced in the vertical momentum equation and the equations account for the irreversible energy conversion from resolved kinetic energy into the model's internal energy. Numerical experiments for breaking gravity waves in the mesosphere highlight the different behaviour of new and conventional approaches. The conventional approach leads to a deepening of the wave amplitudes, whereas the new approach supports wave overturning. The observed foliate structure of very sharp inversion layers is indeed simulated with the new approach for stable stratification. In contrast to the traditional setting, the new scheme does not evolve into persistent non‐physical wave structures on long time‐scales.
Managing the tensions between exploration and exploitation: The role of time
Authors: Mathias Blake D. , Mckenny Aaron F. , Crook T. Russell
Published: December 2017

Research Summary

Organizational ambidexterity reflects an organization's capacity to balance the pursuit of exploration and exploitation. Although the role of time has been central to ambidexterity theory, studies incorporate time in myriad ways, leading to an unclear understanding of how different aspects of time influence the relationship between ambidexterity and performance. We conduct a meta‐analysis of 52 studies involving more than 13,000 organizational observations and find that the performance effects of ambidexterity are stronger among older firms and firms that simultaneously balance exploration and exploitation throughout the organization. However, we also find that the ambidexterity‐performance relationship is weaker when ambidexterity is measured dynamically and when linked to long‐term performance.

Managerial Summary

Although academics have long espoused that firms should balance investments between exploration and exploitation activities because doing so improves firm performance, little research has explicitly modeled the role of time in this balance. We combined all known evidence to assess the role of time on balancing and performance. The two key takeaways for entrepreneurs and managers are that, on average, “balancing” leads to stronger financial performance for (a) older organizations and (b) firms that simultaneously balance activities throughout the organization. Managers may not see the strongest benefits from such a balance when attempting to influence long‐term performance or when this balance occurs at different times or places inside the organization.
Tutorial on kernel estimation of continuous spatial and spatiotemporal relative risk
Authors: Davies Tilman M. , Marshall Jonathan C. , Hazelton Martin L.
Published: December 2017

Kernel smoothing is a highly flexible and popular approach for estimation of probability density and intensity functions of continuous spatial data. In this role, it also forms an integral part of estimation of functionals such as the density‐ratio or “relative risk” surface. Originally developed with the epidemiological motivation of examining fluctuations in disease risk based on samples of cases and controls collected over a given geographical region, such functions have also been successfully used across a diverse range of disciplines where a relative comparison of spatial density functions has been of interest. This versatility has demanded ongoing developments and improvements to the relevant methodology, including use spatially adaptive smoothers; tests of significantly elevated risk based on asymptotic theory; extension to the spatiotemporal domain; and novel computational methods for their evaluation. In this tutorial paper, we review the current methodology, including the most recent developments in estimation, computation, and inference. All techniques are implemented in the new software packagesparr, publicly available for theRlanguage, and we illustrate its use with a pair of epidemiological examples.
Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of Some Hybrid Molecules Derived from Morpholine and Investigation of Their Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Cebeci Yıldız Uygun , Ozdemir Serap Basoglu , Ceylan Sule , Bayrak Hacer , Demirbas Ahmet , Alpay‐Karaoglu Sengul , Demirbas Neslihan
Published: December 2017

2H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3(4H)‐one compound was obtained starting from 4‐(2‐fluoro‐4‐nitrophenyl)morpholine via several steps. Then, these compounds were converted to the corresponding fluoroquinolone hybrids via one pot three component Mannich reaction. Moreover, the synthesis of eleven compounds, which can be considered as conazole analogues, was performed starting from 1,2,4‐triazole‐3‐one compounds via three steps by either conventional or microwave mediated conditions. The effect of different solvents and microwave power on microwave prompted reactions was examined as well.
Pd Nanoparticles‐Supported Carbon Nanotube‐Encapsulated NiO/MgO Composite as an Enhanced Electrocatalyst for Ethanol Electrooxidation in Alkaline Medium
Authors: Mahendiran Chinnathambi , Rajesh Dhanushkotti , Maiyalagan Thandavarayan , Prasanna Kadirvelayutham
Published: December 2017

In this work, an easy method is developed to prepare well‐dispersed palladium nanoparticles into the carbon nanotube (CNT) encapsulated NiO/MgO nanocomposite by the chemical reduction method. CNT encapsulated NiO/MgO nanocomposite were prepared by autogenous pressure at elevated temperature (RAPET) method. The Pd/(NiO/MgO‐CNT) catalyst was characterized using X‐ray difraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), higher resolution‐transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM), Raman spectroscopy and electrochemical analysis. Electrochemical measurements demonstrate the as synthesized Pd/(NiO/MgO‐CNT) catalysts exhibit superior electrochemical performance compare to the commercial Pd/C catalysts. The current densities of the main anodic peak of electrooxidation of ethanol increases sharply for the Pd/(NiO/MgO‐CNT) (98.20 mA/cm2), which are ∼2.1 times as large as that of Pd/C (47 mA/cm2). The excellent electrochemical performance can be attributed on the one hand to the incorporation of NiO/MgO on palladium on the other hand to the porous tubular morphology of the CNT leads to high dispersion of Pd nanoparticles and also enhances the mass transport of the electrode.
Preparation of TiO2 Nanosponge‐Supported Noble Metal Catalysts and Their Application to 4‐Nitrophenol Reduction and CO Oxidation
Authors: Yang Man , Liu Xianchun , Li Yunfeng , Yu Xiaodan , Shi Zhan , Xing Yan
Published: December 2017

In this work, TiO2 nanosponge, replication of a bio‐template by a sol–gel method was achieved with filter paper. High‐dispersed Au and Pt nanoparticles (NPs) with controllable size were immobilized on the surface of TiO2 nanosponge, respectively. The obtained noble metal NPs/TiO2 nanosponge composites were characterized by various techniques. Catalytic activity of the synthesized Au/TiO2 nanocomposites was assessed by the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol (4‐NP), while the catalytic performance of the as‐synthesized Pt/TiO2 nanosponge composites was evaluated by the CO oxidation reaction. Notably, the Au/TiO2 and Pt/TiO2 nanocomposites demonstrated a good catalytic activity and stability for the catalytic reduction of 4‐NP and the catalytic oxidation of CO, respectively.
Facile Preparation of Biodegradable and Printable Polyester Films
Authors: Jain Nishant , Singh Ravinder , Kumar Gulshan , Pani Balaram , Nain Ratyakshi , Dutt Krishna , Muwal Pradeep Kumar , Sirohi Sidhharth
Published: December 2017

In this article, we present fabrication of ecofriendly, biodegradable and printable polyester films using polyethylene glycol, lactic acid and maleic anhydride as monomers. The susceptibility of polyester films towards biodegradation was tuned by varying lactic acid concentration. Films with 0.5 moles concentration of lactic acid exhibited maximum susceptibility towards degradation i. e. 39% in 60 days. Experimental results revealed that the films were printable with ink, label and stamp printing. The films were durable for tape and solvent test and capable of retaining dye on their surface owing to polar interactions between dye molecules and carboxylic groups of polymer chain ends.