bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Science and the public: Debate, denial, and skepticism
Authors: Lewandowsky Stephan , Mann Michael E. , Brown Nicholas J. L. , Friedman Harris
Published: August 2016

When the scientific method yields discoveries that imperil people’s lifestyle or worldviews or impinge on corporate vested interests, the public and political response can be anything but favorable. Sometimes the response slides into overt denial of scientific facts, although this denial is often claimed to involve “skepticism”. We outline the distinction between true skepticism and denial with several case studies. We propose some guidelines to enable researchers to differentiate legitimate critical engagement from bad-faith harassment, and to enable members of the public to pursue their skeptical engagement and critique without such engagement being mistaken for harassment.
Faire connaitre la démographie dans les médias : l’exemple de la question linguistique
Authors: Paillé Michel
Published: August 2016

Cet article reprend sept textes parus dans des quotidiens du Québec traitant de trois domaines largement étudiés par Jacques Henripin : la politique linguistique, la fécondité et l’immigration. L’auteur montre d’abord que la majorité francophone du Québec se diversifie davantage, puis, en comparant avec l’anglais en Ontario, il montre les effets positifs de la politique linguistique sur la langue parlée à la maison et critique l’exploitation indue de l’« indice de vitalité linguistique ». Bien que de plus en plus d’enfants naissent dans des foyers où la mère a fait du français sa langue d’adoption, la pérennité de la majorité francophone n’est pas assurée du fait d’une fécondité toujours trop faible. L’auteur fait également état du trop grand optimisme de certains médias dans leur analyse des projections démographiques. Enfin, cet article rappelle que l’enseignement du français aux immigrants d’âge adulte laisse encore à désirer et montre l’effet domino de l’immigration internationale sur l’étalement de la population francophone en périphérie de Montréal.
Local conductance spectra of itinerant ferromagnetic SrRuO3 through break junction
Authors: Kambara Hiroshi , Obinata Yūki , Tenya Kenichi , Tsujii Hiroyuki
Published: August 2016

We have measured the local differential conductance spectra (dI/dV–V) of an itinerant ferromagnet composed of polycrystalline SrRuO3 using the mechanically controllable break junction technique. Below the material’s Curie temperature (T
C = 160 K), characteristic peak or dip conductance spectra are observed. The characteristic energy scale is comparable to the exchange spin splitting energy that is based on ferromagnetic band calculations. Both the peak and dip spectral shapes are explained based on the itinerant ferromagnetic characteristics of SrRuO3 in terms of spin-dependent transmission, which is similar to the giant magnetoresistance mechanism.
Optical phonons and polariton dispersions of congruent LiNbO3 studied by far-infrared spectroscopic ellipsometry and Raman scattering
Authors: Kojima Seiji , Kanehara Kazuki , Hoshina Takuya , Tsurumi Takaaki
Published: August 2016

IR active optical modes and phonon–polaritons with E(x) and A1(z) symmetries were studied in a ferroelectric congruent lithium niobate crystal. The real and imaginary parts of a dielectric constant along the a- and c-axes were accurately determined by far-infrared spectroscopic ellipsometry (FIRSP) from 40 to 700 cm−1. For the nine transverse optical (TO) modes with E(x) symmetry, it was difficult to observe the 5th E(TO5) mode at 361 cm−1 and the 9th E(TO9) mode at 665 cm−1 by Raman scattering owing to the very low Raman intensity, while these modes were clearly observed by FIRSP. In contrast, the 6th E(TO6) mode at 371 cm−1 was not observed by FIRSP owing to the very weak absorption, while it was clearly observed by Raman scattering. All the four TO modes with A1(z) symmetry were clearly observed independently by FIRSP and Raman scattering. The dispersion relations of phonon–polaritons including the damping of polaritons were determined using the real and imaginary parts of a polariton wavevector calculated from complex dielectric constants. The polariton dispersion of the lowest A1(z) mode at 254 cm−1 is in agreement with the previous forward Raman scattering experiment; however, any anticrossing predicted by the previous impulsive Raman scattering experiment was not observed.
Upstream control of the frontal jet regulating plankton production in the Alboran Sea (Western Mediterranean)
Authors: Oguz Temel , Mourre Baptiste , Tintoré Joaquín
Published: August 2016

Using a coupled physical‐biological model, we document that a ∼30 km wide meandering jet constitutes a major source of biological enrichment in the Alboran Sea (Western Mediterranean) even in the absence of wind forcing and tidal dynamics. The level of enrichment is shown to vary markedly during the year depending on the upstream characteristics of the jet as it exits from the Gibraltar Strait. When its intensity is sufficiently low and characterized by weaker cross‐frontal density gradients during winter‐spring, the jet is weakly nonlinear and may not fulfill the necessary conditions for frontogenesis. It then remains weakly productive. In the case of stronger jet intensity (>1.1 Sv) accompanied by stronger cross‐frontal density and velocity gradients within the Alboran Sea during summer‐autumn, the frontal jet becomes strongly nonlinear and ageostrophic with large cross‐frontal vorticity changes on the order of planetary vorticity. Under these conditions, upward vertical velocities in the range 10–50 m d−1 supply nutrients into the euphotic layer more effectively and support high‐level frontogenesis‐induced phytoplankton production on the anticyclonic side of the main jet axis. The strong eddy pumping mechanism also provides a comparable level of plankton production within strongly nonlinear elongated cyclonic eddies along the outer periphery of the frontal jet. The plankton biomass is advected partially by the jet along its trajectory and dispersed within the basin by mesoscale eddies and meanders.
Regionalization of land‐use impacts on streamflow using a network of paired catchments
Authors: Ochoa‐Tocachi Boris F. , Buytaert Wouter , De Bièvre Bert
Published: August 2016

Quantifying the impact of land use and cover (LUC) change on catchment hydrological response is essential for land‐use planning and management. Yet hydrologists are often not able to present consistent and reliable evidence to support such decision‐making. The issue tends to be twofold: a scarcity of relevant observations, and the difficulty of regionalizing any existing observations. This study explores the potential of a paired catchment monitoring network to provide statistically robust, regionalized predictions of LUC change impact in an environment of high hydrological variability. We test the importance of LUC variables to explain hydrological responses and to improve regionalized predictions using 24 catchments distributed along the Tropical Andes. For this, we calculate first 50 physical catchment properties, and then select a subset based on correlation analysis. The reduced set is subsequently used to regionalize a selection of hydrological indices using multiple linear regression. Contrary to earlier studies, we find that incorporating LUC variables in the regional model structures increases significantly regression performance and predictive capacity for 66% of the indices. For the runoff ratio, baseflow index, and slope of the flow duration curve, the mean absolute error reduces by 53% and the variance of the residuals by 79%, on average. We attribute the explanatory capacity of LUC in the regional model to the pairwise monitoring setup, which increases the contrast of the land‐use signal in the data set. As such, it may be a useful strategy to optimize data collection to support watershed management practices and improve decision‐making in data‐scarce regions.
River bank geomorphology controls groundwater arsenic concentrations in aquifers adjacent to the Red River, Hanoi Vietnam
Authors: Stahl Mason O. , Harvey Charles F. , van Geen Alexander , Sun Jing , Thi Kim Trang Pham , Mai Lan Vi , Mai Phuong Thao , Hung Viet Pham , Bostick Benjamin C.
Published: August 2016

Many aquifers that are highly contaminated by arsenic in South and Southeast Asia are in the floodplains of large river networks. Under natural conditions, these aquifers would discharge into nearby rivers; however, large‐scale groundwater pumping has reversed the flow in some areas so that rivers now recharge aquifers. At a field site near Hanoi Vietnam, we find river water recharging the aquifer becomes high in arsenic, reaching concentrations above 1000 µg/L, within the upper meter of recently (< ∼10 years) deposited riverbed sediments as it is drawn into a heavily pumped aquifer along the Red River. Groundwater arsenic concentrations in aquifers adjacent to the river are largely controlled by river geomorphology. High (>50 µg/L) aqueous arsenic concentrations are found in aquifer regions adjacent to zones where the river has recently deposited sediment and low arsenic concentrations are found in aquifer regions adjacent to erosional zones. High arsenic concentrations are even found adjacent to a depositional river reach in a Pleistocene aquifer, a type of aquifer sediment which generally hosts low arsenic water. Using geochemical and isotopic data, we estimate the in situ rate of arsenic release from riverbed sediments to be up to 1000 times the rates calculated on inland aquifer sediments in Vietnam. Geochemical data for riverbed porewater conditions indicate that the reduction of reactive, poorly crystalline iron oxides controls arsenic release. We suggest that aquifers in these regions may be susceptible to further arsenic contamination where riverine recharge drawn into aquifers by extensive groundwater pumping flows through recently deposited river sediments before entering the aquifer.
Alkynes as Linchpins for the Additive Annulation of Biphenyls: Convergent Construction of Functionalized Fused Helicenes
Authors: Mohamed Rana K. , Mondal Sayantan , Guerrera Joseph V. , Eaton Teresa M. , Albrecht‐Schmitt Thomas E. , Shatruk Michael , Alabugin Igor V.
Published: August 2016

A new approach to fused helicenes is reported, where varied substituents are readily incorporated in the extended aromatic frame. From the alkynyl precursor, the final helical compounds are obtained under mild conditions in a two‐step process, in which the final C−C bond is formed via a photochemical cyclization/ dehydroiodination sequence. The distortion of the π‐system from planarity leads to unusual packing in the solid state. Computational analysis reveals that substituent incorporation perturbs geometries and electronic structures of these nonplanar aromatics.
Mangiferin modulation of metabolism and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Fomenko Ekaterina Vladimirovna , Chi Yuling
Published: August 2016

The recent emergence of a worldwide epidemic of metabolic disorders, such as obesity and diabetes, demands effective strategy to develop nutraceuticals or pharmaceuticals to halt this trend. Natural products have long been and continue to be an attractive source of nutritional and pharmacological therapeutics. One such natural product is mangiferin (MGF), the predominant constituent of extracts of the mango plant Mangifera indica L. Reports on biological and pharmacological effects of MGF increased exponentially in recent years. MGF has documented antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects. Recent studies indicate that it modulates multiple biological processes involved in metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. MGF has been shown to improve metabolic abnormalities and disorders in animal models and humans. This review focuses on the recently reported biological and pharmacological effects of MGF on metabolism and metabolic disorders. © 2016 BioFactors, 42(5):492–503, 2016
Delayed spontaneous perforation of polyvinyl alcohol membrane—Covered atrial septal defect closure devices
Authors: Labombarda Fabien , Roule Vincent , Beygui Farzin
Published: August 2016

Percutaneous device closure has become the first choice for secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) closure when feasible in case of favorable anatomy. The Ultrasept II ASD occluder® device (Cardia Inc, Eagan, MN) is made of two nitinol disc frames covered with polyvinyl alcohol membranes, a synthetic polymer with a large application in the biomedical field. Four relatively early malfunctions of the polyvinyl alcohol membrane were observed in a series of six consecutive patients treated with ASD Ultrasept II closure device in our institution. Operators have to be aware of this apparently rare complication that is likely to be underestimated, associated with such devices. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Aza‐Michael Reactions of Isatin Imines: Deeper Insight and Origin of the Stereoselectivity
Authors: Metsala Andrus , Žari Sergei , Kanger Tõnis
Published: August 2016

An asymmetric organocatalytic aza‐Michael reaction of imines derived from isatin with unsaturated 1,4‐dicarbonyl compounds was investigated by means of DFT calculations. It was found that, in addition to the activation of the reactants by hydrogen bonds, several π–π interactions were responsible for the high enantioselectivity of the reaction. In the computationally proposed transition state model, an interaction of the sulfur atom of the thiourea catalyst and aromatic π‐electron system of the phenyl ring of imine occurred, providing high selectivity.
On the Nature of Bridging Metal Atoms in Intermetalloid Clusters: Synthesis and Structure of the Metal‐Atom‐Bridged Zintl Clusters [Sn(Ge9)2]4− and [Zn(Ge9)2)]6−
Authors: Bentlohner Manuel M. , Jantke Laura‐Alice , Henneberger Thomas , Fischer Christina , Mayer Kerstin , Klein Wilhelm , Fässler Thomas F.
Published: August 2016

The addition of Sn and Zn ions to [Ge9] clusters by reaction of [Ge9]4− with SnPh2Cl2, ZnCp*2 (Cp*=pentamethylcyclopentadienyl), or Zn2[HC(Ph2P=NPh)2]2 is reported. The resulting Sn‐ and Zn‐bridged clusters [(Ge9)M(Ge9)]q− (M=Sn, q=4; M=Zn, q=6) display various coordination modes. The M atoms that coordinate to the open square of a C4v‐symmetric [Ge9] cluster form strong covalent multicenter M−Ge bonds, in contrast to the M atoms coordinating to triangular cluster faces. Molecular orbital analyses show that the M atoms of the Ge9M fragments coordinate to a second [Ge9] cluster with similar orbitals but in different ways. The [Ge9Sn]2−unit donates two electrons to the triangular face of a second [Ge9]2− cluster with D3h symmetry, whereas [Ge9Zn]2−acts as an electron acceptor when interacting with the triangular face of a D3h‐symmetric [Ge9]4− unit.
Electron Transport in Quasi‐Two‐Dimensional Porous Network of Titania Nanoparticles, Incorporating Electrical and Optical Advantages in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Javadi Mohammad , Alizadeh Saba , Khosravi Yusef , Abdi Yaser
Published: August 2016

The integration of fast electron transport and large effective surface area is critical to attaining higher gains in the nanostructured photovoltaic devices. Here, we report facilitated electron transport in the quasi‐two‐dimensional (Q2D) porous TiO2. Liquid electrolyte dye‐sensitized solar cells were prepared by utilizing photoanodes based on the Q2D porous substructures. Due to electron confinement in a microscale porous medium, directional diffusion toward collecting electrode is induced into the electron transport. Our measurements based on the photocurrent and photovoltage time‐of‐flight transients show that at higher Fermi levels, the electron diffusion coefficient in the Q2D porous TiO2 is about one order of magnitude higher when compared with the conventional layer of porous TiO2. The results show that microstructuring of the porous TiO2 leads to an approximately threefold improvement in the electron diffusion length. Such a modification may considerably affects the electrical functionality of moderate or low performance dye‐sensitized solar cells for which the internal gain or collection efficiency is typically low.
Robust reliable dissipative control of nonlinear networked control systems
Authors: Sathishkumar Murugesan , Sakthivel Rathinasamy , Selvaraj Palanisamy , Marshal anthoni Selvaraj
Published: August 2016

This article focuses on the robust reliable dissipative control issue for a class of switched discrete‐time nonlinear networked control systems with external energy bounded disturbances. In particular, nonlinearities are modeled in a probabilistic way according to Bernoulli distributed white sequence with known conditional probability. A Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional is proposed based on which sufficient conditions for the existence of the reliable dissipative controller are derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) which ensures exponentially stability as well as
dissipative performance of the resulting closed‐loop system. The explicit expression of the desired controller gains can be obtained by solving the established LMIs. Finally, a numerical example is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed design strategy. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 427–437, 2016
Material and Device Stability in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Hui‐Seon , Seo Ja‐Young , Park Nam‐Gyu
Published: August 2016

Organic–inorganic halide perovskite solar cells have attracted great attention because of their superb efficiency reaching 22 % and low‐cost, facile fabrication processing. Nevertheless, stability issues in perovskite solar cells seem to block further advancements toward commercialization. Thus, device stability is one of the important topics in perovskite solar cell research. In the beginning, the poor moisture resistivity of the perovskite layer was considered as a main problem that hindered further development of perovskite solar cells, which encouraged engineering of the perovskite or protection of the perovskite by a buffer layer. Soon after, other parameters affecting long‐term stability were sequentially found and various attempts have been made to enhance intrinsic and extrinsic stability. Here we review the recent progresses addressing stability issues in perovskite solar cells. In this report, we investigated factors affecting stability from material and device points of view. To gain a better understanding of the stability of the bulk perovskite material, decomposition mechanisms were investigated in relation to moisture, photons, and heat. Stability of full device should also be carefully examined because its stability is dependent not only on bulk perovskite but also on the interfaces and selective contacts. In addition, ion migration and current–voltage hysteresis were found to be closely related to stability.
A new bridgeless buck PFC rectifier
Authors: Hwu K. I. , Shieh Jenn‐Jong , Jiang W. Z.
Published: August 2016

In this study, a new bridgeless buck power factor correction (PFC) rectifier is presented. The proposed buck PFC rectifier is designed to operate in the discontinuous conduction mode (DCM). Because of the DCM operation, the control scheme of the proposed buck PFC rectifier is simple and easy, and the reverse recovery problem of the diodes can be alleviated. Because the input current follows the input voltage naturally, the current loop circuit is not required. Thus, only the traditional voltage‐mode control is employed to sense the output voltage, and a suitable control effort for the proposed buck PFC rectifier is generated to drive the power switches. Consequently, the output voltage of the proposed buck PFC rectifier can be kept at a desired value. Finally, the mathematical deductions and experimental results are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed bridgeless buck PFC rectifier. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Metacognitive learning in the ecology classroom: A tool for preparing problem solvers in a time of rapid change?
Authors: Spellman Katie V. , Deutsch Andrea , Mulder Christa P. H. , Carsten‐Conner Laura D.
Published: August 2016

Building communities that are resilient and adaptive to climate change requires the development of education strategies that train community members in higher order thinking skills that can be used to solve complex environmental problems. This study provides an empirical test of hypotheses within social‐ecological systems resilience theory that have suggested metacognitive learning strategies could increase resilience thinking skills such as scenarios thinking, systems thinking, and the ability to interpret and apply ecological data in complex problem solving. During a 6‐week long ecology unit with 108 seventh‐grade students, we taught half the students using standard inquiry teaching methods and the other half using the same method, with the addition of a daily metacognitive learning intervention. We investigated the short‐term (after six weeks of intervention) and long‐term (1 yr after the intervention ended) effects of the intervention on student's metacognitive ability and resilience thinking skills. Over the long term, we found a modest increase in the metacognitive ability of students who received the daily metacognitive journaling exercise. Interview data suggest that the structured metacognitive practice did most to improve the resilience thinking level of students who had low resilience thinking ability prior to the intervention period. However, the interaction between pre‐treatment ability level and the treatment group was not detected in the written assessment data. These data suggest that the metacognitive learning intervention we used can benefit metacognitive ability over the long term, but has limited transferability to resilience thinking skills for most students. We suggest additional instructional practices for implementing metacognitive teaching approaches that could enhance the generalizability of their benefits across resilience thinking skills and student's ability levels.
Seasonal variation exceeds effects of salmon carcass additions on benthic food webs in the Elwha River
Authors: Morley S. A. , Coe H. J. , Duda J. J. , Dunphy L. S. , McHenry M. L. , Beckman B. R. , Elofson M. , Sampson E. M. , Ward L.
Published: August 2016

Dam removal and other fish barrier removal projects in western North America are assumed to boost freshwater productivity via the transport of marine‐derived nutrients from recolonizing Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.). In anticipation of the removal of two hydroelectric dams on the Elwha River in Washington State, we tested this hypothesis with a salmon carcass addition experiment. Our study was designed to examine how background nutrient dynamics and benthic food webs vary seasonally, and how these features respond to salmon subsidies. We conducted our experiment in six side channels of the Elwha River, each with a spatially paired reference and treatment reach. Each reach was sampled on multiple occasions from October 2007 to August 2008, before and after carcass placement. We evaluated nutrient limitation status; measured water chemistry, periphyton, benthic invertebrates, and juvenile rainbow trout (O. mykiss) response; and traced salmon‐derived nutrient uptake using stable isotopes. Outside of winter, algal accrual was limited by both nitrogen and phosphorous and remained so even in the presence of salmon carcasses. One month after salmon addition, dissolved inorganic nitrogen levels doubled in treatment reaches. Two months after addition, benthic algal accrual was significantly elevated. We detected no changes in invertebrate or fish metrics, with the exception of 15N enrichment. Natural seasonal variability was greater than salmon effects for the majority of our response metrics. Yet seasonality and synchronicity of nutrient supply and demand are often overlooked in nutrient enhancement studies. Timing and magnitude of salmon‐derived nitrogen utilization suggest that uptake of dissolved nutrients was favored over direct consumption of carcasses. The highest proportion of salmon‐derived nitrogen was incorporated by herbivores (18–30%) and peaked 1–2 months after carcass addition. Peak nitrogen enrichment in predators (11–16%) occurred 2–3 months after addition. All taxa returned to background δ15N levels by 7 months. Since this study was conducted, both dams on the Elwha River were removed over 2011–2014 to open over 90% of the basin to anadromous fishes. We anticipate that as the full portfolio of salmon species expands through the basin, nutrient supply and demand will come into better balance.
Seasonal trophic linkages in Arctic marine invertebrates assessed via fatty acids and compound‐specific stable isotopes
Authors: Mohan Stephanie D. , Connelly Tara L. , Harris Carolynn M. , Dunton Kenneth H. , McClelland James W.
Published: August 2016

Climate change is having profound impacts on Arctic ecosystems with important implications for coastal productivity and food web dynamics. We investigated seasonal variations in resource use of 16 invertebrate taxa in lagoon ecosystems along the Alaska Beaufort Sea coast using a combination of fatty acid (FA) biomarkers, bulk stable carbon isotope measurements of whole animals, and compound‐specific stable carbon isotope measurements of total lipid extracts and individual FAs. Invertebrates were collected during full‐ice cover (April), ice breakup (June), and open water (August) periods. Amphipods (Onisimus glacialis) had higher proportions of 18:2n‐6 and 18:3n‐3 FAs in April than in the other months. These elevated markers were accompanied by relatively low bulk and 18:2n‐6 δ13C values, indicating proportionally higher contributions from terrestrial/freshwater sources in April. A wider range of invertebrates examined during June and August showed increases in algae‐specific markers and higher proportions of essential FAs (e.g., 22:6n‐3 [docosahexaenoic acid] and 20:5n‐3 [eicosapentaenoic acid]) later in the summer. There were also marked differences in FA characteristics among invertebrates that highlighted differential feeding modes. For example, proportions of bacterial FAs were generally higher in deposit‐feeding invertebrates than in suspension feeders. These results highlight the current role of diverse carbon sources to Arctic coastal food webs, which may change with future warming.
Policy Diffusion in the Context of International River Basin Management
Authors: Metz Florence , Fischer Manuel
Published: August 2016

This paper deals with policy diffusion across countries in the context of collaborative river basin management. Borrowing from the literature on policy diffusion and ‘smart strategies’ of small European Union member states, we argue that policy diffusion is fostered by structural and agency‐related factors. We illustrate our theoretical ideas with a case study on the new Swiss policy on micropollutants in surface waters. Based on a rich set of documents and interviews with key actors, we show that the integration of Switzerland into formal and informal transnational networks fosters the diffusion of its micropollutants policy to other Rhine riparian countries. In addition, we analyse agency‐related factors favouring policy diffusion in river basins, such as a country's pioneer role, its expertise, the fact that its policy is in line with general policy goals in other countries and the political acceptance of the policy at home. Our analysis suggests that policy diffusion can be an important phenomenon in integrated water resources management. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Extended Sandwich Molecules Displaying Direct Metal–Metal Bonds
Authors: Barik Subrat Kumar , Chowdhury Monojit Ghosal , De Susmita , Parameswaran Pattiyil , Ghosh Sundargopal
Published: August 2016

Treatment of [Cp*IrCl2]2 (Cp* = pentamethylcyclopentadienyl) with Li[BH3(SePh)] at room temperature led to the isolation of a dimetala analogue of hexaborane(10), nido‐[(Cp*Ir)(µ‐SePh)2Ir{(Cp*Ir)SePh}B4H8] (1). Solid‐state X‐ray structure analysis of 1 showed an extended sandwich molecule with two iridium atoms between Cp* and a [B4Ir] ring. Further, in an effort to synthesize the Rh analogue of 1 under similar reaction conditions, we isolated arachno‐[{(Cp*Rh)(µ‐SePh)3}Rh(µ‐SePh)B3H6] (2), a rhodium analogue of tetraboarane(10) in which the {RhB3} unit shows geometric equivalence with a metal π‐allyl {MC3} species. Ir complex 1, having an Ir–Ir bond, can be considered similar to the dizinc sandwich complex [Cp*Zn‐ZnCp*] in terms of the valence electron count at the metal centers.
Aluminum Chloride Promoted Cross‐Coupling of Trisubstituted Enol Phosphates with Organozinc Reagents En Route to the Stereoselective Synthesis of Tamoxifen and Its Analogues
Authors: Kotek Vladislav , Polák Peter , Dvořáková Hana , Tobrman Tomáš
Published: August 2016

A new method for the stereoselective cross‐coupling reaction of arylzinc chlorides with trisubstituted enol phosphates is described. The developed method requires aluminum chloride as a promoter, and the reaction conditions tolerate various functional groups. The observed reactivity pattern of trisubstituted enol phosphates was used for the stereoselective preparation of tamoxifen and its analogues.
High‐Performance Electrocatalytic Activity of Palladium‐Copper Nanoalloy towards Methanol Electro‐oxidation in an Alkaline Medium
Authors: Arulmani Subramanian , Krishnamoorthy Sathiyan , Wu Jerry J. , Anandan Sambandam
Published: August 2016

Nanoalloy of PdCu were synthesized with three different stoichiometry ratio (3 : 1, 1 : 1, 1 : 3) by simple co‐reduction process at 5 °C with Triton X‐100 as surface modifier. Morphology and composition of the synthesized catalyst were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photo electron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDAX) with selected area electron diffraction (SAED) techniques. Electrocatalytic activity and stability of the catalysts towards methanol oxidation reaction were verified in alkaline medium by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and chronoamperometry (CA). Observed results emphasis that PdCu nanoalloy in the 3 : 1 stoichiometric ratio shows better catalytic activity (778.98 mA mg−1) and stability not only in the initial state (93.73 mA mg−1) but also after 1800 s (8.61 mA mg−1) among all other prepared catalysts.
A Two‐step Anodic Thiocyanation of Alkenes in Formic Acid
Authors: Gitkis Anna , Becker James Y.
Published: August 2016

Initial formation of thiocyanogen [(SCN)2] by controlled potential anodic oxidation of NH4SCN in formic acid‐LiClO4 followed by addition of alkene as a second step, has been investigated for eight alkene derivatives. The results indicate that major products from most of the alkenes studied are addition products involving thiocyanate and formate groups. Also minor products of addition of isothiocyanate and thiocyanate groups, and allylic thiocyanates as substitution derivatives, were formed.
Behavior of Metallic Components During 4,000 h Operation of an SOFC Stack with Carbon Containing Fuel Gas
Authors: Niewolak L. , Blum L. , Peters R. , Grüner D. , Quadakkers W. J.
Published: August 2016

In the present study the behavior of the ferritic interconnect steel Crofer 22 APU and the nickel contacting material during exposure in anode gas of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stack was investigated. The stack had been operating for 4,000 h and was ten times subjected to thermal cycling within this time period. A temporary high carbon activity in the fuel gas combined with temperature changes resulted in local disintegration of the nickel mesh. Additionally, nickel diffusion from the nickel mesh into the steel resulted in the formation of an austenitic zone. Diffusion of steel constituents into the nickel mesh lead to the formation of Cr,Mn‐oxides in the latter. Presence of the nickel/steel contact allows transport of carbon from the gas into the steel, resulting in local internal carburization of the steel. In areas which were not in direct contact with the nickel mesh, the Crofer 22 APU interconnect formed a protective surface oxide scale and no indications for carbon uptake were found. Mechanisms for the experimentally observed effects, including the local disintegration of the nickel mesh, are presented.
The Dynamic Capability of Corporate Diplomacy
Authors: Henisz Witold J.
Published: August 2016

Plain language summary

Corporate diplomacy is the ability to win the hearts and minds of external stakeholders in support of an organizational mission. As compared to the narrow support function of external affairs, corporate diplomats play a central role not just in sensing risks and opportunities in the external environment, but also in shaping short‐ and long‐term strategic responses across all functions of their organizations. Managers interested in creating long‐term sustainable value for shareholders and society—especially in emerging markets—need to enhance their skills as corporate diplomats.

Technical summary

Success in corporate diplomacy (i.e., the ability to win the hearts and minds of external stakeholders) requires a complex set of seemingly incompatible routines and processes that together constitute a dynamic capability. The article draws explicit parallels between the technological environment in which the theory of dynamic capabilities was first developed and the stakeholder environment. Firms must sense opportunities and threats that emanate from the external stakeholder environment across multiple countries, sectors, and issue domains. In order to actually seize these opportunities or avoid these threats, however, the organization must actually engage with stakeholders in a manner perceived as genuine and caring and implement initiatives that address their issues of concern. Such responses require short‐ and long‐term strategic change within the core of the organization. Copyright © 2016 Strategic Management Society.
The Dynamic Capabilities of Meta‐Multinationals
Authors: Lessard Donald , Teece David J. , Leih Sohvi
Published: August 2016

Plain language summary

Today's multinational enterprises (MNEs) exhibit characteristics that have not been discussed very much in previous studies. They are stateless in the sense that operations are spread across nations, but also maintain some central authority. We call such MNEs ‘meta‐MNEs’ and analyze them using the Dynamic Capabilities framework, a key framework in strategic management. We find that the capability of MNEs to shape and adapt to changing environments is necessary for the emergence and success of the meta‐MNE. We also discuss prospects for meta‐MNEs in the context of China.

Technical summary

Established theories of the multinational enterprise (MNE) were created for a different, less globally competitive world. Today's MNEs are moving toward the stateless ideal type known as a metanational. Because considerable central authority remains, we call the emerging model the meta‐MNE and use the Dynamic Capabilities framework to analyze this phenomenon. Strong dynamic capabilities, including asset orchestration, are necessary both for the very existence of the meta‐MNE and for sustaining its competitive advantage. We draw contrasts between the meta‐MNE and the traditional, home‐centric MNE. We consider the ways in which nations still matter and the policy implications of the emergence of the meta‐MNE. We also discuss recent developments in China that have greatly shaped the environment facing existing and future meta‐MNEs. Copyright © 2016 Strategic Management Society.
Novel technique of creating a seal for the vacuum‐assisted closure system application in complex head and neck wounds
Authors: Tian Brian , Iyer N. Gopalakrishna , Tan Hiang Khoon , Tay Ai Choo , Soo Khee Chee , Tan Ngian Chye
Published: August 2016

Background

Achieving a good seal for the application of the vacuum‐assisted closure (VAC) system in complex head and neck wounds is difficult.

Methods

A case series of 4 patients who developed postoperative orocutaneous or pharyngocutaneous fistulas were studied. A sterile green glove was used as a sealant together with the VAC system.

Results

With utilization of a green glove, a good seal for the VAC system was obtained. This gave ample time to cleanse the wound and allow granulation tissue to form before proceeding on to the next stage of treatment.

Conclusion

A green glove technique allows for a good seal for the VAC system to work, especially when applied to complex head and neck wounds. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E2523–E2526, 2016
First‐principles Calculations of InS‐based Nanotubes
Authors: Bandura Andrei V. , Kuruch Dmitry D. , Evarestov Robert A.
Published: August 2016

We employed first‐principles simulations using a hybrid exchange‐correlation density functional PBE0 within an LCAO approximation to investigate the properties of InS single layers and nanotubes constructed from its stable orthorhombic and hypothetical hexagonal phases. We have found two types of 4‐plane layers with relatively low formation energy, Rec4 and Hex4, which have been extracted from the orthorhombic and hexagonal phases, respectively. By rolling up Rec4 and Hex4 layers, the initial structures of single‐ and double‐walled nanotubes have been generated. The nanotube formation and strain energies calculated after atomic relaxation show that the most stable structures can be obtained from the rectangular Rec4 nanosheets. At the same time, the double‐walled nanotubes folded from the Rec4 nanosheets may be potentially useful for photocatalytic water splitting if they can really be synthesized.
Incorporation of local structure into kriging models for the prediction of atomistic properties in the water decamer
Authors: Davie Stuart J , Di Pasquale Nicodemo , Popelier Paul L. A.
Published: August 2016

Machine learning algorithms have been demonstrated to predict atomistic properties approaching the accuracy of quantum chemical calculations at significantly less computational cost. Difficulties arise, however, when attempting to apply these techniques to large systems, or systems possessing excessive conformational freedom. In this article, the machine learning method kriging is applied to predict both the intra‐atomic and interatomic energies, as well as the electrostatic multipole moments, of the atoms of a water molecule at the center of a 10 water molecule (decamer) cluster. Unlike previous work, where the properties of small water clusters were predicted using a molecular local frame, and where training set inputs (features) were based on atomic index, a variety of feature definitions and coordinate frames are considered here to increase prediction accuracy. It is shown that, for a water molecule at the center of a decamer, no single method of defining features or coordinate schemes is optimal for every property. However, explicitly accounting for the structure of the first solvation shell in the definition of the features of the kriging training set, and centring the coordinate frame on the atom‐of‐interest will, in general, return better predictions than models that apply the standard methods of feature definition, or a molecular coordinate frame. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Computational Chemistry Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Catalyst‐free Synthesis of Pyrazolopyridines Derived from Alicyclic Mono‐ketones
Authors: Wan Yu , Huang Shu‐Ying , Liu Gui‐Xiang , Chen Liang‐Feng , Yue Shu‐Ning , Zhang Wen‐Li , Zou Huan , Zhang Li‐Zhuo , Cui Hao , Zhou Sheng‐Liang , Wu Hui
Published: August 2016

Inactive alicyclic mono‐ketones (cyclohexanone and cyclopentanone) were firstly used as reactants to prepare pyrazolopyridine derivatives in good yield through their catalyst‐free reaction with 5‐aminopyrazole and aromatic aldehyde in ionic liquid.
A Systems Model for Ursodeoxycholic Acid Metabolism in Healthy and Patients With Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
Authors: Zuo P , Dobbins RL , O'Connor‐Semmes RL , Young MA
Published: August 2016

A systems model was developed to describe the metabolism and disposition of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and its conjugates in healthy subjects based on pharmacokinetic (PK) data from published studies in order to study the distribution of oral UDCA and potential interactions influencing therapeutic effects upon interruption of its enterohepatic recirculation. The base model was empirically adapted to patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) based on current understanding of disease pathophysiology and clinical measurements. Simulations were performed for patients with PBC under two competing hypotheses: one for inhibition of ileal absorption of both UDCA and conjugates and the other only of conjugates. The simulations predicted distinctly different bile acid distribution patterns in plasma and bile. The UDCA model adapted to patients with PBC provides a platform to investigate a complex therapeutic drug interaction among UDCA, UDCA conjugates, and inhibition of ileal bile acid transport in this rare disease population.
Flavonoids Isolated from Flowers of Lonicera japonica Thunb. Inhibit Inflammatory Responses in BV2 Microglial Cells by Suppressing TNF‐α and IL‐β Through PI3K/Akt/NF‐kb Signaling Pathways
Authors: Han Min Ho , Lee Won Sup , Nagappan Arulkumar , Hong Su Hyun , Jung Ji Hyun , Park Cheol , Kim Hye Jung , Kim Gi‐Young , Kim GonSup , Jung Jin‐Myung , Ryu Chung Ho , Shin Sung Chul , Hong Soon Chan , Choi Yung Hyun
Published: August 2016

Decoctions of the dried flowers of Lonicera japonica Thunb. (Indongcho) have been utilized in folk remedies against various inflammatory diseases, and it is reported neuroprotective effects. The cytokines release from microglia is closely linked to various chronic neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. It is still unknown whether the neuroprotective effects are associated with the antiinflammatory effects. Here, we determined whether polyphenols extracted from lyophilized Lonicera japonica Thunb. (PELJ) would inhibit inflammatory cytokines and mediators. We stimulated microglia with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to produce inflammatory cytokines, and then assessed the effects of PELJ on these cytokines. PELJ significantly inhibited LPS‐induced interleukin‐1β and tumor necrosis factor‐α expressions and LPS‐induced nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 expressions by down‐regulating inducible enzyme NO synthase and cyclooxygenase‐2 at the protein and mRNA levels. All the suppression of these mediators did not cause any significant cytotoxicity. PELJ also inhibited the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor‐kappa B and phosphorylated Akt. These findings suggest that PELJ may offer substantial therapeutic potential for treating inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases by inhibiting pro‐inflammatory cytokines through inhibiting phosphoinositol 3‐kinase /Akt/nuclear factor‐kappa B signaling pathway. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Input‐to‐state stability of nonlinear stochastic time‐varying systems with impulsive effects
Authors: Wu Xiaotai , Shi Peng , Tang Yang , Zhang Wenbing
Published: August 2016

This paper considers the input‐to‐state stability, integral‐ISS, and stochastic‐ISS for impulsive nonlinear stochastic systems. The Lyapunov function considered in this paper is indefinite, that is, the rate coefficient of the Lyapunov function is time‐varying, which can be positive or negative along time evolution. Lyapunov‐based sufficient conditions are established for ensuring ISS of impulsive nonlinear stochastic systems. Three examples involving one from networked control systems are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of theoretical results obtained. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of compatilizers on mechanical, morphology and dynamic mechanical properties of LGF/TPU/SAN composites
Authors: Zhang Daohai , He Min , Luo Heng , Qin Shuhao , Yu Jie
Published: August 2016

The present paper summarizes an experimental study on the mechanical, morphology, and dynamic mechanical properties of long glass fibers reinforced thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPU) and styrene‐acrylonitrile copolymers (SAN) (LGF/TPU/SAN) composites. Variations in mechanical strength, storage modulus (E′) and damping parameter (tan δ) with the addition of different compatilizers were investigated. It was observed that the tensile, flexural and impact strengths of LGF/TPU/SAN composites treated with the compatilizers increased in comparison to the untreated composites. Dynamic mechanical analysis data showed an increase in the storage modulus of the treated composites. Further, the storage modulus of the composites treated with styrene grafted maleic anhydride (SMA) increased in comparison to treated with styrene‐acrylonitrile grafted with glycidyl methacrylate (SAG). The tan δ spectra presented a strong influence of the compatilizers on the peak value of LGF/TPU/SAN composites. The fibers–matrix morphology in the untreated and treated composites was confirmed by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of the impact fractured specimens. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 24:E48–E52, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Morphology and physical properties of electrospun polyethylene oxide/polyacrylonitrile mats and related graphene‐based nanocomposites
Authors: Abdollahi Serveh , Ehsani Morteza , Morshedian Jalil , Khonakdar Hossein Ali
Published: August 2016

Highly porous bi‐component fibers from poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)/polyacrylonitrile (PAN) blends with 90/10, 80/20, 70/30, and 50/50 PEO/PAN weight ratios were prepared. Electrospinning of the blends produced thin fibers with averaged diameters ranging from 275 to 190 nm. Incorporation of 1 wt% graphene sheets (GS) into the fibrous blends mats effectively increased the tensile modulus and electrical conductivity of the matrix. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed the lowered Tm and ΔHm of the PEO component in the bi‐component fibers, suggesting that the crystallization of PEO was hindered due to the presence of PAN. DSC results indicated a nucleation effect of GS on the crystallization of PEO. High porosity of the produced nanocomposite mats (about 93%) is a promising feature for their application as electrolytes. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 23:E152–E159, 2017. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
The chirally rotated Schrödinger functional: theoretical expectations and perturbative tests
Authors: Dalla Brida Mattia , Sint Stefan , Vilaseca Pol
Published: August 2016

Abstract

The chirally rotated Schrödinger functional (χSF) with massless Wilson-type fermions provides an alternative lattice regularization of the Schrödinger functional (SF), with different lattice symmetries and a common continuum limit expected from universality. The explicit breaking of flavour and parity symmetries needs to be repaired by tuning the bare fermion mass and the coefficient of a dimension 3 boundary counterterm. Once this is achieved one expects the mechanism of automatic O(a) improvement to be operational in the χSF, in contrast to the standard formulation of the SF. This is expected to significantly improve the attainable precision for step-scaling functions of some composite operators. Furthermore, the χSF offers new strategies to determine finite renormalization constants which are traditionally obtained from chiral Ward identities. In this paper we consider a complete set of fermion bilinear operators, define corresponding correlation functions and explain the relation to their standard SF counterparts. We discuss renormalization and O(a) improvement and then use this set-up to formulate the theoretical expectations which follow from universality. Expanding the correlation functions to one-loop order of perturbation theory we then perform a number of non-trivial checks. In the process we obtain the action counterterm coefficients to one-loop order and reproduce some known perturbative results for renormalization constants of fermion bilinears. By confirming the theoretical expectations, this perturbative study lends further support to the soundness of the χSF framework and prepares the ground for non-perturbative applications.