bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study on the metallic corrosion characteristics under atmospheric environment in Taiwan: Taking Taichung Harbor as an example
Authors: Lo C. M. , Tsai L. H. , La H. H. , Wu W. T. , Lin M. D.
Published: September 2017

To understand the corrosion characteristic of metal in atmospheric environment in Taiwan, Taichung Harbor was used as an example in this study, and ISO 9223 standard was followed to conduct an atmospheric corrosion deterioration factor survey and metallic exposure test for four types of screw metals: carbon steel, zinc, copper, and aluminum. The main objective of this study was to understand the classification and ranking of metallic corrosion, conduct surface analysis, examine trend change, and set up a forecasting model of metallic corrosion speed. According to the classification of ISO 9223 atmospheric corrosion of 1‐year‐period deterioration factor (time of wetness, chloride, and sulfur dioxide), it was found from the results that all four metals were of C4 ranks. However, for the one‐year period exposure test of metal, carbon steel, copper, and aluminum can reach the C5 rank. In the trend change of 2‐year metallic corrosion, for all four metals, a higher corrosion rate can be seen in the initial stage; for aluminum and zinc, a stable corrosion rate can be seen in the second month. For carbon steel and copper, a stable corrosion rate can be seen in the sixth month. In the process of setting up an artificial neural forecasting model, carbon steel and copper showed good forecasting capabilities in three models. The ANN model was suitable for zinc, while the PCA‐ANN model was suitable for aluminum.
Don't ignore the floor: Exploring multisensory atmospheric congruence between music and flooring in a retail environment
Authors: Imschloss Monika , Kuehnl Christina
Published: September 2017

In retail environments, consumers commonly evaluate products while standing on some type of flooring and concurrently being exposed to music; however, no study has examined the interaction of these two atmospheric cues. To bridge this gap, this research examines whether retailers can benefit from creating multisensory atmospheric congruent rather than incongruent retail environments of flooring and music. The results of an experiment in a real retail store reveal positive effects of multisensory congruent retail environments (e.g., soft music combined with soft flooring) on product evaluations. This study provides a new process explanation with consumers’ purchase‐related self‐confidence mediating these effects. Specifically, consumers in congruent rather than incongruent retail environments experience more purchase‐related self‐confidence, which in turn leads to more favorable product evaluations. Furthermore, this study shows that consumers with a low rather than a high preference for haptic information are influenced more by multisensory atmospheric congruence when evaluating a product haptically.
Tense from touch: Examining accidental interpersonal touch between consumers
Authors: Martin Brett A. S. , Nuttall Peter
Published: September 2017

Retail shopping research recognizes that other consumers in a store can impact a consumer's experience. However, the effects of accidental interpersonal touch (AIT) are only beginning to emerge in the literature. The current research presents three field experiments to illuminate the process that drives AIT effects. This research is the first to show that AIT effects are driven by arousal; specifically tense arousal rather than energetic arousal. The findings build on prior research to investigate moderators of the AIT effect—trait anxiety and social visibility. The findings show that AIT effects are amplified for anxious female consumers and situations where store bystanders activate feelings of embarrassment. Theoretical and managerial implications are offered.
Sequence‐Independent DNA Nanogel as a Potential Drug Carrier
Authors: Zhang Weiqi , Tung Ching‐Hsuan
Published: September 2017

DNA nanostructures largely rely on pairing DNA bases; thus, sequence designing is required. Here, this study demonstrates a sequence‐independent strategy to fabricate DNA nanogel (NG) inspired by cisplatin, a chemotherapeutic drug that acts as a DNA crosslinker. A simple heating and cooling of the genomic DNA extracts and cisplatin produces DNA NG with a size controlled by the heating time. Furthermore, the drug‐loaded NG is formulated by spontaneously mixing DNA segments, cisplatin, and doxorubicin. The in vitro cell studies demonstrate that the doxorubicin‐loaded NG alters the drug distribution in cells while its cytotoxic potential is well‐maintained. This chemotherapeutic‐inspired method provides a facile one‐pot and cost‐effective strategy to fabricate size‐controllable DNA NG that potentially acts as drug carrier.
Recent Advances in Processing of Stereocomplex‐Type Polylactide
Authors: Bai Hongwei , Deng Shihao , Bai Dongyu , Zhang Qin , Fu Qiang
Published: September 2017

Over the past two decades, biomass‐derived and biodegradable polylactide (PLA) has sparked tremendous attention as a sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum‐derived polymers for diverse applications. Unfortunately, the current applications of PLA have been mainly limited to biomedical and commodity fields, mostly because the poor heat resistance (resulting from low melting temperature) and hydrolysis stability make it hard to use as an engineering plastic. Stereocomplexation between enantiomeric poly(l‐lactide) (PLLA) and poly(d‐lactide) (PDLA) opens a new avenue toward PLA‐based engineering plastics with improved properties. The formation, crystal structure, properties, and potential applications of stereocomplex‐type PLA (SC‐PLA) are summarized by some research groups. However, since it is challenging to achieve full stereocomplexation from high‐molecular‐weight PLLA/PDLA blends and to avoid serious thermal degradation of the PLAs after complete melting, the advances and progress in the processing of SC‐PLA into useful products are quite rare in open publication. In this review, some important strategies for enhancing stereocomplex crystallization in practical processing operations are presented and recently developed processing technologies for SC‐PLA are highlighted, such as low‐temperature sintering. Furthermore, major challenges and future developments are briefly discussed. This review is expected to potentially open up new research activities in the processing of SC‐PLA.
A block matching based approach with multiple simultaneous templates for the real‐time 2D ultrasound tracking of liver vessels
Authors: Shepard Andrew J. , Wang Bo , Foo Thomas K.F. , Bednarz Bryan P.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The implementation of motion management techniques in radiation therapy can aid in mitigating uncertainties and reducing margins. For motion management to be effective, it is necessary to track key structures both accurately and at a real‐time speed. Therefore, the focus of this work was to develop a 2D algorithm for the real‐time tracking of ultrasound features to aid in radiation therapy motion management.

Materials and Methods

The developed algorithm utilized a similarity measure‐based block matching algorithm incorporating training methods and multiple simultaneous templates. The algorithm is broken down into three primary components, all of which use normalized cross‐correlation (NCC) as a similarity metric. First, a global feature shift to account for gross displacements from the previous frame is determined using large block sizes which encompass the entirety of the feature. Second, the most similar reference frame is chosen from a series of training images that are accumulated during the first K frames of tracking to aid in contour consistency and provide a starting point for the localized template initialization. Finally, localized block matching is performed through the simultaneous use of both a training frame and the previous frame. The localized block matching utilizes a series of templates positioned at the boundary points of the training and previous contours. The weighted final boundary points from both the previous and the training frame are ultimately combined and used to determine an affine transformation from the previous frame to the current frame.

Results

A mean tracking error of 0.72 ± 1.25 mm was observed for 85 point‐landmarks across 39 ultrasound sequences relative to manual ground truth annotations. The image processing speed per landmark with the GPU implementation was between 41 and 165 frames per second (fps) during the training set accumulation, and between 73 and 234 fps after training set accumulation. Relative to a comparable multithreaded CPU approach using OpenMP, the GPU implementation resulted in speedups between −30% and 355% during training set accumulation, and between −37% and 639% postaccumulation.

Conclusions

Initial implementations indicated an accuracy that was comparable to or exceeding those achieved by alternative 2D tracking methods, with a computational speed that is more than sufficient for real‐time applications in a radiation therapy environment. While the overall performance reached levels suitable for implementation in radiation therapy, the observed increase in failures for smaller features, as well as the algorithm's inability to be applied to nonconvex features warrants additional investigation to address the shortcomings observed.
Reporting and identifying child physical abuse: How well are we doing?
Authors: Ho Grace W.K. , Bettencourt Amie , Gross Deborah A.
Published: September 2017

Entry into the child protection system in the US begins with a child maltreatment report. Some evidence suggests that report source and child age are related to report outcomes, but there has been no national study of these relationships. The purpose of this secondary data analysis was to describe the distribution of report sources for child physical abuse (CPA), and examine whether (a) the source of a report and (b) child age contribute to the likelihood of substantiation of the reported abuse. Multilevel logistic regressions were conducted using a US national sample of 204,414 children investigated for CPA in 2013 in a dataset obtained from the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System. Results showed that fewer than one in seven children reported for CPA were confirmed victims of abuse. Professionally mandated reporters initiated the majority of CPA reports, and their reports were more likely to be substantiated compared with nonprofessionals. However, reports made by even the most accurate professional group (legal/law enforcement) had only a 26% chance of substantiation, and some professional groups had a lower likelihood of substantiation than nonprofessionals. Reports made by professionals were less likely to be substantiated as child age increased. More research is warranted to develop and test the effectiveness of training programs to improve CPA reporting and identification.
Addition of oral iron to plasma transfusion in human congenital hypotransferrinemia: A 10‐year observational follow‐up with the effects on hematological parameters and growth
Authors: Aslan Deniz
Published: September 2017

Congenital hypotransferrinemia (OMIM 209300) is an extremely rare disorder of inherited iron metabolism. Since its description in 1961, only 16 cases have been reported. The defective gene and molecular defect causing this disorder and clinicolaboratory findings seen in the homozygous and heterozygous states have been documented in both humans and mice. However, due to the lack of follow‐up studies of the described cases, the long‐term prognosis remains unknown. We present a 10‐year observational follow‐up of a patient previously diagnosed on a molecular basis who was treated with a unique therapy of plasma transfusion fortified
with oral iron, with satisfactory clinicolaboratory responses.
Evaluation of a fever‐management algorithm in a pediatric cancer center in a low‐resource setting
Authors: Mukkada Sheena , Smith Cristel Kate , Aguilar Delta , Sykes April , Tang Li , Dolendo Mae , Caniza Miguela A.
Published: September 2017

Background

In low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs), inconsistent or delayed management of fever contributes to poor outcomes among pediatric patients with cancer. We hypothesized that standardizing practice with a clinical algorithm adapted to local resources would improve outcomes. Therefore, we developed a resource‐specific algorithm for fever management in Davao City, Philippines. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate adherence to the algorithm.

Procedure

This was a prospective cohort study of algorithm adherence to assess the types of deviation, reasons for deviation, and pathogens isolated. All pediatric oncology patients who were admitted with fever (defined as an axillary temperature  >37.7°C on one occasion or ≥37.4°C on two occasions 1 hr apart) or who developed fever within 48 hr of admission were included. Univariate and multiple linear regression analyses were used to determine the relation between clinical predictors and length of hospitalization.

Results

During the study, 93 patients had 141 qualifying febrile episodes. Even though the algorithm was designed locally, deviations occurred in 70 (50%) of 141 febrile episodes on day 0, reflecting implementation barriers at the patient, provider, and institutional levels. There were 259 deviations during the first 7 days of admission in 92 (65%) of 141 patient episodes. Failure to identify high‐risk patients, missed antimicrobial doses, and pathogen isolation were associated with prolonged hospitalization.

Conclusions

Monitoring algorithm adherence helps in assessing the quality of pediatric oncology care in LMICs and identifying opportunities for improvement. Measures that decrease high‐frequency/high‐impact algorithm deviations may shorten hospitalizations and improve healthcare use in LMICs.
Pathology and genomics of pediatric melanoma: A critical reexamination and new insights
Authors: Bahrami Armita , Barnhill Raymond L.
Published: September 2017

The clinicopathologic features of pediatric melanoma are distinct from those of the adult counterpart. For example, most childhood melanomas exhibit a uniquely favorable biologic behavior, save for those arising in large/giant congenital nevi. Recent studies suggest that the characteristically favorable biologic behavior of childhood melanoma may be related to extreme telomere shortening and dysfunction in the cancer cells. Herein, we review the genomic profiles that have been defined for the different subtypes of pediatric melanoma and particularly emphasize the potential prognostic value of telomerase reverse transcriptase alterations for these tumors.
A Comprehensive Characterisation of Rosemary tea Obtained from Rosmarinus officinalis L. Collected in a sub‐Humid Area of Tunisia
Authors: Achour Mariem , Mateos Raquel , Ben Fredj Maha , Mtiraoui Ali , Bravo Laura , Saguem Saad
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) is an aromatic plant common in Tunisia and it is widely consumed as a tea in traditional cuisine and in folk medicine to treat various illnesses. Currently, most research efforts have been focused on rosemary essential oil, alcoholic and aqueous extracts, however, little is reported on rosemary infusion composition.

Objective

To investigate compounds present in rosemary tea obtained from Rosmarinus officinalis L. collected in a sub‐humid area of Tunisia in order to assess whether the traditional rosemary tea preparation method could be considered as a reference method for rosemary's compounds extraction.

Methodology

Qualitative characterisation of Rosmarinus officinalis tea obtained after rosemary infusion in boiled water was determined by high performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionisation quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (HPLC‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS). Quantitative analysis relies on high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (HPLC‐DAD).

Results

Forty‐nine compounds belonging to six families, namely flavonoids, phenolic acids, phenolic terpenes, jasmonate, phenolic glycosides, and lignans were identified. To the best of the authors' knowledge eucommin A is characterised for the first time in rosemary. Rosmarinic acid (158.13 μg/g dried rosemary) was the main compound followed then by feruloylnepitrin (100.87 μg/g) and luteolin‐3′‐O‐(2″‐O‐acetyl)‐β‐d‐glucuronide (44.04 μg/g). Among quantified compounds, luteolin‐7‐O‐rutinoside was the compound with the lowest concentration.

Conclusion

The infusion method allows several polyphenols present in rosemary tea to be extracted, therefore it could be a reference method for rosemary's compounds extraction. Moreover, traditional Tunisian Rosmarinus officinalis tea consumption is of interest for its rich phenolic content. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of 1H–NMR Metabolomics to Optimise the Extraction and Preliminary Identification of Anthelmintic Products from the Leaves of Lysiloma latisiliquum
Authors: Hernández‐Bolio Gloria Ivonne , Kutzner Erika , Eisenreich Wolfgang , de Jesús Torres‐Acosta Juan Felipe , Peña‐Rodríguez Luis Manuel
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Tannin‐rich forages are recognised as an important alternative for the control of gastrointestinal nematodes in small ruminants. Lysiloma latisiliquum, a forage commonly consumed by goats and sheep, has shown anthelmintic activity when tested against Haemonchus contortus. However, to date, the metabolites responsible for the activity are not known.

Objective

To use 1H–NMR metabolomics in the extraction and identification of anthelmintic metabolites from L. latisiliquum.

Methodology

Eight different solvent systems were compared for the optimum extraction of anthelmintic metabolites from L. latisiliquum. 1H–NMR spectra of the tannin‐free extracts were measured in methanol‐d4 using trimethylsilylpropanoic acid (TSP) as internal standard. Extracts were also evaluated for their anthelmintic activity using the larval exsheathment inhibition assay against H. contortus. These data were correlated by multivariate analysis [principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA)] and analysed. To validate the results obtained after the OPLS‐DA, a bioassay‐guided isolation of bioactive metabolites was conducted.

Results

The PCA of the 1H–NMR data allowed the identification of hydrophilic solvents as those best suited for the extraction of anthelmintics from L. latisiliquum and indicated that the bioactive metabolites are high‐polarity, glycosylated products. Similarly, OPLS‐DA of the data enabled the detection of activity‐related signals, assigned to the glycosylated metabolites quercitrin and arbutin obtained from the bioassay‐guided purification of the extract.

Conclusion

The results of this investigation confirm metabolomics as a useful tool in the detection of bioactive metabolites in plants without previous phytochemical studies. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of Particle Size on the Combustion of CL‐20/HTPB Propellants
Authors: Kalman Joseph , Essel Jonathan
Published: September 2017

The effect of nitramine particle size on the combustion behavior of inert binder based propellants has been extensively studied for RDX and HMX, but not CL‐20. Although materials such as RDX and HMX are useful for particular combustion applications, CL‐20 has a greater potential to improve the oxygen balance and energy density of a propellant. The current work investigates the effect of CL‐20 particle size on the combustion of CL‐20/HTPB propellants down to submicrometer sizes. An influence of particle size on the burning rate and combustion mechanism is reported. The 30 micrometer formulation burning rate data showed evidence of convective burning specifically at higher pressures, but the pressure dependence was comparable to neat CL‐20 at pressures below 8 MPa. A change in the combustion mechanism of the submicrometer formulation as a function of pressure was determined to be a result of the interaction of the propellant flame and the combustion residue. Data suggested that at low pressures diffusion in terms of active cooling was dominant for the submicrometer formulation. Higher pressure data for both the submicrometer and 3 micrometer formulations suggest the degree of active cooling is decreased as the burning rate pressure exponent is near 0.5 for both propellants. The indirect evidence for the presence of a melt layer for CL‐20 propellants is discussed.
Formations on directed cycles with bearing‐only measurements
Authors: Trinh Minh Hoang , Mukherjee Dwaipayan , Zelazo Daniel , Ahn Hyo‐Sung
Published: September 2017

This paper studies a bearing‐only–based formation control problem for a group of single‐integrator agents with directed cycle sensing topology. In a 2‐dimensional space, a necessary and sufficient condition for the set of desired bearing vectors to be feasible is derived. Then, we propose a bearing‐only control law for every agent and prove that the formation asymptotically converges to a formation specified by a set of feasible desired bearing vectors. Analysis of the equilibrium formations in the plane for a 3‐agent system and subsequent extension to an n‐agent system is provided. We further extend the analysis on directed triangular formation into a 3‐dimensional space. Finally, simulations validate the theoretical results.
Adaptive quantized tracking control for uncertain switched nonstrict‐feedback nonlinear systems with discrete and distributed time‐varying delays
Authors: Yu Zhaoxu , Dong Yan , Li Shugang , Li Fangfei
Published: September 2017

This paper is concerned with an adaptive tracking problem for a more general class of switched nonstrict‐feedback nonlinear time‐delay systems in the presence of quantized input. The system structure in a nonstrict‐feedback form, the discrete and distributed time‐varying delays, the sector‐bounded quantized input, and arbitrary switching behavior are involved in the considered systems. In particular, to overcome the difficulties from the distributed time‐varying delays and the sector‐bounded quantized input, the mean‐value theorem for integrals and some special techniques are exploited respectively. Moreover, by combining the Lyapunov‐Razumikhin method, dynamic surface control technique, fuzzy logic systems approximation, and variable separation technique, a quadratic common Lyapunov function is easily built for all subsystems and a common adaptive quantized control scheme containing only 1 adaptive parameter is proposed. It is shown that the tracking error converges to an adjustable neighborhood of the origin whereas all signals of the closed‐loop systems are semiglobally uniformly ultimately bounded. Finally, 2 simulation examples are provided to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed design methodology.
An Optical pH Sensor Based on Diazocine
Authors: Liu Yanan , Song Zuwei , Gao Libin , Li Jianzhong
Published: September 2017

A novel excellent candidate for the optical pH sensor based on diazocine is presented in this paper. Diazocine serves as a cyclooctatetraene analogy which has a nonplanar 8‐membered ring structure with nitrogen atoms. It is the first example to present the optical properties of cyclooctatetraene analogy with chemical (trifluoroacetic acid) pH gradient by UV‐visible absorption and NMR spectra. Specifically, reversibility of protonation/deprotonation reaction is clearly demonstrated by the UV spectra when triethylamine is added. In this work, we also investigate the spectral properties and sensitivity of polydiaryldibenzo[1, 5]diazocines (PBDA) retaining its optical properties in liquid state. This study features an innovative detection system for H+ measurement through a low cost optical device by means of polymer spin‐coating on the support material (PE films). Furthermore, the optical characteristic collected in the solid state is in excellent agreement with the data previously found in the liquid state. The transient response of optical device is very rapid upon pH change from 6.9 to 1.5. As a result, optical device based on PBDA can be applied to test H+ or pH in organic or aqueous solvent and even extended to sensing of some other analytes.
Magnetic Alloy‐MWNT Heterostructure as Efficient Electromagnetic Wave Suppressors in Soft Nanocomposites
Authors: Menon Aishwarya V. , Madras Giridhar , Bose Suryasarathi
Published: September 2017

FeNi (iron‐nickel) alloy particles were coated with MWNTs (Multiwalled carbon nanotubes) using simple ball milling technique at various alloy to MWNT ratios. These hybrid heterostructure were then dispersed in PVDF/TPU (Polyvinylidene fluoride/ Thermoplastic polyurethane) blends to develop flexible composite materials that can shield electromagnetic (EM) radiations. These alloy particles coated with MWNT localise mostly in the TPU phase of the binary blends. The shielding effectiveness (SE) measurements obtained from the scattering parameters reveal that for a particular ratio of FeNi/MWNT (3:1), the SE was the highest (‐35.7 dB) among the different composites studied here and manifested in improved microwave absorption in the blends. The absorption driven shielding is due to various polarization in the shield, thereby increasing the dielectric loss. It was observed that these MWNT wrapped magnetic alloy particles shielded the incoming EM radiations more effectively as compared to only MWNTs or only alloy particles. The soft nanocomposites designed here absorb up to 95 % of the incoming EM radiations. The lowest skin depth and highest specific EMI (Electromagnetic interference) shielding attained was 1.4 mm and −20.5 dB cm2 g−1 respectively for composites containing FeNi/MWNT‐ 3:1. The attenuation constant derived from different parameters of these blends were also analysed in order to develop a multi‐layered structure, having absorption‐multiple reflection‐absorption pathways. This was used to assess the effect of different layers and their sequence in the multi‐layered structure on final EM wave attenuation. Interestingly, multi‐layered architecture with a similar thickness showed three‐fold increase in the total shielding as compared to their bulk counterpart.
Fluorene‐containing cardo and fully aromatic single ion conducting polymer electrolyte for room temperature, high performance lithium ion batteries
Authors: Zhang Yunfeng , Liu Yuan , Liu Xupo , Li Cuicui , Dong Jiaming , Sun Yubao , Zeng Danli , Yang Zehui , Cheng Hansong
Published: September 2017

The self‐assembly process between rigid fully aromatic single ion conducting polymer electrolytes (SIPEs) and flexible aliphatic binder for fabrication of macro‐scale porosity of membrane for enhancement of ionic conductivity has been demonstrated in our previous works. In this article, the bulky and rigid fluorene cardo groups are successfully introduced into the fully aromatic polymeric backbone to synthesize the fluorene‐containing cardo fully aromatic single ion conducting polymer electrolyte (fca‐SIPE). The synthesized fca‐SIPE is then blended with a flexible aliphatic PVDF‐HFP binder to prepare fca‐SIPE membrane via a solution cast method. By comparing with results of the previous works, in this case, not only the macro‐scale porous morphology derived from the self‐assembly process between PVDF‐HFP and fca‐SIPE, but also the interior nano‐scale lithium ion transport pathway throughout the free volume formed by the fluorene groups is obtained. The effect of the fluorene group on the key properties of membrane, such as ionic conductivity and battery performance, is systematically investigated. The excellent performance at high C‐rates at room temperature is demonstrated.
An Efficient Synthesis of 2,4,5‐Trisubstituted and 1,2,4,5‐Tetrasubstituted Imidazoles Using Dihydroquinolines as Novel Organocatalyst
Authors: Waheed Mohammed , Ahmed Naseem , A Alsharif Meshari , Alahmdi Mohammed Issa , Mukhtar Sayeed
Published: September 2017

A simple, and environmentally benign synthesis of 2,4,5‐trisubstituted and 1,2,4,5‐tetrasubstituted imidazoles has been successfully accomplished via multi‐component cyclo‐condensation of 1,2‐dicarbonyl, aldehyde, and ammonium acetate and aniline respectively, using dihydroquinoline based novel organocatalysts at refluxed temperature in ethanol. High yields (94 %), easy work‐up and purification of products without column chromatography are the key advantages of the method.
Stretchable Electronic Sensors of Nanocomposite Network Films for Ultrasensitive Chemical Vapor Sensing
Authors: Yan Hong , Zhong Mengjuan , Lv Ze , Wan Pengbo
Published: September 2017

A stretchable, transparent, and body‐attachable chemical sensor is assembled from the stretchable nanocomposite network film for ultrasensitive chemical vapor sensing. The stretchable nanocomposite network film is fabricated by in situ preparation of polyaniline/MoS2 (PANI/MoS2) nanocomposite in MoS2 suspension and simultaneously nanocomposite deposition onto prestrain elastomeric polydimethylsiloxane substrate. The assembled stretchable electronic sensor demonstrates ultrasensitive sensing performance as low as 50 ppb, robust sensing stability, and reliable stretchability for high‐performance chemical vapor sensing. The ultrasensitive sensing performance of the stretchable electronic sensors could be ascribed to the synergistic sensing advantages of MoS2 and PANI, higher specific surface area, the reliable sensing channels of interconnected network, and the effectively exposed sensing materials. It is expected to hold great promise for assembling various flexible stretchable chemical vapor sensors with ultrasensitive sensing performance, superior sensing stability, reliable stretchability, and robust portability to be potentially integrated into wearable electronics for real‐time monitoring of environment safety and human healthcare.
Encapsulated Vanadium‐Based Hybrids in Amorphous N‐Doped Carbon Matrix as Anode Materials for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Long Bei , Balogun Muhammad‐Sadeeq , Luo Lei , Luo Yang , Qiu Weitao , Song Shuqin , Zhang Lei , Tong Yexiang
Published: September 2017

Recently, researchers have made significant advancement in employing transition metal compound hybrids as anode material for lithium‐ion batteries and developing simple preparation of these hybrids. To this end, this study reports a facile and scalable method for fabricating a vanadium oxide–nitride composite encapsulated in amorphous carbon matrix by simply mixing ammonium metavanadate and melamine as anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries. By tuning the annealing temperature of the mixture, different hybrids of vanadium oxide–nitride compounds are synthesized. The electrode material prepared at 700 °C, i.e., VM‐700, exhibits excellent cyclic stability retaining 92% of its reversible capacity after 200 cycles at a current density of 0.5 A g−1 and attractive rate performance (220 mAh g−1) under the current density of up to 2 A g−1. The outstanding electrochemical properties can be attributed to the synergistic effect from heterojunction form by the vanadium compound hybrids, the improved ability of the excellent conductive carbon for electron transfer, and restraining the expansion and aggregation of vanadium oxide–nitride in cycling. These interesting findings will provide a reference for the preparation of transition metal oxide and nitride composites as well.
Multicolor Photo‐Crosslinkable AIEgens toward Compact Nanodots for Subcellular Imaging and STED Nanoscopy
Authors: Fang Xiaofeng , Chen Xuanze , Li Rongqin , Liu Zhihe , Chen Haobin , Sun Zezhou , Ju Bo , Liu Yifei , Zhang Sean Xiao‐An , Ding Dan , Sun Yujie , Wu Changfeng
Published: September 2017

Aggregation induced emission (AIE) has attracted considerable interest for the development of fluorescence probes. However, controlling the bioconjugation and cellular labeling of AIE dots is a challenging problem. Here, this study reports a general approach for preparing small and bioconjugated AIE dots for specific labeling of cellular targets. The strategy is based on the synthesis of oxetane‐substituted AIEgens to generate compact and ultrastable AIE dots via photo‐crosslinking. A small amount of polymer enriched with oxetane groups is cocondensed with most of the AIEgens to functionalize the nanodot surface for subsequent streptavidin bioconjugation. Due to their small sizes, good stability, and surface functionalization, the cell‐surface markers and subcellular structures are specifically labeled by the AIE dot bioconjugates. Remarkably, stimulated emission depletion imaging with AIE dots is achieved for the first time, and the spatial resolution is significantly enhanced to ≈95 nm. This study provides a general approach for small functional molecules for preparing small sized and ultrastable nanodots.
The connections between group maturity, software development velocity, and planning effectiveness
Authors: Al‐Sabbagh Khaled Walid , Gren Lucas
Published: September 2017

Empirical evidence regarding the connection between group development (maturity) and the success of software development teams is lacking. The purpose of this research is to gain a qualitative and quantitative understanding of how velocity and planning effectiveness of software teams connect to a group development model. The Group Development Questionnaire was given to 19 software developers from 4 work groups to assess their group development maturity. The work groups' responses to the survey were checked for correlation with development velocity and planning effectiveness. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 16 individuals from the same 4 work groups to explore issues about their group maturity and to validate the responses of the interviewees in the Group Development Questionnaire. The measurement of the fourth stage of group development had a strong association with the planning effectiveness measurement, which means that a team with less issues in the fourth phase of group development is more effective in adhering to its plans. On the other hand, group development and velocity showed no significant convergent validity. We conclude that the dynamics within software development teams might correlate to their ability to deliver the expected outcome as planned but not to their ability to develop tasks faster.
Taking Advantage of Student Engagement Results in Student Affairs
Authors: Kinzie Jillian , Hurtado Sarah S.
Published: September 2017

This chapter urges student affairs professionals committed to enhancing student success through data‐informed decision making to take full advantage of opportunities to apply and use student engagement results.
Runt-Related Transcription Factor 2 Induction During Differentiation of Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Osteoblasts Is Regulated by Jumonji AT-Rich Interactive Domain 1B Histone Demethylase
Authors: Bustos Francisco , Sepúlveda Hugo , Prieto Catalina P. , Carrasco Margarita , Díaz Lorena , Palma José , Lattus José , Montecino Martín , Palma Verónica
Published: September 2017

Novel bone regeneration approaches aim to obtain immature osteoblasts from somatic stem cells. Umbilical cord Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) are an ideal source for cell therapy. Hence, the study of mechanisms involved in WJ-MSC osteoblastic differentiation is crucial to exploit their developmental capacity. Here, we have assessed epigenetic control of the Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) osteogenic master regulator gene in WJ-MSC. We present evidence indicating that modulation of RUNX2 expression through preventing Jumonji AT-rich interactive domain 1B (JARID1B) histone demethylase activity is relevant to enhance WJ-MSC osteoblastic potential. Hence, JARID1B loss of function in WJ-MSC results in increased RUNX2/p57 expression. Our data highlight JARID1B activity as a novel target to modulate WJ-MSC osteoblastic differentiation with potential applications in bone tissue engineering.
Role of sputtering power on the microstructural and electro‐optical properties of ITO thin films deposited using DC sputtering technique
Authors: Kosarian A. , Shakiba M. , Farshidi E.
Published: September 2017

The effects of sputtering power on the deposition rate as well as the microstructural, electrical, and optical properties of indium tin oxide (ITO) thin films are investigated in this paper. ITO thin films were deposited on glass substrates using direct current (DC) magnetron sputtering of different DC powers, ranging from 60 to 140 W, onto externally unheated glass substrates. All samples were grown at the minimum sustainable plasma pressure to reduce the destructive role of pressure. The microstructural, electrical, and optical properties of the sputtered ITO films were systematically characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), four‐probe electrical conductivity, and optical spectroscopy. XRD studies confirmed the cubic bixbyite ITO structure, and the main preferred orientations of the prepared thin films were (222), (400), (440), and (622). AFM analysis showed a minimum surface roughness of 1.37 nm for the films deposited at 140 W, while the average size of the grains was 65 ± 5 nm. The deposition time was fixed at 10 min for all samples, and the AFM characterization of the films showed 170, 230, and 250 nm thickness for the samples deposited at 60, 100 and 140 W, respectively. From the variations of the sheet resistance and the XRD patterns of the ITO thin films, it was concluded that, as the ratio I222/I400 of a sample approaches unity, the sheet resistance of the layer reduces. A minimum sheet resistance 16 Ω/square, transmittance 85% with the thickness of 230 nm, and optical bandgap 4.09 eV were found for the thin film grown on the externally unheated substrates at 100 W DC power and 32 mTorr working pressure. © 2017 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Analysis of measured data on energy demand and activity patterns in residential dwellings in Japan
Authors: Aki Hirohisa , Iitaka Hiroshi , Tamura Itaru , Kegasa Akeshi , Hayakawa Hideki , Ishikawa Yoshiro , Yamamoto Shigeo , Sugimoto Ichiro
Published: September 2017

Distributed energy resources (DERs) such as residential fuel cell combined heat and power systems, air conditioners, or energy storage systems are expected to contribute to energy savings and power system operations. Additional energy savings could be achieved by using high‐efficiency equipment with optimized control by energy management systems (EMSs). Both electricity and hot water demand data are needed to optimize the DER operation. An EMS realizes optimal operation by prediction, planning, and real‐time operation. Accumulating basic data on electricity and hot water demand is essential for the development of prediction methods needed for EMS. Energy demand is related to the activity patterns of residents, which vary according to factors such as the number of people at home and what they do there. The purpose of this study was to accumulate electricity and hot water demand data from residential dwellings, and then analyze the data to obtain useful knowledge for demand prediction to apply to an EMS. For 4 years, detailed measurements of electricity and hot water demand were made at an apartment building. Differences between weekdays, weekends, and holidays; differences among households; frequency of bathtub use; and variations of activity patterns by year were analyzed. © 2017 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Bone marrow‐derived multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells from horses after euthanasia
Authors: Schröck Carmen , Eydt Carina , Geburek Florian , Kaiser Lena , Päbst Felicitas , Burk Janina , Pfarrer Christiane , Staszyk Carsten
Published: September 2017

Allogeneic equine multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (eMSCs) have been proposed for use in regenerative therapies in veterinary medicine. A source of allogeneic eMSCs might be the bone marrow from euthanized horses. The purpose of this study was to compare in vitro characteristics of equine bone marrow derived eMSC (eBM‐MSCs) from euthanized horses (eut‐MSCs) and from narcotized horses (nar‐MSCs). Eut‐MSCs and nar‐MSCs showed typical eMSC marker profiles (positive: CD44, CD90; negative: CD11a/CD18 and MHCII) and possessed tri‐lineage differentiation characteristics. Although CD105 and MHCI expression varied, no differences were detected between eut‐MSCs and nar‐MSCs. Proliferation characteristics did not differ between eut‐MSCs and nar‐MSCs, but age dependent decrease in proliferation and increase in MHCI expression was detected. These results suggest the possible use of eut‐MSCs for therapeutic applications and production of commercial available eBM‐MSC products.
Critical appraisal of genotype assessment in molybdenum cofactor deficiency
Authors: Hinderhofer Katrin , Mechler Konstantin , Hoffmann Georg F. , Lampert Anette , Mountford William K. , Ries Markus
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Molybdenum cofactor deficiency (MoCD) is an ultra‐orphan, life‐threatening disease. Substrate substitution therapy has successfully been performed in single cases of MoCD type A and clinical trials are underway for drug registration. We present an innovative approach for classification of genotype severity to test the hypothesis that milder sequence variants in MoCD result in a less severe disease phenotype quantitated by patient survival.

Methods

All available worldwide published cases with clinical and genetic data were included (n = 40). We stratified the already published disease causing sequence variants as mild or severe with the use of in silico prediction programs, where possible and assessed the possible impact of the variants on the expression of the gene or function of the expressed protein. In a compound heterozygous situation the mildest sequence variant determined the genotype. Subsequently, clinical manifestations and outcomes of both groups were compared.

Results

Patients with a severe genotype showed a median survival of 15 months and had a lower probability of survival compared to patients with mild genotypes who were all alive at last reported follow‐up (p = 0.0203, Log‐rank test).

Discussion

The severity of the genotype assessed by in silico prediction and further classification explained survival in molybdenum cofactor deficiency and may therefore be considered a confounder for the outcome of therapeutic clinical trials requiring adjustment in the clinical trial design or analysis. These results should further be investigated by future in vitro or in vivo functional studies. Caution should be taken with this approach for the classification of variants in molecular genetic diagnostics or genetic counseling.
Species diversity of herbivorous insects: a brief review to bridge the gap between theories focusing on the generation and maintenance of diversity
Authors: Nakadai Ryosuke
Published: September 2017

Herbivorous insects are remarkably species‐diverse, and the cause of such diversity remains a classical issue in the fields of ecology and evolution. The traditional explanation for the huge diversity of such insects is that repeated dietary changes over evolutionary time provided opportunities for speciation, thereby enhancing the diversification rate. A different view suggests that herbivore diversity became saturated over time, with factors affecting the points of dynamic equilibrium of species diversity within each lineage (and thus associated with maintenance of species diversity) being the determinants of the diversity evident today. Thus, both generation and maintenance processes, and their relative importance, are critical for understanding the diversity of herbivorous insects. Furthermore, the neutral theory of biodiversity and biogeography has recently gained attention as an alternative explanation for the generation and maintenance of diversity, as opposed to adaptive processes centred around host specificity. However, these possible routes toward herbivore diversity have rarely been evaluated in parallel, and the work of various groups has become both segmentalised and complicated, compromising any comprehensive understanding of the issue. Thus, in the present paper, I briefly review our knowledge of herbivore diversity and the major relevant studies. The aim was to share knowledge, creating a common starting point from which future discussions among researchers may be generated. It may be that no single approach can resolve the many remaining questions on herbivore diversity. However, an improved understanding of such diversity can be achieved by combining knowledge gained in studies of both the generation and maintenance of diversity.
A Nonparametric Multidimensional Latent Class IRT Model in a Bayesian Framework
Authors: Bartolucci Francesco , Farcomeni Alessio , Scaccia Luisa
Published: September 2017

We propose a nonparametric item response theory model for dichotomously-scored items in a Bayesian framework. The model is based on a latent class (LC) formulation, and it is multidimensional, with dimensions corresponding to a partition of the items in homogenous groups that are specified on the basis of inequality constraints among the conditional success probabilities given the latent class. Moreover, an innovative system of prior distributions is proposed following the encompassing approach, in which the largest model is the unconstrained LC model. A reversible-jump type algorithm is described for sampling from the joint posterior distribution of the model parameters of the encompassing model. By suitably post-processing its output, we then make inference on the number of dimensions (i.e., number of groups of items measuring the same latent trait) and we cluster items according to the dimensions when unidimensionality is violated. The approach is illustrated by two examples on simulated data and two applications based on educational and quality-of-life data.
Special Economic Zones in India
Authors: Tantri Malini L.
Published: September 2017

This book systematically evaluates the trajectories of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) policymaking in India and its performance. The findings of the study are the result of detailed fieldwork conducted by the author in India and China at different points in time. Exploring China's SEZs policy and performance, the book discusses whether Indian policymakers were aware of the nuances of China's SEZs policy and the various facets of performance before replicating it for India. Performance analyses of Indian SEZs are carried out using both a conventional set of performance indicators and new frameworks, such as the zone trade performance index, the resource cost framework and efficiency analysis. Offering a balanced view to rate the performance of Indian SEZs, the significance of this study lies in its quest to provide an holistic appraisal of the various unexplored issues in the literature pertaining to SEZs in India.
Remote Sensing of Chaco Roads Revisited
Authors: Friedman Richard A. , Sofaer Anna , Weiner Robert S.
Published: September 2017

This paper reports on the first and highly effective use of Light Detection and Ranging (lidar) technology to document Chaco roads, monumental linear surface constructions of the precolumbian culture that occupied the Four Corners region of the American Southwest between approximately AD 600 and 1300. Analysis of aerial photographs supplemented by ground survey has been the traditional methodology employed to identify Chaco roads, but their traces have become increasingly subtle and difficult to detect in recent years due to the impacts of natural weathering, erosion, and land development. Roads that were easily visible in aerial photography and on the ground in the 1980s are now virtually invisible, underscoring the need for new, cutting-edge techniques to detect and document them. Using three case studies of the Aztec Airport Mesa Road, the Great North Road, and the Pueblo Alto Landscape, we demonstrate lidar's unprecedented ability to document known Chaco roads, discover previously undetected road segments, and produce a precise quantitative record of these rapidly vanishing features.